Swala Camp

Swala Camp is Duma's favorite property in Tarangire National Park. It is located in the southern part of the park, a two hour drive from the main park entrance. It is extremely remote and game drives are usually very private in this area of the park. Late June through December is generally the best time to visit this camp due to the high concentration of game in and around the camp.

Swala offers a true bush experience. The camp itself consists of nine luxury en-suite tents situated in a beautiful acacia grove. Just to the east of the camp lies the Gurusi Wetlands. Tents are constructed on raised wooden platforms and consist of a bedroom, bathroom and outdoor verandah. The mess tent includes a bar, dining room, indoor sitting area and outdoor deck. Just beyond the mess tent is a fire ring surrounded by canvas safari chairs. Evening fires occur daily. Upon arrival at Swala, the manager gives a safety briefing about the camp and resident wildlife.

What makes Swala spectacular is the camp's watering hole that attracts elephants, zebra, waterbuck and impala during the dry season. Lions and the occasional leopard also visit the water source. As the hole is situated 50 meters from the mess tent, the wildlife viewing in the camp excellent. Several of the sleeping tents' verandahs also offer views of the watering hole. During the dry season, it is often not necessary to leave the camp to enjoy a thrilling wildlife experience. After dusk, guests are escorted to their sleeping tents by camp staff. At no time should guests venture off the camp's trails or walk to the lakeshore unaccompanied.

Swala's customer service is excellent; the staff is very friendly and they go out of their way to ensure that visitors have a perfect stay. Meals are tasty and well presented and the waiters ensure that wine glasses are always full. Bites are provided during most hours of the day for those who choose to stay at the camp. Swala's picnic lunches are among the best in Northern Tanzania and the camp provides chilled soda, beer and wine for those who choose to game drive.

Laundry and a full beverage selection are included. Celtel mobile phone service is available in some areas of the camp. Although the camp will accommodate triple room requests, the tents are more comfortable when sleeping two. Given its remote location, Duma recommends spending at least two nights at Swala Camp. The camp is often fully booked six months in advance.