Marriott International is set to launch a new tented camp at one of the most iconic wildlife areas in Africa; the Serengeti National Park. Marriott International, a well reputed hospitality company has named the property; Mapito Safari Camp.
The name mapito is a swahili word that is explains the great location of the luxury safari camo, which is located in the main route that is followed by the Wildebeests herds during the great migration. More than a million wildebeests accompanied of hundreds of thousands of zebras and gazelles pass through the compound of the camp every year on their way from Western Serengeti towards the Mara River in Northern Serengeti.
Picture yourself on a private deck, the Serengeti’s golden plains alive with the thundering hooves of the Great Migration. As night falls, a retractable roof reveals a starlit African sky above your elegant tent. This is Mapito Safari Camp, Serengeti, Autograph Collection—Marriott International’s first safari camp, opening in Q3 2025 to redefine luxury in Tanzania’s wild heart.
At Safari Desire, we’re buzzing with excitement to share this game-changing retreat, crafted to make your Tanzanian safari a story you’ll tell forever. Join us as we unveil why Mapito is your must-book adventure for 2025 – 2026, and beyond.
A Landmark in Safari Luxury in Tanzania
Marriott International is venturing into the wilderness with Mapito Safari Camp, the first safari property under its Autograph Collection, known for one-of-a-kind, story-driven escapes. Set to debut between July and September 2025 near the Fort Ikoma gate in Serengeti National Park, Mapito sits along the Great Migration’s western corridor, offering front-row seats to millions of wildebeest and zebra surging across the plains from May to July.
“Mapito will be a milestone for Autograph Collection, bringing our vision of immersive travel to the Serengeti’s breathtaking wilderness,” says Jerome Briet, Marriott’s Chief Development Officer for Europe, Middle East & Africa. With just 16 tented suites, this intimate camp blends Marriott’s world-class hospitality with the Serengeti’s raw beauty, promising an exclusive escape like no other.
Mapito Safari Camp Serengeti – Unrivaled Comfort Meets Wild Adventure
Mapito redefines safari living with 16 luxurious tented suites, including a two-bedroom villa for families or groups. Each suite offers:
Private Outdoor Deck: Soak in sweeping views of the savanna, where wildlife roams free.
Personal Fire Pit: Share stories under the stars after a day in the bush.
Retractable Roof: A Serengeti first, letting you stargaze from your bed.
Beyond the suites, Mapito boasts a spa, fitness center, and a swimming pool overlooking a watering hole teeming with elephants and giraffes. Dining at The Boma celebrates Tanzania’s flavors, inspired by traditional bonfire gatherings. Adventure awaits with guided daytime game drives and thrilling night safaris, showcasing the Serengeti’s Big Five and nocturnal wonders.
Mapito in the Tanzania’s Safari Scene
Tanzania’s Northern Safari Circuit—Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire—is a global gem, and Mapito elevates its allure. Marriott’s recent Turaco Ngorongoro Valley launch shows its commitment to East Africa, while Kenya’s Ritz-Carlton Masai Mara (August 2025) adds competition.
Mapito’s intimate scale and cultural focus make it uniquely Tanzanian.
At Safari Desire, we’ve crafted dream safaris for years, and Mapito is the perfect addition to our bespoke adventures, whether you’re chasing the migration or craving serenity.
Sample Itinerary: 7-Day Serengeti & Beyond Adventure with Mapito
Ready to experience Mapito? Here’s a taste of a custom Safari Desire itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive in Arusha – Settle into a boutique lodge and explore the vibrant city.
Day 2-3: Tarangire National Park – Discover elephant herds and baobab-studded plains on game drives.
Day 4-5: Mapito Safari Camp, Serengeti – Stay in a tented suite, witness the Great Migration, and enjoy night safaris.
Day 6: Ngorongoro Crater – Explore the world’s largest intact caldera, home to rhinos and flamingos.
Day 7: Depart via Arusha – Reflect on your adventure before your flight home.
Let Safari Desire tailor this journey to your preferences—contact us to start planning!
Marriott’s Growing Presence in African Safaris
Marriott International is expanding its footprint in Africa’s wilderness with Mapito Safari Camp, its first Autograph Collection safari property, joining a select few luxury lodges in its portfolio.
The company’s JW Marriott brand operates two notable safari lodges: the JW Marriott Masai Mara Lodge, opened in Kenya in 2023, and the upcoming JW Marriott Serengeti Lodge.
Beyond these, Marriott’s 120+ upscale properties across Africa, including Marriott Hotels & Resorts, Sheraton, and The Ritz-Carlton, primarily focus on urban and resort destinations.
Safari lodges remain a smaller segment, with additional offerings under the Protea Hotels brand in South Africa, Namibia, Zambia, and Tanzania. Mapito’s debut marks a bold step for Marriott into Tanzania’s safari scene, complementing its growing wilderness portfolio.
FAQ: Your Mapito Safari Camp Questions Answered
When does Mapito open?
It’s set for Q3 2025 (July-September), not Q3 2024 as some early posts claimed.
How do I book?
Bookings aren’t live yet, but with only 16 suites, demand will be high. Contact Safari Desire to secure your spot early.
Is it good for families?
Yes! The two-bedroom villa and kid-friendly activities make it ideal for families.
What’s the best time to visit?
May-July for the Great Migration, but the Serengeti’s wildlife shines year-round.
Have questions? Drop them in the comments or reach out to us!
Planning Your stay at Mapito Safari Camp and safari in Serengeti
With only 16 suites, Mapito will book up fast, especially for peak migration season. Rates will reflect its ultra-luxury status, and Marriott Bonvoy members may redeem points (details TBD).
Contact Safari Desire now to craft a 2025 itinerary pairing Mapito with Ngorongoro, Tarangire, or Zanzibar’s beaches. Our expert guides and seamless transfers ensure a flawless journey.
Pro Tip: Add a hot-air balloon safari over the Serengeti for a bucket-list thrill—ask us how!
Why Mapito Matters for Tanzania
Mapito boosts Tanzania’s tourism by creating jobs and showcasing its heritage. Despite currency fluctuation rumors, the Bank of Tanzania confirms economic stability, making 2025 a prime time to visit. Marriott’s Serengeti debut cements Tanzania’s status as a luxury safari leader.
Make Mapito Safari Camp Your Next Stop
At Safari Desire, we’re counting down to Mapito Safari Camp’s Q3 2025 opening. This isn’t just a lodge—it’s a love letter to the Serengeti, blending luxury and adventure in Marriott’s signature style. Ready to witness the Great Migration or stargaze in style? Let’s make it happen.
Contact Safari Desire today to plan your Mapito safari. Your Tanzanian dream awaits—let’s craft a journey as wild and wondrous as the Serengeti.
Follow us on Instagram @SafarisDesire for Mapito updates and safari tips. Share your excitement in the comments—what’s your Mapito must-do?
Comments