Marriott to launch first Autograph Collection safari camp in Serengeti

Dar es Salaam. Tanzania’s Serengeti is set to welcome a new addition to its world-renowned hospitality landscape after Marriott International announced plans to open its first-ever Autograph Collection safari camp, Mapito Safari Camp, Serengeti, by the third quarter of 2025.

The new property, named Mapito Safari Camp, Serengeti, Autograph Collection promises an immersive and distinctive experience for travellers seeking to explore one of the planet’s most iconic wildlife destinations, while simultaneously marking a milestone in Marriott’s expansion into experiential, nature-based tourism.

Situated near the Fort Ikoma Gate of Serengeti National Park—directly along the famed Great Migration route—the camp offers guests front-row seats to one of the world’s most spectacular wildlife events, where herds of wildebeest, zebras, and antelopes pass through between May and July.

Wildlife encounters are expected year-round, with lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and giraffes populating the surrounding plains.

“Mapito Safari Camp will mark a defining moment for Autograph Collection as we introduce the brand’s first safari experience in one of the world’s most breathtaking wildlife destinations,” said the chief development officer for Europe, Middle East, and Africa at Marriott International, Jerome Briet.

“The Serengeti’s scale, beauty, and cultural heritage will make an unforgettable setting for a property that will embody the individuality and character that Autograph Collection is known for.”

Mapito Safari Camp, Serengeti, Autograph Collection is expected to feature 16 tented suites, including a luxurious two-bedroom villa. Each accommodation will offer an outdoor deck, a fire pit, and a retractable roof for stargazing—an innovative first for safari experiences in the region.

Planned amenities include a spa, fitness centre, swimming pool, and multiple dining venues, including The Boma, a communal restaurant inspired by traditional bonfire gatherings of East Africa’s indigenous communities.

The design of the camp will draw heavily from the surrounding natural beauty and the culture of the local Ikoma people, aiming to weave sustainability into every aspect of its operation. From construction to daily management, the camp will focus on conservation and minimising environmental impact, a move that resonates with Tanzania’s commitment to sustainable tourism.

“This camp will offer an intimate and immersive experience that reflects both the natural wonder of the region and the timeless storytelling and craftsmanship of the brand,” said Rishen Patel, developer of Mapito Safari Camp, Serengeti, Autograph Collection.

Beyond traditional safari offerings, guests can look forward to walking safaris, night game drives, hot air balloon safaris, bush dining, and opportunities for cultural engagement with the Ikoma community, offering a deeper connection to Tanzania’s rich heritage.

The launch of Mapito Safari Camp highlights Tanzania’s growing appeal as a premium destination for nature-based tourism, positioning the Serengeti not just as a world heritage site but as a canvas for luxury experiential travel.

This project also contributes to the country’s tourism sector, a key pillar of Tanzania’s economy, while offering employment and skills development opportunities for local communities.

The Mapito Safari Camp project will be the latest addition to Autograph Collection’s global portfolio, which currently comprises over 330 hotels chosen for their individual character and immersive guest experiences.