Which is better Lodges or Camps?
Which is better Lodges or Camps? Going on a safari in Tanzania is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that every nature enthusiast should experience. This country is home to spectacular destinations, like Serengeti, Ngorongoro , Lake Manyara, etc. The great wildebeest migration is among the fascinating events in Tanzania.
Whether you’re drawn by the wildlife, culture, or mountains, choosing a place to stay is very important. Should you choose a brick-and-mortar lodge or a camp? This article compares the basic camping vs. permanent lodging accommodation style.
Basic Camping
Are thinking of going for a budget safari? Basic camping is your right choice. It is very common in wildlife parks. It involves setting up a tent (usually canvas) on a campsite.
You will need camping gear like a sleeping bag, a tent, a foam mattress, a pillow, foldable chairs, and a table. A cook will be assigned to you.
Amenities
In most campsites, the kitchen, toilet, and bathroom are shared. Some campsites, however, have private toilets and a kitchen. Campsites are usually designated within the park except for Lake Manyara National Park.
Affordability
Basic camping is cost-effective. You don’t need to spend lavishly on a tent. Setting up a tent is simple. So, if you’re looking for cost-effective accommodation, camping is for you. It is affordable and suits travelers on budget safaris.
Authenticity
Basic camping offers an authentic experience with wildlife. You smell nature even when asleep. You listen to the sounds of nature as you dream big about in the middle of an African bush. Staying in the bush tent indicates that you’re an important part of the wilderness.
Eco-friendliness
Looking from a conservationist’s eye, camping is more environment-friendly than lodging. Camping leaves little or no traces of the environment. You can set it up and relocate it easily leaving no concrete or slab. Your crew will carry all camping gear to the designated area.
Lodge
Lodges are permanent accommodation facilities built within or outside the park. They are perfect for relaxation after a busy day. You spend the day exploring natural beauty. The night will be for relaxing in your comfortable room to rewind on what happened in the day.
Lodges within wildlife destinations also offer a unique touch to nature. Lodges have spacious rooms made of concrete walls and floors.
Amenities
Lodges are fitted with modern amenities. There are flush toilets, en-suite bathrooms, restaurants, full-stocked bars, etc. Some have wellness facilities like a gym and spa. Free Wi-Fi and solar power make your safari less boring. You can keep up with your friends on social media.
A swimming pool is another thing not available in campsites. Most lodges have a pool. You can soak up in clean water to relax your body. Other services found in lodges include hair dryers, laundry service, and locker facilities.
The lodges offer unique comfort and luxury to safari-goers as they are suited to modern amnesties. They make you feel at home. You’ll enjoy every minute of being there. Lodges offer a blend of luxury and authenticity.
Safety
Lodges are safer than camps. While in a lodge, you don’t worry much about being attacked by animals. The security is high. In addition to that, animals are scared of buildings. They stay away. The rangers are there to keep you safe. No worries for your safety.
Unique activities
Lodges offer special activities as part of their services. These include a bush dinner, yoga, gym, programs for kids, etc. Staying in this facility will enable you to engage in these activities.
What are tented camps?
While describing accommodation types, this is the common question. A tented camp is different from a campsite. It is made up of a canvas tent raised above a wooden or concrete floor. Camps with concrete are permanent. They are sometimes known as tented lodges.
Like campsites, tented camps are authentic. Their rooms are just tents. You’ll therefore hear the noise of African wilderness.
Tented Camps have modern amenities, making your stay comfortable. And you sleep above the ground. No worries about dangerous animals. Most tented camps are luxurious. Consider this while planning your safari.
Which is better?
Deciding on which accommodation suits your safari is challenging. It depends on your preferences and budget.
If you probably want to gain authentic experience with African wildlife, basic camping is the right choice. It is also the best option for budget travelers.
If you want a complete blend of luxury and nature, lodges are the best option.
An important note! Lodges or tented camps are categorized into luxury, midrange, and budget. If you want a budget safari, but don’t prefer basic camping, choose budget lodges/camps.
Most safari destinations in Tanzania offer a wide range of accommodations. Both basic campsites and lodges are available. You can use them as you wish. Focus East Africa Safaris puts clients in the front. Our safari experts are there to advise you on how you should plan your safari in a good way.
