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Tanzania Top 10 Luxury Safari Lodges & Camps: Our Top Picks


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Endless savannas dotted with acacia trees and inhabited by amazing wildlife is what safari dreams are made of. Realizing this dream is the iconic country of Tanzania, which is why it is flocked by thousands of tourists from various parts of the world each year. But, did you know that Tanzania is not only known for its topography, fauna and even history and culture but also for its brochure-perfect accommodations? These even often adds to the travelers’ excitement! And with a slew of options for safari lodges and camps in Tanzania, luxury travelers often find themselves confused on which facility is best for them. Well, the right choice will really depend on your preferred location and style but to make it easy for you, we’ve narrowed down the top 10 luxury safari lodges and camps in Tanzania:

 

1. Four Seasons Safari Lodge

Location: Central Serengeti

Closest Airstrip: Seronera airstrip

Four Seasons Serengeti set within the unfenced confines of the world-renowned Serengeti National Park, this luxury hotel features plush, safari-style design speckled with artworks from local artists. It offers 77 rooms tucked away with world-class amenities including free and reliable Wi-Fi, coffeemaker, minibars, flatscreen TVs, babysitting services, spa, a wine cellar and an outdoor pool located just in front of a wildlife-infested watering hole. The most luxurious experience can also be accomplished with upgraded rooms that highlights spectacular views and a wildlife almost within an arm’s reach. A private lounge is also available in suite rooms and villas have outdoor showers as well as private infinity pools. It is in no doubt a favorite among many luxurious travelers as it guarantees a wonderful reprieve.

 

Highlights:

  • Located in the heart of Serengeti National Park
  • Encounter wildlife through game drives, guided walks, hot-air balloon rides, bush picnics, and photography classes
  • Secluded and private lavish rooms, suites, and villas
  • Infinity-edge pool overlooking elephants at the waterhole
  • Dining with breathtaking views and style at Boma Grill, Kula's Restaurant, and Maji Bar & Terrace

 

View Four Seasons Safari Lodge 

 

2.  Serengeti Bushtops

Location: Northern Serengeti

Closest Airstrip: Kogatende airstrip

For those seeking wild luxury and refinement in all things, Serengeti Bushtops offer a safari oasis in the quiet but awe-inspiring and wildlife-filled Northern Serengeti region. The grand facility is famous for being one of the most sought-after accommodations which offer front row seats to many important wildlife events including the Great Wildebeest Migration.

Serengeti Bushtops not only boast of first-class amenities, it also allows guests to enjoy a glorious backdrop to the ultimate Safari experience. No wonder it has been featured in many publications and shows including Wall Street Journal, Forbes, National Geographic, The New York Times, and Tattler. It was even granted awards such as Best Wilderness Camps Accommodation Provider for Tanzania and Kenya, and 2018 Winner for World Luxury Spa Awards. For more information, you can also read here.  

 

Highlights:

  • Unparalleled five-star luxury in a mesmerizing natural setting
  • Spectacular opportunity to witness the annual Great Migration
  • A member of the esteemed Bushtops portfolio, ensuring exceptional standards
  • Impeccable first-class service, complemented by a dedicated private butler
  • Outstanding facilities, including a restaurant, bar, library, deck, and swimming pool

 

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3. Sayari Tented Camp

Location: Northern Serengeti

Closest Airstrip: Kogatende airstrip

Overlooking the undulating Serengeti plains which hosts some of the world’s most amazing wildlife concentration and diversity, Sayari Tented Camp provides an exclusive safari retreat and an incredible panoramic views of the “real Africa.” The camp features 15 tented suites tucked into the hillside and furnished with topnotch amenities like WiFi, yoga deck, plush beds and linens, and luxurious ensuite baths. The camp also allows guests to enjoy a rim-flow rock pool, floor-to-ceiling windows, game drives, walking safaris, hot air balloons, and visits to the Kuria people.

As it is one of the very few permanent facilities located next to the Mara River which sees millions of wildebeests, zebras and gazelles along with packs of predators like lions, hyenas and leopards, an action-packed safari may be promised whether the stay is for an adventure of a lifetime, an affair to remember or a holiday to cherish.

Highlights:

  • Proximity to Mara River for Migration river crossings (June to October)
  • Year-round game viewing with experienced guides
  • Refreshing infinity pool for relaxation after game drives
  • Charming tents with spacious bathtubs and separate showers
  • Ideal for family safari holidays
  • Unique solar-powered microbrewery in the bush

 

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4.  One Nature Nyarusingwa

Location: Central Serengeti

Closest Airstrip: Seronera airstrip

One Nature Nyaruswiga is an ultra luxurious safari camp that sits right in the heart of the Serengeti and is embraced by the beautiful Nyaruswiga Hills. Being at the heart of the action, it is only normal to expect a surreal backdrop of incredible wildlife and quintessential views all throughout the year – zebras grazing at the fields, giraffes browsing at trees, lions lazing around at kopjes, and even predators like hyenas hunting for food!

Aside from the breathtaking natural views, One Nature Nyarusingwa also features first class facilities including an astral observation deck, a guest lounge and bar, a plunge pool and jacuzzi, and even outdoor game facilities like badminton, bocce and horse shoe.

 

Highlights:

  • Secluded location in the private area of Central Serengeti
  • An abundance of year-round game, including resident cheetahs and hippos
  • Optimal opportunity to witness the migration for an extended period
  • Spectacular views of the expansive plains from each tent
  • Impeccable quality and meticulous attention to detail in all aspects
  • Family-owned and operated, offering highly personalized experiences
  • In-room massage service and invigorating outdoor showers

 

View One Nature Nyarusingwa 

 

5. Mwiba Safari Lodge

Location: Southern Serengeti

Closest Airstrip: Ndutu Airstrip

Located in Arugusinyai River, Southern Serengeti and bordered by the iconic Ngorongoro Crater region, Mwiba Safari Lodge is famous not only for its stunning riverside location but also for its ultimate private luxury wilderness experience: the lodge highlights an incredible 51,000 acres of wildlife reserve for just 8 suites! Each exclusive tent boasts of deep-soaking tubs that overlook the Serengeti, netted canopy beds, and high-end amenities here and there.

The game in this area is highly exclusive and incredibly excellent all year round as it hosts 33 freshwater springs in the area. It is also famed for its impeccable service as well as its delish gourmet food that’s served either under the stars or in a lush dining space. Also, did you know that this is where Hollywood actor George Clooney proposed to his then-girlfriend Amal Alamuddin?

 

Highlights:

  • Panoramic Serengeti views from an elevated location
  • Exclusive luxury hideaway for ultimate privacy
  • Private safari vehicle and guide for each booking
  • Immerse in authentic cultural experiences with local tribes

 

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6.  Singita Sasakwa

Location: Western Serengeti

Closest Airstrip: Grumeti airstrip

Comfort, luxury, and old-world elegance — Singita Sasakwa’s catch phrase that’s true to its words and on-point. It features colonial-style palacial pads with 10 villas of varying sizes, each with their own private swimming pool. It is located in the Grumeti region and hence provides one of the best views in Africa.

Facilities include WiFi all throughout the place, 24/7 security, main infinity pool, home cinema, spa and tennis courts. It also offers children’s facilities and activities, perfect for family guests. Many stables are also located within the area, providing excellent opportunities to ride horses or ponies across the iconic Serengeti plains.

 

Highlights:

  • Explore the Great Migration route.
  • Experience personalized butler service
  • Enjoy children's program and babysitting service.
  • Visit Sangita’s anti-poaching observation posts.
  • Play tennis.

 

View Singita Sasakwa 

 

7.  Singita Faru Faru

Location: Northwestern Serengeti

Closest Airstrip: Grumeti airstrip

Singita Faru Faru is a contemporary yet rustic and unconventional retreat boasting of an elevated setting with sweeping views of the bush and the Grumeti River. The facility is furnished with 8 luxurious stones and canvas suites and 1 2-bedroom villa. Each of these stylish retreats feature large picture windows that reveal an amazing wildlife and a Swahili-inspired beach with two rim-flow swimming pools overlooking the Grumeti River.

There are many things that can be done in Singita Faru Faru. This includes treating yourself in a luxurious spa, hopping on open-air Land Rovers for spectacular game drives, and even a personalized wine tasting with one of the world’s most experienced sommeliers.

 

Highlights:

  • Private Grumeti Game Reserve location
  • Thrilling hot-air ballooning adventure
  • Spectacular views of Grumeti River and wildlife
  • Visit Singita's anti-poaching observation posts
  • Exciting biking and archery activities

 

View Singita Faru Faru 
 

8.  Ngorongoro Crater Lodge

Location: Ngorongoro Crater Rim

Closest Airstrip: Lake Manyara airstrip

Ngorongoro Crater Lodge has arguably the best views in Africa. It is located on the edge of the renowned World Heritage Site, Ngorongoro Crater which is not only an amazing and unique landscape but also a home to about 2,500 animals including the Big Five. What makes Ngorongoro Crater Lodge visually striking when you see it is that it has an unusual architecture style. It is made of stilted banana thatch tree-suites, all are adorned with graceful antiques. Another very striking feature of Ngorongoro Crater Lodge are its ensuite baths which offers 180-degree views of the stupendous Crater rim, providing a “fairy tale feels”.

Activities you can do in here include walking safaris, hiking through the Crater rim, visits to Maasai cultural villages, sundowners with exceptional views and of course, awe-inspiring private bush breakfasts or lunches.

 

Highlights:

  • Breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater views
  • Unforgettable dining experience on the crater floor
  • Explore the Cradle of Humankind at Olduvai Gorge
  • Enjoy the attentive service of a private butler

 

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9.  Gibbs Farm Ngorongoro

Location: Northern Tanzania

Closest Airstrip: Lake Manyara airstrip

Voted Vest Safari Hotel in Africa in 2011, Gibbs Farm offers homely, colonial feels with beautiful gardens, secluded privacy and a warm, rustic luxury environment. It is made up of 20 cottages set in a working farm, and what makes it so comfortable and inviting is that this boutique hotel provides sumptuous spreads of home-cooked meals. The place is also within reach of the gorgeous Lake Manyara as well as the iconic Ngorongoro.

 

Highlights:

  • Serene forested highlands near Ngorongoro Crater
  • Perfect base for exploring surrounding parks
  • Original farmhouse with working coffee plantation and dairy farm
  • Welcoming atmosphere and charming suites
  • Nourishing home-cooked meals with fresh garden vegetables
  • African Living Spa offering Maasai healing therapies
  • Scenic walks in beautiful English-style gardens

 

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10.  Chem Chem Safari Lodge

Location: Northern Tanzania

Closest Airstrip: Kuro airstrip

It is no question that Chem Chem Safari Lodge is on top of the market. It offers superb exclusivity and 4,000 hectares of opulence that boasts of a rich diversity of wildlife and scenery. The intimate bush property is located about 45 minutes drive away from Tarangire National Park’s northern entrance and about the same to Lake Manyara National Park’s southern entrance.

Chem Chem Safari Lodge features 8 stylish and secluded tents, each looking out towards the Great Rift Escarpment and Lake Manyara National Park. Experiences on offer within the wildlife concession include bush picnics, tracking, game drives, walking safaris, visits to Maasai villages and romantic dining under the stars.

 

Highlights:

  • Thrilling game viewing in Tarangire National Park and exclusive access to the migratory corridor connecting the park and Lake Manyara
  • Spectacular flamingo migration viewing at Lake Manyara
  • Spacious private suites with panoramic views of the plains and lake
  • Engaging walking, running, and village tours with the local Maasai community
  • Unique game viewing experiences from a hot air balloon and helicopter

 

View Chem Chem Safari Lodge 


Supreme safari experiences are really just within reach with these luxury safari camps and lodges. So if you’re looking for a luxurious respite during your African adventures in some of the world’s most thrilling and exotic destinations, you know where to go.

For more details about our handpicked luxury safari lodges check out our accommodations section 

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