Life changing experiences at Sand Rivers

We maintain our childlike sense of awe and enthusiasm in this reserve, veering from high octane adventuring to total relaxation.

Fly-camping

Nights out under the stars from our little patch of paradise in Nyerere. This is the most complete expression of how Nomad relates to the wilderness. If you really want to connect with the African bush, just put yourself right out there. Strip away all but the basic necessities to get you as close to the African wilderness as you'll ever want to be.

Walking wild

One of our safari holy grails is to see, and not be seen. The way to do this on foot is to stay hidden, and walk ourselves into a good position; vegetation fringed rivers and floodplains are the perfect cover. At some point, we’ll emerge out into a clearing, a secret world. There’ll always be something surprising there.

Waterworlds

We beat upstream by boat, dodging hippopotami; on the way back we just let the current spiral us back to the lodge, as Africa drifts by. In secluded floodplains, we see elephant herds, and shining flocks of great white pelicans. Back at the riverbanks, a spot of barefoot tiger-fishing in the shallows is in order.

Freedom

Some safaris can be predictable, even routine. Not with us, not ever. Over the years in Nyerere, we’ve figured out that such a diverse ecology gives us so many ways to enjoy the bush. Lying on sandbars watching eagles, tracing sand rivers, holing up in tree-top hides, creeping up on grunting hippos.

Southern Tanzania safaris

This is all about experience. A safari spent in the game rich plains of Ruaha, and the endless wilderness of Nyerere, the south is hard to beat.

Reviews

P. Mangus

Review for sand rivers

"Exceeded Our Expectations"

Sitting quietly on the banks of the river in Tanzania, Sand River Selous exceeded our expectations from the minute we got off the plane. The staff and our guide wanted to make sure we felt at home and to let them know if there was anything we needed to just ask. However, the camp handles everything...

C. Seth-smith

Review for sand rivers

Felt So Welcome Here

From the moment I arrived to sad moment I left I felt so welcome here. I will definitely be coming back

Camps visited:

E. Ekman

Review for sand rivers

"Magic Place, Wonderful Staff"

Magic place with wonderful staff

A. Turner

Review for sand rivers

Magic Memory Makers

Nomad is insane. Magic memory makers. They conjure up spectacular animal sightings while pulling life enhancing experiences out the hat. Everything is done with authenticity and generosity of spirt with the whole team working so hard to give you the best holiday you’ve ever had. And abracadabra they...

V. Byczynski

Review for sand rivers

Exceeded Our Expectations

Sand Rivers exceeded our expectations, nothing was too much trouble and our first safari to Africa wonderful.

Camps visited:

A. Licciardello

Review for sand rivers

Wonderful Guiding in Bush

Wonderful guiding in remote bush, gracious hosting, and an open suite overlooking the water. We lived Sand River Lodge.

Camps visited:

FAQs

How many days is enough for a Tanzania safari?

Many people underestimate how immersive a safari experience is. Time in the bush can be tiring – most mornings you will be up before sunrise as the wild wakes up your day continues into long evenings spent under the stars. If you’re travelling with children, we always recommend a private guide and exclusive vehicle (included as standard with Nomad) that means a lie in here and there is always possible. 

There is no rule for the number of days on safari but we would recommend taking your time in each location and not rushing through safari parks. Give yourselves time to stop and immerse yourself in the area. Many travellers consider a pit stop at the beaches of Zanzibar or Mafia Island to re-charge post safari and before they head back to the real world.

Is it safe to drink tap water in Tanzania?

We advise against drinking the tap water in Tanzania and as such, we provide safe drinking water in all camps and vehicles so guests can remain well hydrated throughout their trip.

Can I go on safari and visit Zanzibar in one trip?

Yes absolutely, Tanzania has superb transport links from the mainland to Zanzibar as well as neighbouring islands too. Many travellers choose to spend some time in the wild on safari before heading to the coast for some R&R.

What is the typical food when on safari?

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.

How much do I tip my safari guide?

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.

What are sundowners?

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!

Can children go on safari?

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.

What is Christmas and New Year like on Safari?

Quiet, wild and wonderfully different. Enjoy your festive dinners under the stars with lion calls in the distance - what a gift for the family.

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