Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA) is implementing measures to address overcrowding at wildebeest migration viewing sites in Serengeti National Park. Massana Mwishawa, Deputy Conservation Commissioner, has announced plans to tackle issues such as reckless driving, overcrowding and entry delays, particularly at the busy Kogatende site.
During peak seasons, the park can host up to 600 vehicles and 4 200 tourists daily. TANAPA’s initiatives include upgrading infrastructure, deploying additional patrol vehicles and hosting awareness sessions for tour guides to manage the impact on wildlife and improve tourist experiences.
Wilbard Chambulo, Chairman of the Tanzania Association of Tour Operators, highlighted concerns about reckless driving’s impact on wildlife and visitor satisfaction. A study by Emmanuel Massenga of the Tanzania Wildlife Research Institute also confirmed vehicle congestion is harming wildlife and tourist experiences.
Proposed solutions include establishing special zones with additional fees, introducing a booking system and enhancing infrastructure – these efforts aim to balance wildlife conservation with sustainable tourism practices in the Serengeti to ensure the protection of the wildebeest migration while supporting tourism revenue.
