Safari Accomodation

As the tourism industry has developed, so have the number of options relating to accommodation type. Accommodation in Africa has a diversity that stretches the imagination. Some of the terms used for accommodation can be a bit confusing. Here, we try to explain the difference between different types of accommodation.

Adventure Camping
Adventure Camping requires guests to assist with general camp duties.  Guides provide assistance, but an essential part of this type of safari is participation – from putting up your tent, packing the vehicle, and meal preparation, such as chopping tomatoes for the salad or stirring a pot.  The group will help do dishes on a rotation basis.  You stay at designated camping sites inside and outside of the national parks. The comforts, fittings and facilities vary form one site to another site. For example, the campsites in the national parks may have only basic sanitation while some private campsites have swimming pools and well- stocked bars. Overnight accommodation will be in 2 man tents in which sleeping mats are provided.

3 to 4 Star Accommodation

3 to 4 star accommodated safaris and tours use a variety of  value-for-money accommodation.  Some have a private bathroom (hot shower and a flush toilet), while some have shared bathroom facilities. Accommodation varies from chalets, bungalows, traditional huts, permanent tents and hotels.  All accommodation is twin share basis and varies from permanent tents in a national park to a hotel a few metres from the beach, all of them comfortable, clean and friendly.

Fully Serviced Camping

Fully Serviced Camping is the modern-day version of the ‘traditional’ safari – like the gentleman explorers Baker, Stanley and Baines. The ox-wagons and bearers have been replaced with custom-made 4×4 safari vehicles and professional guides, but you still have your private mobile camp, personal staff of chef, waiter and support crew, home cooked meals and en-suite bathrooms inside your spacious tent – your own private wilderness experience. Improvements in modern camp equipment, lighting, refrigeration, hot water allow a quality lifestyle under canvas in the wilds of Africa, whilst maintaining that ‘pioneering’ feel.  You can sit back, relax and take in Africa’s wildlife and scenery. You will not have to lift a finger as your camp staff will prepare your meals, secure your tent, prepare you showers etc.

Safari Lodges and Permanent Tented Lodges
Safari Lodges vary dramatically in size and style.  Most lodges, especially in Kenya and Tanzania accommodate large numbers of people, with some properties having 60+ rooms. These lodges usually have complete facilities such as conference rooms, business centre and swimming pools.  Lodges are typically located in or outside national parks and reserves.Safari Lodge options vary greatly, from three star to luxurious five star plus. Safari lodges are fully permanent accommodation built out of stone, wood, thatch, bricks, mortar or a combination of all.

Permanent Tented Lodges, as the name suggests, are a mix of luxury tents and solid structure. They are built on a concrete or wooden bases with canvas tent sides.

Luxury Tented Camps
Luxury Tented Camps are generally considered the best for a true safari experience. Most luxury tented camps are small with between 5 and 20 tents thus offers personal attentions to every client.  All luxury tented safari camps feature, spacious canvas rooms with real beds and private, en-suite bathroom facilities (including full plumbing).They often have butler/waiter service and dining is comparable with fine restaurants, with 3 and 4 course meals.  These camps are sold on a fully inclusive meal and activity plan, often with local house beverages included.

Luxury tented camps offer breathtaking vistas of the surroundings in a tranquil and serene environment. They generally offer private decks overlooking the bush, large sleeping areas, separate bathroom and showers with hot and cold running water and electricity.