Serval Wildlife

The Serval Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven dedicated to the conservation and rehabilitation of servals, a small and agile African wild cat species. Located in Tanzania, the sanctuary focuses on the rescue of injured or orphaned servals, providing a safe environment where they can recover and thrive. In addition to serval rehabilitation, the sanctuary plays a vital role in promoting wildlife education, raising awareness about the species and the importance of protecting their natural habitats. Through guided tours and educational programs, visitors have the opportunity to learn about serval behavior, ecology, and the broader conservation efforts in the region. The sanctuary also collaborates with local communities and international wildlife organizations to ensure long-term sustainability for servals and other vulnerable species. By offering a protected space and fostering coexistence with humans, the Serval Wildlife Sanctuary is helping to preserve these elusive wild cats for future generations.

What can you do at Serval Wildlife?

At the Serval Wildlife Sanctuary in Tanzania, visitors can enjoy a range of activities focused on conservation, wildlife rehabilitation, and education. Here are some of the key things you can do:

Guided Tours: Visitors can take guided tours around the sanctuary, where they can learn about the various animals being rehabilitated, including servals, caracals, and other species. These tours provide insight into the sanctuary’s efforts to rescue and care for injured or orphaned animals.
Animal Encounters: The sanctuary often offers opportunities for close-up encounters with animals under expert supervision. Guests can learn more about servals, their habits, and their natural habitats.
Educational Programs: The sanctuary aims to educate visitors on conservation issues, human-wildlife conflict, and the importance of preserving Tanzania’s biodiversity. They may offer presentations or interactive workshops on these topics.
Photography: Wildlife enthusiasts and photographers have the opportunity to capture beautiful images of the animals in a more controlled and accessible environment compared to the wild.
Volunteering Opportunities: Some sanctuaries like Serval offer programs where guests can volunteer, helping with tasks related to animal care, habitat maintenance, or educational outreach.
Picnic and Relaxation Areas: Visitors can enjoy picnic areas or relax in the natural setting, appreciating the surroundings and wildlife.

Since the Serval Wildlife Sanctuary is primarily a conservation and rehabilitation facility, the focus is on educating the public about wildlife conservation and offering a safe haven for animals, as opposed to the typical safari experience.

Animals Available at Serval Wildlife Sanctuary

Servals – Medium-sized wild cats native to Africa, after which the conservancy is named.
Giraffes – Frequently seen grazing in the savannah.
Zebras – Often found roaming the plains in herds.
Ostriches – The world’s largest birds, common in the area.
Elands – Large antelopes that are characteristic of East Africa.
Wildebeests – Common in the area, especially during migration seasons.
Baboons – Frequently found in forested or rocky areas.
Dik-diks – Small antelopes that are shy and elusive.
Hyenas – Predators often spotted in the early morning or at dusk.
Various Birds – The area is home to a range of bird species, including birds of prey, weavers, and starlings.

Serval Wildlife also features endangered species conservation efforts, providing a protected environment for rare animals.

Sample day trip itinerary to Serval Wildlife, Kilimanjaro

07:00 AM: Depart from Arusha
You’ll start your journey early in the morning to make the most of your day. It takes around 2 to 3 hours to drive from Arusha to Serval Wildlife, located in the Kilimanjaro region. Enjoy scenic views of the Tanzanian countryside along the way.
10:00 AM: Arrive at Serval Wildlife
Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by lush greenery and expansive landscapes. The Serval Wildlife Estate is known for its beautiful setting near Mt Kilimanjaro and its diverse wildlife. You can see servals, antelopes, birds, and other native animals in their natural habitat.
10:30 AM–01:00 PM: Wildlife Tour and Game Viewing
Join a guided tour through the estate, where you’ll learn about conservation efforts and the native wildlife. Enjoy close encounters with serval cats, a highlight of the trip, as well as other species. This is a great time for photography.
1:00 PM–02:00 PM: Lunch Break
Enjoy lunch at the estate’s restaurant, which offers local and international dishes with spectacular views of Kilimanjaro as your backdrop. Alternatively, you can have a packed picnic lunch.
2:00 PM–03:30 PM: Leisure Time & Optional Activities
After lunch, you can relax and enjoy the surroundings. You may take a nature walk, enjoy birdwatching, or simply relax by the estate’s lake. If available, you can book a boat ride on the lake or enjoy other activities the estate offers.
03:30 PM: Departure from Serval Wildlife
Begin your drive back to Arusha, where you can once again enjoy the scenic views and maybe stop for some quick photo opportunities along the way.
06:00 PM: Arrive back in Arusha
Your driver will drop you off at your accommodation after a fulfilling day at Serval Wildlife.