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.
Yes, English in widely spoken in Tanzania, especially in camps and by safari guides. Swahili is the main language and knowing a few words and phrases will always earn you a smile.
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.
Fresh, locally sourced, and surprisingly varied given the remote locations of some camps. Imagine homemade bread, seasonal veg, cooking with delicious Swahili spices. All accompanied by far-stretching views or enjoyed under a shady tree.
Yes you can charge your devices whilst on safari. Most camps have connection points in the tent or room. Also, in most safari vehicle there is charging points available so you can keep all your cameras and phones topped up and never miss that wonderful sighting.
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.
Firstly, you should only tip of you genuinely feel that the service you have received warrants it. Tips are never expected, but always appreciated. Tipping amounts very much depends on your experience but we tend to work with a range of 10-15 US dollars per guest per day. Equally, it's not unusual for a family or group to pitch in slightly below this as a group tip.
This is the trip of lifetime so you must have a good camera (or phone) to capture those wonderful memories. More importantly is a decent pair of binoculars - essential for your time in the bush. Sunscreen and insect repellant should be in the bag as well as a good water bottle, although you will be provided with a Nomad water bottle as part of your stay - hydration is really important on safari and in dry climates. Check your luggage restrictions with your tour operator as there are restrictions on luggage allowance for domestic flights in Tanzania. Also, if you react to insect bites be sure to bring antihistamines. It is a good idea to carry loperamide (commonly sold as Imodium) just in case.
Yes. You can combine time under canvas with a stay in one of our lodges or private properties. Your route and travel dates will help determine which camps work well together. For example, you could spend a few nights under canvas at one of our Charlie expeditionary camps before finishing your safari at a lodge.