Located among the Moru Kopjes, between Ndutu and the Seronera Valley, in central Serengeti, Dunia Camp is a small, semi-permanent luxury camp, part of the Asilia portfolio, and as of 2017 the first Tanzanian camp to be managed and run by a predominantly female team.
Overview
Set in a savannah broken by large kopjes, raised on wooden platforms, Dunia Camp overlooks the Moru Kopjes, its off-white mess and sleeping tents blending perfectly with the Serengeti’s dry season colouring. There are two mess tents: one for dining, the other a lounge, bar and board game area, which also boasts W-Fi access. Characterised by a slumber area – sofas, easy chairs and coffee table – and a clutch of leather backed director’s chairs, the lounge is a friendly, welcoming space, the relaxed seating complimented by wooden Tanzanian sculptures, sisal rugs and antique safari paraphernalia.
Food & service
As with the lounge, the dining tent’s simple arrangements are highlighted by the odd, well-chosen artefact; an antique sword the pick of a fine bunch. Feedback from returning guests is unfailing in its praise for the standard of food – breakfast, lunch and dinner – and for the service, which is both super attentive and, at the same time, super discreet. Highlights include remarkable pastries, ever full glasses, beautifully cooked meats and an exceptional level of guiding.
Rooms
The 8 sleeping tents are just as fine. Raised on beautiful polished wooden floors, each consists of a double bed, private screened veranda, en-suite bathroom with plumbed showers, and a seating area.
Like the mess area, the emphasis here is on a relaxed functionality. The bed, the view and access to warm water are its most important aspects, while sisal rugs, tin washbasins, a pair of storm lanterns, an old storage chest and traditional wooden stools lend the room a real feel of authenticity. One of the tents comes with a family-friendly side-tent, which is attached to the parents bedroom.
Activities
Activities at Dunia Camp include wildlife drives, sundowners and ballooning. Please note that there is an additional cost for ballooning.
Impact
Conservation
The camp strives to be as carbon neutral as possible, but any emissions from fossil-fuel consumption are offset through a local community forestation programme. Moreover the Dunia team works actively with local rangers and park authorities to share information on animal sightings, especially the rare black rhino, in an effort to prevent poaching.
Dunia is also recognised by Responsible Tourism Tanzania for integrating its working culture and daily operations into a sustainable and responsible management approach. Systems are in place to monitor and direct operations. Dunia is also recognised by Fair Trade Tourism which benchmarks responsible tourism standards across the continent.