Siwandu is perfect for forgetting all the troubles of the modern world and being immersed in nature
Location: Siwandu is beautifully positioned on the shores of Lake Nzerakera in the heart of Nyerere National Park, in southern Tanzania. It's a classic, slow safari setting - all palm-fringed waterways, open floodplains, and miombo woodland - with far fewer vehicles than in the north. The camp's lakefront location means wildlife comes to you: elephants splash in the shallows, hippos grunt through the night, and fish eagles call from the trees. It's also just a short drive from Siwandu's private airstrip, making access easy without sacrificing that blissfully remote feeling. If you're after a quieter, more immersive safari experience, this is exactly the sort of place we recommend.
Rooms: Siwandu is made up of 13 octagonal safari tents split between two separate campsites - North and South - which can be booked individually for privacy or together for larger groups. Each tent is raised on a wooden platform with wraparound verandahs, open sides (with mesh screens), and wide views of the lake or bush. Inside, they're spacious, airy, and smartly styled, with big beds, ceiling fans, and en-suite bathrooms featuring indoor and outdoor showers. It's a lovely mix of comfort and character - luxurious but not fussy, and completely in tune with the surroundings. Every tent feels private, peaceful, and close to nature.
Amenities: Each side of the camp has its own central area, including a lounge, dining room, bar, and a swimming pool with views over the water - ideal for a mid-afternoon break between game drives. Meals are freshly prepared and elegantly served, with candlelit dinners under the stars or breakfast out in the bush depending on your day's activities. There's no Wi-Fi in the tents, but limited connectivity is available in the main areas for those who need it. The service is polished yet relaxed, and the staff - many of whom have been with Siwandu for years - bring a warmth and attention to detail that is hard to beat.
Activities: One of Siwandu's biggest strengths is the range of activities on offer. Because its in Nyerere, you're not limited to game drives - you can also explore by boat, on foot, or even go fishing. Morning and afternoon game drives offer excellent sightings of lions, elephants, buffalo, and sometimes wild dogs, while boat safaris on the lake and connecting Rufiji River reveal a different perspective entirely - hippos, crocs, waterbirds, and beautiful sunsets. Walking safaris are a highlight for those keen to track smaller details with expert guides and armed rangers. It's this variety, and the space to explore in peace, that makes a stay here feel so rewarding.
Sustainability: Siwandu is owned and operated by Laba Laba, a family-run collection of camps and lodges committed to responsible tourism across Tanzania. Sustainability here is not a marketing bolt-on - it's built into how the camp is designed, staffed, and run. The camp uses solar power for much of its energy needs, manages water and waste thoughtfully, and avoids single-use plastics wherever possible. What's especially impressive is the long-term investment in local people: the majority of staff are from nearby communities, many of whom have grown into senior roles after years of training and development. Laba Laba also supports conservation and education initiatives in the region, recognising that protecting Tanzania's wild places depends on genuinely benefiting those who live closest to them. It's a quietly effective, genuinely rooted approach that supports both the environment and the community around it.
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