Sand Rivers Camp
This property truly captures the spirit of Nyerere.” This camp is perfect for walking safaris and outstanding for boating trips, boasting a highly regarded reputation and exceptional management. Exceptional quality, particularly in the suites!
SUMMARY:
Established by renowned guide Richard Bonham in the early 1990s, Sand Rivers Selous is currently managed by Nomad Tanzania. Nomad operates a total of ten properties, including the exceptional Serengeti Safari Camp, Entamanu Ngorongoro, and Greystoke Mahale. We are thrilled to announce that Sand Rivers has been awarded a Certificate of Excellence by TripAdvisor! Your stay includes all meals, a variety of alcoholic and soft beverages, Wi-Fi access, and laundry services, ensuring a comfortable experience throughout your visit. The camp remains unavailable from mid-March until early June each year.
ENTRY & POSITION:
The camp is reachable with a 15-minute road transfer from Kiba airstrip. Nestled on a gentle bend of the Rufiji river and enveloped by lush trees, this location offers a serene escape within the tranquil expanse of Nyerere National Park (formerly known as Selous).
LODGING & AMENITIES AT SAND RIVERS CAMP:
The guest lodgings feature a total of eight charming cottages, each raised above the ground on decking and built with timber, stone, and thatch materials. There are five rooms designated as Riverside Rooms, while the other three are known as Hillside Suites. The Hillside Suites, as indicated by their name, are situated at a higher elevation compared to the Riverside Rooms. Every suite features its own distinct lounge area along with a private plunge pool! Each cottage offers ample space, featuring completely open fronts that provide unobstructed views of the river and its resident hippo. One might also catch a glimpse of the vervet monkey, flitting through the trees. Each bedroom is equipped with a king-size bed adorned with mosquito nets, bedside lighting, and, for those staying in the Riverside Rooms, a cozy seating area featuring a sofa and coffee table. The en-suite amenities include a flush toilet, a washbasin with both hot and cold running water, and a walk-in shower. A variety of toiletries is provided for your convenience.
The shared areas at Sand Rivers provide breathtaking views of the River Rufiji. Aside from the swimming pool, they are located within a structure made of timber, stone, and thatch that features open sides. The lounge features cozy armchairs and sofas arranged around coffee tables, accompanied by some reading material and a selection of captivating artworks. In the dining area, stylish individual tables are arranged in prime locations for visitors to savor the river vistas. Breakfast and lunch times are adaptable, featuring a buffet setup that offers a wide variety of choices to cater to everyone’s preferences. Afternoon tea is typically offered around 4pm, while dinner features a delightful three-course meal! Exclusive dining options are offered at several locations throughout the camp. The bar offers a wide selection, and the curio shop features clothing, jewelry, and branded merchandise. Just a brief stroll from the lodge, you’ll find the pool area, complete with sun loungers and deckchairs. It’s an ideal spot to unwind between your adventures while taking in the beauty of the river and its diverse wildlife, including both mammals and birds!
EXPERIENCES AT SAND RIVERS CAMP:
The camp provides an excellent variety of activities:
The vast plains, lush woodlands, and abundant water sources of Nyerere National Park host an incredible variety of wildlife!
Key features encompass the complete Big Five – lion, rhino, leopard, elephant, and buffalo – alongside a variety of smaller predators and herbivores, including cheetah, hyena, jackal, wild dog, giraffe, wildebeest, zebra, and an impressive range of antelopes.
Additionally, there is a diverse array of birds – approximately 440 species of our feathered companions as of the latest tally!
The game drives at Sand Rivers, departing in the early morning and late afternoon, offer an excellent opportunity to discover the diverse regions of Nyerere.
Walking safaris offer a chance to closely observe the diverse plant and insect life within the reserve. This experience frequently includes a journey in a 4×4 – for instance, your guide may pause the vehicle to allow you to stealthily pursue large wildlife on foot.
Boat trips provide a discreet opportunity to observe wildlife, as the vessel glides silently across the water.
Only a handful of river highlights feature hippos, crocodiles, and magnificent white pelicans! Feel free to fish and take pleasure in swimming in the lakes of the reserve.
Fly camping is offered at an additional charge. For further details regarding this activity or any other inquiries about your stay at Sand Rivers, please reach out to a member of the YZ team.
*This property is not enclosed and is situated in a wildlife area, which means that large and potentially hazardous animals may roam through the vicinity. If you choose to stay here, please remain vigilant while moving around the camp and feel free to ask a staff member to accompany you if you have any worries. It is standard practice to escort all guests after dark.