Tanzania Accommodations
A safari to Tanzania does not mean sacrificing comfort.
Lodges (which are really just small hotels) and deluxe tented camps are certainly available. But if the thought of luxury is not your ideal notion of being on safari, we offer “adventure camping” in Tanzania – all you need is your sleeping bag and a sense of humor/adventure!
Virtually every national park and game reserve offers a wide array of accommodations. Lodges, permanent tented camps, seasonal tented camps, pitch your own tents – you name it; the type of accommodation can be found in Tanzania.
We have highlighted a sample of accommodation choices. These are by no means the only ones available in the noted areas, but are representative of the kinds of accommodations that exist in Tanzania.
A-Way-To Africa Safaris is not in the business of selling rooms, but rather chooses accommodations by the following criteria:
- proximity to wildlife
- clients preference for range of comfort
- quality of accommodations
- quality of staff
- quality of food
- commitment to the preservation of wildlife
- hiring of local people to help benefit the community
- travel budget
Babu’s Camp, Mkomazi National Park. What can we saw about this camp? One word: excellent! Comfortable tents, including in-room charging stations. Exquisite food. Set menu, but meals can be tailored to preferences. Stunning location, within easy driving distance from rhino sanctuary and wild dog research project. Solar & generator power. One of the few camps we have been to that readily uses screens around the dining room so guests have an insect free dining experience.
Chapwani Island, Zanzibar. A 20 minute boat ride from Stonetown, Chapwani is a 16-acre private island. Rustic but comfortable rooms, with ceiling fan, screened windows and ensuite facilities. Only 10 rooms, with maximum of 20 guests. Dinner is set menu, with emphasis on fresh catch of the day. Kayaking and snorkeling equipment available for use.
Four Seasons, Serengeti. Formerly known as Bilila Lodge, the Four Seasons manages to take “lodge” accommodations to an entirely new level. Shower, bathtub, walk-in closet, TV and air-conditioning in each room. The pool is directly above a watering hole, which is frequented by elephants and numerous other wildlife. Ensuite facilities. Set menu.
La Gemma Dell’Est, Nungwi, Zanzibar. Family friendly property, exquisitely located in Nungwi – so dramatic tidal impact not as severe as other island locations. Extensive choice of options for every meal, over-water bar and restaurant. Also a main dining pavilion. Rooms have AC. Child care programs/activities available. All inclusive (soft drinks/local beer/house wine.)
Maramboi Tented Lodge, located on a game reserve between Tarangire and Lake Manyara national parks. Ideal location for those who want to relax in the bush and don’t have a “must see” check list. Guided walks available. Zebra, wildebeest, wart hog … all visible from the infinity pool. Lovely oasis. Set menu with beverages (soft drinks/local beer/house wine) included.
The Retreat at Ngorongoro,Set on 30 acres, the Retreat has 21 ensuite cottages. Can be used as a base for visiting Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro or Lake Eyasi, but is an ideal property for proper “rest and relaxation.” Overlooking Ngorongoro Forest (not to be confused with Ngorongoro Crater), the Retreat is known for its stunning gardens, man-made lake, amphitheater, walking trails and even a jogging trail. Seasonal fruits and vegetables from its orchard and garden give a whole new meaning to the “from farm to table” mantra. Wide ranging menu.
Shooting Star Lodge, Zanzibar. Family-oriented property in excellent location, within easy beach walking distance of other properties. Simple accommodations with ensuite facilities, rooms have air-conditioning. Kind of place you can walk up to the bar with sand on your feet and no one will give you a second look.
Swala Camp, Tarangire, Located in a remote area of the park, Swala Camp has 12 luxuriously appointed “tents,” each with a personal attendant. The main portion of the camp (including a lounge, infinity pool, library and main dining area) is well placed among tall acacia trees. The pool overlooks a watering hole, which regularly attracts local wildlife. Night game drives and guided walks are available. Set menu.