Sand Rivers Camp

Your stay covers pretty much everything you'll need for an incredible safari experience. All meals are included, from hearty breakfasts to gourmet dinners served at the communal table in the main lodge. You'll also get all the classic safari activities like morning and afternoon game drives, boat trips on the Rufiji River, guided walking safaris, and excursions to Stiegler's Gorge.

The package includes those special touches that make safari magical - bush picnics, cook-out breakfasts under the African sky, and sundowner drinks as you watch the sunset. You can also enjoy fishing, swimming in the main pool, and trips to the nearby hot springs. Wi-Fi access and laundry service are thrown in too.

Most drinks are covered, though you'll pay extra for champagne and premium wines. The main things not included are national park fees (which you'll pay separately) and that amazing optional fly-camping experience they're famous for.

You'll fly from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar on a short domestic flight (about 45 minutes) to either Mtemere or Kiba airstrip. From there, it's a scenic 15-60 minute road transfer that doubles as your first game drive - you might spot elephants before you even reach camp!

The road transfer to and from Kiba airstrip is included in your stay. If you book with us, we'll arrange all these transfers seamlessly so you don't have to worry about the logistics. Road transfers from other locations are also possible as an alternative to flying.

The camp has eight cottages split into two categories, though interestingly, they're all priced the same. The five Riverside Rooms sit right along the river with stunning water views. These elevated timber, stone, and thatch cottages have king-size beds with mosquito nets, a seating area, and spacious en-suite bathrooms.

The three Hillside Suites are positioned higher up for even better views and more privacy. They have all the same amenities as the Riverside Rooms, plus a separate lounge area and your own private plunge pool - perfect for a refreshing dip after a dusty game drive.

Both room types have that classic safari camp feel with open-fronted designs that let you hear the sounds of the African bush all night long.

Yes, Wi-Fi is included in your stay, but it's intentionally limited and can be unreliable. This is actually by design - the camp wants you to disconnect from the digital world and fully immerse yourself in the wilderness experience.

Mobile phone reception is generally poor or non-existent, which most people find liberating once they adjust. You'll have enough connectivity for essential communication, but don't expect to be streaming videos or having long video calls. It's the perfect excuse to put your phone away and focus on the incredible wildlife around you.

You'll need to stay at least 2 nights, which honestly flies by when you're having this much fun. The camp welcomes children from 8 years old, though it's really better suited for older kids due to the open-fronted room design and the fact that you're in the middle of genuine wilderness.

If you're planning to do walking safaris, children need to be at least 12 years old for safety reasons. Children under 21 may qualify for special rates, so it's worth asking when you book.

The camp closes annually from mid-March to early June for maintenance, so plan around those dates.

Unfortunately, Sand Rivers isn't suitable for anyone with significant mobility challenges. The camp's remote location and design make it quite challenging to navigate if you have limited mobility.

The cottages are elevated on timber decking with no enclosed rooms, and you'll be walking on uneven surfaces throughout the camp. The activities like game drives and boat trips also require a reasonable level of physical ability to get in and out of vehicles safely.

If you have specific concerns about accessibility, it's best to discuss your needs when booking so we can help you find a more suitable option in the area.