About This Property
Sanctuary Swala Camp holds the distinction of being the only permanent luxury tented camp inside Tarangire National Park — one of Tanzania's most underrated wildlife destinations. Set beneath towering baobab trees in a remote corner of the park, Swala offers an exclusive safari experience far from the crowds of the northern Serengeti circuit.
The camp's twelve luxury tents are built on raised wooden platforms and feature four-poster beds draped in mosquito netting, en-suite bathrooms with flush toilets and hot safari showers, and private verandas overlooking the surrounding bush. The main mess tent serves gourmet meals with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
Tarangire is famous for its massive elephant herds — the park supports one of the largest elephant populations in East Africa — and its striking landscape of baobab-studded savannah. During the dry season, thousands of animals congregate along the Tarangire River, creating wildlife spectacles rivalling the Serengeti.
Why We Love It
There's something magical about falling asleep beneath a baobab tree that's been standing for a thousand years. Swala captures the essence of old-school safari — canvas, kerosene lanterns, and the sounds of the African night — without sacrificing an ounce of comfort. The elephant encounters here are extraordinary: herds of 200+ are not uncommon during the dry season.
Rooms & Details
12 luxury tents on raised wooden platforms. Each features a king-size four-poster bed (twin configuration available), en-suite bathroom with flush toilet, hot safari shower, vanity area, private veranda with seating, writing desk, and 24-hour solar-powered lighting.
Amenities & Features
Cancellation Policy
Free cancellation up to 30 days before arrival. 50% charge 15–30 days. Full charge within 14 days.
Rates
Prices start from $395 per night. Final pricing depends on season, room type, and availability. Check current rates on our booking partner's site for the most accurate pricing.
Rates are per person sharing per night. Single supplement of 50% applies. Children 8+ welcome.
What's Included
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Drinks
- Afternoon tea
- Morning game drive
- Afternoon game drive
- Night drive
- Walking safari
- Sundowner
All meals, house wines, spirits, beers, soft drinks, teas and coffees, two game activities per day, and laundry service included. Premium wines and spa treatments extra.
Location
How to Get There
Fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport. A scheduled light aircraft transfer to Kuro Airstrip in Tarangire takes approximately 45 minutes. The camp provides a game-drive transfer from the airstrip (approximately 1 hour), with wildlife viewing along the way.
Nearby Attractions
Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti National Park
Things to Do
Combine with a Serengeti camp for a 7-night northern circuit safari. Lake Manyara is a scenic half-day excursion. The Ngorongoro Crater is a must-do day trip if time allows.
Good to Know
Tarangire is a malaria area — prophylaxis essential. The camp is unfenced — escorts provided after dark. Dust can be significant in dry season — bring a buff and camera dust covers.
Who It's For
Wildlife enthusiasts seeking fewer crowds, elephant lovers, and travellers looking for an authentic tented safari experience away from the Serengeti masses.
Best Time to Visit
June to October for peak dry season wildlife. January to March for green season with migrant birds and fewer visitors.