A dramatic sweep of soaring cliffs, deep gorges and open plains, this is walking country at its most atmospheric. From the heights around Lake Natron to the shadow of Ol Donyo Lengai, the landscape is vast, raw and almost overwhelming. Routes range from easy explorations to long, challenging days on foot, shaped by weather, fitness and curiosity. Maasai cattle move through the valleys and vultures circle on rising thermals. It’s a place of geology, culture and wilderness intertwined.
Charlie sets up in Sanjan for the stunning green season months from mid November to mid May.
Sanjan is unlike anywhere else in Tanzania: a dramatic fusion of cliffs, gorges, Rift Valley views and Maasai heartland. It’s not about big game, but about scale, geology and the lived‑in rhythms of people and wildlife sharing the land. The walking here is extraordinary — varied, surprising and deeply atmospheric — revealing a landscape that feels both ancient and intensely alive.
Mornings begin quietly, with coffee in the cool air before heading out on foot as the first light reaches the cliffs. Walk through riverine woodland, across open plains or into one of Sanjan’s steep, spectacular gorges — routes vary with weather, fitness and curiosity. After a few hours, pause in the shade for a simple picnic breakfast before continuing on, watching vultures ride the thermals and the landscape shift around you.
Return to camp for lunch and an afternoon rest, listening to Maasai cattle moving through the valleys. Later, head out again for an easy walk or short exploration before settling in for sundowners and supper under vast Rift Valley skies. It’s unhurried, elemental, and shaped entirely by this extraordinary landscape.
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.
A safari with your family is a magical way to spend quality time with your children, immersed in the wilderness and surrounded by wildlife. Time on safari with your family allows all to disconnect from your busy daily lives. Tailor your family safari with a private guide and vehicle plus make sure you look at family specific properties such as Mkombe's House. When inside the national parks, most camps have age restrictions with 8+ being a general guide.
Much depends on the age of your children, if on the young side then we'd advise not trying to cram too much in to your days but plan your safari in bitesize chunks bringing new excitement around every corner.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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!