Mbali Mbali Tarangire

At the heart of camp is a rustic reed-and-thatch structure set on a stilted platform. Inside is a vast open-plan space, with several comfortably cushioned seating areas, a central bar, and the dining room. Meals are usually served at a few long tables, making for sociable gatherings, though staff welcome requests for intimate dinners for two. Behind the main area, overlooking the river, is a wide deck with a large pool and a circular fireplace ideal for drinks and stargazing.

With 20 stand-alone elevated tents, Tarangire is on the larger side. Rooms are spread out on either side of the main area, accessed by dirt pathways (you'll get a nightly escort). Each is tucked between the trees for real privacy, and overlooks the river. Inside are netted double beds, a small dressing area, and an en-suite bathroom with hot shower and flush toilet. Outside, a furnished veranda reveals river views. Two tents make up a family room, sleeping four comfortably.

Set just outside Tarangire National Park, the camp has easy enough access to the park's wonders, but bear in mind that your experience will be confined to daylight hours. Despite attracting less fanfare than Tanzania's more famous parks, Tarangire too has a migration. And it's nothing to sneeze at, with 250,000 large mammals, including giraffe, buffalo, oryx, lion, and up to 10,000 elephants, migrating here during the dry season. Bird lovers will be in their happy zone too.