Tanzania Safari Accommodation: Where to Stay on Safari

Tanzania has long been a top destination for safari enthusiasts, offering unparalleled opportunities to witness the wonders of Africa’s diverse wildlife. From the iconic Serengeti National Park and the dramatic Ngorongoro Crater to the remote Selous Game Reserve, the country boasts an array of incredible safari experiences. Equally impressive is the diverse range of accommodation options catering to every traveller’s needs and preferences¹.

Whether you seek the luxurious comforts of a lodge or the immersive thrill of a tented camp, Tanzania’s safari accommodation delivers exceptional experiences. Visitors can choose from a selection of lodges and camps situated within the heart of the action, offering unobstructed views of migrating herds, elusive predators, and stunning landscapes².

For those seeking a more exclusive adventure, Tanzania’s southern reserves, such as Ruaha National Park and the Selous Game Reserve, offer an intimate safari experience with fewer crowds and a chance to explore lesser-known corners of the country¹.

Key Takeaways

Tanzania offers a diverse range of safari accommodation, from luxury lodges to rustic tented camps.
Iconic national parks like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater provide exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities.
Exclusive private reserves in southern Tanzania offer a more intimate safari experience.
Seasonal camps and mobile safaris allow for flexibility and access to remote areas.
Lodges and camps in Tanzania cater to a variety of travellers, including couples, families, and small groups.

Unveiling Tanzania’s Safari Splendour

Tanzania is a land of unparalleled natural beauty and unrivalled wildlife encounters. From the legendary Serengeti National Park to the remote and rugged Selous Game Reserve, this East African nation offers travellers a chance to immerse themselves in the heart of Africa’s untamed wilderness³.

Explore the Vastness: From Serengeti to Selous

The Serengeti National Park is synonymous with the annual wildebeest migration, a spectacle that draws visitors from around the world⁴. Witness the dramatic movements of over two million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles as they traverse the vast grasslands in search of fresh grazing and water⁴. Beyond the Serengeti, the Selous Game Reserve is a lesser-known gem, boasting unspoilt landscapes and diverse wildlife, including the elusive black rhinoceros³.

For those seeking a truly immersive safari experience, Tanzania’s private reserves and exclusive camps provide unparalleled opportunities to observe wildlife up close, away from the crowds⁴. Luxury lodges and tented camps, such as the Four Seasons Safari Lodge in the Serengeti and the andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, offer guests a level of comfort and personalised service that enhances the overall safari experience⁴.

“Tanzania’s safari destinations offer a level of exclusivity and authenticity that is truly unparalleled. From the vast, untamed wilderness of the Serengeti to the remote and rugged Selous, the country’s diverse landscapes and wildlife promise an unforgettable adventure.”

Whether you’re seeking the thrill of the great migration or the serenity of a private reserve, Tanzania’s safari accommodation options cater to every traveller’s needs, allowing them to fully immerse themselves in the country’s natural splendour³. From budget-friendly camping and lodges to high-end luxury experiences, the choices are endless, ensuring that every visitor can indulge in the quintessential Tanzania safari adventure³.

Explore the vastness of Tanzania’s safari regions, where the sights, sounds, and scents of the wild beckon travellers to embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of Africa⁵.

The Allure of Private Reserves

Alongside the renowned national parks, Tanzania is home to a growing number of tanzania private safari reserves and serengeti private concessions that offer travellers a more exclusive safari experience⁶. Privately managed areas like the grumeti private reserve, which borders the Serengeti, and the Mwiba Wildlife Reserve in the southern Serengeti, provide guests with increased privacy, personalised service, and unrivalled access to the country’s wildlife⁶.

Luxury lodges such as singita sasakwa lodge and mwiba lodge, situated within these tanzania safari exclusivity private reserves, cater to discerning travellers seeking the ultimate in comfort, cuisine, and game-viewing opportunities⁷. These private reserves often have fewer tourists and more flexible safari experiences, offering off-road game drives and guided safaris with highly trained guides⁶.

Private Reserves	National Parks
Smaller in size	Larger in size
Fewer tourists and more exclusive experiences	Higher number of daily visitors
Luxury accommodations like lodges and camps	Wider range of lodging options, including budget-friendly campsites
Off-road game drives and personalised safaris	Mix of professional guides and self-drive options

The allure of tanzania private safari reserves lies in the opportunity to immerse oneself in the wilderness with a more intimate and personalised safari experience⁶. These exclusive enclaves offer travellers a chance to connect with the natural world, away from the crowds, and witness Tanzania’s diverse wildlife in a truly remarkable way⁶.

“The exclusivity and personalised service offered by private reserves are what truly set them apart from the larger national parks. It’s an experience that immerses you in the heart of the wild, with unparalleled access to the country’s remarkable wildlife.”

Whether you’re seeking the grandeur of the serengeti private concessions or the serenity of the grumeti private reserve, Tanzania’s private reserves provide a safari adventure that is truly unparalleled⁶. With their focus on luxury, privacy, and exceptional game-viewing opportunities, these exclusive enclaves offer a safari experience that is second to none⁶.

Tanzania’s Northern Safari Circuit

Immerse Yourself in Big Game Country

Nestled in the heart of Tanzania’s breathtaking landscapes, the northern safari circuit is a prime destination for those seeking the ultimate wildlife adventure. This region is renowned for its high concentrations of big game, including the iconic Big Five, and the awe-inspiring annual wildebeest migration – one of nature’s most spectacular displays⁸.

The Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, and Tarangire National Park form the cornerstones of this safari circuit, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience⁸. Serengeti National Park, spanning an impressive 14,750 square kilometers, is home to a vast array of wildlife, including over 500 bird species⁹. The Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest intact and unflooded caldera, is a true geological wonder, while Tarangire National Park boasts the world’s largest concentration of elephants during the dry season⁹.

Accommodation options in the northern circuit range from luxury lodges and seasonal tented camps to more intimate, explorer-style camps, allowing travellers to fully immerse themselves in the area’s abundant wildlife and dramatic landscapes⁸. While the northern parks primarily offer daytime game drives, with limited opportunities for activities like walking safaris and night drives, some private concessions may provide additional experiences⁸. One notable exception is Lake Manyara National Park, which stands out for offering both day and night game drives, giving visitors a unique and diverse safari experience⁸.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned safari enthusiast, Tanzania’s northern circuit offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the natural wonders of Africa and create memories that will last a lifetime⁸. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and prepare to be captivated by the ‘Big Game Country’ of Tanzania⁸.

Safari Destination	Key Features
Serengeti National Park	Spans 14,750 square kilometers, home to over 500 bird species⁹
Tarangire National Park	Hosts the world’s largest concentration of elephants during the dry season⁹
Ngorongoro Crater	The world’s largest intact and unflooded caldera⁹
Lake Manyara National Park	Offers day and night game drives, diverse habitats, and excellent birdwatching⁹

“The Great Wildebeest Migration is one of the most amazing wildlife spectacles in the world, making it a significant draw for tourists to Tanzania’s Northern Safari Circuit.”⁸

Seasonal Camps and Mobile Safaris

Adapting to the movements of the wildebeest migration and other wildlife, Tanzania is home to a diverse range of seasonal camps and mobile safari operations. These temporary or semi-permanent facilities, such as Legendary Expeditions’ Nyasi camp in the Serengeti, allow travellers to follow the herds and witness the thrill of the migration up close¹⁰.

By strategically positioning their camps to align with the animals’ movements, these operators offer unparalleled access and exclusivity, enabling guests to witness some of nature’s most dramatic events, including the famous river crossings. This level of mobility and flexibility is a key part of the Tanzania safari experience¹⁰.

The price range for accommodation options in Serengeti National Park varies from $370 to $2360 per person per night¹¹. Singita Mara River Camp, with only six luxury tents, offers accommodation starting from $2045 per person per night¹¹. Nomad Serengeti Camp with nine luxurious safari tents provides lodging from $920 per person per night¹¹. &Beyond Klein’s Camp, located in a remote corner of the Serengeti, offers accommodation starting from $1050 per person per night¹¹. Singita Faru Faru Lodge, boasting jaw-dropping design and modern decorated suites, provides accommodation from $2045 per person per night¹¹. Mwiba Lodge in southern Serengeti offers ultra-luxurious designer tented suites starting from $1939 per person per night¹¹.

These seasonal camps and mobile safaris not only provide a unique safari experience but also offer the flexibility to follow the wildebeest migration, ensuring travellers can witness this natural spectacle in its full glory¹⁰.

Camp	Location	Price per Person per Night
Singita Mara River Camp	Serengeti National Park	$2045
Nomad Serengeti Camp	Serengeti National Park	$920
&Beyond Klein’s Camp	Serengeti National Park	$1050
Singita Faru Faru Lodge	Serengeti National Park	$2045
Mwiba Lodge	Southern Serengeti	$1939

“Witnessing the wildebeest migration and crossing the Mara River was a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience. The seasonal camps and mobility of our safari allowed us to be at the right place at the right time to capture these incredible moments.”

This level of flexibility and adaptability is a hallmark of Tanzania’s safari offerings, catering to the unique needs and desires of travellers seeking to immerse themselves in the natural wonders of the Serengeti and beyond¹⁰¹¹.

tanzania safari accommodation

Tanzania’s safari landscape boasts an impressive array of accommodation choices to cater to every traveller’s preference and budget. From tanzania safari lodge types to intimate tanzania safari tented camps, the country offers a seamless blend of luxury and authenticity. Discerning guests can indulge in the opulence of tanzania safari luxury lodges, while those seeking a more personalized experience can discover the charm of tanzania safari boutique properties.

Many of Tanzania’s safari lodges and camps are strategically located within national parks or private concessions, granting guests unparalleled access to the country’s diverse wildlife¹². This includes the renowned Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti, boasting 72 spacious rooms and private plunge pools, and the Serengeti Migration Camp, a favourite for witnessing the awe-inspiring wildebeest migration¹².

For those seeking a more immersive riverside experience, the Serena Mivumo River Lodge stands out with its 12 chalets and one villa set along the Rufiji River¹². Tarangire National Park, known for its diverse flora and fauna, offers a unique treehouse-style lodge with 20 suites overlooking the park¹².

In the realm of luxury safari experiences, the Singita Sasakwa Lodge in a private game reserve sets the bar high, featuring ten cottages and a suite for the ultimate exclusive getaway¹². Families with young children will find the Mkombes House Lamai a delightful choice, offering exclusive-use accommodations with child-friendly amenities¹².

Whether you seek the thrill of cheetah conservation at Namiri Plains, the dramatic views of the Ngorongoro Crater at Entamanu Ngorongoro Lodge, or the opulent grandeur of Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, Tanzania’s safari accommodations cater to a wide range of preferences and budgets¹².

For those seeking a more holistic experience, Gibbs Farm offers a historic farm and plantation setting, complete with cottages, a spa, and activities like hiking and game drives¹². Alternatively, Little Chem Chem provides a slower-paced safari in a private concession, perfect for wildlife photography and enjoying sundowners¹².

Tanzania’s diverse safari accommodation options cater to a wide range of travellers, from those seeking luxury and exclusivity to those desiring a more intimate, authentic experience¹³. Whether you choose to stay in a grand lodge, a tented camp, or a boutique property, the country’s safari accommodations promise to elevate your African adventure¹³.

Singita Sasakwa Lodge: Opulence in the Serengeti

Nestled within the vast¹⁴ Singita Grumeti Reserve on the border of Tanzania’s renowned Serengeti National Park, the Singita Sasakwa Lodge epitomises the pinnacle of luxury safari accommodation¹⁴. This sprawling private reserve, spanning over 350,000 acres, has been meticulously protected and conserved since its establishment in 2003, safeguarding the region’s abundant resident wildlife, including lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and African buffalo¹⁴.

Perched atop the picturesque Sasakwa Hill, the lodge offers guests a truly breathtaking vantage point, with sweeping views over the endless Serengeti plains¹⁵. Singita Sasakwa Lodge features nine elegantly-appointed private cottages, catering to single travellers, couples, and families, with accommodation options ranging from one to four-bedroom units¹⁴¹⁵.

Exuding an Edwardian-inspired grandeur, the lodge’s interiors are meticulously curated, blending classic elegance with contemporary comforts¹⁶. From the crystal chandeliers and leather furnishings to the grand bathtubs, every detail at Singita Sasakwa Lodge has been thoughtfully considered to provide the ultimate in exclusivity and indulgence¹⁶.

Beyond the opulent accommodations, guests can immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of the Serengeti ecosystem¹⁴¹⁵. Activities on offer include morning and afternoon game drives, thrilling safaris on horseback, guided bush walks, and the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience a Serengeti balloon safari¹⁴¹⁵.

Dining at Singita Sasakwa Lodge is a true culinary adventure, with gourmet meals served throughout the day, featuring a selection of local and organic ingredients¹⁴¹⁵. Guests can savour morning coffee and tea, a full breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and evening meals, all included in the lodging cost, with the option to indulge in premium champagne and vintage wines at an additional charge¹⁴¹⁵.

With its unparalleled location, exceptional service, and a wealth of amenities, Singita Sasakwa Lodge offers discerning travellers the ultimate in Tanzania’s¹⁴¹⁶¹⁵ luxury safari accommodation.

The Ruaha Experience: Jabali Ridge Lodge

Ruaha National Park in southern Tanzania is a hidden gem that offers a truly remote and exclusive safari adventure¹⁷. Covering an impressive 7,800 square miles, Ruaha is forty percent larger than the renowned Serengeti, yet it attracts only a fraction of the visitors – around 20,000 annually compared to the Serengeti’s 350,000¹⁷. Nestled among enormous boulders in the heart of this vast wilderness, Jabali Ridge Lodge provides guests with unparalleled access to Ruaha’s abundant wildlife, including large lion prides and elusive leopards.

With its contemporary, architectural design and panoramic views, Jabali Ridge Lodge immerses travellers in the raw, untamed beauty of this Tanzania’s southern safari circuit¹⁷. The lodge features eight suites and one two-bedroom family room, totalling ten accommodations, allowing for an intimate and personalized experience¹⁷. Ruaha National Park is home to around ten percent of the world’s lion population and boasts the highest concentration of elephants in East Africa, offering guests an extraordinary wildlife viewing opportunity¹⁷.

For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path safari adventure, Ruaha National Park and Jabali Ridge Lodge offer an unforgettable experience¹⁸. During the high season from July to October, the nightly rate at Jabali Ridge Lodge ranges from US$1,450 to US$1,520 per person¹⁸. In the low season from June, the rates are more accessible, starting at US$800 to US$840 per person per night¹⁸. The lodge’s safari activities include walking safaris, night game drives, game drives, African photo safaris, hot-air balloon safaris, fishing safaris, and cultural experiences¹⁸.

For the best wildlife viewing in Ruaha National Park, the recommended months to visit Jabali Ridge Lodge are July to November¹⁸. The lodge offers the convenience of electricity and running water, with rooms equipped with electrical outlets and en suite bathrooms¹⁸. With its exceptional service, such as the outstanding Italian-born driver guide Lorenzo, Jabali Ridge Lodge is a standout choice for travellers seeking a high-end, remote safari experience in Tanzania’s southern safari circuit¹⁷.

“Ruaha National Park offers a truly remote and exclusive safari experience, and Jabali Ridge Lodge immerses guests in the raw, untamed beauty of this vast wilderness area.”

Western Serengeti’s Wildlife Haven

Nestled within the vast expanse of the Serengeti National Park, the western reaches of this iconic wildlife sanctuary are renowned for their exceptional year-round game viewing opportunities¹⁹. Covering an area of approximately 14,000 square kilometres, the Serengeti is home to a staggering array of wildlife, including nearly 2,000,000 wildebeest, 500,000 Thomson’s gazelle, and 250,000 zebra – the largest concentration of plains game in Africa¹⁹. Complementing this abundant population of herbivores are all the major predators, along with an impressive 500 bird species, making the western Serengeti a true haven for wildlife enthusiasts.

At the heart of this wildlife-rich region lies the Grumeti River, a life-giving source that attracts a diverse array of species, from the iconic hippos and Nile crocodiles to the majestic big cats that patrol its banks¹⁹. Capitalising on the Grumeti’s strategic location, AndBeyond has established two premier safari lodges – the Grumeti River Lodge and the more intimate Mila Tented Camp – offering travellers unparalleled access to this exceptional wildlife viewing area.

AndBeyond Grumeti River Lodge and Mila Tented Camp

Designed to seamlessly integrate with the surrounding natural environment, the lodges’ innovative architecture and use of local materials and crafts create an immersive safari experience for guests. Four Seasons Safari Lodge in the Serengeti National Park offers a variety of accommodation options²⁰, including 60 rooms, 12 suites, and five villas, catering to a range of travellers²⁰. Whether guests opt for the expansive Grumeti River Lodge or the more intimate Mila Tented Camp, they are guaranteed unobstructed views of the diverse wildlife that congregates along the river’s banks.

FAQ

What types of safari accommodation are available in Tanzania?

Tanzania offers a diverse range of safari accommodation options, from luxury lodges and tented camps in iconic national parks like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, to more remote and exclusive private reserves in southern Tanzania. Visitors can choose from grand, colonial-style luxury lodges, intimate explorer-style tented camps, and everything in between.

What are the main safari regions in Tanzania?

Tanzania is home to some of the most iconic safari destinations in Africa, including the legendary Serengeti National Park, the remote and rugged Selous Game Reserve, and Ruaha National Park. The country’s northern safari circuit, encompassing the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, and Tarangire, is renowned for its high concentrations of big game and diverse wildlife.

What is the benefit of staying in a private reserve in Tanzania?

Tanzania is home to a growing number of private wildlife reserves and concessions that offer travellers a more exclusive safari experience. Privately managed areas like the Grumeti Private Reserve and the Mwiba Wildlife Reserve provide guests with increased privacy, personalised service, and unrivalled access to the country’s wildlife.

What can I expect from the northern safari circuit in Tanzania?

The northern safari circuit, encompassing the Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, and Tarangire National Park, is the obvious choice for first-time visitors or those seeking an unhurried safari experience. This region is renowned for its high concentrations of big game and the chance to witness the annual wildebeest migration.

How do seasonal camps and mobile safaris work in Tanzania?

To keep up with the movements of the wildebeest migration and other wildlife, Tanzania is home to a variety of seasonal camps and mobile safari operations. These temporary or semi-permanent facilities allow travellers to follow the herds and experience the thrill of the migration up close, offering unparalleled access and exclusivity.

What are some of the most luxurious safari lodges in Tanzania?

Singita Sasakwa Lodge, located in the private Grumeti Reserve on the border of the Serengeti National Park, epitomises the height of luxury safari accommodation in Tanzania. Jabali Ridge Lodge, nestled in the heart of Ruaha National Park, also provides an unparalleled level of comfort and exclusivity for discerning travellers.

What makes the western Serengeti a prime wildlife-viewing area?

The western reaches of the Serengeti National Park are renowned for their exceptional year-round wildlife viewing, thanks to the presence of the Grumeti River and its abundant resident populations of big game. Camps like AndBeyond’s Grumeti River Lodge and Mila Tented Camp provide travellers with prime access to this wildlife-rich area.

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