Born in Tanzania's Tanga region, Rodgers Daniel began his career as a teacher after completing his Diploma in Education at Marangu Teachers College. However, his true calling emerged when he joined the tourism industry in 1998 at Serengeti Sopa Lodge and then held various management positions across Sopa and Elewana. In 2019, his exceptional leadership earned him recognition as "Best Manager" across the entire Elewana Collection in Tanzania and Kenya while serving as General Manager at Serengeti Pioneer Camp. Now, he brings his wealth of experience to Serengeti Explorer as Lodge Manager of Room Division, where he oversaw the property's opening.
What are some of the unique aspects guests can enjoy while staying at Serengeti Explorer?
Beyond our game drives with professional and experienced guides, we offer a diverse range of experiences including walking safaris and cultural programming such as our art gallery showcasing local talent and African craft workshops. A particular highlight is "The Hide" – the only underground wildlife viewing hide in Serengeti National Park, where guests can observe animals visiting our water hole up close in their natural habitat. For culinary enthusiasts, we offer a Chef's Platter with wine tasting in the Divai Wine Cellar, and traditional dining experiences at The Boma accompanied by captivating Maasai dance performances.
Furthermore, guests can enjoy complimentary sunrise and sunset yoga sessions led by our Yoga Master, Mohit Tyagi, as well as access to our fully equipped fitness centre (The Gym)
Guests can also enhance their safari experience with bush breakfasts, lunches, and sundowners, and learn about the great Serengeti wildebeest migration at our Cultural Centre.
Can you share what makes the underground hide at the property so special?
The underground hide offers guests a unique and intimate wildlife viewing experience. Accessible via an underground tunnel from the lodge, this hide is strategically positioned beside a surrounded watering hole, attracting a diverse array of animals seeking refreshment. Guests can observe wildlife up close in a discreet setting, making it ideal for photographers and nature enthusiasts. This innovative feature enhances the safari experience by allowing guests to witness animals in their natural habitat without disturbance.
Additionally, the hide is connected to a dedicated photo studio equipped with advanced technology and an on-site expert, enabling guests to capture and refine stunning images of the wildlife they observe.
What's the most surprising animal sighting you've had from the hide thus far?
I saw a giraffe walking majestically near the hide shortly after our opening, that was truly special. We've also had impressive sightings of buffalo herds and various antelope species. Each day brings new and unexpected wildlife encounters.
What is the best season to visit the property and why?
The property offers excellent year-round wildlife viewing opportunities for the "Big Five" – lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinoceros – plus cheetahs and other iconic species. However, if you specifically want to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration, the best times are late February to March and July through October.
For families visiting with children, what activities do you offer that keep kids engaged?
We've created a range of activities that make safari meaningful and fun for younger guests. Children can enjoy short walking safaris while identifying the "Small Five," participate in our Kijana Activity Passport program, play interactive card games, learn traditional Maasai fire-making techniques, and explore arts and drawing with our resident artist. Making marshmallows around the campfire is always a hit with our younger guests too!
Can you share more about the culinary venues and how you're incorporating local ingredients and traditions?
We offer diverse dining experiences across multiple venues: our Acacia Main Restaurant with live cooking stations, the traditional Boma for atmospheric African dining, Kisimani Poolside Bistro & Bar for casual fare, and the intimate Chef's Table for special occasions.
Each dish is a masterpiece that showcases a harmonious blend of local flavours and international influences, using the freshest, locally sourced ingredients.