Safari Accomodations
Tented Camps
Tented camps, also known as safari camps or mobile camps, are a popular accommodation choice for visitors to Tanzania’s national parks who wish to experience an immersive wildlife adventure without compromising comfort.
Location
Tented camps are typically situated in prime wildlife-viewing locations, often close to watering holes or migration paths, to maximise the chance of seeing animals. They are set within the natural landscapes of the national parks, blending in seamlessly with the surrounding environment. These camps are in various Tanzanian parks, including the Serengeti, Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
Structure
Tented camps usually consist of a series of large, durable tents erected on a semi-permanent or permanent basis. Despite the name, these tents are far removed from the traditional concept of camping. They often have solid flooring, high-quality canvas walls and roofs, and sometimes a veranda or decking area with views of the surroundings. Tents can range from relatively simple constructions to lavish suites depending on the level of luxury the camp offers.
Amenities
Inside, the tents are comfortably furnished, often with large beds, seating areas, and sometimes writing desks. They also typically have ensuite bathrooms with flush toilets, sinks, and showers. Some more luxury tented camps offer bathtubs or outdoor showers for a unique experience. Electricity is usually provided by generators or solar power, and while not as constant as in a traditional hotel, it is typically available for charging electronics and giving light. Wi-Fi may be available, though it is often limited or slow due to the remote locations of these camps.
Most tented camps feature a communal area where meals are served, and guests can relax and socialise. These areas often include a bar, a lounge with comfortable seating, and a dining area. Some luxury camps might have swimming pools, spa facilities, or libraries.
Food and Drinks
The entire board is the norm at most tented camps, and meals are often served in a communal dining area or al fresco under the African sky. The food is usually of high quality, with a range of international and local dishes provided. Drinks are typically available, including a selection of wines, beers, spirits, and non-alcoholic beverages.
Activities
Staying in a tented camp often includes various activities, such as game drives in the early morning and late afternoon when wildlife is most active, bush walks with experienced guides, and sometimes even night drives. Some camps may offer additional activities like hot-air balloon safaris or cultural visits to local communities.
Eco-Friendliness
Tented camps often emphasise sustainability, with minimal environmental impact being a key consideration. Many use solar power, recycle waste, and use water-saving measures. They also often work closely with local communities, providing employment opportunities and contributing to local conservation efforts.
Safety
Although sleeping in a tent in the middle of the wilderness may seem risky, tented camps are generally safe. They have guards to deter large animals, and guides will instruct guests on safety precautions. It’s not uncommon for smaller, harmless wildlife to wander through the camps, adding to the unique experience.
In summary, tented camps offer a truly immersive safari experience that brings guests close to nature while providing comfortable accommodations and quality services.
Mobile Tented Camps
Mobile tented camps, also known as mobile safari camps or migratory camps, offer a unique safari experience in the Tanzanian national parks. They are designed to be portable and flexible, moving with the seasons, or sometimes even more frequently, to follow animal migration patterns, particularly the Great Wildebeest Migration in the Serengeti.
Location and Mobility
The defining characteristic of a mobile tented camp is its ability to relocate. The centre might move several times a year to follow wildlife migrations, ensuring that guests are always in the best possible location for wildlife viewing. This ability to move is precious in Tanzania, where the Great Wildebeest Migration sees over a million wildebeest and zebras and gazelles move in a cyclical pattern through the Serengeti and Masai Mara.
Structure
Despite their mobility, mobile tented camps provide a surprising level of comfort. Tents in mobile camps are designed to be packed up and reassembled quickly, but this doesn’t mean they are bare. They are typically spacious and have comfortable beds, seating, and sometimes a desk.
Amenities
The amenities in a mobile tented camp depend on the level of luxury, but most offer en-suite bathrooms with bucket showers and portable toilets. Some camps provide heated water for showers. Solar power is often used for lighting and battery charging. While you’re less likely to find amenities like swimming pools or spas common in permanent tented camps, the trade-off is a more authentic wilderness experience.
Food and Drinks
The camp’s staff prepares meals in a mobile tented camp and are often a communal affair, served in a mess tent or outdoors under the African sky. Despite the logistical challenges, the food quality is usually excellent, with various dishes available. Most camps also offer a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
Activities
Activities from a mobile tented camp typically include game drives in 4×4 vehicles, with experienced guides who can share detailed information about the surrounding wildlife and ecosystem. Some camps may also offer walking safaris, bush meals, and sundowners – evening drinks in the bush watching the sunset.
Eco-Friendliness
Mobile tented camps often prioritise minimal environmental impact. Their temporary nature means that when they move, they leave little trace behind. Many also use sustainable energy sources, such as solar power, and follow strict waste management practices.
Safety
Safety measures in mobile tented camps are similar to those in permanent tented camps. The camps are usually set up in safe areas, away from predators’ frequented paths, and night guards are often employed to ensure safety. It’s important to remember that you’re staying in a wild environment, so following camp rules and guides’ instructions is vital for a safe experience.
Mobile tented camps offer an intimate, immersive, and dynamic safari experience, bringing guests close to nature and wildlife movements. However, they may provide a different level of luxury than some permanent camps, and their unique experiences more than compensate for this.
Permanent Tented Camps
Permanent tented camps, sometimes luxury or semi-permanent, offer an exclusive and comfortable lodging option for safari-goers in Tanzanian national parks. These camps blend the authenticity of a classic safari experience with the comforts and amenities of a luxury hotel.
Location
To ensure excellent game viewing, permanent tented camps are strategically placed in prime locations within national parks, often near water sources or migration routes. The areas of these camps are chosen for their accessibility, scenic views, and proximity to wildlife hotspots.
Structure
The structure of a permanent tented camp includes sturdy, high-quality tents often built on wooden platforms or concrete slabs, sometimes raised off the ground for a better view of the surroundings. These tents are usually more extensive and robust than those used in mobile camps, often incorporating design elements such as thatched roofs and local materials.
Accommodation
Each tent typically features a large, comfortable bed or twin beds, an ensuite bathroom with a toilet, sink, and often a shower or bathtub. Furnishings may include a desk, seating area, and storage for clothing. Many tents also have a private veranda or deck, allowing guests to relax while watching wildlife in the distance.
Amenities
Many permanent tented camps offer high-end amenities. You may find features such as fans or air conditioning, electricity, and WiFi. Communal areas often include a lounge, bar, and dining area. Some luxury tented camps may offer swimming pools, spa facilities, gyms, and more.
Food and Drinks
Dining at a permanent tented camp is often a gourmet experience, with meals prepared by professional chefs. Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and usually afternoon tea are included, with dietary preferences catered for. Many camps also offer a selection of local and international wines and spirits.
Activities
Permanent tented camps offer a wide variety of safari activities. Game drives, usually in 4×4 vehicles, are the most common, but some camps provide guided walks, night drives, bird watching, cultural visits, hot air balloon rides, and more.
Eco-Friendliness
Despite their permanent nature, these camps are often designed with eco-friendliness in mind. They may utilise solar power, water recycling systems, and environmentally friendly waste disposal methods. Additionally, many permanent tented camps contribute to local conservation and community projects.
Safety
Safety is a top priority in permanent tented camps like mobile tented camps. They are typically located away from predator-heavy areas, and trained staff are always on hand to ensure guests’ safety. At night, escorts are usually provided to and from tents.
In summary, permanent tented camps perfectly balance authenticity and comfort, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the wilderness without sacrificing the comforts and conveniences of a luxury hotel. This accommodation option offers an unparalleled experience of the African wild while contributing to sustainable tourism.
Hotels And Lodges
Hotels and lodges are another popular accommodation for safari trips in Tanzanian National Parks. They offer a broad range of amenities and are known for their solid structure, comfort, and, typically, more extensive services than tented camps. Hotels and lodges range from mid-range options to ultra-luxurious establishments.
Location
Hotels and lodges are generally situated within or close to the borders of national parks, often positioned in areas that provide excellent views of the wildlife and surrounding landscapes. Some lodges may be located on private conservancies adjacent to the parks, giving exclusivity and off-the-beaten-track safari experiences.
Structure
Unlike tented camps, hotels and lodges are permanent structures built from brick, stone, or wood. They are designed to blend in with the surrounding environment and often feature traditional African architectural styles.
Accommodation
The accommodation in hotels and lodges varies significantly, but rooms or suites are typically spacious and well-appointed, with ensuite bathrooms. They often feature a seating area, a comfortable bed with mosquito netting, a desk, and storage space. Depending on the level of luxury, some lodges offer private balconies or terraces, plunge pools, and even personal butler services.
Amenities
Regarding amenities, hotels and lodges often have a range of facilities, including restaurants, bars, swimming pools, spas, gyms, and sometimes libraries or business centres. They usually provide electricity, hot and cold running water, flushing toilets, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi.
Food and Drinks
Dining in hotels and lodges often includes various options, from local Tanzanian cuisine to international dishes prepared by professional chefs. Most offer buffet-style meals, while some high-end lodges provide à la carte menus and private dining experiences. Bars in these establishments usually have a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
Activities
The activities offered by hotels and lodges typically include game drives in 4×4 vehicles. Some establishments also provide guided walking safaris, bird watching, cultural village visits, hot air balloon rides, night drives, and more. Additionally, many lodges organise special activities for children, making them a good option for families.
Eco-Friendliness
Many hotels and lodges increasingly focus on sustainability, employing solar power, water recycling systems and participating in local conservation efforts. Some have also established partnerships with local communities, contributing to education and development initiatives.
Safety
Hotels and lodges prioritise the safety of their guests, offering 24-hour security. At night, guests may be escorted to their rooms due to the presence of wildlife. All establishments provide safety instructions, and guests must adhere to these for their protection.
In summary, hotels and lodges on safari in Tanzanian National Parks offer a comfortable and often luxurious experience with a wide range of services and amenities. They provide a home away from home in the heart of the African bush, making them an excellent option for those who prefer a more traditional accommodation style during their safari.
