Turner’s Springs, located in the heart of Central Serengeti, is best known for being named after Myles Turner, the first park warden. It offers excellent viewing opportunities for lions and leopards, and the giraffes here are especially habituated. However, it is recommended to visit only during the dry season when animals flock here due to the lack of water in the park. The area spans 5 square miles and has a topography of thick acacia woodlands punctuated with small open areas. The main species found here include lion, leopard, giraffe, buffalo, impala, dik-dik antelope, and vervet monkey.
The Serengeti National Park in Tanzania is one of the most famous wildlife sanctuaries in the world, known for its vast savannas, rich biodiversity, and stunning landscapes. It is home to numerous iconic species, such as lions, leopards, elephants, and giraffes, that roam freely across the plains. One of the most unique and awe-inspiring places within the park is Turner’s Springs, located in the heart of Central Serengeti.
Myles Turner the first park warden of the Serengeti
Named after Myles Turner, who served as chief game warden between 1956 and 1972, Turner’s Springs is a hidden oasis that provides essential water to wildlife during the dry season. The springs themselves are difficult to spot, nestled within thickets of bushes and acacia trees that create a sense of isolation and remoteness. However, it is the abundant wildlife that makes Turner’s Springs truly special.
During the dry season, the springs act as a magnet for animals, drawing them in from all corners of the park. Visitors can witness large herds of buffalos, giraffes browsing in the acacia woods, and even elusive leopards peering down from the trees. The Turner’s Springs track is an excellent spot for game viewing, offering opportunities to see a diverse array of wildlife in a relatively small area.
Lion Prides of Turners Spring
However, what really makes Turner’s Springs stand out is the presence of three lion prides that reside in the area. These prides, which have been studied extensively by the Serengeti Lion Project, dominate the landscape and are often seen by visitors during game drives. Despite being located in an area of just 15 kilometers in diameter, the Turner’s Springs prides are a true testament to the incredible biodiversity of the Serengeti.
Visiting Turner’s Springs is an unforgettable experience, one that allows visitors to witness the beauty and power of African wildlife up close. The best time to visit is during the dry season, when the animals flock to the springs due to the lack of water in the park. However, even during the green season, visitors can still encounter a wide range of species, including European migrant storks, hartebeests, and ocelots.
It is worth noting that Turner’s Springs owes its existence to Myles Turner’s tireless efforts to combat poaching in the park. At the time, poaching was rampant and had devastating effects on the wildlife populations, including elephants and rhinos. Turner’s anti-poaching efforts helped to curb the trade and allowed the park’s wildlife to recover.
In conclusion, Turner’s Springs is a hidden gem within the Serengeti National Park, a place of incredible beauty and biodiversity. Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a unique and unforgettable experience, Turner’s Springs is a must-visit destination that will leave you in awe of the wonders of the natural world.
Best time to visit Turners Spring
Turner’s Spring is a popular destination for wildlife during the dry season of June to October, and it owes its name to Myles Turner, who served as chief game warden between 1956 and 1972. His anti-poaching efforts allowed the magnificent animals of Africa’s premier wildlife sanctuary to continue thriving today. The Serengeti Lion Project has been studying the three lion prides that inhabit the area within a 10-mile radius, while the acacia trees that line the road offer great chances to spot leopards peering from above.