Siwandu

Siwandu is located in the Nyerere National Park and can be reached by air or road. The nearest airstrip, Mtemere, is a scenic one-hour drive from Siwandu. The flight from Dar es Salaam takes 45 minutes. By road, it is 230km from Dar es Salaam, entering through the Matambwe Gate. Note that we do not accommodate driver-guides for guests arriving by road with their vehicles.

Siwandu closes between mid-March and 1st June each year. The dry season is from June to the end of October/the start of November, and it is during this dry period the wildlife will gather around the diminishing water resources – making them easy to see! So-called ‘short rains’ fall in November and December, and this is springtime in Nyerere. It’s a great time for plants, flowers, insects, and birdlife. This is also the main birthing time, a great time to see baby animals. 

The rates at Siwandu include accommodation, three daily meals, local drinks, tea/coffee, drinking water, two safari activities (per day), and vehicle transfers to and from the nearest airstrip. Laundry service is also included, but we cannot launder underwear. (Washing powder is provided for guests to do their own,).

Rates do not include ‘premium’ drinks, conservation and concession fees, tips to staff/guides, Medivac insurance, or any third-party TANAPA activity fees.

Siwandu can be booked exclusively for groups and families with young children.

Visa and Mastercard payments are accepted, as well as JCB and Amex, PayPal, or several Mobile Provider Payment Facilities such as Mpesa and Airtel Money, but all carry a 5% charge. Payments in cash are welcome, and Tanzanian Shillings, US Dollars (printed from 2009), Euros, or Pounds Sterling are all acceptable.

Guests can make use of the swimming pool at Siwandu.

Amenities at Siwandu include comfortable beds, an in-room safe, power points (British-style three-point plugs), and an overhead fan.

Yes, children of six years and above are welcome at Siwandu. However, Siwandu has a limit of two children (aged 6 – 11) in the camp at any time. Children remain the parents’ responsibility at all times. Single beds can be added to accommodation units (for under 18s only).

Siwandu runs on solar and generator power.

Yes, hot water is available at Siwandu. 

Yes, Siwandu provides the following activities or services (note that extra charges may apply): game drives, boat safaris on the Rufiji River, and walking tours.

The tap water at Siwandu is only recommended for washing and cleaning. Bottled mineral water should be used for drinking and brushing teeth. 

Yes, Siwandu is a safe place to stay. A room safe is provided in each room for valuables.

If you have any dietary requirements, allergies, or medical conditions, you must inform Siwandu at the time of your reservation.

Yes, this is available. Please note that it is basic and suitable for essential functions, not heavy downloads and streaming. Mobile phone signals are very weak here; Airtel is the best network.

Staying at Siwandu for two nights or more will allow you to enjoy a better experience.