Monday, May 26, 2025
Marriott International is expanding its global footprint by entering the luxury nature-based accommodation market with the upcoming launch of its first safari camp under the Autograph Collection brand. Scheduled to open in the third quarter of 2025, the Mapito Safari Camp, Serengeti, Autograph Collection will be located along one of the planet’s most iconic wildlife corridors—the Great Migration route in Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park.
A Unique Fusion of Elegance and Wilderness
The Mapito Safari Camp promises a rare combination of upscale comfort, rich cultural immersion, and close connection with nature. The camp will feature 16 spacious tented suites, including a luxurious two-bedroom villa designed for families or groups seeking privacy without sacrificing style.
Each accommodation offers an inviting outdoor deck where guests can soak in the tranquil sounds of the African bush. Warm fire pits create a cozy atmosphere for evening gatherings, while retractable roofs allow for awe-inspiring stargazing beneath the vast Serengeti sky, crafting unforgettable nights in the wilderness.
Prime Location on the Path of the Great Migration
Strategically positioned between the Central Serengeti and the western migration corridor, the camp is perfectly situated on the route that millions of wildebeests and zebras follow annually during the Great Migration from May through July. This location guarantees visitors exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities year-round, including sightings of the renowned “Big Five” — lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and rhinos — along with a variety of other African fauna.
For safari enthusiasts, Mapito Safari Camp offers unrivaled access to one of nature’s most spectacular phenomena, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic African wildlife experience.
Thoughtfully Designed Amenities and Services
The camp’s amenities have been curated to complement its breathtaking natural setting while delivering high-end comfort. Wellness options include a full-service spa and a fitness center, providing spaces for relaxation and rejuvenation after adventurous days. A swimming pool offers a refreshing retreat in the heart of the wilderness.
Dining at the camp will focus on shared experiences inspired by African tradition. The main restaurant, The Boma, takes its cue from communal bonfire gatherings, offering guests flavorful meals in an atmosphere that evokes warmth, connection, and local heritage.
Celebrating Culture and Commitment to Sustainability
Mapito Safari Camp’s design embraces the heritage of the local Ikoma community, incorporating cultural motifs and traditions into the architecture and guest experience. Sustainability is a core principle guiding the camp’s operations, ensuring minimal environmental impact while actively supporting conservation efforts within the Serengeti ecosystem.
A Range of Immersive Activities
Guests at the camp will have access to a variety of curated activities designed to deepen their understanding of the landscape and its people. The typical safari itinerary will include thrilling daytime game drives and nocturnal safaris, providing close encounters with wildlife under the guidance of expert rangers.
For a breathtaking perspective, hot air balloon safaris will float over the plains and migration herds, offering a unique vantage point to witness the sprawling wilderness. The camp also offers intimate bush dining experiences, allowing guests to dine under the stars, surrounded by the sounds of nature.
Cultural tours provide the opportunity to engage with the Ikoma tribe, fostering mutual respect and cultural exchange that enriches the visitor experience and benefits the local community.
New Opportunities for Travel Advisors and Guests
The introduction of Marriott’s Autograph Collection into the safari market presents fresh options for travel advisors seeking premium, authentic wildlife experiences for their clients. This blend of genuine safari adventure with Marriott’s trusted hospitality standards, loyalty rewards, and streamlined booking processes offers travelers the best of both worlds.
For guests, the camp promises a luxurious yet authentic safari stay, backed by the reliability and quality assurance that comes with a global hotel brand.
Setting a New Benchmark for Safari Luxury
Mapito Safari Camp is poised to become a flagship property for Marriott International and its Autograph Collection, marking the brand’s entry into the growing luxury safari tourism segment. Its prime location along the Great Migration route, combined with eco-conscious design and culturally immersive programming, positions it as a leader in responsible, high-end African travel.
This camp will not only offer guests extraordinary wildlife and cultural experiences but will also serve as a model of sustainable tourism, respecting and preserving the natural and cultural heritage of the region.
As the camp prepares to welcome its first guests in late 2025, it promises to redefine what luxury safari travel means—blending adventure, comfort, and cultural authenticity in one unforgettable package.
