Review: Singita Sabora, Tanzania

Singita Sabora is in good company.  It’s part of Singita Grumeti in Tanzania’s Serengeti and sits alongside Singita Sasakwa, which is possibly the best safari camp in the world.  But what Sabora does is take that high-end safari experience and shove you right in the middle of it. It’s a more intimate affair with nature—you’re not perched on a hilltop gazing out at the Serengeti; you’re in it.

Herds of zebras and wildebeest wander by your tent, lions roar like they’re just outside (sometimes it feels like they are), and that golden expanse stretches as far as the eye can see. It’s the kind of place where the wild isn’t some distant spectacle—it’s practically at your doorstep. You can almost feel it creeping in, which is awesome, depending on how you handle proximity to animals with sharp teeth.

Setting

The Grumeti Reserve, tucked away in the Serengeti ecosystem of northern Tanzania, sprawls over 350,000 acres of private land. This place is a key stop on the Great Migration route, so if you’re looking to witness those epic herds of wildebeest and zebras—and the predators that follow them—there are few better places. In fact, as this is private land, exclusively for Singita, there are none.  But Grumeti isn’t just about the migration. What really sets it apart is the blend of exclusivity, wildlife diversity, and top-tier safari experiences that you just won’t find elsewhere.

Facilities

Sabora manages to marry that classic, old-world safari romance with modern-day comforts, because while we all love a good leather campaign chair, none of us are out here trying to relive the hardships of 1920s explorers. The camp leans into its vintage charm—Persian rugs, four-poster beds, and, of course, the canvas tents—but this is far from roughing it. We’re talking air-conditioning, fast WiFi, and a pool for swimming or spying on elephants.

Despite Sabora’s remote location, the facilities are impressive. The camp runs 80% on solar power, flexing its sustainability credentials. You’ll find a gym, a clay tennis court, and a TV room/library. There’s even a spa (which is really just two rooms), although the experience might leave something to be desired. The treatments start with little fanfare and you’re just sort of sent on your way afterward. It’s more of a “thanks, and off you go” situation.

Rooms

The canvas suites at Sabora are large and beautifully furnished. Each tent has a porch and a daybed—perfect for soaking in the views and that vast Serengeti horizon. The bathroom situation, however, is a bit unusual. The bathroom is separated by nothing more than a curtain. And then there’s the toilet, which faces the door in a way that tests even the strongest of relationships—you’re certainly closer to nature, but also to your traveling companion in ways you might not have anticipated.  Nothing says “romance” quite like trying not to make eye contact while someone handles their business.  With an outdoor shower for those “at one with nature” moments, or more like “so I can have some peace”.

Sleep doesn’t come easily here, but not because of the accommodations. The wind howls across the plains, rattling the tent and amplifying the sounds of the nocturnal animals. Not exactly conducive to a good night’s rest. Still, that’s part of the charm—Sabora puts you right in the middle of the wild, and the wild doesn’t do “quiet.”

Service & Food

The service is what you’d expect from Singita—attentive, detail-oriented, with enough warmth to make you feel welcome without hovering.  The food, though, is a real standout. It’s all beautifully presented, with the kind of care you’d expect from a high-end restaurant.

Activities

Yes, you’ll go on game drives—it’s the Serengeti, after all—but Sabora also offers walking tours that give you a different perspective on the landscape. There’s something about being on foot that makes the bush feel even more alive, and Sabora’s guides are top-notch at showing you the little details you’d miss from the back of a safari vehicle. It’s a great way to mix up the usual game drive routine.

Whether you’re staying here or Sasakwa or Faru Faru, the activities and wildlife sightings will remain the same.  The only difference is here you feel you don’t need to leave the camp to really see them.

The Good

• Vintage safari charm meets modern comfort.
• Food
• Service

The Bad

• The open planned bathroom may lead to more divorces than missed anniversary gifts

The Luxurious

• Facilities like a tennis court, gym, and high-speed internet in the middle of the Serengeti are impressive.
• The proximity to wildlife, with animals casually strolling past your tent

Conclusion

Singita Sabora is an intimate camp that drops you right into the heart of the Serengeti, while still serving up all the luxury you’d expect from Singita. The wildlife is practically on your doorstep which makes Sabora makes sure you’re connected to the Serengeti in a way that sticks with you.

Sabora pairs perfectly with Sasakwa. Start at Sabora for that raw, authentic “closer to nature” vibe, then finish off at Sasakwa for the ultimate in luxury. While Sasakwa is hands down the more polished of the two, Sabora just feels more real, more grounded—which was exactly what I wanted.

After our last game drive we hopped on a private charter with Auric Air, bound for Rwanda and the legendary Bisate Lodge. Another adventure, another chapter.