Swala Camp

Swala Camp sits in an out-of-the-way corner of southern Tarangire National Park, one of northern Tanzania's least visited parks, beneath a canopy of acacia trees. The park's 3,000 elephants are its headline act, gathering in herds under the baobabs along the Tarangire River, and the camp's own waterhole draws the resident herd of impala that gives the camp its name (swala is Swahili for antelope), along with zebra, buffalo, eland and the lions and leopards that follow them.

The 12 tented suites stand on raised wooden platforms linked to the main area by sandy paths. Each is 42 sq m, entered through double glass doors, with a king bed that converts to twins beneath a mosquito net and an overhead fan, a sleek wooden desk, an en-suite bathroom with double vanity and an outdoor rainfall shower behind a wattle wall, and a large private deck with a yoga mat and views over the plains. Triple beds can be arranged in three of the tents.

The stilted, thatched lounge, dining room and circular bar deck look over the savanna, a bean-shaped pool sits at the foot of an ancient baobab and a sunken boma gathers guests for stargazing. Twice-daily game drives and bush dining are included; walking safaris with an armed ranger (ages 15 and over), night drives and sunrise balloon flights can be added. The camp is unfenced and closes each April and May.

Stays are fully inclusive of meals, drinks, game drives, bush dining, laundry and the transfer from Kuro Airstrip, an hour's drive away. Park fees, the camp's concession fee and Tanzania's Tourism Development Levy are charged on top. Children aged 6 and over are welcome.