Mawe Tented Camp

Mawe Tented Camp is a classic safari retreat set on the open plains of northern Serengeti National Park, where the rhythm of the ecosystem sets the pace of every day. Named after the Swahili word for “rock,” the camp lies close to the undulating kopjes and grasslands that define this iconic wilderness. It’s a place where the plains stretch wide beneath vast skies and wildlife moves through the landscape with an unhurried naturalness — from graceful giraffes browsing the trees to lion prides lounging in golden grass.

The camp itself is deliberately understated in its design, blending canvas and wood with natural earth tones so that it feels part of the Serengeti, not apart from it. A dozen or so spacious tents are arranged with privacy in mind, each elevated on wooden platforms to offer views over the surrounding plains. Interiors are simple yet comfortable, with soft beds, en-suite bathrooms, and furnishings that recall the timeless elegance of a classic safari. Private verandas extend each room into the landscape, creating a seamless transition between your own space and the wide savanna beyond.

Mawe’s public areas are warm and inviting without being ornate. A central mess tent serves hearty meals — often shared family-style — and opens onto views that change with the light throughout the day. The lounge and firepit area provide relaxed gathering spaces where guests can exchange stories of morning game drives, listen to evening sounds of the bush, or simply watch termite mounds glow red at sunset.

Guiding at Mawe emphasizes authentic wildlife encounters. Vehicles range out across plains known for big cat activity, resident herds of wildebeest, zebra and antelope, and a pattern of life that remains rich year round. The camp’s location makes it especially good for those who love classic Serengeti game drives, where sightings unfold naturally and without the crowds frequently found in the southern circuit. Guides here are experienced, patient, and deeply connected to the environment, helping guests not just to see animals but to understand the rhythms of their lives.

Days at Mawe start early under soft dawn light, with drives that follow the movements of predators and plains grazers alike, and they unfold into evenings around firelight where the stillness of the Serengeti becomes its own companion. It’s a camp that celebrates the timeless spirit of safari — uncomplicated, grounded, and intimately connected to one of Africa’s most iconic landscapes.