Time in camp is varied; walk in the cool of the day, head out on a game drive as the evening sun sets or just enjoy quiet moments. And it's here, where the Ruaha River gathers itself after the vast Usangu wetlands, in Ruaha's dry season from July to October where Charlie settles into a quieter stretch of this vast national park.
Riverine woodland, open bushland and floodplain edges draw in wildlife, making this one of the most rewarding places to explore on foot. Days unfold slowly: listening more, noticing more, walking between baobabs and jackalberry trees as the river shapes the rhythm of the safari. Ruaha is perfect walking country - on foot, the details come alive: dry‑season tracks, and the slower rhythm that makes this vast, little‑visited landscape so rewarding.
Charlie sets up in southern Tanzania from the beginning of July for the whole dry season. During these months the river dries pulling wildlife in from the surrounding bush, visibility opens up, tracks are clearer, and movement concentrates along floodplain edges. It’s quieter, sharper, and perfectly suited to slow, attentive walking safaris.
Charlie is about exploring really cool remote locations and doing so with attention to the small things. The camp is lightweight allowing your location to move within the area over a few days. Time in camp is varied; walk in the cool of the day, head out on a game drive as the evening sun sets or just enjoy quiet moments
Kigelia and Charlie make a perfectly balanced Ruaha journey. Begin at Kigelia, sinking into its wild stretch of riverine bush where big game gathers and days are shaped by classic game drives. Once you’ve had your wildlife fix, head off‑grid with Charlie for a couple of nights. The shift is instant: lighter, quieter, more involved. Walk between baobabs, follow tracks at first light, settle into a small private camp that moves with the elements. It’s a combination you won’t find elsewhere — the best of Ruaha’s game, followed by the rare freedom of travelling on foot in real wilderness.
Always take a good pair of binoculars. And slow down. Take time to enjoy and area or the safari camps. There is sometimes nothing more special than spending the afternoon or early morning on your veranda and letting the wildlife come to you.
The driving distances on a Tanzania safari can vary depending on the area you are visiting and also your appetite for driving. Northern Tanzania allows for a full driving circuit with National Parks within reasonable distances. We love to drive when we can as we believe it allows for an exciting adventure through towns and villages and you learn so much about Tanzania and its wonderful people.
Early starts with golden light as the bush awakens, and a fresh cup of coffee by the morning camp fire. Either breakfast in camp or take a bush breakfast to go. Enjoy early morning game drives to observe wildlife before the day gets too hot. In the heat of the day, find a shady spot for a siesta go. After tea, its time for an afternoon foray and sundowners with a view. Evenings are quiet, firelit, and full of stars.
It depends, some are short hops, others can be full-day journeys. Often, the journey is the experience and can become the ultimate game drive as you traverse different areas of National Parks.
From late November to May. It's a gorgeous time to be in Tanzania - expect dramatic skies, lush landscapes and superb wildlife. Also, less people.
Yes, some camps have minimum age limits, in camp and especially on walking safaris. But there are many brilliant private or family properties that can tailor the age restrictions.
Usually it is 15kg per person in a soft-sided bag. This is not a hard and fast rule so do check with your tour operator or aviation company. These are small bush planes, and is a good way of making sure you pack light.
The cost of a safari does vary, from simple bush camps or tented camps to high-end luxury or private houses. In Tanzania, there is a wide spectrum of accommodation allowing travellers to mix and match, building tailormade itineraries to suit a budget. Specialist tour operators are able to advise on the best options for your budget. Included in the safari cost is access to the wild, expert guides and unique experiences.