Ruwana Plains

The landscape of Ruwana is defined by its splendid, open grasslands and strategic water sources. The Ruwana Waterhole is a unique geographic feature that acts as a magnet for wildlife, especially during the dry season when it becomes a theater for dramatic hunting encounters.

In the center of the plains lies “Sundowner Hill,” a modest elevation that provides a 360-degree vantage point of the surrounding territory. While it is a favorite spot for a picnic breakfast, it is also a wild space—the hill serves as a natural den site for one of the local lion prides. To the south, the plains are bordered by the lush gallery forests of the Grumeti River, where a pedestrian suspension bridge allows guests to safely cross the glittering waters and observe the riverine ecosystem from above.

Ruwana is arguably the premier destination for predator enthusiasts in the West Serengeti. While two resident lion prides and frequent cheetahs roam the area, the spotted hyena is the dominant force here. Several massive clans maintain strict territories across the plains. Guests can often witness complex social behaviors rarely seen elsewhere, including boundary patrols, intense vocal displays (the famous “whooping” calls), and high-stakes territorial battles between rival clans.

During May and June, the wildlife spectacle reaches a fever pitch as the northward migration arrives. Thousands of wildebeest and zebra congregate in this corridor, often resulting in the legendary “cold plunge” as they attempt to cross the crocodile-laden Grumeti River.

• Primates: The Western Corridor is the best place in the park to see baboons; they can often be spotted from the suspension bridge foraging for fresh-water mussels on the rocks.

Avian Predators: Keep an eye on the tallest trees for the Martial Eagle. As the Serengeti’s most powerful raptor, it is a formidable hunter capable of taking down small antelope and hyraxes.