Amidst the golden savannahs of the Serengeti, where the calls of lions echo and herds of wildebeest roam free, a quiet yet powerful revolution is underway. At Dunia Camp, an extraordinary group of Tanzanian women is reshaping the safari experience, breaking stereotypes, and carving out a legacy in the heart of Africa’s wilderness.
Dunia Camp, nestled in the central Serengeti woodlands, stands out not only for its luxurious offerings but for its pioneering ethos: it is the first all-female-run safari camp in Africa. Since opening in 2016, Dunia has become a beacon of empowerment, showcasing the strength, resilience, and camaraderie of its women staff, affectionately known as the “Dunia Angels.”
Traditionally, safari camps have been dominated by male staff, particularly in roles requiring physical stamina and wilderness survival skills. Dunia’s decision to employ only women was bold and transformative, offering Tanzanian women opportunities that were once rare in the safari industry.
The camp employs a team of eight women, each bringing unique skills to their roles as chefs, housekeepers, managers, and safari guides. Some are young and single, while others juggle motherhood alongside their demanding schedules. Despite the challenges, these women thrive in the rugged environment, supporting their families while pursuing professional growth.
For Doris Moshi, a 26-year-old waitress at Dunia, working in the Serengeti is a dream come true. “It’s breathtaking, being so close to nature and the animals,” she shares. “Everybody is dying to be here, and I feel lucky.” Doris started as a trainee and now uses her experiences to inspire other women in her community to embrace the wilderness and its opportunities.
Operating in the Serengeti comes with its share of risks. Dunia’s semi-permanent structures lack fences, leaving the camp exposed to the elements and its animal neighbors. Yet, the Dunia Angels view these risks as part of the adventure. From their first cup of coffee at sunrise to guiding guests through lion territory, the women demonstrate unwavering courage and a deep connection to the land.
Central Serengeti’s famed wildlife, from rhinos to leopards, forms the backdrop of Dunia’s operations. But for the staff, the animals are not just attractions; they are cohabitants of the vast, untamed wilderness. This perspective is what makes the Dunia experience unique. Guests are not only treated to luxurious accommodations and gourmet meals but also to the inspiring stories of the women who make it all possible.
The isolation of camp life poses emotional challenges, especially for mothers who spend months away from their families. Yet, within the confines of Dunia, a strong sisterhood flourishes. For Siyaeli “Elly” Moshi, Dunia’s manager, this bond is what sustains them. “We are a family,” she says. “We share so much, and we have fun together. We make it happen as a team.”
Their solidarity extends to the guests, who are welcomed into this circle of sisterhood. From lively songs and dances celebrating arrivals and departures to heartfelt farewells with promises of “tutaonana baadaye,” the Dunia Angels ensure that every visitor feels like part of the family.
Dunia Camp is more than a luxury safari destination; it is a symbol of empowerment and change. The Dunia Angels are living proof that women can succeed in spaces traditionally reserved for men, and their success is inspiring others across Tanzania and beyond.
Through their dedication, courage, and infectious joy, the women of Dunia Camp are not only making history but also redefining what it means to work in harmony with nature. In the Serengeti’s wild heart, they have created a sanctuary of empowerment, where every sunrise heralds a new chapter of possibility.
