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 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.
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.
Typically: accommodation, meals, drinks, park fees, your expert guide and activities.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.