Mbuzi Mawe Tented Camp

Nestled amidst the ancient granite towers and the vast, open plains of central Serengeti, Mbuzi Mawe Tented Camp offers an intimate slice of African wilderness that blends rustic charm with the comforts of luxury camping. Managed by the prestigious Serena group, part of the Aga Khan Fund for Economic Development, this camp stands out for its smaller size and more personal touch among the group’s larger hotel-style lodges.

Mbuzi Mawe, meaning “rock goat” or “klipspringer” in Swahili, is aptly named given its location surrounded by rocky outcrops that are home to these agile creatures. The camp’s design respects its natural surroundings, featuring tents with thatched roofs on stone platforms, creating a harmonious blend with the environment. This setting not only provides stunning views of the migration corridor but also offers a serene escape from the more tourist-heavy areas of the park.

The camp’s intimate atmosphere is enhanced by its layout, with public areas offering sweeping views and the cozy dining tent fostering a sense of community among guests. An outdoor fire pit serves as a nightly gathering spot, perfect for sharing stories or simply enjoying the vast African sky. Additionally, the camp includes a small gift shop for those looking to take home a piece of Tanzania.

Location:

Mbuzi Mawe Tented Camp is strategically located off the main road between Seronera and the northern Serengeti, making it an excellent stopover for those traveling through the park. Its position is particularly advantageous during the wildebeest migration, which typically sweeps through the area in March and April heading north, and again in November to January on the return journey south. However, the camp’s seclusion means fewer options for game driving directly from the camp, with most wildlife viewing requiring a journey north or south along the park’s main gravel road.

Accommodation:

The camp boasts 16 large, en-suite tents, each providing a simple yet comfortable wilderness experience:

• Tent Layout: These tents are spacious, with each measuring about 5m by 6.5m, offering a genuine canvas living experience. They are arranged close together for an intimate camp feel, with paths leading to each tent shaded by acacias.
• Interior: The decor inside is functional with a touch of charm, featuring dhow-wood furniture, queen-size beds under mosquito nets, and bright, cheerful soft furnishings. While not overly luxurious, the tents provide all necessary comforts for a safari.
• Bathrooms: Each tent includes a private bathroom with a canvas curtain separating it from the sleeping area, equipped with a large mirror, double basin, flush toilet, and a hot shower powered by solar heaters.
• Amenities: Electricity is available 24/7, with facilities for charging gadgets, a ceiling fan, and tea/coffee making. Security is ensured with askaris escorting guests to and from their tents at night.
• Special Tents: Tents #7 and #16 are particularly noted for honeymooners, located at the ends of the camp for added privacy and panoramic views.

Amenities:

Mbuzi Mawe Tented Camp offers a range of amenities to enhance your stay:

• Dining: Breakfast is a mix of cold buffet and hot cooked options, served from 6:30 to 9:30 AM. Lunch and dinner are plated meals, with dinner including a salad buffet, all tailored to provide variety and satisfaction. Dietary preferences can be catered to with advance notice.
• Bar and Social Areas: The bar, open all day, is part of the airy reception tent, where you can enjoy drinks on wooden chairs or relax on lounge sofas, with options to take your drink outside to the deck.
• Gift Shop: A small curio shop within the reception area allows you to purchase souvenirs or essentials.
• Outdoor Activities: Sundowners around the fire pit, bush dinners for groups or romantic settings for couples, and the soon-to-be-added swimming pool will further enrich your experience.
• Service: Concierge services, luggage storage, and housekeeping ensure your stay is as comfortable as possible in the wild.