Safari Accommodations in Tanzania and the differences between them
Organizing a safari in Tanzania involves a variety of decisions, and one of the most significant ones is where to stay. Choosing the right safari accommodation in Tanzania is essential when planning your adventure. The decision is typically based on factors such as your budget, level of comfort, desired amenities, and location (inside or outside the park).
There are multiple accommodation options to choose from, ranging from simple camping to luxurious tented lodges, with various categories and intermediate types in between.
Accommodations for a safari differ from what you would find in other tourist destinations. It’s important to remember that accommodations in national parks or along safari circuits are not like those we are accustomed to in Europe. In Tanzania, for example, star ratings don’t exist, so tour operators categorize establishments into different price ranges (such as economy, mid-range, upgrade, and luxury).
Even when opting for luxury accommodation, there may be some amenities missing that one would expect from standard hotels, such as hairdryers, TVs, air conditioning, or a pool.
Not sure which safari circuit to choose? Read the article on the main safari tours in Tanzania.
Types of accommodation during a safari in Tanzania
As you may have gathered, there are various types of accommodation in Tanzania. You can opt for luxurious accommodations like lodges and luxury tented camps or choose the more basic option and escape unnecessary comforts by camping.
It’s worth noting that regardless of the type of accommodation chosen (whether camping or opulent structure), the circuits remain the same, ensuring that everyone has the same opportunities to go on game drives (photo safaris). The final cost of the safari experience will predominantly be influenced by the choice of accommodation (given the same itinerary).
Accommodations in parks usually fall into four main categories:
- Camping
- Lodges
- Tented Camps
- Luxury Tented Lodges
Camping during a safari in Tanzania – Essential and intimate with nature
Camping is the most adventurous and basic option, designed for travelers who want to be as close to nature as possible while trying to save some money on the overall cost of the safari.
The basic camping option typically includes setting up an igloo-style tent in designated campsites. You will sleep on a mattress and need to bring a sleeping bag (which you must bring from home). The bathrooms and showers are shared. While you’re out on game drives, a chef remains at the camp to prepare meals.
Pros:
- Most economical option: Generally the least expensive choice, ideal for those on a tight budget.
- Total immersion in nature: Great for those seeking an authentic “under the stars” adventure.
Cons:
- Limited comfort: No soft beds or private bathrooms.
- Exposure to natural elements: You might have to contend with rain, insects, and other aspects of outdoor life.
Lodge – Comfort and modern amenities in the african landscape
Lodges offer solid comfort with structures built using durable materials such as stone or wood. They usually have well-equipped rooms with their own bathrooms and sometimes additional amenities like restaurants, pools, and wellness services.
It is important to note that lodges are mostly located outside national parks, which makes them less intimate with wildlife, but they can offer spectacular panoramic views and a feeling of comfort and security in the heart of breathtaking natural environments.
Pros:
- Security and Stability: Safe location away from direct wildlife encounters, with sturdy shelters.
- Comfort: Rooms usually well-equipped with private bathrooms, air conditioning or fans, and other amenities.
Cons:
- Location outside National Parks: These facilities are located outside the boundaries of national parks and allow combining the typical comfort of hotels with the serenity and natural beauty of Africa, while maintaining respectful practices for sensitive ecosystems. However, being outside the parks may offer fewer opportunities for spontaneous wildlife sightings from your own room.
- Price Variability: There are lodges for almost every price range, but be mindful of the distance from the parks for safari excursions.
Tented Camps – Authentic and comfortable experiences inside National Parks
Tented camps should not be confused with traditional camping; they are a very popular alternative within national parks. These structures, even in the mid-range categories, are luxurious and elegant, located inside national parks in extraordinary landscapes, offering a fascinating and authentic experience. The tents are made of canvas and offer spacious interiors comparable to a hotel room, sometimes even larger.
The rooms are equipped with comfortable and spacious beds, private bathrooms with showers and toilets. In addition, each tent has a small outdoor space with a table and chairs, perfect for enjoying the calm and beauty of the surrounding nature.
Tented camps span a wide range of comfort levels, from basic to luxurious, to accommodate different types of guests. The atmosphere is intimate and calming, with only a few tents (usually a maximum of 10), much less crowded than larger structures such as lodges.
These camps heavily rely on renewable energy sources, such as solar, supported by backup generators. However, there may be interruptions to electricity from 22:00 to 5:00, contributing to a more natural atmosphere and energy conservation.
Wi-Fi is not available everywhere, and where it exists, it is mainly in common areas. This choice is intentional to encourage total immersion in the landscape and to distract from digital distractions.
Tented camps are an ideal accommodation option for nature enthusiasts seeking a unique experience in the heart of Africa, without sacrificing the comforts of a well-designed and environmentally conscious lodging system.
Pros:
- Advanced Comfort: Comfortable beds, en-suite bathrooms, and sometimes private verandas.
- Close Proximity to Nature: Often located in more secluded and intimate locations, close to wildlife.
Cons:
- Higher Cost: They may be more expensive than traditional camping.
- Limited Availability: Because they are intimate, they may be less available, so booking in advance is recommended.
Luxury Tented Lodges – Premium Experience in the Heart of Wild Africa
Luxury tented lodges take the concept of tented camps and elevate it to the highest levels. In addition to the comforts of standard tented camps, with typically more refined decor, they often offer extra services such as private pools, wellness services on demand, access to gourmet dining, and greater customer attention (which in my experience is always very good regardless of the category).
Pros:
- Maximum Comfort: Often designed with rich attention to detail and luxurious furnishings.
- Personalized Experiences: Many of these facilities offer extra experiences like sundowners or bush dinners.
Cons:
- High Cost: These lodges represent the best of accommodations for those seeking high standards.
- Less Wild Structure Sensation: For some, luxury can reduce the sense of raw and authentic adventure.
Each accommodation option described allows for a different immersion in the safari experience, from the essential convenience of camping to the chic opulence of luxury tented lodges. The final decision depends on your personal preferences, the level of comfort desired, and, of course, your travel budget.
