Is budget camping comfortable?βΎ
Budget camping in Tanzania's public campsites offers a genuine bush experience β you sleep inside the national park boundaries, surrounded by wildlife. Facilities include toilets, showers, and cooking areas. Our camping safaris provide all equipment: dome tent, sleeping mat, camp chair, and camp table. Meals are freshly cooked by your guide/cook. Most guests describe it as one of the most authentic safari experiences available.
What equipment is provided for camping?βΎ
We provide all camping equipment: a quality dome tent per person or couple, sleeping mat, pillow, camp chair, dining table, cooking equipment, and a portable shower for remote sites. You need only bring your sleeping bag and personal items. If you don't own a sleeping bag, we can arrange a rental. All food, fuel, and water are included.
How safe is camping in the national parks?βΎ
Camping in Tanzania's public campsites is very safe. Park rangers patrol the campsite perimeters and wildlife does not typically approach human habitation. That said, hyenas are curious night visitors and it is important to store all food inside the vehicle. Your guide briefs you on campsite safety protocols on the first evening. The experience of hearing lions roar from your tent is genuinely one of the most thrilling things available on safari.
What is the food like on a camping safari?βΎ
Your guide doubles as a camp cook and prepares surprisingly excellent meals over a camp stove or fire. Breakfasts are typically eggs, toast, fruit, and tea or coffee. Lunches are packed picnic-style for eating in the field. Dinners are hot, hearty meals β pasta, rice dishes, grilled meat, vegetable stews β served at the camp table. Special dietary requirements (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free) can be accommodated with advance notice.
Can I upgrade to lodge accommodation from camping?βΎ
Yes β if you prefer lodge accommodation instead of camping, we offer the same itinerary at mid-range lodges for approximately $300β500 per person extra per trip. Lodge accommodation means private en-suite rooms, restaurant dining, and swimming pools. Ask us for the lodge upgrade option when enquiring.
What is the group size on a joining safari?βΎ
Our joining safaris operate in small groups of 2β8 travellers maximum per vehicle. This keeps the experience intimate compared to large group tours. You'll typically join other independent travellers β couples, solo travellers, and small friend groups β from around the world. The social aspect is a valued part of the joining safari experience for many guests.
What should I pack for a camping safari?βΎ
Essential items: sleeping bag rated to at least 10Β°C (nights can be cold at altitude), headlamp or torch, high SPF sunscreen, insect repellent, light layers for cool evenings, sturdy walking shoes or boots, wide-brim sun hat, binoculars (if you have them), and a small daypack. Luggage should be soft-sided for easy vehicle packing β hard cases are not practical on safari.