There was a time when the standard of accommodation in Tanzania could not hold a candle to that offered by neighbouring Kenya. However, this has not been true for many years, surprising some visitors with the level of sophistication. Traditional East African safari tents boast comfortable beds, high quality linen and ensuite facilities. It is still possible to stay in a more authentic style of tented camp, with long drop loos and bush showers, for those who want to experience the genuine safari style. Lodges are mainly 4 star or 5 star, with all the facilities guests expect, and more. Some properties have swimming pools, though not all.

Serengeti Safari Camp This semi-permanent camp has 6 Meru-style tents and is operated on a shared-use basis, whilst allowing clients their own private guide, which is a real luxury. Geared to staying close to migrating wildebeest and zebra, the camp relocates to a site further north as the season progresses.

Ndutu The attraction of this lodge is its location rather than any fancy accommodation. Often described as basic, the lodge is nevertheless comfortable, and is very popular between December and March when the migratory herds congregate to start calving. Lake Ndutu, often a carpet of pink flamingos, is a birder's dream.

Ngorongoro Crater Lodge For sheer extravagance and quirky features, Ngorongoro Crater Lodge is difficult to beat. Spacious, over-the-top furnished rooms each have a personal butler. It is one of my favourite places to stay, partly owing to the amazing views across to Crater Lake, but also because it links very well with a stay in a tented camp – a great combination.

Beho Beho, Selous Guiding at this camp is exceptionally good, with some guides originally from Zimbabwe, who together with local Tanzanian guides, share with you the wealth of their bush experience. Walking, driving and boating on Lake Tagalala, bush breakfasts and picnics followed by a dip in the hot, sulphur springs of Maji Moto are all possible at this wonderful camp.

Mwagusi, Ruaha Mwagusi Safari Camp, owned and run by Chris Fox, lies on the banks of the Mwagusi Sand River in Ruaha National Park. Canvas and reed bandas are spacious, simply furnished, and have a covered verandah. This camp offers some of the best guiding in Tanzania, aided by an owner who is passionate about Ruaha and its game.

Nomad Tarangire Camp This small Bedouin-style 8 bedded camp is a relatively new addition to the Nomad portfolio of camps, and offers the same high standard of guiding for which they are known. In addition to game drives and walks you can also fly camp in the more remote areas of the park. Spend down time browsing through the library, or lounging in a hammock.

Lake Manyara Tree Lodge Situated in a mahogany forest in the south west of the park this small lodge has 10 tree house suites, furnished in contemporary style, with open air showers and large decks. Picnic lunches or breakfasts by the lakeshore, walks with Masai and game drives make this lodge stay a memorable one.

Greystoke, Mahale Only accessible by light aircraft or dhow, Greystoke is located in the Mahale Mountains National Park, with the sandy beaches of Lake Tanganyika on the doorstep. Accommodation is in 6 tents, each with a forest bathroom under the palms. Dinner may be served on the beach, in the dhow by flaming torch, or in the Tongwe Chief’s hut. Activities include chimpanzee tracking, forest walks, dhow trips on Lake Tanganyika, snorkelling and fishing.

Chada Camp, Katavi This camp is very remote, and makes a slightly bigger hole in your pocket, but if you are looking for a wild, untamed Africa experience then this is the place. The 6 spacious safari tents have traditional safari style bucket showers, and long drop toilets behind each tent. Game is literally everywhere, including in camp itself. Game activities include drives in open 4WD vehicles, fly camping under the stars, outstanding birding, and daily walks.

Matemwe Retreat, Zanzibar The Retreat consists of 3 fabulous villas. The ground floor of each villa features a private cocktail bar, an air-conditioned bedroom and a large romantic bathtub overlooking the Indian Ocean. The best part of each villa is the plunge pool on the private roof terrace, complete with a sun deck. Local snorkelling and diving sites are suitable for all levels of experience.