Travelers who have a stash of Marriott Bonvoy points and a love for wildlife and adventure will be excited to learn they can now book a stay at Autograph Collection’s first safari camp. After a soft opening in September of last year, Mapito Safari Camp officially opened its doors Jan. 20, near Serengeti National Park in Tanzania — one of TPG’s best places to visit in 2026.
Guests can opt to stay in one of the camp’s 15 tented suites, all of which offer a private deck. Each tent has a retractable roof, so you can fall asleep under the stars and wake up to the vast blue sky. The property also has a two-bedroom villa which includes a private dining room, pool and kitchen.
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MAPITO SAFARI CAMP/MARRIOTT
You might not spend much time in your accommodation, though, because the hotel offers myriad activities to experience the surrounding area. Take a yoga class, book a spa treatment, lounge in the pool or embark on a nighttime safari with professionally trained local guides to catch glimpses of lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards and giraffes. Then, at sunrise, float above the savannah in a hot air balloon and soak in the views from the sky.
Related: This is the best time to take an African safari
Design elements throughout the property draw on Tanzanian craftsmanship, including handwoven fabrics, beadwork and glassware produced by regional artisan cooperatives — many of them led by women. This appreciation for land and culture comes through in the food as well. The on-site Njia Restaurant serves international cuisine with fresh ingredients, while The Boma and Mapito Bar showcase local flavors through food and handcrafted cocktails.
Marriott says this safari camp is operating in a community-conscious manner by restoring a nearby health care center and employing local residents. Additionally, its safari guides follow strict rules and regulations for wildlife viewing, so as not to disturb the ecosystem.
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As you might expect, a stay here doesn’t come cheap. Nightly rates in 2026 start at about $1,900 but can climb to about $2,500. The points rates are also high, starting at about 179,000 per night. But when you’re witnessing wildlife up close and studying the constellations using your in-room telescope, your stay will likely feel worth the splurge.
Travelers should be aware that the U.S. Department of State has issued a “Level 3: Reconsider Travel” advisory for Tanzania because of unrest, crime, increased terrorism threats and targeting of people who are LGBTQ+. Following an election in October 2025, there was political violence in many of the country’s cities, including Dar es Salaam. We’ve spoken to tour operators, hoteliers and travel planners who are still promoting travel to Tanzania and say the safari experience hasn’t been affected. We recommend traveling directly to your destination, not lingering in urban centers, and booking with reputable hotel brands and tour operators.
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