Ok, I tried...I really, really tried to be self-sufficient here, but I'm just not finding answers. I have googled everything I can think of and have found several journal/trip reports that mention it, but nothing else. I have looked at Eben's I have asked my TA, but not getting the answers I'm looking for. I don't think it's because he's ignoring me. I think he's probably not understanding my questions or what information I'm looking for.

My TA has set me up for 3 nights of mobile camping in the Serengeti at Dik Dik Camp. Is this the name of a camp like EMC or Olakira, or is this just a "site" where people can pitch a tent and camp, like Memorial Day weekend camping?

The other big thing I'm trying to find out is where this camp is.

After being able to find out basically anything and everything about all of the other accommodations, it's just bugging me to be so in the dark about this one, especially since it's 15% of my time on safari.

Thanks all,

Shane

I do not participate anymore in general discussions on this board but I don't mind helping with specific questions!

For the location at Seronera, see my map here:
http://www.go-safari.com/Serengeti/SerengetiCentral.jpg

The camp site names are somewhat wrong now and I need to update the map.

Dik-Dik and Pembi are being combined into a larger public camp site called Seronera Public 1. It is Memorial Day camping, yes. Open to every one.

Pictures of the site : http://www.go-safari.com/Serengeti/Dikdik.htm

It is actually a fine camp site as long as you are OK with sharing the site with countless others including overland trucks!

Eben

Thank you, Eben. Not sure how I missed that map on your website.

So, am I correct in my thinking, then, about "Memorial Day camping"? There could be people that are not part of an "organized" safari, probably noisier than other places?

One of the main reasons I was willing to spend "extra" money to do the mobile was to really get out in the middle of it all, but I would like to be in a more quiet place, where I can really just listen - even if I'm only listening to the sounds of amazing silence. If I can't get that at Dik Dik, where would you recommend, for a reasonable price? I'm sorry, but I don't know what a reasonable price is, but I'll try to give an example.

I believe my "original" itinerary was Serengeti Sopa. To change to the Mobile camping in Dik Dik for those three nights was $550 additional. "Reasonable" would probably be a max of about $500 more - of course, less is better. ;-) Think that can be done? Or am I delusional? hehe

Thanks again, Eben. I appreciate your knowledge and input.

Shane

Shane

I camp at the Seronera sites at least once a year (to save money!) The experience has been different each time.

A few times the camp was empty at 10am and full (no room to pitch a tent) by 6pm. A few times we had party-lovers who stayed up until 1am drinking and talking/laughing loudly.

Other times there were only 2 or 3 tents and by 9pm it was quiet and I could enjoy the night sounds.

2 years ago the wildebeest migration was in full swing at Seronera in late May and the ground was shaking amidst a few 100k animals including a lion kill about 60 yards away.

You never know what to expect at the public camp sites, but when full the toilet facilities can be rather nasty.

About pricing. Cannot offer much help with this. You ABSOLUTELY get what you pay for if not less. Some outfitters charge less than $200 per day for public camping - but offer very small old and dirty tents with an underpaid cook and guide.

You should ask your outfitter for pictures of their setup and be clear whether you want PRIVATE or PUBLIC camping. Remember, on cheap camping safaris the cook will drive with you in the car together with all the equipment, food and even the charcoal.

It may take hours several hours each travel day to break and set camp and you may be expected to help with camp chores. It is best to get all these things understood in writing (with pictures) before booking.

Thanks again, Eben. I apologize if you thought I was putting you on the spot for pricing. That wasn't my intention, at all. Was just wondering about "lower priced" camps of the more private type.

I have inquired with my TA about EMC and Olakira.

Thanks again,

Shane

Shane,
You can also inquire with your TA about using a special (private) campsite where you would be the only party http://www.go-safari.com/Serengeti/s...ecialcamps.htm

The fee is higher than using a public campsite and as Eben mentioned, make sure you know exactly what the operator is providing as they're the ones who will bring everything in, set up camp, cook your meals, etc.. Standards can vary a great deal between different operators. See http://www.kiliwarriors.com/safari_tented_camps.htm and scroll down to the examples of mobile camps.

EMC and Olakira are seasonal camps that you share with other guests. Your operator doesn't set up these camps and doesn't bring a cook along.

I've done the "semi-lux" version of private mobile camping and found it both a very comfortable way to camp and a wonderful experience, but I don't know if you prefer to be with just your guide and cook or have a few other guests around. Hope this helps.

Patty, thanks for the additional info. I'm ok with sharing the camp, such as at EMC or similar. I just don't want to get into a situation with one, or more, of the "party trucks" if at all possible.

I have really been looking forward to my mobile camping in the Serengeti to not only SEE the spectacular sites, but also to LISTEN, both to the sounds of the night, and to myself. I just really want to let go of my "normal" world and be there, right where I'm supposed to be at that moment. Too weird? hehe ;-)

So, I'm thinking I should just spring for the more private or at least small group atmosphere, so as not to be disappointed.

Shane

Not weird at all. That's why I liked our private camping experience so much, just us and the sounds of nature