Tanzania Camping Safari
Tanzania camping safaris and tented tours offer a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the wilderness, particularly when staying in the top camps in Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Lake Manyara, near Mount Kilimanjaro, and more. Camping in Tanzania allows you to experience safaris and sleep close to the animals, with many tented lodges enabling you to hear wildlife moving nearby. Tanzania is a quintessential African destination, boasting several world wonders, abundant biodiversity, and rich cultures.
Camping safaris in Tanzania are highly affordable and cater to all types of travelers. These experiences are especially delightful for couples, making them ideal for students, honeymooners, families, solo travelers, group adventurers, and both budget and luxury travelers. The best time to visit is during the dry season when game drives are most enjoyable in the warmest weather.
Engage all your senses as you discover different aspects of the wilderness: savor the sweet scent of bush flowers, listen to the roars of lions and songs of birds, enjoy delicious meals prepared by expert chefs or yourself, observe nocturnal creatures like hyenas, and relax in the serene atmosphere of the wilderness by a campfire.
All Tanzanian national parks offer campsites and lodges that cater to various budgets, providing essential amenities to ensure your stay is comfortable and safe. These include clean water, bars with various beverages, restrooms, bedding, and catering facilities. Alternatively, you can bring your own tent and essentials such as soap, cooking equipment, food, and sleeping bags.
Camping in Ngorongoro Crater
Ngorongoro Crater, located in the Great Rift Valley, is home to about 30,000 animals, including lions, black rhinos, elephants, buffaloes, and leopards. While camping inside the crater is not allowed, visitors can camp around the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and the crater rim. Public and special campsites are available, with facilities for self-sufficient campers.
Tips for Camping in Ngorongoro
- Join a tour group for an organized experience.
- Follow campsite rules for safety.
- Expect shared facilities at public campsites.
- Book campsites through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area Authority (NCAA).
- Pack appropriate clothing, personal toiletries, insect repellents, flashlights, and camping gear.
Public Campsites
- Simba A Campsite
- Simba B Campsite
Camping in Serengeti National Park
The Serengeti, famous for the great wildebeest migration, offers an unforgettable wilderness adventure. Camp under starry skies and experience nocturnal wildlife up close.
Tips for Camping in Serengeti:
- Plan with a reputable tour operator.
- Follow safety guidelines from tour guides and campsite attendants.
- Securely store food to avoid attracting animals.
- Use designated campfire spots and extinguish fires completely.
- Pack toiletries, hand sanitizer, flashlights, insect repellents, sunscreen, appropriate clothing, sleeping bags, and water bottles.
Public Campsites
- Seronera Campsite
- Lobo Campsite
- Ikoma Campsite
Camping on Kilimanjaro Mountain
Kilimanjaro, the tallest mountain in Africa, is a major attraction for climbers and adventurous travelers. Several routes, including Marangu, Machame, Lemosho, Rongai, and Northern Circuit, offer designated camping grounds.
Tips for Camping on Kilimanjaro:
- Obtain a permit from park authorities.
- Use reputable tour operators for planning.
- Pack necessary camping and hiking equipment.
- Be prepared for varying temperatures with layered clothing.
- Follow the guidelines from your climb support team for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Essential Items for Kilimanjaro Camping
- Sleeping bag and mat
- Head torch or flashlight
- Warm hat and gloves
- Layered clothing
- Hydration bottles and energy snacks
- Comfortable hiking boots and campsite sandals
- Personal first aid kit
Best Time for Camping in Tanzania
Camping in Tanzania is possible year-round, but the dry season (June to October) is ideal. During this time, the weather is cool and dry, wildlife viewing is optimal due to thin vegetation, and the skies are clear for photography. It is also the peak season for chimpanzee trekking, mountain climbing, and beach holidays, with the wildebeest migration at its peak. However, expect crowded parks, high accommodation rates, and dry, dusty conditions.
