Tumbili Public Campsite - Serengeti National Park

Tumbili Public Campsite is a camp near Serengeti National Park.

Location
Serengeti National Park, Northern Tanzania Safari Circuit, Tanzania, East Africa
Coordinates
-2.419032, 34.860760
Elevation
1,522m
Activities
camp

PlnrScore: 31/100

Wildlife Near This Lodge

724 species observed within 20 km, 64 mammals, 371 birds.

  • Lion (Mammalia, 762 observations)
  • Common Hippopotamus (Mammalia, 422 observations)
  • Maasai Giraffe (Mammalia, 407 observations)
  • Tsessebe (Mammalia, 377 observations)
  • African Savanna Elephant (Mammalia, 375 observations)
  • Spotted Hyena (Mammalia, 374 observations)
  • Leopard (Mammalia, 354 observations)
  • Impala (Mammalia, 344 observations)
  • Cheetah (Mammalia, 326 observations)
  • Nile Crocodile (Reptilia, 308 observations)

Best Time to Visit Tumbili Public Campsite

The best months to visit Tumbili Public Campsite are June, August, October, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 21.56°C, rainfall 103.4mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 68.8%
  • February: Great, temperature 22.58°C, rainfall 73.5mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 64.5%
  • March: Great, temperature 22.8°C, rainfall 88.8mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 62.8%
  • April: Good, temperature 21.78°C, rainfall 135.5mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 71.4%
  • May: Great, temperature 22.1°C, rainfall 50.8mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 63.4%
  • June: Great, temperature 22.66°C, rainfall 6.9mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 48.4%
  • July: Great, temperature 22.56°C, rainfall 3.4mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 44.5%
  • August: Great, temperature 23.39°C, rainfall 10.4mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 44.4%
  • September: Great, temperature 23.73°C, rainfall 27.8mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 48.7%
  • October: Great, temperature 24.51°C, rainfall 31.4mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 49.4%
  • November: Great, temperature 22.59°C, rainfall 138.5mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 64%
  • December: Great, temperature 21.9°C, rainfall 91.3mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 68.1%

Frequently Asked Questions

What facilities can I expect at Tumbili Public Campsite, and how does it differ from a private safari lodge experience?

Tumbili Public Campsite offers basic but essential facilities, including shared pit latrines or flush toilets and cold-water showers. Unlike a private lodge, you'll need to bring your own camping gear, food, and cooking equipment, providing a more authentic and self-sufficient bush experience. It's ideal for budget-conscious travelers seeking direct immersion in the wilderness near Serengeti.

How do I book a stay at Tumbili Public Campsite, and what are the typical costs involved?

Bookings for Tumbili Public Campsite are typically made through the Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA) online reservation system or via a registered safari operator. Costs usually involve a per-person camping fee, which is separate from the Serengeti National Park entrance fees and vehicle fees. It's advisable to confirm all fees and make reservations well in advance, especially during peak safari season.

Given its proximity to Serengeti, what should I know about wildlife encounters and safety at Tumbili Public Campsite?

As Tumbili is an unfenced public campsite, it's common for wildlife, including zebras, giraffes, and even hyenas, to pass through or near the camp, especially at night. Guests are advised to always stay vigilant, never leave food unattended, and avoid walking alone after dark. Always store food securely in your vehicle or tent to prevent attracting animals.

When is the optimal time to camp at Tumbili Public Campsite for the best wildlife viewing opportunities in Serengeti?

The best time to camp at Tumbili Public Campsite for prime wildlife viewing in Serengeti largely depends on your interest in the Great Migration. For witnessing the wildebeest calving, visit between January and March, while June to October offers excellent chances to see river crossings. The dry season (June-October) generally provides easier wildlife spotting as animals congregate around water sources.

What kind of vehicle is recommended for reaching Tumbili Public Campsite, and what are the driving conditions like?

A 4x4 vehicle is highly recommended, and often essential, for reaching Tumbili Public Campsite due to the unpaved and sometimes challenging dirt roads within and around Serengeti National Park. Roads can become particularly difficult to navigate during the wet season (November-May), requiring good driving skills and preparedness for potential mud or rough terrain.

Other Safari Lodges in Serengeti National Park

Parks in Northern Tanzania Safari Circuit

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Tanzania

Travel advisory for Tanzania