Lake Manze Camp
The camp is located in the Selous Game Reserve, the largest game reserve in Africa and is situated on the shores of Lake Manze.
During the one hour transit to the camp which can be reached from Siwandu airstrip, one is introduced to the beautiful plains of Selous and its assorted birds and wildlife.
The Lake Manze area is one of the richest for game in the entire Selous, both in the dry and wet seasons.
The camp maintains simplicity – there are no extra frills here. Though the result isn't luxurious, it is certainly exciting; you do feel like you are out in the wilderness. This feeling is enhanced by the camp's position on the floodplain of Lake Manze.
Animals really do come down to drink here – including elephants which use the old, well-worn elephant trail which runs around the lake and right in front of the camp.
Lake Manze Accommodation
Lake Manze Camp has all of the comforts that any of us might expect: Inside each large walk-in tent is a double bed (or twin beds) with a wrought-iron frame. There is also a lock-box (large wooden chest with a padlock) for any valuables and a simple frame with canvas shelves designed as a wardrobe. Large mosquito-gauze windows on all sides of the tent allow the breeze to pass through, whilst keeping insects out.
The tents are "meru style" canvas with double zip locking and mesh windows. They are carefully placed around the extensive camp area, with the lodge and dining area in the central section, along the shores of Lake Manze and each tent has a view towards the lake.
The tents are spread out in the shade of Doum palms and Acacias. The animals can come very close - its not a good idea to go so close as our guide here. The main bedroom of the tent - you can just see the dressing-room and bathroom area behind. There are double zip flaps (one of gauze mesh and one of tough canvas) between the bedroom and bathroom, and also between the veranda and bedroom.
Lake Manze Activities
We are pleased to offer you a choice of driving, boating and walking safaris. As far as possible, we try to be flexible and arrange things in accordance with your wishes. However, there may be times when we shall request you to co-ordinate your plans with those of other guests. The timing of the morning activities varies, and most afternoon activities start at 4.00 p.m.
Boating: There are two possibilities. Either onto Lake Manze or along a channel that runs from the Lake to the Rufiji River (although it is too far to reach the river itself). In either direction you can expect to see hippo, crocodile, maybe other animals coming to drink, and about 40 species of birds. Some birds, like osprey, are more likely to be seen on the lake; others, like white-fronted bee eaters, are more numerous on the channel. Some guests do both trips, and opinion seems to be equally divided as to which is the better. Boat safaris last a little over 2 hours and can be arranged in either the morning or the afternoon. Early morning offers the charm of the early morning light (unless it's cloudy!), but you are likely to see more crocodiles once the day has warmed up and they come out to bask in the sun. A popular option is a morning walk at 7.00 a.m. followed by a boat safari at 10.00 a.m. Afternoon boat safaris offer the possibility of a beautiful Manze sunset.
Game safaris take place in 4x4 vehicles which take max 4 guests (except for airstrip transfers, when there may be up to 6 pax) and the drives are not limited to a specific schedule but tailor made to clients' wishes. Game drives can be in the morning, or in the afternoon, or for a full day. The departure time for the morning drive can usually be arranged according to your preferences. For example, breakfast at 7.30 a.m. and leave at 8.00 a.m. A popular option is to leave at 7.00 a.m. with a packed breakfast.
The full day drive usually goes towards the Beho Beho area, with a packed lunch. The vegetation in this area is different from the Manze area, being more open plains. In the afternoon a stop can
be made at the Maji Moto hot springs. There are three pools: very hot, hot and warm. If you wish you may take a swim in the lowest pool - or the middle pool if you can stand it!
Lake Manze Rates
From USD 305 per person per night sharing (fully inclusive)

