Opening as of January 2026 and operating year-round, Wild Wakati Camp offers an intimate base from which to explore one of Africa’s most wildlife-rich landscapes. Set deep within the Serengeti, the camp introduces a relaxed yet refined approach to tented safari living, positioned directly along one of the most active routes of the Great Migration. Surrounded by giraffes, elephants, lions and vast herds moving across the plains, the camp reflects what Enduata calls The Enduata Experience: close contact with nature, understated comfort, and a strong sense of place. While this marks the brand’s first opening, the founders are already laying the groundwork for future camps that will continue this low-impact, community-minded philosophy across Tanzania.
Enduata Camps is led by co-owners Matt Wilkey and Michael Shayo, a Tanzanian guide with more than 13 years of experience in the field. Their shared ambition was to create safari experiences that are visually spectacular yet intentionally light on the land, ensuring that conservation and community benefit sit at the centre of every decision. Wild Wakati Camp is the first expression of that vision, set within one of the continent’s most iconic ecosystems.
Michael Shayo, Co-founder of Enduata Camps, explains: “At Wild Wakati Camp–meaning ‘time’ in Swahili–we wanted to slow everything down and let the Serengeti set the pace. With just 10 handcrafted, spacious canvas tents, including two for families, we’ve created an intimate, unhurried experience with front-row views of this extraordinary landscape. From Maasai warriors escorting guests each evening to shared moments in our lounge, bar and dining tents, every detail is designed to keep guests connected to the wilderness.”
Matt Wilkey adds: “My passion for Africa began in childhood, and meeting Michael allowed us to shape a shared vision together. Our focus is clear: to celebrate the wilderness, support conservation and communities, and create safari experiences that are as meaningful as they are memorable. As Enduata enters an exciting period of growth following the launch of Wild Wakati Camp, we are laying strong foundations for development, continuing The Enduata Experience, where conservation and community impact are at the core.”
Designed for couples, families, and honeymooners alike, Wild Wakati Camp occupies a discreet footprint within a vast 160,000-square-metre concession. Accommodation is limited to 10 guest tents, each thoughtfully appointed with emperor-sized beds and ensuite bathrooms featuring modern flush toilets, double basins and traditional 20-litre safari bucket showers. Practical comforts are woven seamlessly into the experience, from complimentary Wellington boots and umbrellas to wellbeing amenities, torches and radio communication.
Stays are fully inclusive, covering gourmet dining, safari cocktails and sundowners, as well as meals prepared for game drives. Families are welcomed with a dedicated children’s programme that introduces younger guests to life in the bush through activities such as traditional fire-making, cooking sessions, insight into Maasai culture and safari-style football. Additional facilities include Wi-Fi and charging points, 24-hour security and a fleet of modern 4×4 safari vehicles, ensuring both comfort and peace of mind in this remote setting.
Naturally, wildlife encounters are central to the experience. Guests are ideally placed to witness the Great Migration, when around 1.2 million wildebeest, accompanied by some 300,000 zebras and gazelles, move across the Serengeti–Mara ecosystem. The spectacle brings dramatic predator action and exceptional birdlife throughout the year. Beyond traditional game drives, experiences can include hot air balloon safaris drifting over the savannah at dawn, followed by a champagne breakfast in the bush.
Cultural discovery is also woven into each stay. Guests can learn about Maasai traditions and symbolism—from the red shukas believed to deter lions to the intricate beadwork worn by men and women, many of whom are part of Enduata’s team. Visits to a local boma offer a look into daily Maasai life, while guided walking safaris provide a more intimate understanding of the landscape.
Journeys can begin or end in Arusha, where guests are encouraged to visit Sanaa, an organisation empowering people with disabilities through art. The handcrafted blankets featured at Enduata Camps are produced here and can be purchased as meaningful keepsakes.
The Serengeti itself changes character with the seasons. January and February bring a short dry spell, with warm temperatures and concentrated wildlife viewing around water sources. From March to May, the long rains transform the plains into lush green landscapes ideal for birdwatching, albeit with muddier tracks. June through October is the long dry season, offering cooler weather and excellent visibility as animals gather near rivers. November and December see the short rains refresh the plains, creating vivid scenery, newborn calves and rewarding photographic conditions without peak-season crowds.
From the outset, Enduata Camps has committed to delivering tangible conservation outcomes. Its light-footprint tented camps are handcrafted near Arusha, with responsible sourcing and local employment prioritised throughout operations. One of the most distinctive experiences offered at Wild Wakati Camp is an exclusive rhino-viewing excursion near the Moru Kopjes, located within a TANAPA-regulated zone managed in partnership with the Frankfurt Zoological Society. Closed to general Serengeti traffic, this protected area allows guests to observe wild black rhinos while directly supporting conservation efforts.
Looking ahead, Enduata plans to deepen its collaboration with local communities, park authorities and conservation partners. Current initiatives include employing local talent—who already make up around half of the workforce—ensuring camps are fully accessible, donating a percentage of nightly revenue to conservation projects and developing on-site farms to supply fresh produce while creating further employment opportunities.
With Wild Wakati Camp now welcoming guests, Enduata Camps positions itself as a thoughtful new voice in Tanzanian safari travel—one that balances comfort with authenticity, and adventure with responsibility, while keeping community and conservation firmly at its core.
HOW TO BOOK
Enduata Camps offers full board and game packages for 2026 with prices per person & per night, based on sharing or single occupancy, ranging from $510 – $630 (£381 – £471) in the green season (April–May), $610 – $730 (£456 – £546) in the shoulder season ((January–March) and $810 – $1,395 (£605 – £1,043) in the high season (June–September).
Visit the links below for more information:
Web: enduatacamps.com/wakati-camp
Email: info@enduatacamps.com
Tel: +255 682 173 670
Instagram: @enduatacamps
Facebook: @enduatacamps