Makoma Hill

Makoma Hill: The Serengeti's Cheetah Stronghold

Situated in the heart of the Central Serengeti, Makoma Hill (Mlimani Makoma) is a gently sloping ridge that offers some of the most spectacular panoramas in the park. This elevated landscape is more than just a scenic viewpoint; it is an ecologically diverse region characterized by open grasslands, whistling thorn acacias, and a remarkable density of wildlife that thrives on its protected slopes.

Makoma Hill is particularly famous among safari enthusiasts as one of the most reliable locations for spotting cheetahs, whose sleek frames are perfectly adapted to the open and rolling terrain of this region.

Cheetahs and Open Plains

Unlike the rocky kopjes favored by lions and leopards, the open and undulating grasslands surrounding Makoma Hill are the preferred hunting grounds for the cheetah. The elevation of the hill itself provides these world-class sprinters with a strategic vantage point to scan the horizon for Thomson’s gazelles and impalas. It is common to see cheetahs perched on small termite mounds or the lower slopes of the hill, utilizing every inch of elevation to plot their next high-speed chase.

A Haven for Giraffes and Elephants

The northern and western slopes of Makoma Hill are densely dotted with Whistling Thorn acacias (Vachellia drepanolobium). This specific habitat is a favorite for the Maasai Giraffe, and it is not unusual to see large "journeys" of giraffes browsing quietly along the ridge. The permanent water sources at the base of the hill also attract breeding herds of elephants, particularly during the dry season, as they move between the Seronera and Mbalageti River systems.

Wildlife Diversity

Beyond the superstar predators, Makoma Hill supports a rich variety of resident species. The open plains at its base are home to:

• Plains Zebras and Wildebeest: Large resident populations are present year-round, joined by the migratory herds during the transitional months.
• Topi: These fleet-footed antelopes are frequently seen standing atop termite mounds, a behavior characteristic of the Makoma region.
• Warthogs: The soft, well-drained soils around the hill provide ideal conditions for warthog burrows.
• Hyenas: Spotted hyenas frequently patrol the slopes at dawn and dusk, following the movements of the resident grazers.

The Safari Experience

The network of tracks around Makoma Hill is known for being less crowded than the main Seronera River loops, providing a more intimate and quiet safari experience. The "Makoma Loop" is a favorite among photographers due to the stunning afternoon light that illuminates the hill and the silhouettes of acacias against the vast Serengeti horizon.

Planning Your Visit

Makoma Hill is easily accessible from any Central Serengeti camp. Because it offers a different habitat than the riverine forests or rocky kopjes, it is highly recommended as a half-day excursion to round out your wildlife portfolio. The best sightings usually occur in the early morning or late afternoon when predators are most active on the open slopes.