Nyerere

Sand Rivers

LocationRufiji River, Nyerere National Park, Tanzania

Accommodationeight rooms

Our take

About Sand Rivers

Sand Rivers is a stylish camp, offering breathtaking views across the Rufiji River in Nyerere National Park. Set amongst an intricate network of sand river channels and with wildlife in abundance, enjoy your days exploring the wilderness by vehicle, boat or on foot.

Nestled within the remarkable Nyerere National Park on the banks of the Rufiji River, the lodge boasts awe-inspiring views across the water. Built with a combination of thatched roofs, round stones, and cement, the lodge's whitewashed walls and exposed stone create a visually appealing atmosphere. The dining room offers a mix of private tables and a larger communal table, catering to individual preferences. The inter-leading sitting area is adorned with plush upholstered furniture, African carvings, and natural wood sourced from fallen trees, evoking a relaxed and homely ambiance. Outside, a viewing deck awaits, as does a refreshing swimming pool.

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Inside Sand Rivers

A closer look at the accommodation, atmosphere and setting.

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Accommodation

Rooms

Sand Rivers features just eight rooms, including five standard rooms and three suites. Designed in harmony with the lodge's style, the open-air viewpoints foster a sense of immersion in the bush rather than a barrier from it. Both room types offer ample privacy and include writing desks, shelving, and double or twin beds adorned with crisp bedding and mosquito nets. The en-suite bathrooms are equipped with showers and sinks boasting hot running water. The suites offer additional space and the added luxury of a private plunge pool.

Food & drink

Dining

Meals at Sand Rivers are planned around the safari day, with early breakfasts, relaxed lunches and dinners in camp or outdoors when conditions allow. Dietary requirements can be arranged before travel.

What to do

Activities

Immerse yourself in the unparalleled guided excellence, where an array of activities awaits your exploration. Embark on exhilarating game drives to uncover elusive species such as the majestic wild dogs, or opt for an intimate walking safari, encountering wildlife of all shapes and sizes. Enhance your adventure by combining it with a night of fly-camping under the stars for an unforgettable wilderness experience. Cruise along the winding Rufiji River and Stiegler’s Gorge through our boating excursions, or indulge in the tranquility of Tagalala's hot springs and the option of fishing. Or unwind by the camp's swimming pool with a refreshing beverage.

Planning your stay

How Sand Rivers fits your journey.

We generally suggest three or four nights so there is time for different activities and quieter hours overlooking the Rufiji. Pair Sand Rivers with Jabali Ridge or Kigelia in Ruaha for a varied southern safari. If fly-camping appeals, discuss it at the planning stage: its availability and arrangements need confirming rather than treating it as a guaranteed part of every stay.

Southern ParksCombine Nyerere and Ruaha for different landscapes and a varied southern safari.Tanzania in FullA longer Tanzania journey that can be adapted to include contrasting regions.

When to go Plan your stay

The right fit

Would Sand Rivers suit you?

Who it suits

Travellers who enjoy an open-fronted lodge and a safari that can include more than game drives. It is a strong option to compare for couples wanting atmosphere, river views and an unhurried stay.

Things to consider

The rooms are open to the river landscape, so this is a different experience from an enclosed hotel bedroom. Boat outings, walking and fly-camping depend on conditions and arrangements. The suites have plunge pools; standard rooms do not offer the same facilities.

Compare your options

Other stays to consider.

Roho ya Selous

Compare a tented camp in Nyerere when you prefer a different room style and lake-area setting.

Explore Roho ya Selous

Kiba Point

Consider an exclusive-use river lodge for a family or group wanting its own space.

Explore Kiba Point

Useful to know

Sand Rivers FAQs.

Is Sand Rivers in the Selous or Nyerere?

The lodge is in Nyerere National Park, the protected area formerly referred to as part of the Selous Game Reserve. Older names and web addresses may still use Selous; the current property name on our site is Sand Rivers.

What is the difference between Sand Rivers rooms and suites?

There are five standard rooms and three suites, all with an open-fronted design overlooking the river. The suites add more space and private plunge pools. We compare categories for your party before booking.

Can we go boating and walking at Sand Rivers?

These experiences can be arranged alongside game drives, subject to conditions and guiding arrangements. We confirm what is suitable for your dates and party instead of assuming every activity runs on every day.

Can we add a night of fly-camping?

Fly-camping is an optional experience to discuss in advance. Availability, weather and the camp’s operating arrangements determine whether it can be included in your stay.

How should we combine Sand Rivers with another safari?

Ruaha is a natural contrast for a southern Tanzania journey. We often compare Jabali Ridge or Kigelia there, balancing the different landscapes and activities with the available internal flights.

Tailor-made Tanzania

Would this suit
your journey?

We will explain how it compares with the alternatives and whether it fits your preferred dates, route and pace.

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