There is an old (probably English-derived) expression that says: ‘any fool can be uncomfortable’ and it seems that the safari industry has certainly taken this on board with most safari acommodation as far from uncomfortable as it’s possible to be whilst still living in a tent!
Many tents are huge, some would be classified as a suite in a city hotel, and virtually all now have ensuite bathroom facilities, with the permanent camps having hot and cold running water and flush toilets. In fact, I call it an ‘arms race’ with different safari companies competing with each other to offer the biggest tents, the most luxurious furnishings or the latest in camp staff uniforms. Would you believe, it’s now possible to get an air-conditioned tent!!?
If the thought of this leaves you cold, and not just literally, (or indeed boiling at the thought of the environmental impact), it does me too! The truth is, the important aspects of a great safari camp are still the same: great game, great location, exclusivity and great guides. Yes, I want to be comfortable, I want to eat good food, but I also want to feel I have experienced a genuine safari camp, not some luxury hotel room plonked in the African bush!
I still want to feel the African sand between my toes, sit around a camp fire at night, and watch wild animals during my afternoon siesta from my tent verandah – it’s unbeatable!
For advice and information on my favourite, genuine African safari camps, do get in touch at andrew@journeyintoafrica.com
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