Impala fly-camp: Our full report

If you are staying at Impala Camp for more than a few nights, then adventurous travellers should consider ...

... fly-camping as an option.

If you opt for a night's fly-camping, then you'll head out into the bush in the afternoon with a 4WD vehicle and guide - exploring further into Nyerere National Park - before arriving at the fly-camping site in the late afternoon.

There you'll probably find your chef starting to make dinner – and pre-dinner drinks are always to hand. If you'd like a bush shower, then it'll be filled with hot water for you – whilst there's also a long drop bush toilet, complete with sit-down throne and a wooden seat. Nearby you'll find the bucket sink, with a soap and towel provided.

Dinner's cooked over the fire, but you'll sit down at a lovely table with crockery, cutlery and glasses for it – and then perhaps retire to sit around the camp fire with a drink.

When you're ready to sleep, you'll retire to your own dome tent. These are reasonably-sized with comfortable double camp beds, bedding, pillows and a clothes rail. There's even a lockable chest, as well as a torch provided. There's plenty of space, but they're designed primarily for you to sleep in – not to lounge around during the day. The roof of each tent can be rolled back to leave only insect-proof gauze netting, and a clear view of the night sky, in all its glory.

You'll probably be woken by the dawn light and chorus of birds – a great way to wake up – and then continue your safari after a hearty breakfast around the fire.

Our view

For an adventurous addition to your safari we highly recommend a night of fly-camping. This is a great way to experience nature, staying in a small dome tent surrounded by the sights and sounds of the bush.

Jessica Plumb

Country manager: Tanzania

Geographics

Location: Nyerere National Park, Tanzania
Ideal length of stay: 1-2 nights
Accessible by

Food & drink

Usual board basis: Full Board & Activities
Dining style: Individual Tables
Dining locations: Outdoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service: No - you are in the middle of the bush
Drinks included: Tea/coffee and filtered water are included, other drinks are extra.

Special interests

Birdwatching: Heading out fly-camping gives you the option of exploring deeper into the park to find a wider variety of bird-life. Whilst birdwatching in Nyerere National Park you may see a range of birds, from malachite kingfishers to African fish eagles.; See ideas for Birdwatching in Tanzania

Children

Attitude towards children
Property’s age restrictions: Children under the age of 12yrs cannot fly-camp
Special activities & services: None
Equipment: None

Communications

Communications: You will be in the middle of the bush so should consider yourself out of contact. Though there will be a radio for communication with Impala Camp.
TV & radio: None

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended: Yes
Medical care: The guides are first aid trained and in an emergency will radio to Impala Camp.
Dangerous animals: High Risk
Security measures: The guides at the camp are all armed.
Fire safety: There is a fire extinguisher at the camp.