SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK, TANZANIA
Serengeti Activities
Price per night from
$423.00
The Luwela Experience
The Luwela Experience
At Luwela Camp, your safari is more than a holiday; it's a deeply personal journey into the heart of the wild. We believe the perfect adventure is a balance of thrilling discovery and peaceful rejuvenation. Our prime location on the secluded slopes of Makoma Hill in the Central Serengeti provides the ultimate stage for a rich variety of experiences. Whether you're an avid adventurer seeking the adrenaline of a wildlife encounter or someone looking to disconnect and absorb the profound tranquility of the bush, your days are yours to design.
The rhythm of your stay is set by our signature activities. The quintessential Serengeti Game Drive is the pulse of your adventure, taking you deep into a vibrant ecosystem to witness the Big Five and the Great Migration. For a truly awe-inspiring perspective, a Hot Air Balloon Safari at dawn offers a silent, floating panorama of the plains awakening below. And between these excursions, we cherish the moments to Rest & Renew, allowing the restorative power of the Serengeti to work its magic right from the comfort of your private veranda.
Experiences at a Glance
- Thrilling Game Drives: Twice-daily excursions in custom 4x4 vehicles with expert guides to track iconic wildlife.
- Hot Air Balloon Safaris: A magical dawn flight over the plains, followed by a champagne bush breakfast (by arrangement).
- Iconic Sundowners: Enjoy cocktails and canapés while watching a spectacular African sunset from a scenic viewpoint.
- Gourmet Bush Dining: Unforgettable private meals, from bush breakfasts to dinners under a canopy of stars.
- Rest & Renewal: Unwind in camp, enjoy the views from your veranda, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the bush.
SERENGETI UNCOVERED
Journey into the Heart of the Action
Led by expert guides in custom 4x4 vehicles, every drive is an immersive exploration of the Serengeti's most prolific wildlife region.
The game drive is the beating heart of your Luwela safari. It's a chance to venture deep into the untamed landscapes of the Central Serengeti, a region famous for its incredible density of resident predators and its pivotal role in the Great Migration. More than just a driver, your Luwela guide is a naturalist, a storyteller, and your personal interpreter of the bush. With an intimate knowledge of these lands, they can read the subtle signs of the wild—a track in the dust, the alarm call of a bird—to lead you to unforgettable sightings of the Big Five and other iconic animals. Their passion for conservation is infectious, turning every drive into an educational and deeply engaging experience.
Your days are structured around the rhythm of the animals. The early morning drive begins in the 'golden hour' when predators are most active and the light is perfect for photography. This is your best chance to witness a lion pride on the move or a leopard descending from its treetop hideout. The afternoon drive offers a different perspective as the day cools, culminating in a classic safari sundowner. You’ll explore different areas, perhaps finding vast herds of elephant or a solitary cheetah scanning the plains for its next meal. Each excursion is a unique and unscripted adventure, dictated by the ever-changing drama of the Serengeti.
Game Drive Essentials
- Twice-Daily Drives: Included in your stay are morning and afternoon game drives, each lasting approximately 3-4 hours.
- Expert Local Guides: All drives are led by highly trained, professional Tanzanian guides with deep knowledge of the local fauna and flora.
- Custom 4x4 Vehicles: Our open-sided Land Cruisers are designed for optimal viewing and photography, with charging points for your devices.
- Private Vehicles: A private vehicle and guide can be arranged for a more personalised safari experience (subject to extra cost).
- Onboard Refreshments: Enjoy coffee, tea, and fresh snacks on your morning drive, and a full sundowner service in the afternoon.
A SKY-HIGH SAFARI
An Unforgettable Aerial Safari
Gently float above the waking plains at sunrise, witnessing the world's greatest wildlife spectacle from a breathtaking and serene perspective.
There is nothing quite like the magic of a Serengeti hot air balloon safari. Your adventure begins in the cool, pre-dawn darkness as you watch the immense balloon come to life against the morning sky. As the sun breaches the horizon, you'll lift off gently, ascending to a privileged viewpoint high above the vast plains. From this serene vantage point, the sheer scale and beauty of the Serengeti unfold beneath you. You will drift silently wherever the winds may take you, watching herds of elephants cast long shadows and giraffes browse acacia tops, gaining a true appreciation for this immense ecosystem.
Upon landing, your extraordinary morning continues with another cherished safari tradition: a champagne bush breakfast. A table will be set for you in the middle of the plains, where you'll toast to your adventure and enjoy a delicious, freshly cooked meal. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is arranged with our trusted partners, who are experts in aerial safaris with impeccable safety records. As this is a very popular activity with limited space, we highly recommend booking in advance to secure your place in the sky and create a core memory of your Tanzanian adventure.
Balloon Safari Details
- Timings: An early pre-dawn start to ensure you are airborne as the sun rises. The entire experience lasts approximately 4-5 hours.
- Experience Includes: A one-hour balloon flight, transfers, and a full champagne bush breakfast upon landing.
- Unique Perspective: Unparalleled opportunities for photography and appreciating the vastness of the Serengeti ecosystem.
- Celebratory Breakfast: A gourmet breakfast served with chilled champagne at a scenic location in the bush.
- Booking: This activity is not included in the standard rate. Advance booking is essential to secure your place.
SERENGETI'S FEATHERED JEWELS
Discover a World of Avian Wonders
From magnificent raptors to vibrant sunbirds, explore the incredible avian diversity of the Central Serengeti, home to over 500 recorded species.
While the Serengeti is world-famous for its four-legged inhabitants, it is also an undiscovered paradise for bird watchers. The Central Serengeti’s diverse mosaic of habitats—from open grasslands and acacia woodlands to riverine forests and ancient granite kopjes—supports a staggering array of birdlife. Our expert Luwela guides are not only skilled in tracking big game but are also passionate ornithologists who can identify species by their calls, plumage, and behaviour. Whether you are a seasoned birder with a long checklist or a curious novice, our guides will open your eyes to the fascinating world of the Serengeti's birds, enriching your safari in unexpected ways.
Bird watching in Tanzania is a rewarding activity all year round, with many resident species like the superb starling, lilac-breasted roller, and various eagles always present. The experience reaches its peak during the Green Season (typically November to April), when the landscape is lush and resident birds are in their vibrant breeding plumage. This is also when migratory birds arrive from Europe and northern Africa, adding a wealth of new species to the sightings. It’s a vibrant, colourful, and musical time to be on safari, offering fantastic opportunities for avian photography.
Birding at Luwela
- Over 500 Species: The Central Serengeti is home to a vast number of resident and migratory bird species to discover.
- Peak Season: While excellent year-round, the best time for birding is the Green Season (November - April) when migrants arrive.
- Knowledgeable Guides: Our safari guides are also experienced birders, equipped with binoculars and field guides to assist you.
- Notable Species: Look for raptors, colourful lilac-breasted rollers, Fischer's lovebirds, and the kori bustard.
- Photographer's Delight: The abundance of birds, especially in breeding plumage, offers incredible opportunities for avian photography.
SERENGETI SERENITY
Embrace the Tranquil Rhythm of the Bush
Discover that the moments of quiet observation and peaceful reflection between game drives are an equally profound part of the safari experience.
A safari is a thrilling adventure, but at Luwela Camp, we believe the moments of stillness are just as vital. Your semi-luxury tent is more than a place to sleep; it is your private sanctuary, designed for rest and reflection. The heart of this experience is your shaded veranda, where a comfortable lounge chair becomes your personal viewing deck. Settle in with a book, a journal, or simply your thoughts, and watch the Serengeti's timeless drama unfold. Observe a distant herd of elephants ambling across the plains or listen to the chorus of birdsong – this is your uninterrupted connection to the wild.
Beyond your private tent, our main lounge offers another haven of tranquility with plush sofas and a collection of books. As evening approaches, the ritual of the sundowner provides a perfect pause to reflect on the day’s sightings against the backdrop of a spectacular sunset. Later, the gentle glow of the campfire creates a timeless atmosphere for quiet conversation and stargazing under a brilliant, unpolluted sky. Luwela Camp provides the space and serenity to truly disconnect from the everyday and reconnect with the profound peace of the natural world.
Ways to Unwind
- Private Veranda: Every tent features a spacious deck with panoramic views for private relaxation and in-camp wildlife viewing.
- Daily Sundowners: A dedicated time to unwind with a drink in hand at a scenic location, watching a spectacular Serengeti sunset.
- Fireside Relaxation: Gather around the communal campfire after dinner for stargazing and quiet conversation in a magical setting.
- Digital Detox: The true luxury of Luwela is the opportunity to disconnect from screens and immerse yourself in the present moment.
- Reading & Journaling: Our main lounge provides a quiet, comfortable space with a selection of books for you to enjoy.
Why Choose Us
The Luwela Difference
Discover a unique harmony of authentic safari adventure, sustainable practices, and heartfelt Tanzanian hospitality.
Choosing Luwela Camp means choosing an experience crafted with passion and a deep respect for the Serengeti. As the sister property to Arusha's beloved Lake Duluti Lodge, we bring a legacy of excellence to the bush, ensuring impeccable service and an intimate connection to our surroundings. Our camp is more than just a place to stay; it's a commitment to sustainable tourism. We operate on 90% solar power, utilize rainwater harvesting, and have built our camp with a low environmental impact, allowing you to enjoy this pristine wilderness while helping to preserve it for future generations.
Our location on Makoma Hill was chosen not just for its stunning panoramic views, but for its strategic position at the heart of a year-round wildlife haven. This ensures that every moment of your stay is filled with the potential for extraordinary encounters. From your thoughtfully designed tent with its private veranda to our gourmet farm-to-table dining under the stars, every detail is curated to create an unforgettable safari. At Luwela, you don't just visit the Serengeti—you become a part of it.
Immersive Adventures
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Daily Game Drives in 4x4 Land Cruisers
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Fascinating Night Drives
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Spectacular Sundowner Sessions
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Dining Under The Stars
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Hot Air Balloon Safaris
Wildlife & Location Gallery
Vistas, Wildlife & Sanctuaries Under Canvas
A Glimpse into the Unforgettable Scenery, Abundant Wildlife, and Understated Luxury of Luwela Camp.
Luwela Camp is a visual masterpiece, designed to immerse you in the raw beauty of the Central Serengeti. From your private veranda, witness breathtaking sunrises paint the plains in hues of gold and amber, and end your day with a sundowner as the vast African sky transforms into a canvas of fiery oranges and deep purples. Our location on Makoma Hill offers a privileged, panoramic perspective of this dynamic ecosystem, where vast herds of elephants roam through acacia woodlands and prides of lions survey their kingdom from ancient granite kopjes. The landscape is a constantly shifting spectacle of light, shadow, and life.
This gallery offers a preview of the magic that awaits. Discover our thoughtfully designed semi-luxury tents, where handcrafted details and Maasai-inspired textiles create a sanctuary of comfort and style. See the incredible wildlife that calls this area home, from the legendary Big Five to the hundreds of vibrant bird species. Each image captures a moment of the authentic, year-round safari experience that defines Luwela—a world where untamed wilderness and understated luxury exist in perfect harmony.
Guest reviews
What Our Guests Say
Client reviews from the Heart of the Serengeti
Charlotte & David Sterling
London, UK
"Our stay at Luwela was simply magical. The location on Makoma Hill means the wildlife viewing is constant and spectacular—we saw a leopard on our first game drive! The highlight was the romantic dinner on our private deck, watching elephants roam below as the sun set. An unforgettable luxury safari experience in the Central Serengeti."
Anja Schmidt
Munich, Germany
"I cannot recommend Luwela Camp enough. The attention to detail in the semi-luxury tents is superb, and waking up to those uninterrupted Serengeti views is something I'll never forget. The hot air balloon safari was a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, followed by a beautiful bush breakfast. True sustainable luxury with a soul."
The Chen Family
Singapore
"The perfect family safari. Our interconnecting family tent was spacious and comfortable, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. The kids were thrilled with the daily game drives—we saw the Big Five! Dining under the stars was a highlight for all of us. A truly special place that respects nature."
or call us on +255 682 905 111
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© 2025 Luwela Camp. All Rights Reserved.
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The rhythm of your stay is set by our signature activities. The quintessential Serengeti Game Drive is the pulse of your adventure, taking you deep into a vibrant ecosystem to witness the Big Five and the Great Migration. For a truly awe-inspiring perspective, a Hot Air Balloon Safari at dawn offers a silent, floating panorama of the plains awakening below. And between these excursions, we cherish the moments to Rest & Renew, allowing the restorative power of the Serengeti to work its magic right from the comfort of your private veranda.
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Your days are structured around the rhythm of the animals. The early morning drive begins in the 'golden hour' when predators are most active and the light is perfect for photography. This is your best chance to witness a lion pride on the move or a leopard descending from its treetop hideout. The afternoon drive offers a different perspective as the day cools, culminating in a classic safari sundowner. You’ll explore different areas, perhaps finding vast herds of elephant or a solitary cheetah scanning the plains for its next meal. Each excursion is a unique and unscripted adventure, dictated by the ever-changing drama of the Serengeti.
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There is nothing quite like the magic of a Serengeti hot air balloon safari. Your adventure begins in the cool, pre-dawn darkness as you watch the immense balloon come to life against the morning sky. As the sun breaches the horizon, you'll lift off gently, ascending to a privileged viewpoint high above the vast plains. From this serene vantage point, the sheer scale and beauty of the Serengeti unfold beneath you. You will drift silently wherever the winds may take you, watching herds of elephants cast long shadows and giraffes browse acacia tops, gaining a true appreciation for this immense ecosystem.
Upon landing, your extraordinary morning continues with another cherished safari tradition: a champagne bush breakfast. A table will be set for you in the middle of the plains, where you'll toast to your adventure and enjoy a delicious, freshly cooked meal. This once-in-a-lifetime experience is arranged with our trusted partners, who are experts in aerial safaris with impeccable safety records. As this is a very popular activity with limited space, we highly recommend booking in advance to secure your place in the sky and create a core memory of your Tanzanian adventure.
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While the Serengeti is world-famous for its four-legged inhabitants, it is also an undiscovered paradise for bird watchers. The Central Serengeti’s diverse mosaic of habitats—from open grasslands and acacia woodlands to riverine forests and ancient granite kopjes—supports a staggering array of birdlife. Our expert Luwela guides are not only skilled in tracking big game but are also passionate ornithologists who can identify species by their calls, plumage, and behaviour. Whether you are a seasoned birder with a long checklist or a curious novice, our guides will open your eyes to the fascinating world of the Serengeti's birds, enriching your safari in unexpected ways.
Bird watching in Tanzania is a rewarding activity all year round, with many resident species like the superb starling, lilac-breasted roller, and various eagles always present. The experience reaches its peak during the Green Season (typically November to April), when the landscape is lush and resident birds are in their vibrant breeding plumage. This is also when migratory birds arrive from Europe and northern Africa, adding a wealth of new species to the sightings. It’s a vibrant, colourful, and musical time to be on safari, offering fantastic opportunities for avian photography.
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