It’s very simple. If you really want to connect with the African bush, just put yourself right out there. Because we know the bush, and we know what’s safe and what’s comfortable, we can make this happen. We desert the lodge and walk with you into the big beyond. The further we go, the deeper the wilderness, the bigger it feels.
At some point, we come upon our camp-out spot and home for one night. There’s a murmur of voices, the fire is lit. It feels secure and cosy, though we know that only the finest line is drawn between us and wild Africa.
In our fly-camps we strip away all but the necessities to get you as close to the Africa wilderness as you’ll ever want to be. We give you safety and comfort, a proper, sweet sleep under the stars, and a major bucket-list experience.
Nomad could write a big book on “miles from anywhere”; fly-camping would dominate a couple of chapters. The point is to disappear…so we do just that, to some sweet spot near water like a sandy riverbank fringed with iconic Africa – trees full of monkeys, hippos snorting, fish eagles fixing you with their beady eyes.
A string of camps in some of the wildest places on the planet. A front row seat to the best wildlife in Africa. Backstage is the engine room for opportunity.
Fly-camping is very, very Selous. Exploring this area means being witness to the natural world at it most secretive. No better way to do this than by stealing away with a Nomad naturalist guide to a hidden part of the reserve to see what we can see.
Our needs, refined over our many years of doing this, are pretty simple: a bedroll, with fresh clean linens, laid out in a mosi-net tent; a swinging bucket converted into the best bush hot shower; something to sit on; something to eat off; a shady tree; a light breeze; and a night sky full of stars.
You’ll feel a genuine sense of adventure, as you go further and further away from the lodge, and deeper into the bush. It will feel like shedding a skin. Daytimes will be exciting: observing larger mammals on foot. While at night, there will be peace and the night calls of the bush, by a crackling fire.
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.
Northern Tanzania is probably the most well known part of the country with the world famous spectacle, the Wildebeest Migration, drawing travellers year round. A full northern circuit brings incredible wildlife from Tarangire to the Ngorongoro Crater and that's before you even get to the Serengeti. Prepare for a density of wildlife like nowhere else in Africa. That being said, the south offers a quieter safari experience in Ruaha and Nyerere. Here you can get off the beaten track in explore some superb game areas. And for us, the ultimate safari combo comes in the west - a big game, wilderness experience in Katavi combines with jaw dropping chimpanzee encounters in Mahale. Over 7-days this safari will blow you away.
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.
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.
Always take a good pair of binoculars. And slow down. Take time to enjoy and area or the safari camps. There is sometimes nothing more special than spending the afternoon or early morning on your veranda and letting the wildlife come to you.
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.
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.
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.
