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.
Sundowners are a wonderful part of safari life. At the end of your day in the bush, its time to kick back and celebrate the sightings, the adventures and time with your loved ones. All with something cold in hand!
The transport networks in Tanzania are very good with internal flight schedules across the country. It is possible to fly into the parks and land at one of the bush airstrips. From there, most lodges will arrange for a transfer journey from airstrip to the lodge. Depending on the lodge location, this can vary in journey time. Or, if you opt for a driving safari in northern Tanzania, your guide (included as standard with Nomad) will transport you from location to location.
Our lodges offer a more solid retreat, while our tented camps have canvas walls that let the sounds of the bush filter through. Both can offer comfortable beds and en-suite bathrooms. The choice comes down to personal preference. If sleeping under canvas appeals, a tented camp could be for you. For a simpler experience of safari as it once was, our Charlie expeditionary camps take you into remote wilderness, away from the busier safari routes.
Our permanent bush camps and Serengeti Safari Camp have comfortable beds and en-suite bathrooms. Bathroom facilities vary between camps, while our Charlie expeditionary camps have a simpler setup with cot beds provided. Each camp page explains what you can expect.
Yes. Mkombe’s House, Lamai Private, Entamanu Private and Kiba Point are booked exclusively for your group, so you won’t share the house or camp with other guests. Our Charlie expeditionary camps are also exclusive use, offering a simpler way to explore remote wilderness together.
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.
Absolutely. Wild, remote and deeply romantic. We believe a safari honeymoon strikes the perfect balance of adventure and calm. No two days are ever the same and what better way to kick off married life.
Pack lightweight is the first tip. Next neutral colours are great - khaki, beige and olives - however not every item needs to be khaki by any means. There is no harm in a splash of colour in the bush. Long sleeves and trousers are a necessary addition to protect you from the sun and insect or mosquitoes in the evening. You are on the move a lot so always have a pair of comfy, sturdy shoes whether that be walking boots, trainers or safari style boots. This is especially important if you are embarking on a walking safari. Bring a light, warm jacket for those early mornings and sometimes even a beanie may be required depending on the time of year. Finally, do bring a good hat - wide brimmed or just a baseball cap - needed to protect you from the African sun.