Greystoke Mahale - Chada Katavi - the most amazing trip

Hope all is well and that you are looking forward to xmas. Just back from the most amazing trip around Western Tanzania (probably one of the best trips I have ever done) and would just like to thank you for arranging a stay at Greystoke. It was every bit as amazing as I expected- we had some wonderful chimp sightings and we were looked after superbly by Kiri and Steve. Please pass on our thanks as we had so much fun at Greystoke and this was so much down to the atmosphere they generated. Sat round with them in the evenings it really felt like sitting with friends rather than the normal client, lodge manager interaction. We also had a quick look at Chada which we also liked and the upgrade of camp seemed to be going well and I think the changes that are being made will certainly improve the client experience. 

James - Audley Travel UK

Nomad guide - he was wonderful

My husband and I recently travelled to Africa. As a result of our tour operator organising our trip so well, we had Alikea from your Company as our guide through Tanzania.  We wanted you  to know how wonderful he was as our guide.  Ally was always very courteous, polite and very thoughtful towards us.  His knowledge of all the animals was excellent, and his ability to see the animals amazed us both. His knowledge of the history of Tanzania and Africa was so thorough, which we were both very interested in.  In addition to the animals, his attention to detail was marvellous, and constantly pointed out the different vegetation and animal habitats.  We both thoroughly enjoyed his company, as well as the team of men who looked after our camp.  They were all extremely courteous and made our visit very comfortable, and most enjoyable.

The standard of your staff within the Company was outstanding, and we felt it important that we write to you to reinforce our thoughts.  We would like to extend our very sincere thanks to your Company, and hope that we may travel again in Africa. 

P&ML - November 2010

Sand Rivers Selous

Mike and Carol were marvelous hosts. Welcoming and amenable. Really good. All the staff were very helpful and charming.

Fly Camping: Great fun. I would encourage others to try this.

CF - November 2010

A Nomad Safari - the highlights

Sand Rivers Lodge was one of those once in a life time places!!!  It was so beautifully located...and we loved rising to the sound of the hippos!!!    

We adored the tented camp in the Serengeti!  It was such a treat to return to a hot "bucket shower", and then sip our sundowner on our little porch, sit around the fire and later enjoy the evening meal and the company of other guests.

We appreciated all of the staff at Nomad Tanzania.  We loved their warm greetings when we arrived and then that they were all in a line to shake our hands when we left.  It was a most gracious and warm way to begin and end.  They did their work well and clearly had thought of everything to make one's stay in a bush camp be comfortable and memorable.  We will recommend them highly!

 

We appreciated each one of our guides!  All of them were knowledgeable about the area and the animals/birds. Peter was so warm, always called us by name, was eager to please and clearly delighted that we were so excited about the things we were seeing.  Halifa was informed about the history and politics of Tanzania and engaged our questions most thoughtfully.  We were with Festo the longest.  He asked us immediately what we were interested in, and then consistently sought to enable us to really observe and understand more about animal behaviour.  He, himself was interested in photography and was always working to get us the best shots or to put the jeep in the best light.  

He explained that Nomad Tanzania gave their guides specific training in photography, and that certainly is an advantage.   When we expressed interest in having a day game drive in Loliondo, Festo also took initiative to make it happen.  

We thought it was terrific that they acted as our hosts, and we appreciated their serving lunch and then chatting with us as we shared our meals.  All three were good company!

TA - November 2010

Nomad - fantastic educational trip

I am sorry for my delay in writing to thank you both for my FANTASTIC fam trip safari that you both kindly organised for me. It really was the best trip I have ever had. Obviously I had been to Northern tanz a couple of times before so I knew the national parks etc but I was very weak on my property knowledge. I can safely say with my hand on my heart that we basically didn’t leave any stone unturned. If the camp was open we pretty much saw it! It really is amazing at how in my job (as is yours I am sure) it all "clicks" once you have been there, eaten the meals and slept in the beds. It all slots into place! I am now so over excited about selling more tanzania - watch this space.

We also were very lucky and saw a crossing! Ken knew precisely where to go and we sat and Lady Luck was on our side. I was so chuffed I thought I would explode.

On to Ken. Words simply don't go far enough. He was prompt, he was well turned out, he was professional, he was kind, he was patient with my (slow and poor) bird identification, a fountain of knowledge, forward thinking, he always made sure the light was right for my photographs, always kept the car spotless, he was an exceptional driver on those roads and above all he was funny (we had lots of laughs) and a joy to spend two weeks with. He really is an asset and an ambassador to Nomad. 

Victoria, Aardvark UK - November 2010

Serengeti, Chada and Greystoke - an unbelievably good time

We had an unbelievably good time with you in the Serengeti, Katavi and Mahale. It was outstanding in no small part due to the great managers, guides and staff at all your camps.It was magical and unforgettable in so many ways and and we've been round the block a few times !!

J&S C - November 2010

Chada & Greystoke - phenomenal

Just spoken to Mrs W who's just back from their amazing trip to Western Tanzania with you guys. They had a really amazing time, just spent the last half hour telling me how wonderful absolutely every aspect of the trip was.

They loved Katavi, teeming with wildlife and the sense of immensity and remoteness was amazing. They said the managers there, Mark and Kristin were really superb and are doing a fantastic job of looking after the camp, the guests and the staff - apparently it's really clear that the staff love them, and the whole place has a feel of a very happy ship, which really rubs off on clients. The atmosphere at Chada was wonderful and felt like a big house party!

Guides at both Chada and Greystoke were really superb, always friendly and very efficient.

They loved Greystoke, "phenomenal" they called it and loved the chimps. They were lucky not to have to trek too far to find them, and endeared to find a family of warthogs nesting at the front of their banda taking advantage of the water that's put out to rinse your feet! :)

Their questionnaire says this trip was their best to date!

Audley Travel - November 2010

Chada & Greystoke - the best part of the trip

We spent the last ~10 days in Nomad camps and I wanted to write and tell you that this time was definitely the best part of our trip. We were really impressed with the superb quality of the Nomad team and facilities.

Chada Camp - Kristen and Mark are wonderful hosts and managers. We felt welcome and incredibly well taken care of. We really enjoyed their company at meals, their knowledge and passion for Africa, the wildlife, Katavi Park .... Our guide at Chada was Gabriel. He is a really special person and by far the best guide we had over our 3 week journey. He is charming, fun, incredibly knowledgeable about fauna (from the smallest bird to the big mammals) and flora, intuitive about our interests, just top-notch (and his English is quite excellent). The rest of the staff at Chada were also wonderful - attentive, warm and friendly.

Mahale Camp - We loved the setup, the bandas are beautiful as is the public areas. Both Paul and Lazarro did a nice job guiding us both with the chimps and on extracurricular walks. Lazarro in particular went above and beyond taking us on a wonderful monkey / baboon spotting trek. Staff at Mahale were also good. The only major negative at the camp when we were there were the tsetse flies - which definitely made the beach and swimming / kayaking pretty much impossible. I suspect nothing to be done about that - except I will definitely advise folks to avoid tsetse season if they come to Greystoke :-(

In any case, we look forward to visiting other Nomad camps in the future - thx for a great experience.

DG - October 2010

(Nomad writes: the tsetse's have been particularly bad this year, more so than usual, but mainly only found along the forest edge. We have been in touch with TANAPA about putting in more tsetse traps).

Kiba Point - loved it

Both Anne and myself felt that the camp was great, nice views, good food and well managed. The diversity on offer from game drives, boats, hides and walks offers a good choice to everyone who stay there. We visited Kiba Point and loved that and would preferably stay there with our groups if possible as it lends itself towards group better than Sand Rivers given the choice. The game viewing was great and in general we really enjoyed and liked the camp and look forward to using it in the future, I will be there with the Austin x2 group next September. 

Lee Whittam - Essential Africa - October 2010

Greystoke Mahale - the most wonderful time

I wanted to make contact with you to sing the the praises of Nomad and its staff at a recent stay at Greystoke Mahale. 

We were there mid September on honeymoon and simply had the most wonderful time and experience. 

Steve and Kerry were excellent hosts, keeping us so well looked after, sharing their own local knowledge and making sure our wine was always topped up! We did not want for anything while we were there. The chefs produced some of the most delicious food we had during our whole stay in Africa and the service provided by the waiting staff was perfect. 

Our guides Lazaro and Vianney were exceptional. We trekked in the forest with Lazaro and he simply made our experience. His knowledge of all the things we came across was limitless and his understanding of the chimps made our time with them so informative. On one day the chimps were playing up a bit and I became quite scared, Lazaro looked after me and was very thoughtful. He is someone we will not forget, one of life's gems. I actually cried when we said goodbye to him! 

The attention to detail and smooth running of such a remote camp is a credit to all the people who work there and are involved with the management of it. Staying at Greystoke is a once in a lifetime experience and one we shall certainly never forget

With Best Wishes & Sincere Thanks to all. 

CP - September 2010

Chada and Greystoke - the best holiday to date

My husband and I have just returned from what we have both voted as our best holiday to date and that was in no small measure due to the fantastic time we had a Chada and Greystoke.

I just wanted to say a big thank you and to let you know that you have a tremendous team doing a tremendous job.  Special mention has to go to Kristen, who is a superb hostess – calm, organised, humorous, unflappable, kind and welcoming.  She and Mark make a very good team and the atmosphere in the camp is relaxed and wonderful.  We also had a phenomenal time at Greystokes – again the warm welcome, the knowledge of Claas and Gill, the other guests – it was lovely.  The two camps are so different we couldn’t possibly recommend one over the other – you really do have to visit both.

LW - November 2010

Chada Katavi - a wonderful experience

I'm writing to comment on my recent experience at your Chada Katavi camp. My wife and I visited October 18-21 and we had a *wonderful* experience. Chada was one of 3 camps we visited on our African vacation (plus a climb of Kilimanjaro). While we enjoyed our visits to all 3 of the camps (the other 2 were Tortillis in Amboselli and your Mahale camp) I must say that our experience at Chada was far and away the best.

Of course, the wildlife viewing was wonderful and it was thrilling to have elephants coming through camp in the middle of the night. However, our guide, Frederick, is what really made the experience stand out above the other camps (both also had excellent wildlife experiences). Frederick was not only extremely knowledgeable, but he was friendly, outgoing and truly made us feel welcome in camp and in Tanzania. He was genuine and befriended us in a way that the other guides (while also friendly and knowledgeable) did not do.

While Frederick truly stood out amongst all the staff we encountered in our entire 3 week vacation, I must also compliment the entire staff at Chada. Kristen and Mark were excellent hosts and we really enjoyed their company. The wait staff and other service folks around camp were also very warm and eager to please.

I wanted to write, as I know that often customers only write their service providers to complain, and I wanted to be sure and recognize the outstanding experience we had with Frederick and the staff at Chada. Certainly, should we return to Tanzania, I would be eager to return to Chada (or wherever you might have Frederick assigned at the time!). I would also be very happy to recommend Chada and Nomad to any friends who might consider a trip to Tanzania.
JG - November 2010 

Nomad fam trip - keep up the good work

I cannot find the right words to show my appreciation for organising my educational.  Thank you so much for everything.  All the guides and staff were very hospitable.  Cornelius was very knowledgeable and I leant a lot about Tanzanian people, wildlife and fauna.  Mohammad was excellent too.  

Now I see why my guests always have a good time when I send them to Tanzania with you guys.  Keep up the good work!!  Well done Guys!

Jackie Person - Zambezi Safari & Travel Company - October 2010

Serengeti Safari Camp - the camp was sublime

Right from the off Nomad and our first guide - Sylvanos were fabulous, on time. organised and over the next few days he proved to be a wise and knowledgeable guide. Unlike many jeeps that sped through the parks we took our time, able to stop and watch the animals and the environment rather than just take a quick picture and off to the next. That was exactly what we wanted and got it without asking. Lunches were fine and the experience felt like we were in it together as three people, not just the 2 of us and the guide which felt much better. Each day just got better and better and our day in the crater got off to the best start with Sylvanos getting us there just after the gates opened so for about 30 minutes there was just us in the crater - magical and well worth getting up early.

Next guide in the Serengeti – Chediel was there ready to pick us up and right from leaving the airstrip was highlighting aspects of the landscape and animals that were unique to the area. Despite the downpour of rain we had a lovely ride to the camp. Over the next 3 days he was just fantastic, again taking time to just stop and watch and get away from the comparatively small crowds. Whether it was the hours of waiting for the migration crossing or watching the elephants playing in the river or the unexpected sighting of the leopard and cub - or the lion/buffalo/giraffe -triangle that we were able to witness throughout the day and the less obvious terrapin the the puddle - it was a joy and more so to take the time to really feel what was going on. Even the final journey to the airstrip was full of excitement and again Chediel making sure we left early enough to be able to stop and enjoy rather than rush through.

Accommodation wise - the Camp was sublime. We loved it and mostly because of the staff there, particularly Babu Trifan ( Not sure on the spelling) who clearly loved the place and made us feel so welcome. The fire, the food, the beds, the hot water - probably didn't need the hot water bottles and they certainly frightened the life out of me the first night!! but that kind of attention to detail - fabulous. I can still hear him, "second shower ready". A truly wonderful wonderful stay. There was the one slight fib, when we mentioned the first night we'd heard growling and Babu told us not to worry as it was the buffalo who come to eat the grass near camp only to find the truth when on the way to the airstrip Chediel said our first instincts were in fact correct and it was a lion - they just didn't want us to worry -and it was a wonderful fib, that we repeated to other people in the following days!!
M&B - October 2010

Sand Rivers - just what we were after

Sand Rivers was just what we were after in a Safari. Being over a river and giving us that view as well was an imagine that will live with us for a long time. Admittedly 7 nights probably was one or 2 beyond what we needed in hindsight, but the extra days luckily meant another lion encounter (purely by chance, we stopped for a picnic lunch in the bush and typically got out and no one had noticed 6 foot from us were 4 lions resting after their lunch!) and rare sighting of hyena’s. So you know Sand Rivers has new management, Mike and Carol, both were excellent hosts and looked after us impeccably, unlike the local monkeys who decided to wreck our room on a couple of occasions, but Mike & Carol got their team to clean up the mess, we accepted it as part of the experience, along with the elephant tearing down a tree next to our room at 2am!

Martin's - October 2010

[Nomad says: 7nts at Sand Rivers is unusual, unless part of a longer walking safari. We normally recommend at least 4nts to get maximum benefit from the area, with one of those nights spent flycamping - a MUST while you are there!]

Greystoke Mahale - what an awesome place

We went to Mahale in August 2010 where we had perfect weather. What an awesome place!. Lake Tanganika is like a fresh water ocean, superb swimming and fishing for our own meals--not that it is required. But what great sushi we caught! And those chimps-- they gave us a hard time the first day in forcing us to trek up the mountain which is very difficult at times, but the next day they accomodated us by staying low. 

Hosts Steve and Kiri were top notch, accomodating and great fun to hang out with. We have been to a number of outstanding places in Kenya and Tanzania, and this by far has been our favorite--the remoteness, the chimps, wonderful accomodations, food, etc--- just so hard to describe as one needs to experience it. If you enjoy water, then Lake Tanganika is not to be outdone. We would return in a heart beat.

Trip Advisor - October 2010 

Greystoke Mahale is a wonderful place to meet our close relatives -- the fascinating chimpanzee. The location is beautiful, with the camp complementing the lake-side location. The bandas and main lodge are simple and comfortable, the food is very good, and the camp mgr's, Steve and Keri, are truly caring and gifted hosts. All that provides a wonderful ambience to launch your chimp treks, which are exciting and a bit humbling. Anyone who doesn't believe in evolution needs to visit Mahale! It is both funny and wonderful to see how human the chimps are, down to the adult disagreements and the young ones somersaulting in the leaves. If you are going to come all the way to Mahale, you might as well stay at the best camp.  

Trip Advisor - October 2010

Sand Rivers

Safari enthusiasts have the Tsetse fly (now no longer a danger) to thank for the unspoilt wilderness and general lack of infrastructure of the massive Selous game reserve. After a charming 40 minute flight in a Cessna aircraft from Dar onto an isolated landing strip in the middle of the bush, we were met by our guide and the 30 minute drive to the camp was already populated with close-up sightings of zebra and baboon. Our hosts Mike and Carol met us and showed us to our lodge just near the mess room which was large and airy, beautifully furnished and looking out totally open onto the river. The bathroom had an ingenious water-fall shower arrangement and the beautiful gekkoes came out at night and rid the place of flying insects and other creepy-crawlies.The staff were all relaxed and friendly.

The camp situation is exceptional, right on a bend of the massive Rufiji river, and the mess/club-house area is right on the water-front. Meals are eaten refectory-style at dinner which offers good socialisation opportunity with the hosts and fellow guests. Honeymoon couples mix easily with the oldies, and it was fun to pigeon-hole the various nationalities around the table and take some light mickey from time to time. The wine selection is great and the food varied and beautifully presented and cooked. The bush-babies come to join the throng on a nearby tree, bats flutter in the night air, while the charming-but-mischievous vervet monkeys regularly raid the empty rooms - but we had been fore-warned of this.

Breakfast is eaten at private tables on the mess verandah in full view of hippo and crocodile, bird-life such as the pied kingfishers, as well as elephant and water-buck sightings on the far shore. Drinks are available "a volonte" from the bar and if there is no staff available one helps oneself to a coke, beer or G&T etc.

As for the safari actvities - awesome. Our young guide Ian took us frequently off road, and with his easy sense of humour and tracking knowledge he was a joy to travel with. Lion were sighted close-up the first day and we could observe them on our own. In the course of our travels in the bush we saw not only frequent giraffe, elephant, buffalo, baboon, zebra, wildebeest and impala, sometimes very close-up and making sudden appearances from the bush, but also plentiful hippo and crocs. We came across a sinister pack of hyena after a recent kill fighting with the vultures for supremacy, lion feeding on a fresh kill, and the endangered and beautiful wild dogs. A trip up the river offers the opportunity to fish and observe the fish-eagles in flight swooping down onto the river. In all of this activity one barely encounters any other human presence.

Fly-camping under the stars in a mosquito-net cage after a superb and convivial dinner on the banks of the lake is a must as an activity, as is the bush walk, both in the company of an armed scout. The roar of the lion, frightened barking of the baboon, or enraged trumpeting of an elephant add a special dimension to these experiences.

We were looking for a safari experience in native wilderness off the beaten track where one could feel at one with the wild-life. Sand Rivers gave us that, and the only reason sleep quality has been marked back a notch is due to one or two nights of high activity with hippo grazing and snorting just by our lodge, bush-babies howling and the stealthy prowling of what sounded like a cat on our roof. When the hippo were quiet one evening it also delayed our drift into sleep!

Tripadvisor Review from "Angels42" 16 Oct 2010

Wilderness Mobile - praise to the entire team

I recieved a loooong email from my client with lovely Wilderness Mobile camp photos and they were SO happy with David's guiding and loved his personality and all his  knowledge! Also they said that he saw EVERY animal!!! And of course he gave a big praise to the entire team - they loved their service and hospitality!

Von Daacke - October 2010

Nduara Loliondo - a unique experience

We loved our yurt and our bucket shower. This was a very unique and different living experience. The visit to the Masai village and school was one of the highlights of the entire trip. Everyone should experience this. We loved that the camp is involved in local projects and that our tourist dollars are helping to support them.

The walking safaris were new for our trip and it was great to finally get some exercise. Unfortunately we did not see much game. It was explained that the Masai had recently moved their cattle into the area which tends to move the game out. Our night safaris were incredible and gave us great views of lots of smaller nocturnal animals.

TB - October 2010

(Nomad replies: its correct that the seasonal movement of Maasai cattle into the area can deter lion in particular, but we would normally expect guests to see a good quantity & variety of game from Nduara, year round. This comment is unusual so we're keeping a close eye on things!)

Nomad - a fantastic trip

Mr M and friends are back home.

And they really had a fantastic trip!!!

You all did a fabulous job and I insist on thanking you for this!

Mr M is very very demanding – he called me 3 times (with satellite phone and also when he was back home) to tell me how great the trip was!! They saw 12 chimps, he shouted enthusiastically!

So thanks again for all your efforts and patience!

Atlas Reizen, October 2010

Sand Rivers - Love the place

Sand Rivers was absolutely fantastic! Love the place and really didn’t want to leave.

Rooms were incredible, food amazing and the whole atmosphere was exceptional. I’ve always been slightly negative about Selous in general and usually sell Katavi and Ruaha ahead of Selous, But Sand Rivers has certainly changed my mind on all of that.

Claus gave a great tour of the Lodge as well as Kiba point so really got a great idea of all the options and possibilities. The new managers, Mike and Carol are brilliant and we had a great night (till early morning) with them. They’ll go a great job running the place and will be a lot of fun.

Your vehicles are the best in Selous and the boat trip to Stigler’s gorge was exceptional and something I’ve wanted to do for years. We walked as well and was really impressed with our guide.

Thank you so much for arranging the visit – I’m now desperate to go back.

Nigel Perks - September 2010

Sand Rivers - an amazing place

An amazing place, from all perspectives! The location is stunning, the bungalows are stunning, the main lodge/dining/swimming pool area is stunning, the views are stunning, the food is superb ... sorry if I'm repeating myself, but there aren't enough superlatives!

The wildness of the location with hippos walking right by you at night was really incredibly wonderful. This lodge has been updated since earlier photos on TripAdvisor, so I will post some. If you plan to go to the Selous, this is THE place to stay. The bungalows are not air conditioned, but you don't need it. Nor would you want it -- there are no windows, the bungalows are entirely open to the trees & the river. The bathrooms are exotic & fun with "waterfall" showers, & you do have to safeguard your belongings from the monkeys.

The staff is wonderful & evening meals in this small lodge were absolutely delightful. My only regret is we didn't stay longer -- 3 nights was not enough.

D September 2010

Read this on Tripadvisor along with other Sand Rivers reviews

Sand Rivers Selous - highlight of our honeymoon

Our stay at Sand Rivers was, without a doubt, the highlight of our honeymoon - and that is no mean feat considering both two weeks of our trip were superb.

The quality of the camp is obvious for all to see, with fantastic rooms, amazing views and great safari, but for us it was all the smaller touches that made it such a memorable experience.

Mike and Carol, we just wanted to say thanks so much for making us feel so welcome at Sand Rivers. Your friendliness and cheerfulness seemed to know no bounds and your obvious love and passion for the job really rubs off on the guests.

One of our highlights at Sand Rivers was the communal eating. Not only was the food fantastic, but the company great too and so nice to meet different people every day. We particularly enjoyed having long discussions with Matt on the first night about life in Tanzania - he has so obviously immersed himself in his new life in the country and is a real asset to the camp.

All the rest of the staff were friendly and attentive and we wanted to thank Godlisten in particular, who was a fantastic guide - his knowledge was extensive. As we said, it was the little things that made the stay so special, such as drinks and sundown after the brilliant walking safari, a relaxing meander downstream on the river safari and his efforts to tailor the trips to our own interests.

It's testament to how great our time was that when we got in the plane to leave I turned to see Kim in floods of tears. I thought it was the size of the plane that had frightened her - but it was just that she was so sad to go!

We have been well and truly hooked by safari and the past few weeks have without a doubt been the best of our lives. Thanks for playing such a big part in that and, who knows, maybe we will see you again in future.

DP - September 2010

Sand Rivers - exceptional

We stayed in Suite 3, which used to be called the Rhino House, and it is absolutely superb.  Sited a the far end of the camp, it's quite a walk but it really is worth it:  we felt as if we were in our own private little corner of Africa.  Without exception, the camp staff were wonderful -very hospitable, friendly and helpful.  Mike and Carol , the managers are new in post, this being their first month at Sand Rivers, but they were excellent hosts.  Having been to Sand Rivers previously, our expectations were high and were exceeded:  it felt more like a sharing the camp with friends than being guests. 

Our guide, Iyan, was superb, as was the variety of game that we saw, the highlight being wild dogs (fantastic!).  Our time with Iyan was shared with other experienced Africa hands and he really listened to what we were interested in and tailored the game drives to the best opportunities for the things we wanted to see.

Going back to a camp we  have previously enjoyed is always a risk:  we know that teams change and the question is always will it be as good as it was before. In the case of Sand Rivers, the answer emphatically not just yes, but even better against a standard that was already exceptional.

AM - September 2010

Nduara Loliondo - a different dimension

This camp add a different dimension to a safari experience and we enjoyed the walking and the night  game drives which were a real eye-opener.

 The camp is very small and had a spectacular isolated setting with a wonderful view. The sunrise  from our bed was an unforgettable experience. The yurts were very comfortable and the smaller connected yurt bathrooms were well equipped. The bucket showers were efficient and the composting toilets no problem at all.

I am always amazed at the food they produce in these isolated camps and here is was very good. The dining room yurt at night with the Masai decor and candlelight was a picture. The staff were attentive at all times and striving to make our stay memorable. We had a wonderful bush breakfast and will never forget our last evening when we finished our walk at the top of a huge hill with drinks by the fire watching the sunset.

The visits to a Masai village and school were very interesting and I felt well handled in that they lacked the voyeuristic tourist element. Our guide Kalifa was excellent on these visits as he was all the time.

DK - October 2010

Kiba Point - perfect oasis

I was pleasantly surprised by the luxurious openness of the camp, it was a perfect oasis in which to truly unwind and relax.  The service was impeccable.  Matt, the camp manager, proved to be the most gracious host and made us feel completely welcome and at home the entire time.
LB - Sept 2010

Nomad - the perfect holiday

Just wanted to say thank you for arranging what proved to be the most incredible of holidays!  We really can't speak highly enough of Nomad and the unbelievable level of service they provide - the guys in the camp were the friendliest people imaginable and they produce food of a standard that shouldn't be possible from a camp kitchen out in the wilderness.  We were so sad to be leaving after 5 unforgettable days.

Our guide, Jacob, was also brilliant - extremely knowledgeable, eyes like a hawk and a really friendly and personable guy.  I think he enjoyed having the four of us and our relaxed banter as opposed to the usual couples as well!  We saw some truly amazing action, including a lioness kill, a leopard kill and the apparently rare sight of a baboon snatching a newborn reedbuck from its mother.  We saw two crossings (there seemed to be a lot of activity around the river while we were there) including one in a rarely used crossing spot where we were the lone jeep witnessing an hour long crossing - the biggest Jacob had seen in his 10 years as a guide.  We were very, very lucky to see so much but every day was special and just when we didn't think it could get better, it did!

 All in all it was the perfect holiday, so thank you again.

G&LP - September 2010

Sand Rivers Selous - great service

A good balance with Beho Beho with different terrain and the river bringing a new dimension .

Highlight was two nights fly camping.

Great service and friendly people ; charming new managers who are working hard to make their mark .

Dedicated guide for the whole stay provided a tailored programme . Good game viewing especially lion .

SD - October 2010

Incredible trip

The trip was so incredible!!!  I cannot thank you and Elmina and the rest of the Nomad crew for such a wonderful trip.  It was absolutely perfect!  We loved every bit of it and were so sad we missed you!!!  We loved Richard (Knocker) and meeting Jo and Naomi.  I cannot wait to see the new website!  We loved all of the staff at both camps in the north and sweet Emmanuel was wonderful!  We had so many questions that he patiently answered and was just a wealth of information.  We loved Babu and Sam and all of the other staff behind the scenes!  The camps were so clean and well done.  What an experience!

Then we headed down South.  Sand Rivers was more than amazing.  I have NOOOOOO complaints, only absolutely positive feedback.  Carol, Mike and Matt were FABULOUS and do such a great job.  We laughed so hard with them and stayed up too late both nights!  J  In addition, the staff was spectacular, food was fabulous and you were so wonderful to upgrade us to a suite.  We were so sad to leave and I promise I could come back and stay a week at Sand Rivers.  The Selous is so underrated!  I cannot wait to sell it more.  The order of my trip was perfect as well.  And I cannot compliment our guide, sweet Peter, enough.  He was beyond fabulous.  We wanted to take him home with us!!!!  As luck would have it, he told us he was a Maasai Warrior so we showed him our pictures from Loliondo.  We had visited HIS VILLAGE!!!!  He knew people in our photos!!!  It was such a treat.   He told us so much about the Maasai with firsthand knowledge and his animal spotting, knowledge of the bush and temperament was beyond compare.  If he happens to be in Katavi next summer when I come back with my family, we definitely want him to guide us!!!  We also loved all of the staff we met including Paulie (sp?), Crazy and Masa and again, all of the wonderful staff behind the scenes or who’s name I can’t remember but they were all so welcoming and happy. 

I really cannot say enough about the trip.  You were the best hosts and I’m just thrilled my family will share the hospitality next summer.  Thank you thank you thank you!!!! 

Anne Johnson, Ker & Downey, September 2010

Nomad Guides - made our holiday

Our family travelled with your company this summer to Serengeti Safari camp and Loliondo camp and then down to the Selous.  We had the most amazing holiday, for which we thank you. 

I am writing to you though to express our heartfelt thanks to our guide in the Serengeti, Jacob.  Richard and I have been on safari before and so we have experience of guides with which to compare. 

Jacob made our holiday! From the moment we met him he engaged with us and our children (10, 13 and 16).  He shared his impressive knowledge of Tanzania’s flora, fauna, people and culture.  He was generous with his time and presence.

He kept us safe (!), informed and entertained. He also from our perspective was incredibly respective yet efficient in his management of others at the camp. 

I cannot recommend him more highly – you have a star employee with I hope I bright future in your company. 

SF - September 2010

Nomad camps - spectacular

We’re back from our trip and it definitely exceeded our very high expectations.  From the time we were first picked up from Kilimanjaro until we left Dar we felt very well looked after and it was all very stress free. 

The Nomad camps were spectacular and our guide, along with all of the Nomad staff were great.  The game drives were unreal.  We were able to see ‘the big five’ along with a couple of river crossings.  We couldn’t have asked for anything more.

 Thanks very much for your help organizing this for us!   We will be recommending this to all of our friends looking for a once in a lifetime experience.

B - September 2010

Chada Katavi - top notch!

The co-managers were very attentive and personable. The staff was uniformly friendly and on top of everything. Our driver/guide Frederick was excellent. A top-notch experience.

LS - September 2010

Greystoke Mahale - one of the best experiences ever

Delightful co-managers, very hospitable, took care of our every need. Our guide Ka-Kae was outstanding, one of the best we've had anywhere in the world. We're glad that we spent four nights at Greystoke -- three chimp treks are needed to begin to appreciate and understand their behavior.

One of the best wildlife experiences ever.

LS - September 2010

Chada Katavi - the best camp in Africa

Chada was unbelievable and great to spend time with Nicola and Peter before they left. I tell everyone that Chada Camp is the best is Tanzania – if not all of Africa. My favourite camp by far. 
Nigel Perks - September 2010

Nomad - huge thanks

Further to our chat the other day I wanted to put in writing how helpful and highly efficient Sarah was last week with my clients lost bag. Nomad and Sarah went above and beyond the call of duty in getting the back reclaimed from JRO and out to the Serengeti asap.

Just wanted to say thanks……. I am thrilled we have a great working relationship and in times like this it makes it so much easier so thanks from me,

Can you make sure those that need to know at Nomad know that Sarah was a legend last week?

Tor, Aardvark Safaris - September 2010

Kiba Point - exceeded every expectation

From the moment we landed, everything was perfect... The camps was of the highest standard and exceeded my every expectation. The catering was exceptional and the best I have ever experienced on holiday anywhere. The programme for the week was planned to precision. My whole family felt wonderfully pampered during our stay, but in a very professional way ensuring that we had privacy when we needed it.
TK August 2010

Greystoke - hormonal chimps everywhere

Just back from Greystoke Mahale which totally blew my mind! Chimps were everywhere, forget walking half-way up the mountain to find them, they were  literally right in camp. Pimu, the psychotic and very unpopular Alpha Male, treated us to daily temper tantrums, right over the kitchen area. He raged, he ranted, he did his very best 'Jimi Hendrix manic air guitar' impersonation. I have never seen anything like it!!!! Was completely awed by standing under the trees as chimps screamed their way overhead, I'm still dreaming about it - did it really happen!!!

EA - September 2010

Serengeti and Katavi - the guides were the best

Mrs E had an awesome trip with you guys & really raved about the staff, camps, food, etc. Apparently Emmanuel was a great guide in Katavi and Ken awesome in the Serengeti—one of the best she’s ever had! 

L - September 2010

Sand Rivers Selous - WOW

I cant start to describe the experiences we had at Sand Rivers. Absolutely stunning from start to finish-100% brilliant. From the surreal monkeys at breakfast, squirrels eating the soap to bush babies at supper.  I cant give you a single highlight but the bush walk, fly camping & the wonderful people are all up there.
RR - September 2010

Sand Rivers Selous - seen to be believed

The accommodation at Sand Rivers has to be seen to be believed. The location looking out over the meandering Rufiji River is to die for.

As well as landrover and river safaris we did walking safaris with our children which just took an already brilliant experience to another level. Given where we were the food was frankly amazing. And as for our hosts Claus and Jill .......... I can't praise them enough, two wonderful, charming, knowledgeable, delightful people. 

SM - August 2010

Serengeti Safari Camp

We wanted to send a HUGE thank you to Nomad for our incredible honeymoon, but especially to Rowland, our guide at Serengeti Safari Camp.  Rowland is wonderful.  Very knowledgeable, sweet, patient, and fun!  We spent 5+ days together on walking and driving safaris, where he took special care making sure that all our wants and needs were taken care of.    We saw everything we hoped to, and that was a result of Rowland's experience, thoughtfulness...and of course a little bit of luck!  :)

Your company is very lucky to have someone such as Rowland as their representative. 
NT - August 2010

Greystoke Mahale - the most special place

Greystoke Mahale was the most special place I have ever visited. Steve, Kiri and our guide, Kakae, as well as the entire staff did everything possible to make this one of the best experiences of my family's life. We loved the chimps, fishing, hiking to the falls, soccer with the staff and bacci ball on the beach. Kakae was spectacular, he very quickly became a member of our family, bonded with my children and made the trip extraordinarily special. Steve and Kiri work so hard to accommodate everyone's needs. They do a terrific job running the camp. Greystoke is very beautiful in every which way, but it wouldn't be what it is without such a great staff who go out of their way to make your stay the best it can be. I only wish you could spend more time with the chimps, but I understand that is out of your control.

And the only thing differently? Wish we could have spent more than 4 days at Greystoke.
RB - August 2010

Sand Rivers and elephants in the plunge pool

Sand Rivers was perfect, and our room was really special, although we had elephants try to get in the Jacuzzi one night!   Our guide Maasa is one of their jewels.  We had a blast.  Laughed a ton with him and had a wonderful time on the river.  Really liked the managers Claus and Jill as well. 
JT - August 2010

Serengeti Safari Camp - felt like family

Very friendly and very good service. We felt like we were in a family. The camp folk even remembered our complicated German names and made effort to speak a little German. Ken was fantastic, but all the others too. Philbert was especially nice. Our safaris were incredible. We saw things other people wait for weeks and months. Ken is amazing, he knew everything and we learned a lot.
DB - August 2010

Chada Katavi - unprepared

I don't think anything prepared me for Katavi, how raw and wild it was going to be. I wasn't expecting all those elephants, they came right through camp every day, and the massive herds of buffalo that kept me entertained right on the plains in front of camp. I was told that as the dry season progressed, before the rains came, that everything became more intense - hippos piled up in pools of water that grew ever smaller...many of them would die. Katavi made me think that this must have been how safaris were generations ago - when the world was vast, and man's reach was smaller; where you could still be a pioneer. I felt like that at Chada and I think it's going to spoil me for any other safari. All my thanks to Mark & Kristen for showing me their most amazing world.
JK - August 2010

Kiba Point - magical

We all loved Kiba Point, it is magical.  You can't imagine it before arriving so it is a wonderful surprise. Matt has ideas for improving some things but we were un-critical, we just loved it all, the whole concept, the location, not having other guests - WOW!
The S Family - August 2010

Kiba Point - exhilarating

More than we expected, first impressions were exhilaratingly wonderful. All expectations surpassed.
Rose, August 2010

Serengeti Safari Camp and Nomad guides

I have recently returned from an 11-day Nomad trip to Tanzania, staying at Serengeti Safari Camp and Nduara Loliondo.  I was with my father and brother, and I think I can safely say we all had a fantastic time.  The camps - location, setup, tents, food - were all amazing and the staff were, without exception, friendly, attentive, helpful, and very efficient.  The animals, flora, and landscape all exceeded expectations, and in addition to everything else we saw we were also lucky enough to see three crossings, each more spectacular than the last.

However, what really made the safari for me was our guide, Cornelius.  He was everything one could ask for in a guide and safari companion - incredibly bright and knowledgeable, thoughtful, funny, diplomatic, patient (even with constant requests by the two photographers amongst us to "stop here please, forward a little, back a little, a bit more... now could we move just over there please"), observant and sharp-sighted, and always a true professional.  He  is a real asset to Nomad Tanzania, and I think we were very lucky to have him as our guide for the duration of our trip.  

CSC - September 2010

Nomad - the complete package

We are very impressed with Nomad - you have excellent guides, beautiful camps, fabulous food and every kind of activity and experience we could have imagined (and more). Without exception, the staff has been wonderful and we have gloried in the beauty of this experience.

So, Nomad offers the complete package already but we got even more. We noticed as soon as we got in it, how comfortable Halifa's vehicle is, how thoughtfully outfitted it was. We loved the open views through the windows and roof, the charging station always available for our camera batteries, the rails to hold onto, the cold drinks and the fabulous set-up for picnic meals.

E & DJ - February 2010

Nomad Guides - Serengeti

In three trips to Africa, David Mboya is the best guide I have encountered.  He is incredibly knowledgeable and knows where the game is as well as all about each species.  He is  an amazing game and bird spotter. He could see a sunbird with naked eye that I couldn’t spot with binoculars.   As a birder, I truly appreciated his extraordinary ability. Cornelius gave us a great understanding of history and plants and both guides were endlessly cheerful, patient and  pleasant.  Guides make the trips, as you know.

I can’t say enough good about the pleasant accommodations, the beautifully situated camps, the sundowners and the  good food.      And they surprised us with a truly memorable sundowner at Piyaya before our night drive.  We watched the sun go down over the Serengeti plain in great style.

ST - March 2010 

Kiba Point - the best Nomad camp we visited!

Heaven, this place is stunning. Don't change a thing here - Charles is wonderful and the food was the best of all the camps. Hamsa and Peter were simply amazing, we couldn't imagine the Selous without them.
EI - February 2010

Rave rave rave - Serengeti Safari Camp

RAVE RAVE RAVE: They saw EVERYTHING. Right in the heart of the Migration. Saw a wildebeest being born. Loved remoteness of camp. “Great aesthetics.” (I asked them if the décor still felt fresh and they said “absolutely”, and they were amazed that a moving camp could achieve that.) Camp was full, which they enjoyed as all the wags were interesting people, mostly Brits. 

Their guide David was incredible, taught them so so so much about spotting very quickly. Intuitive about when to blab and when to shut up. Very personable. Migration was basically in camp; a lion used one of the tents for cover, to spy on the plains game. Huge pride of 15 lion right there, with playing cubs, etc. 17 giraffe in camp at one point. Also saw wild dog! Guide said he hadn’t seen them in 2 years. Also saw 2 leopards in separate incidents and cheetah. And tons of lion besides that big pride. Food excellent. They just thought the whole experience was superb. 

And it spoiled them for the rest of their safari. Next time I’ll send clients there LAST!
February 2010