On safari tents and four poster beds do go together!

If images of a remote location, small tent, and strange animal noises are all that come to mind when you think of a safari, think again. Safari accommodation which was always known to be in tented camps now includes a variety of types of accommodation for travelers. Whether traveling on a budget or want to experience luxury in the African bush, you are covered.

If your dream is to experience the real African

wilderness and stay as close as possible to the wild animals,  a tented camp is for you. With tents, you enjoy the surroundings, take in the natural rhythm of the animals while enjoying the fresh air. Your safari experience will give you a real connection to the outdoors behind the canvas while your security is guaranteed.

Tented camps are not all the same. While a mobile tented safari camp is more expensive, it does get you near the real wildlife action. They are fitted with modern amenities such as a verandas, furnished bedrooms, and en suite bathroom. Guests get personalized service from staff to ensure they enjoy exceptional service. The fun part of staying in such tents is that the camp location can be easily moved. If you are looking for a Victorian-era type of Out of Africa adventure, be it basic or luxurious a mobile tent is a perfect option for you.

The migration of animals like wildebeests or exotic birds is one of the reasons to take a safari. If game viewing at the peak of migration sounds like an exciting idea, then a seasonal camp with a few more comforts is the perfect accommodation option for you. These semi-permanent tents are set up at a single location for a couple of months and have all the amenities so you don’t feel like you are roughing it.

Imagine living in a canvas tent tucked in between trees and lush vegetation overlooking flowing rivers. The raised tents are elegantly designed with campaign-style furniture made from copper, brass, and rich leather. Under the canopied ceilings are a king-size bed, sitting area, and an en suite bathroom with a copper bathtub perfect for a relaxing bath. A large private veranda gives you a chance to view the savannah surroundings or starry skies at night using high-end binoculars offered as a complimentary for guests. Meals are served in a tented dining area and their services are at par with permanent tented camps.

If you prefer staying at one place with more amenities but still in a tent, go for the tented lodge. The permanent structures have canvas walls but the interior resembles a hotel room. You can expect wooden floors, running water, porcelain fixtured bathrooms, and attentive staff to cater to your needs. But don’t worry, you still get to experience hear the animal noises in nearby bushes and stare at the starry sky before you drift off to sleep in your large wooden bed.

Sleeping in the bush doesn’t have to be your first experience when going on safari, you can choose to stay in a lodge instead. Safari lodges are solid and large structures constructed using local materials so that they blend well with nature. Most are located in reserves, national parks, and remote areas giving you a chance to enjoy luxury on a safari. If you are looking for basic comforts you can book a lodge that meets your needs with most offering amenities such as bathrooms with hot water, flushing toilets, and running showers. The service and style may vary but with high-level professionalism.

If you want safari lodge accommodation that goes a notch higher, consider those that offer luxury or ultra-luxury amenities. You can expect spacious rooms, incredible services, and magnificent views from your room. The extra amenities include gyms, spas, swimming pools, fire pits, gourmet meals, and entertainment. Some even offer personalized services like room service for those that prefer staying away from their world-class restaurants. Many guests are awed by the professionalism and level of comfort offered in the luxury safari lodges.

Most safari hotels, operated by hotel companies like Serena, Fairmont, Legacy and Legend are near or within reserves and game parks with an African bush decor. Many, but not all, are larger but less personal than smaller lodges and tented camps with amenities and service that provide familiar hotel-like comforts. For those that like familiarity in terms of accommodation, safari hotels are a good option.

Luxury hotels, life Fairmont, and  & Beyond  with five-star services are also available and ideal for first-time safari-goers. You can enjoy modern amenities such as Wi-Fi, comfortable beds, gourmet meals, spas and business centers while still going for game drives.  Hotel loyalty club members can also earn points from these hotels – an added bonus.

For those seeking privacy and seclusion when on safari, you are in luck. You can book a villa with lots of space and ultra-luxurious amenities. Some common amenities at the stand-alone villas include butler service and private pools ideal for those seeking personalized services.  Often located on hotel or lodge properties, villas are generally located away from the main facilities to provide that remote and private feel.

A villa is perfect for families and groups.  What a way to celebrate a special occasion like a wedding, retirement or milestone birthday, a family reunion, or enjoy a safari with a group of friends.

In summary, safari accommodations are many with the choice pegged on the country, planned activities, and your budget. With my experience, I can help you make the choice of accommodation best suited for you and your family. Call me today for guidance on the best places you can stay while on safari!  I promise – an African safari will change how you look at the world!