Serengeti Pioneer Camp

Location: Serengeti Pioneer Camp enjoy a spectacular setting in the southern-central part of the Serengeti, perched on a series of rocky outcrops (known as kopjes) with panoramic views across the Moru Kopjes and endless surrounding plains. This location is not only visually dramatic, it's also excellent for wildlife - particularly from December to April when the Great Migration herds are often calving nearby. The region is home to strong populations of lions and leopards year-round, and the relative seclusion of the camp means you often have this stunning part of the park largely to yourself. If you're looking for classic Serengeti scenery, exceptional game viewing, and a sense of real space, this is an ideal base.

Rooms: There are just twelve tented suites at Pioneer Camp, each built to evoke the spirt of the early safari era while offering plenty of comfort. The tents are canvas but very spacious and well-appointed, with large beds, proper furniture, and generous en-suite bathrooms featuring hot running water and flush loos. The design strikes a smart balance - old-school charm with modern touches, such as solar-powered lighting and private verandahs with sweeping views. Thoughtful details like brass basins, leather trunks, and vintage-style furnishings add character without feeling staged. It's understated but elegant - a refined nod to the golden age of safari.

Amenities: The main mess are is set on a kopje, with dining and lounge spaces that make the most of the views. There's also a small library, bar, and an outdoor terrace for sundowners or stargazing. Meals are varied and high quality, with excellent service and flexibility to dine out in the bush or enjoy a more traditional campfire dinner. While there's no pool or spa, the focus here is on atmosphere and experience - it's a place that feels intimate and well run, with a sense of place that's both warm and unpretentious. The team strike a lovely balance between attentive service and giving guests the space to take it all in.

Activities: Pioneer Camp is in prime-big country, and daily game drives are the main activity - expertly led by knowledgeable guides who know the rhythms of the land. Wildlife sightings here are excellent throughout the year, with regular encounters with lions, cheetahs, elephants, and the occasional black rhino around the Moru Kopjes. From January to March, the nearby southern plains are alive with wildebeest calving and the predator action that follows. Full-day drives with bush lunches are a popular option, as are early morning outings followed by relaxed afternoons back at camp. You can also visit the Maasai rock paintings and the nearby Gong Rock, adding a fascinating cultural layer to the safari.

Sustainability: Serengeti Pioneer Camp is run by Elewana Collection, a group with a well-established sustainability ethos. The camp is fully solar-powered, with energy-efficient systems and a clear commitment to reducing its footprint in the park. Water use is carefully managed, and waste is sorted and remove, with minimal single-use plastics. Local employment is a priority, with most of the staff coming from nearby communities and trained through Elewana's development programmes. Conservation fees go directly to supporting park management and anti-poaching efforts, and the camp's operations are designed to work hand in hand with the surrounding ecosystem. It's a strong example of how a premium safari experience can also be a responsible one.