There are very few places in the world as magical as the Serengeti. With an abundance of wildlife, rolling hills meeting vast planes, and several active conservation projects, the Serengeti is where those who want to experience a day in the life of the movie Planet Earth flourish. As most bush camps are currently closed due to a downturn in travel, it’s ever more important to support the few that are open. By traveling to the Serengeti or other places within Africa you’re helping to drive out poachers and save not only jobs but years on conversation efforts. My visit to Asilia Africa’s camp in late September was extraordinary. Blowing all expectations, Asilia Africa’s safaris are among the world’s finest.
Asilia Africa Itinerary
Asilia usually has over 19 camps across Kenya and Tanzania. Focusing on migration camps following animals throughout their yearly migration, Asilia’s specialty is genuine experiences. Asilia also has several permanent camps and two beach resort options in Zanzibar. With fewer travelers, Asilia is focusing their energy and staffing on their permanent, non-mobile camps, and WOW they truly are amazing!
For my partners 33rd birthday we spent two nights at three different Asilia properties. We started at the Highlands on the rim of the Ngorongoro Crater. Then, we flew to Kogatende air strip to experience two night at Sayari camp. Here we experienced the great migration of wildebeest as they crossed the River Mara. Finally, we flew to Seronera, central Serengeti, and drove east out to the Namiri Plains. Namiri is big cat country, and it did not disappoint!
Our trip was quick, but we saw so much during out stay. I would do it all over again if I could. I would also consider spending more time at both Sayari and Namiri. There’s so much to see, and with fewer people in the Serengeti the experience is unparalleled. Consider spending 3+ nights at each location if you can. This will allow for more exploration and a better all-encompassing experience.
Asilia Africa Serengeti Camps
We’ve all seen stock pictures of hotels to later be disappointed upon arrival. Asilia Africa was the opposite. No photo on their website or that I took could do justice. Everything each day was perfect. The rooms at each camp are perfectly curtailed to meet everyone needs, even the most pompous of travelers. In a constant state of awe, we felt as though we were in a movie. Or experiencing something reserved for the 1%! I have been on an African Safari before, but the experience at Asilia does not compare. I do not think any experience could be better. And note, I did not tell Asilia I was a travel blogger. This is truly coming from my genuine uncompromised experience.
On my trip, I visited three regions of the Serengeti area. Each area is truly unique and offers different highlights and reasons to visit. Over the next couple of days, I will share several posts on my trip and Asilia’s amazing properties. I hope you follow along and consider your own trip to Asilia’s properties.
Covid & Precautions
Since the pandemic has caused a major travel downturn, companies are doing everything they can to encourage your return. Asilia camps closed for several months, but are now ready to welcome guests back. Asilia is taking several steps to limit transmission and to keep guests safe.
Although the Tanzania government is claiming the country is virus free, Asilia is taking zero chances. Staff work on assignments of approximately two months. Living together in the bush, remotely isolated from the outside world with the exception of the guests. When staff return home for their 2+ weeks of time off, they quarantine before returning to camp. Part of this process includes PCR testing.
While at the camp, there are safety measures for guests and staff. Staff wear masks at all times and guests are encouraged too as well. There are frequent temperature check of both staff members and guests. In addition, there’s hand-washing and sanitizer stations throughout. Nearly all high-touch point areas have been removed. Staff always ask guests to sanitize their hands before entering common areas.
Finally, dining and most activities are done in open-air venues and guests are seated at tables separated by several feet. Safari game drives and transfers are also all private. Each group gets their own guide and vehicle which they use throughout their entire stay.
Throughout my stay at Asilia properties I felt very safe. Although, the government may not take the virus seriously, the staff of Asilia are. The same can be said for the air transfer companies and all other tourist sites within Tanzania.
Since returning from our stay, we both were tested negative for Covid-19.
Tanzania Entry Requirements
Since August 5, 2020 Tanzania has welcomed visitors from around the world back to Tanzania. This includes even high-risk countries such as Brazil and the United States. Only a health decoration and a temperature must be completed upon arrival. Follow this Tanzania government website for full details of entry requirements. Here are Tanzania entry requirements as of August 2020, they have not changed since. Instead of banning people from visiting Tanzania, the government is welcoming people back with open arms. A negative PCR test is ONLY required if your departing country or airline requires it.
We flew Qatar Airways Qsuites from LAX and had no issues . The flight was pure perfection! Myself with a USA passport and my partner with a Brazilian passport, travel almost felt like it did in 2019. We did have negative PCR tests with 72-hours of travel and purchased travel insurance as a precaution, but neither was required at time of travel.
Booking Options
There are several ways to book if you’re heading to the Serengeti. We booked our own flights and flew Qatar Qsuites from LAX. For hotels and internal flights, I would love to help you plan your safari. I work with the travel agency Scott & Thomas. Ask for Rocky, and I can help you plan your vacation, or just email me directly! In addition, book now and take advantage of savings up to 75% off through May 2021!
