Camping in Africa

1. Desert Horse Campsite – Aus, Namibia: There are several amazing camping locations available in Namibia. However, none of them are as beautiful and elegant as the Desert Horse Campsite. Situated amidst a two-kilometer sandy track down the west, the campsite looks like a treat during the nighttime.

The landscape of the same is filled with various boulders, pale yellow grass, and occasional vegetation, which make the location even more enticing. Be sure to go camping in Africa (if you are considering coming here), in the spring season to savor the true essence of the Desert Horse Campsite.

Location:On the B4 main road to Luderitz, Aus, Namibia
Best time:July to October

2. Planet Baobab – Makgadikgadi Pans, Botswana: When talking about the places to stay during the Africa camping safari, the first name that comes to mind is the Planet Baobab. It is, in essence, a serene retreat, which offers quirky rooms to travelers.

The huts, available in the campsite, are quite eloquent and thatched, which, sequentially, makes them ideal for antique lovers. Furthermore, there is also a funky bar and eatery available here, where you can eat various African cuisine. Additionally, if you choose to stay here, then you can also enjoy some time in a beautiful outdoor pool.

Location:Gweta, Botswana
Best time:May to October

3. Pemba Dive & Bush Camp – Pemba, Mozambique: Situated amidst an elusive valley of large Baobab trees, the Pemba Dive & Bush Camp offers an exquisite sight of the beaches and serene bushes. The place is quite luxurious, unlike the previous options, and, thus, features various amenities like plug sockets, paraffin lamps, and many more.

There is also a restaurant available here, where you can try out different continental delicacies. During your stay here, you can enjoy skinny dipping, kneeboarding, scuba diving, and many other activities as well. If you are traveling with your fiancée or your loved one, then be sure to take a walk on the beaches too!

Location:Wimbi Beach, Nacole Drive, Pemba, Mozambique
Best time:July to October

4. Okaukuejo Camp, Etosha National Park, Namibia: Snuggled at the core of the Etosha National Park, the elegant Okaukuejo Camp is located right next to the Etosha Pan shoreline. The world-famous Okaukuejo Waterhole, too, is situated only at walking distance from this location.

The rooms available in this place of camping in Africa are quite well-equipped, as they feature a private bathroom, coffeemakers, and minifridges. If you have chosen expensive accommodation, then you will also get a lounge with the same. There is a huge waterbody sitting just nearby the campsite. Many animals and birds tend to come here, especially during summer, to drink water and take a light nap to soothe their soul.

Location:Etosha National Park, Okaukuejo, Namibia
Best time:July to October

5. Tsendze Rustic Camp Site, Kruger National Park, South Africa: The Kruger National Park, indeed, has a hefty amount of campsites, which offer an amazing experience of camping in Africa. However, with regards to beauty and elegance, none of them can come close enough to the Tsendze Rustic Camp Site. As the name suggests, this beautiful site comes with a rustic overview and, therefore, can be ideal for adventurous people.

There is no reception and electricity available here. So, everything will be pretty quiet and peaceful all the time. Furthermore, you will also get an authentic wildlife experience due to such an absurd accommodating option. Nonetheless, it is much closer to the forest. So, if you are lucky, then you might be able to see one or two animals roaming here and there!

Location:Kruger National Park, Tsendze Camp Rd, South Africa
Best time:April to September

6. Masuma Dam – Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe: Situated right next to the popular Masuma Dam Lake, the Masuma Dam campsite offers an elusive view of the African wildlife. Due to the availability of the waterbody, this small yet beautiful location attracts a huge number of animals, especially buffaloes and elephants, throughout the year.

You might see them having a brawl as well! However, as the location is quite hot and humid, we would suggest you visit here during the dry or winter season. This way, aside from the wild animals, you will also be able to see a lot of migratory birds here! So, if you are looking for an authentic Africa camping safari experience, then the Masuma Dam should be the ideal choice for you!

Location:Near Masuma Lake, Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe
Best time:July to October

7. Ngepi Camp – Caprivi Strip, Namibia: The almost-ancient Ngepi Camp, situated at the heart of the Caprivi Strip in Namibia, has acquired legendary status due to its elusive surroundings and the exotic valley of trees. In addition, the location and the features of its accommodations are quite quirky as well. For example, the wacky toilets of this place, such as the Royal Throne and Poopa Falls, are established on a deck, which is overlooking the river.

Also, the campsites of this place are situated right next to the beautiful stream. So, you can literally hear the grunting of the hippos just a few miles. However, as the place is located pretty near to the wildlife, we would ask you to keep the doors of your tents closed during the nighttime unless you want to have chat with the hyenas!

Location:P.O.Box 5140, Divundu, D3430, Namibia
Best time:July to October

8. Croc Valley Camp, South Luangwa National Park, Zambia: Sitting just outside of the adventurous South Luangwa National Park, the Croc Valley Camp boasts an inviting campsite like anything else. The legendary Luangwa River is situated right beside the campsite, which, in turn, makes it an ideal location for evaluating the wildlife of Africa.

In addition, the accommodations of the camp are shaded by gigantic mahogany trees. Thus, even if you are traveling here during the season of summer, you can still relish an amazing Africa camping safari. However, if you are looking for an ideal afternoon retreat, you can always take a hammock and travel through the Luangwa River.

Location:South Luangwa National Park, Mfuwe, Mfuwe, Zambia
Best time:July to November

9. Karen Camp Nairobi: The best way to experience camping in Africa is to opt for simple accommodations that allow you to experience nature in its wildest form. Here, you will get a wide range of features that include free Wi-Fi, a restaurant, a shared lounge, and free private parking space.

Now, you can enjoy exquisite meals and make unforgettable memories for a lifetime.

Location:Acacia Drive off Marula Lane, Off Karen Brooks Road, Nairobi, Kenya
Best Time:Late June to October

10. Linyanti Bush camp: Located on the coast of the Linyanti Wetlands, the Linyanti Bush Camp offers an excellent game view. With a mere six luxurious tents available, the camp focuses on intertwining comfort, luxury, and natural beauty. Here, you can explore the wilderness on exciting game drives.

Moreover, you can also partake in the thrill-inducing mokoro and float in the waterways. Furthermore, you can also opt for walking safaris and admire the diversified flora and fauna here. The camp also offers a bar, a lounge, and a dining area that comes with an impressive library.

Location:Sedudu Gate Chobe National Park, Botswana
Best Time: May to October

11. Somalisa Camp: If you want to have the exciting African Bush Camps experience, then opting for the Somalisa Camp is an excellent choice. Here, you can witness the ethereal views of the highly diversified Hwange National Park. From mesmerizing savannah to dense teak forests, the contrasting topography gives you the chance to observe different types of wildlife.

The bush camp, characterized by elegance, tradition, and comfort, offers an unparalleled Africa camping safari experience. With a solar water purification system, Somalisa Camp is one of the most eco-friendly camps in Africa.

Location:Somalisa Concession Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe
Best Time:August to early November

12. Governor's Camp: Established in the year 1972, the Governor’s camp is one of the oldest wildlife camps in Africa. However, the camp has now set a precedent in offering the most luxurious stay to tourists. Situated along the Mara River, the camp, provides an unparalleled viewing location of the wildlife.

There are a total of 30 tents, out of which some overlook the plains. And some offer impressive views of the gorgeous Mara River. Game drives providing a close view of the diversified wildlife are available thrice per day.

Location:Maasai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
Best Time:July to October

13. Sarova Mara Game Camp, Kenya: With its location at the heart of the Maasai Mara National Reserve, the Sarova Mara Game Camp offers an unforgettable camping experience. It gives you the opportunity to witness the single-most indescribable natural phenomena - wildlife migration.

Owing to its location, you can view gazelles or zebras passing by your tent across the mesmerizing plains of Maasai Mara. Moreover, there are 73 types of accommodation that you can choose from. It also offers a wide range of activities that you can take partake in, such as archery, kayaking, etc.

Location:Off C12 Road, Maasai Mara, Kenya
Best Time:Late July to early November

14. Mombo & Little Mombo camps: Located within the Moremi Game Reserve, the Mombo and Little Mombo Camps are part of The Mombo Concession. Here, you will come across high concentrations of the “Big Five”. Most people dub leopards, lions, rhinoceros, African buffalo, and elephants as the Big Five.

The Mombo Camp renovated in 2019, aims to conserve the ancient Mombo traditions. They offer hospitality along with luxury and comfort in the tents. Considered sister camp to the Mombo camp, the Little Mombo Camp combines excellent game viewing, along with luxury.

Location:Okavango Delta, Botswana
Best Time:June to October

15. Mara River Tented Camp, Serengeti, Tanzania: Amidst 98,000 acres of wilderness, the Mara River Tented Camp offers a mesmerizing off-grid camping in Africa experience. This permanent tented camp is powered by a solar system and provides the campers the opportunity to soak up the beauty of the wilderness without any distraction.

Moreover, its setting affords a phenomenal game-viewing location which includes observing numerous wildebeest migrations annually. Blending elegance, luxury, and untainted natural beauty with sophistication, this camp is reminiscent of the old East African safaris.

Location:Singita Grumeti, Mara River, Serengeti, Serengeti 31623, Tanzania
Best Time:Late June to October

1. Namibia: The small yet beautiful nation of Namibia is known for its elegant landscape, exquisite wildlife, and sweet essence of Mother Nature. Hence, as you can already perceive, the camping experience here would be quite amazing and eloquent. Each of the national parks of the country has different campsites to offer an overall wholesome experience to the travelers. Moreover, there is also an elusive place available in the Namib Desert where you can stargaze throughout the whole night. The air here tends to be quite dry and cool, so, you will not get tired too quickly at all.

2. South Africa: One of the best countries for Africa camping safari is undoubtedly South Africa. With such diversification in topography and more than 136 wildlife safari, South Africa can take you on a breathtaking jeep ride through the wilderness or an enthralling vineyard journey in the Garden Route. No matter the type of camping you choose, rest be assured that the safari of your dream will become a reality and give you countless memories. For example, the Kruger National Park, situated right at the heart of the city, offers an authentic outlook of the wildlife, which gets even better during the nighttime.

3. Botswana: Want to enjoy camping without the rush of tourists and in the wilderness? In Botswana, wild camping is prevalent, and you can admire the stunning beauty of nature and the stunningly diversified wildlife from up-close. Moreover, if you don’t want tent lodgings, you can always go for luxury accommodations and have a satisfying camping experience. Here, you can have a close view of elephants bathing or a hyena preying right in front of your tent in Moremi Game Reserve or the Chobe National Park. Furthermore, Botswana offers the perfect chance to de-plug yourself from the digital world and enjoy the beauty of nature in peace.

1. South Luangwa Park: Are you looking for an ambient flying camping experience in the midst of the beautiful African wildlife? Then, South Luangwa Park should be an ideal choice for you. There is a plentiful space available here for you to take a walk.

And, if you want to stargaze a little bit, then no other option will be better than the South Luangwa Park. Furthermore, the whole place is surrounded by exquisite greenery and elusive landscape to make your journey even better!

Location:South Luangwa National Park, Zambia
Best Time:July to November

2. Ruaha National Park: One of the most adventurous old-school fly camping conducted within the Ruaha National Park is Kichaka Camp. Here, you can choose between the different itineraries, including 7, 5, and 3 days. With a mere six guests on one camping trip, Kichaka focuses on offering an exclusive Camping in Africa experience amidst the wilderness.

It gives you the chance to explore the raw beauty of nature without the onslaught of tourist rush and cacophony of noises. The park houses a high number of elephants along with some endangered wild species like giraffes, imphala, etc.

Location:Tanzania (130 km away from Iringa)
Best Time:Mid-May to December

3. The Selous: The Selous is, in essence, is a Game Reserve, which has been offering an authentic African camping experience for many years. While staying here, you will get the chance of sleeping right beneath the starry night while having a chat with your friends and family members.

Moreover, the park also comes with an exquisite lodge, where you can have an amazing fly-camping experience here. It is also considered to be one of the oldest fly-camping locations all over Africa. Therefore, you might be able to check out some of the conventional techniques as well.

Location:Tanzania
Best Time:Late June to October

4. Okavango Delta: There are numerous camps that offer a marvelous Africa camping safari experience in the Okavango Delta. Here, you can choose any of the luxurious lodges and have a wonderful experience. Sleeping out amidst the wildness and admiring the ethereal beauty of the stars is something that you can do here.

The only flying camping operator providing top-rated services in the Delta is Ride Botswana. Here, you can ride on a horse during the day and then camp amidst the magnificent beauty of nature when darkness descends.

Location:Botswana
Best Time:May to September

5. Karen Camp: If you are looking for something simple yet elegant to live in during your time in Africa, then the Karen Camp should be perfect for you. The small yet elegant campsite houses simple dorms and various private rooms, which offer a rustic feel to the visitors.

Moreover, there is also a restaurant or bar available in the same, where you can enjoy various African delicacies and drinks. Last yet not least, you can also enjoy the experience of staying under the stars here while talking with your favorite person in the world.

Location:Acacia Drive off Marula Lane, Off Karen Brooks Road, Nairobi, Kenya
Best Time:Late June to October

1. Linyanti Bushcamp: Free Wi-Fi, complimentary breakfast, and free parking – the Linyanti Bush Camp has it all to make your life even more enjoyable in the African Continent. If you are opting for luxurious rooms, then you might also find attached kitchens in the same. Moreover, this small yet snuggly place is located near the Sedudu Gate Chobe National Park. Thus, there is also a high chance that you might be able to meet various wild animals during your stay here. Just be sure to keep the doors of your tent closed and you will be fine!

Location:Sedudu Gate Chobe National Park, Botswana
Best Time:June to October

2. Somalisa Camp: The Somalisa Camp is yet another amazing option, which can help you to experience an otherworldly camping. Located amidst the lap of Mother Nature makes the availability and prominence of lush greenery quite inevitable and marvelous. Furthermore, there is also a free parking space available where you can keep your car as well as the hired cycle (it can be used for roaming around the park). Some of the accommodations of the same tend to have a kitchen in them as well. You are also going to get a swimming pool on the premises, where you can take some time off and calm yourself down a little bit.

Location:Somalisa Concession Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe
Best Time:August to early November

3. Governor's Camp: Located at the heart of the beautiful Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya, the Governor’s Camp offers an intriguing mix of luxury, comfort, and wildlife experience. Here, you can stay in well-stocked tents while having a gorgeous view of the Mara River. Some of the tents overlook the mesmerizing planes. The camp organizes several game drives and you can observe wildlife from a close distance. Whether it's a crocodile hunting for prey in the Mara River or an elephant passing by, it is the kind of wildlife Camping in Africa experience that is hard to replace.

Location:Masai Mara National Reserve, Kenya
Best Time:July to October

4. Sarova Mara Game Camp: Situated in the breathtaking Maasai Mara National Reserve, the Sarova Mara Game Camp offers you first-row tickets to one of the most magnificent natural phenomena. The wildlife migration occurs just around the camp, and you can spot numerous wildlife such as gazelles, zebras crossing the plains. Moreover, the accommodation facility is exceptional with different types of tents that come with various facilities. Apart from exciting game drives, you can also experience the traditional Maasai culture and balloon safaris. The camp also has a restaurant, the Isokon restaurant, that serves different types of cuisines. Now, you can taste varied dishes amidst the wilderness.

Location:Off C12 Road, Maasai Mara, Kenya
Best Time:Late July to early November

5. Mombo & Little Mombo Camps: Are you thinking about experiencing one of the most authentic wildlife living essences altogether? Then, the Mambo & Little Mombo camps will be the best option for you. The lack of amenities at this Africa camping safari is actually a plus point as you and your children can have a raw wildlife experience that you are unlikely to forget anytime soon. However, the tents available here are pretty large and, thus, can accommodate more than one person. Also, you will get decent African cuisine here on a daily basis.

Location:Okavango Delta, Botswana
Best Time:June to October

- A small tent (either for one person or two)
- A mosquito net to take care of the pesky pests
- A sleeping bag (the size will depend on the person’s height)
- Flushing toilets and the facility of using hot water
- A sleeping mat
- A groundsheet (the size will depend on the person's height and number of people)
- Some kitchen facilities to cook your own food (might alter from one option to another depending on the budget and location)
- Luxurious tents (comes with an in-house bathroom)

- Driving in a game drive vehicles (can be done alone or with friends or family members)
- Taking a guided walk (to learn more about the location and its history)
- Kayaking or canoeing (a lesser risky yet fun water activity)
- Rafting (for the adventure-loving daredevils)
- Boating (including normal and expensive houseboats)
- Balloon safaris (to savor the beauty of the place from a bird’s eye view)
- Riding horse at the beaches (ideal for the kids)
- Taking a helicopter flight
- Mountain biking (for a self-exploring experience)
- Indulging in different photo workshops

- Be sure to pack up your food and laundry before going out.
- Make sure not to keep the door of your tents open, especially when you are going to sleep.
- Do not forget to bring a daypack with you. It can help you to carry water bottles and sunscreens.
- Try to put up your camp in a flatter position and keep it away from the game trails.
- Be sure to stay in contact with a local doctor to stay away from diseases.
- Don't forget to bring your camera and binocular with you, especially if you want to learn more about African wildlife.

- A pack of sunscreen (to prevent skin damage caused by the sun’s rays)
- Solar panel charger (to keep your phone alive, even when you are camping)
- A camera and some extra batteries (to capture the raw photos of the wildlife)
- A rucksack (for carrying all of your essentials)
- An insect repellant (to keep the pests away from you)
- A pocket knife (for both self-defense and cutting woods)
- A lip balm (to protect your lips from the dry air of the African continent)
- LED torches (if you want to get out during the nighttime)

The best time for camping in Africa is the months between May and September. These months fall under the dry season and the entire continent exhibits moderate temperature. Moreover, the lack of vegetation entices the wildlife to surround the available water resources, thereby making it easy for campers and explorers to see and admire the different animals.