Camping in Serengeti | Ultimate Bush Adventure

Camping in Serengeti National Park – The Ultimate Safari Experience

Camping in Serengeti National Park offers one of the most authentic and immersive safari experiences in Africa. It’s a chance to connect deeply with nature, surrounded by the sounds of the wild—from roaring lions at night to the distant calls of hyenas and the gentle rustle of grazing animals nearby. Serengeti’s campsites cater to all kinds of travelers, from adventurous backpackers to guided safari groups, each offering a front-row seat to the park’s incredible wildlife and landscapes.

Campfire under starry sky with tents in Serengeti

Types of Campsites in Serengeti

There are two main types of campsites in Serengeti:

Public Campsites – Managed by TANAPA (Tanzania National Parks Authority). Affordable, shared facilities, ideal for budget travelers and overlanders.
Special (Private) Campsites – Booked exclusively for your group. Remote, serene, perfect for private safaris or group joining trips.

Public sites like Seronera and Lobo are popular and well-equipped. Private sites are scattered in remote corners, often used by mobile camping operators for a true “under canvas” experience.

Facilities and Amenities

While camping is rustic by design, facilities are functional and clean:

Facility	Public Campsites	Special Campsites
Toilets & Showers	Shared, basic (cold water)	Portable flush toilets, bucket showers
Cooking Area	Communal braai (BBQ) pits	Full mobile kitchen (by operator)
Lighting	Limited (bring headlamp)	Solar lanterns & campfires
Security	Ranger patrols	Private guides + askari (night watchmen)

Most camping safari packages include tents, mattresses, sleeping bags, and 3 meals/day. Independent campers must bring their own gear.

Best Areas for Camping in Serengeti

Each region offers a unique camping experience:

Seronera (Central)

Year-round wildlife, easy access, public campsite with showers. Best for first-time campers.

Western Corridor

Grumeti River crossings (Jun–Jul). Remote sites near hippo pools and croc-infested waters.

Northern Serengeti

Mara River drama (Jul–Oct). Kogatende campsites with front-row migration views.

Ndutu & Southern Plains

Calving season (Dec–Mar). Open plains, newborn wildebeest, predator action.

Wildlife and Safety While Camping

All campsites are unfenced — you are in the animals’ home. Lions, hyenas, elephants, and buffalo may pass through at night.

Always zip tents fully
No food inside tents (attracts hyenas)
Use flashlight after dark
Follow guide instructions
Campfires deter curious animals

Rangers and askari (night guards) patrol regularly. Incidents are extremely rare.

Best Time for Camping in Serengeti

Camping is possible year-round, but timing affects wildlife and weather:

June–October (Dry Season): Best for Great Migration river crossings, clear skies, cooler nights.
December–March (Calving Season): Southern plains alive with newborns. Lush, green, fewer crowds.
November & April–May (Short/Long Rains): Low season = lower rates, dramatic storms, bird migration.

See our best time to visit Serengeti guide for detailed monthly breakdowns.

What to Bring for a Serengeti Camping Safari

Essentials

Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing
Warm fleece/jacket (nights drop to 10°C)
Sturdy closed shoes + sandals
Headlamp + spare batteries
Insect repellent (DEET 30%+)
Sunscreen & hat

Camera & Comfort

DSLR or phone with zoom lens
Binoculars (8x42 recommended)
Power bank (no electricity)
Reusable water bottle
Personal toiletries & quick-dry towel

Why Choose Camping in Serengeti

Camping in Serengeti offers more than just accommodation—it’s a true adventure that places you right in the heart of the wilderness. It’s the thrill of hearing lions roar in the distance, the serenity of sunrise over golden plains, and the connection to Africa’s wild rhythms that no lodge can replicate. Whether you choose a public campsite or a private one, camping in Serengeti delivers a raw and unforgettable experience that captures the essence of safari life.