Swala Camp
Swala has such wonderful charm, and with elephants casually roaming the camp throughout the day, it has become my top choice among all the properties in the park.
SUMMARY:
Swala Camp boasts an exceptional location within its price range, and it appears to be a favorite among guests. Additionally, it provides a few more traditional comforts compared to other properties at a similar price point. Managed by Sanctuary, the same team behind the beloved Kusini, Swala Camp comes highly recommended for those looking for a luxurious starting point to discover Tarangire.
Your stay includes full-board accommodations, featuring all meals and drinks (excluding premium brands), transfers from Kuro Airstrip to the camp, two daily shared game viewing activities, Wi-Fi access, and a laundry service. Children who are 15 years old and younger must share accommodations with their parents, benefiting from a discounted rate – feel free to reach out for more information.
ENTRY & POSITION:
The camp can be reached with a 45-minute road transfer from Kuro Airstrip. The duration of the flight from Arusha to Kuro is 25 minutes, while the journey from Serengeti South Airstrip takes 1 hour and 30 minutes. Swala is situated in a tranquil area in the south-west of Tarangire, surrounded by magnificent acacias and baobabs.
LODGING & AMENITIES AT SWALA CAMP:
The guest lodgings feature 12 canvas pavilions, situated adjacent to the communal building. Each is positioned on a wooden deck, with a few steps ascending to the veranda. This area features a few campaign chairs and a table, along with some cozy seating – it’s an ideal place to unwind and observe wildlife, including elephants and antelopes, as they pass by! Each pavilion features a cozy double bed or twin beds, complemented by bedside tables and lighting. You’ll find LED lights overhead, a pair of end-of-bed stools, a writing desk with a chair, two comfortable armchairs, and an umbrella stand for your convenience. Extra features consist of mosquito nets, fans, an electronic safe, yoga mats, and a hairdryer. A tall partition positioned behind the bed or beds effectively delineates the bedroom area from the washroom. The latter area features a flush toilet, twin washbasins set in a stand with a mirror above, and an indoor shower that leads to a generously sized outdoor shower! A storage unit is available for clothes and other belongings, along with a selection of complimentary toiletries provided for your convenience. Every pavilion is spacious enough to comfortably accommodate up to three adults, or two adults and one child.
The communal lounge and dining spaces at Swala Camp are thoughtfully designed within a traditional lodge made of timber, stone, and thatch, harmoniously integrating with the natural bush surroundings. The lodge, elevated on stilts, offers breathtaking vistas of Tarangire! The lounge boasts chic sofas and chairs arranged around coffee tables, an array of reading materials, and a stunning cascading chandelier. The dining area features stylish individual tables accompanied by elegant upright chairs. The lounge and dining area seamlessly extend to a deck, inviting you to unwind and indulge in delightful food and beverages while taking in the breathtaking views. Dining features encompass a complete English breakfast and continental options, alongside homemade pizza for lunch, and indulgent three-course dinners. Just a brief stroll from the lodge, you’ll find a cozy fire-pit, ideal for enjoying pre-dinner drinks and exchanging safari tales with your fellow guests.
EXPERIENCES AT SWALA CAMP:
Swala Camp provides a variety of activities, featuring guided game drives both during the day and at night, ensuring encounters with an impressive array of wildlife. Additional activities consist of:
When it comes to wildlife viewing, keep an eye out for four of the Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, and buffalo. You’ll also encounter a variety of smaller predators and herbivores, including cheetah, hyena, jackal, wild dog, giraffe, wildebeest, zebra, and many types of antelopes!
Bird watching – The variety of birdlife here is abundant, showcasing species such as the ostrich, tawny eagle, red-and-yellow barbet, and bare-faced go-away bird, all part of the park’s impressive collection of over five hundred species.
As night descends, you have the opportunity to explore and meet fascinating nocturnal creatures, including wild cats, spotted genets, bat-eared foxes, and a variety of owls.
Walking safaris offer an exciting daytime adventure, accompanied by a knowledgeable guide and an armed ranger who will lead you through the uniquely secluded regions of Tarangire. Experience the thrill of tracking elephants, zebras, impalas, ostriches, and many other fascinating creatures!
Elephant migration – Visiting between June and October offers a chance to experience the incredible elephant migration season, where large herds of these magnificent creatures traverse the landscape in pursuit of water.
Guests of Swala have the opportunity to explore the Sanctuary’s beekeeping project, located in the nearby village of Mwika. The villagers gather honey, which is marketed via Sanctuary Swala, with all proceeds from sales being reinvested into the project. In addition to purchasing some jars, you have the opportunity to gain insights directly from the beekeepers involved in the project!
*This property is not enclosed and is situated in a wildlife zone, meaning that large and potentially hazardous animals may roam through the area. If you choose to stay here, please remain vigilant while moving around the camp and feel free to ask a staff member to accompany you if you have any worries. It is standard practice to escort every guest after dark.