Treat yourself to a luxury safari in the Serengeti

Who hasn't dreamt of treading the savannah in search of a dream safari? To watch the sun set in a majestic ballet under the emblematic shade of the acacias. Watch lions, elephants, rhinos and majestic giraffes in their natural element? Here you are in East Africa, on the shores of the Indian Ocean, in a world where myths and legends abound by the thousands: Tanzania. The setting for the famous film Out of Africa is home to no fewer than 120 tribes, the most famous of which is the Maasai. But as well as its richly varied culture, Tanzania is still considered by many to be a safari paradise, a mysterious country where wildlife reigns supreme in the highlands of the Serengeti Park. So why not take the dream to the extreme and treat yourself to a luxury safari in the Tanzanian savannah.

© RujStudio / Shutterstock

The Serengeti is one of the most beautiful national parks in the world. The quintessence of wild Africa, covering almost 15,000 km². When you think of these vast expanses, you think of the immensity of the infinite plains of the savannah. The sunlight that envelops the atmosphere in such a special way, whatever the time of day. Sunrise is as imposing and impressive as the approaching dusk, revealing majestic shadows. And, of course, you can imagine hundreds, if not thousands, of animals treading the arid, dry land. Lions, wildebeest, elephants, giraffes, hippos... The Serengeti is home to the greatest variety of prey-predators in the world and the greatest density of animals in Africa. In fact, you may be lucky enough to witness scenes of wild life of a rare intensity.

Shadow of a giraffe in the Serengeti

- © ndphoto / Shutterstock

In the collective imagination, a safari symbolises the trip of a lifetime. A remarkable, unforgettable encounter with wildlife. It's a privilege to be able to rub shoulders with these great animals, so majestic. Slender giraffes, solitary rhinoceroses that have become so rare, elephants with their quiet strength, imposing lions and elusive leopards. It's a privilege to be able to admire these legendary wonders for just a few days. So why not take the experience even further and treat yourself to a luxury safari. Incredible lodges, luxurious tents, a romantic dinner at dusk... It's time to discover the unforgettable experience that a stay in a magnificent lodge in the heart of the African savannah can offer you.

Sunset, view from a luxury tent in the Serengeti

- © soft_light / Shutterstock

5* tents in the Serengeti

At One Nature Nyaruswiga Serengeti, you're in the heart of the park. It's the ideal place from which to discover the vast world of the Tanzanian savannah. It's a luxury camp with exceptional views over the endless plains and an infinity pool. All inclusive, you can enjoy a candlelit meal in the evening. A change of scenery guaranteed.

One Nature Nyaruswiga Serengeti Serengeti

One Nature Nyaruswiga Serengeti

Located in the heart of the Serengeti, One Nature Le Nyaruswiga Serengeti is a luxury camp surrounded by breathtaking views of the endless plains.
From
£3,600
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© One Nature Nyaruswiga Serengeti / Booking.com

The Serengeti Pioneer camp will transport you to a fabulous moment of reconnection with nature. The tents are comfortable and offer exceptional views of the surrounding area. The décor is straight out of a film. It's time for adventure.

Serengeti Pioneer Camp Serengeti

Serengeti Pioneer Camp

Featuring an outdoor pool, bar and garden, Serengeti Pioneer Camp is located in Mugumu, 9.4 km from Mugumu and 12 km from Negoti.
From
£1,700
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Ole Serai Luxury Camp welcomes you in a warm atmosphere in the heart of the savannah. You'll be charmed by its ultra-comfortable rooms with magnificent views. You may even be lucky enough to come across some curious elephants during your breakfast.

Ole Serai Luxury Camp Ser

Ole Serai Luxury Camp

Set in the Serengeti National Park between the Rongai and Nyaroboro Hills, Ole Serai Luxury Camp features free Wi-Fi.
From
£973
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When should you go on safari?

And because you need to prepare for a safari, remember to synchronise your trip with the natural cycle of life in Serengeti. The park is home to the impressive phenomenon of the great migrations. At the end of June, the plains become dry and almost two million wildebeest and thousands of zebra and gazelle begin their great migration north. They head for Kenya on the edge of the Masaï Mara river. To find new grazing lands and water to drink. For two months, these large herbivores roam the savannah, their herds stretching up to 40 kilometres, closely followed by numerous predators. They must face up to the harsh laws of life to ensure the survival of their species. Here you can witness some impressive scenes

© RujStudio / Shutterstock

The most exclusive experience on a Tanzania safari is undoubtedly the hot-air balloon safari. Wake up at dawn, the savannah still asleep. It's 5am and you're off in the direction of your hot-air balloon. Watch the balloon being inflated and climb aboard. You rise into the air to the rhythm of the sun, which fills the sky with its beauty. For almost an hour, you'll have the privilege of observing African flora and fauna in an unexpected and exceptional way. Seen from above, the savannah is even more majestic, dressed in shades of red and pink. Here and there, a flight of egrets, a herd of buffalo or giraffes feasting on the leaves of acacia trees. Once back on land, you are served a magnificent breakfast. Sometimes they even pull out all the stops and offer you champagne. A nod to the Montgolfier brothers, two French industrialists who invented the hot-air balloon. A pretext for making your experience even more incredible.

Sunrise over the Serengeti in a hot-air balloon

- © Delbars / Shutterstock

Many lodges and camps offer this experience. The weather conditions are almost always favourable for ballooning in the Serengeti, but remember to book in advance. You should expect to pay at least 500 euros per person, and more depending on the service you require. Depending on the wind, the flight lasts between 45 minutes and 1 hour (sometimes 1.5 hours). But allow a full morning for this activity.

Practical information

👛 Price: As you will have realised, going on safari comes at a price and can vary enormously depending on your expectations and the level of luxury you want. Entrance to the park will cost you €60 per person per day. The average price of accommodation is €300 per person per day. But if you opt for luxury lodges, the price can easily rise to over 1,500 euros per person per day. A guide (driver + car) costs around 150 euros / person.

Transport: You can hire a car and go off on your own, but this is relatively dangerous and not recommended.

👉 You can go with an independent guide or with a guide who works for the lodge where you are staying. A hot-air balloon safari costs €500, while a couple will spend at least €1,200 per day.

by Faustine PEREZ
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