By 4x4, by boat, on foot or in a fly-camp, it is freedom like no where else in Tanzania.
Kigelia
Kiba Point
Sand Rivers
Charlie, Ruaha
Ruaha is wild, expedition country – it is home to huge herds of elephants and abundance of predators; leopard, lion, wild dog and hyena. Ruaha is a vast landscape. You get a tremendous feeling of anticipation when you’ve grabbed cameras and shades, and left bush camp with your Nomad guide in an open vehicle. Who knows what will be encountered, but for sure there’ll be moments of excitement, fascination and peace amongst the great beasts and herds of Ruaha.
This understated little bush-camp has been in the beating eastern heart of the park for years, where the wildlife is most concentrated. Sorties from it, encountering the great mammals of Africa, can be thrilling and hard to tear yourself away from. So, in this camp retreat, with Nature up very close, you will find a quiet, canvas refuge, only disturbed by our elephant visitors.
Recommended stay: 3 nights
Expect to pay: $675 - $720 per person per night
Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve) holds a special place in Nomad’s heart, ever since Richard Bonham, together with Lizzie and Bimb Theobald created what is now the most iconic camp in the park, Sand Rivers.
Nyerere is only a few hundred feet above sea level, and this is very much revealed in the climate and landscape. It is typical of Nyerere to encounter a varied terrain with woodland, flood plains, sand rivers, lakes and the remarkable Rufiji River.
Some safaris can be predictable, game drive after game drive. This is simply not the case when you stay at Sand Rivers. The camp location combined with our mission to keep hold of our adventurous spirit gives many ways to enjoy the bush. Whether its lying on a sandbar watching eagles or creeping up on grunting hippos – every day will be different.
Recommended stay: 4 nights
Expect to pay: $750 - $1,120 per person per night
We tailor all our safaris to your particular requirements, but we understand that it's useful to have an idea of what works best, what’s available and a ballpark cost. Have a flick through our safari itineraries and get in touch to get the ball rolling.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Many do, yes - private dinners, spa treatments or surprise sundowners that add thoughtful moments to the trip. Occasionally, there are discounts for one spouse and it can be worth researching.
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.
