Guide to a Camping Safari in Tanzania

Experience the Tanzanian People, Culture, and Wildlife Up Close

Article and Photo by Janet Williams

Wildlife camping in Tanzania: Shira Camp. Photo by american_rugbier

Questions to Ask a Prospective Tour Operator

• What is the maximum number of people allowed in one group? (Small groups are more personal and less intrusive.)
  
  
• Does the company have mileage restrictions?
  
  
• How knowledgeable are the guides about native customs and wildlife? Do they speak the native language?
  
  
• Will you have the opportunity to interact with locals? In what way and for how long?
  
  
• Does the company strictly adhere to the itinerary?
  
  
• How many people will be in each vehicle?
  
  
• What type of vehicle is used? (Most companies use minivans; their high-back seats block vision to the front and back.)
  
  
• Is everyone guaranteed a window seat?
  
  
• Is the car equipped with water, bean bags for camera stabilization, and easy-to-reach storage compartments for binoculars and cameras?
  
  
• Does the vehicle have a canopy?
  
  
• Do the game-viewing vehicles carry campers’ luggage or does the crew deliver it to the next campsite? How many roof openings are in each car?

Visitors’ Responsibilities on a Camping Safari in Africa

• Follow park rules and regulations.
  
  
• Keep noise to a minimum.
  
  
• Donate to a local charity or school, not to individuals (this encourages begging).
  
  
• Understand native customs and accept without judgment.
  
  
• Leave an area as you found it. Don’t take “souvenirs.”
  
  
• Never touch religious artifacts.
  
  
• Choose an outfitter that safely stores all camping garbage until it can be properly disposed of back in town.

JANET WILLIAMS writes from San Rafael, CA.