Dhala and Samaki Camps – Tanzania Tigerfish
Africa
Remote, raw, and unforgettable - Africa’s Ultimate Tigerfish Frontier
Explore two of the wildest rivers on Earth in pursuit of trophy tigerfish.
Tiger fishing in Tanzania is the ultimate frontier adventure. Deep in Southwestern Tanzania, the legendary Mnyera and Ruhudji Rivers offer exclusive access to over 120 km of pristine water, home to some of the largest tigerfish on the planet. With expert guides, rustic seasonal bush camps, and a landscape teeming with wildlife, this experience blends world-class fly fishing with the soul of an authentic African safari. Prepare for electrifying strikes, powerful runs, and true wilderness immersion.
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Fish Species

Unrivalled Fishing Opportunities

  • Widely regarded as the pinnacle of freshwater fly fishing for tigerfish, the Mnyera and Ruhudji Rivers deliver access to untouched waters and truly massive fish. Anglers can expect consistent shots at trophy tigerfish in the 10–25 lb range, with exceptional specimens reaching up to 28 lbs. The rivers’ minimal fishing pressure and strict management protocols—including catch-and-release-only fishing, single de-barbed hooks, and rested beats—ensure a healthy, thriving fishery.
  • Most fishing is done on foot or drifting from 18ft aluminium boats, focusing on rich river structures like submerged timber, sandbanks, and rocky drop-offs. No beat is fished more than once a week, and re-drifting is prohibited to protect the fishery’s integrity.

  • Target species on the Mnyera and Ruhudji Rivers offer an exciting multi-species challenge. Tigerfish are the main attraction, famed for their aggressive takes and acrobatic fights. Yellowfish add a technical element, with three species targeted through delicate upstream nymphing. Vundu, powerful and elusive, are often encountered while fishing for tigerfish, adding an unpredictable thrill to each day on the water.

Adventurous Experiences Beyond Fishing

This is more than just a fishing trip—it’s a true African safari. Stay in seasonal bush camps along the Mnyera and Ruhudji Rivers, where the sounds of the wild accompany every cast. Between fishing sessions, spot iconic wildlife like lion, buffalo, and elephant, or marvel at the region’s rare birdlife. For those seeking even more adventure, optional pre- or post-trip safaris to the Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater offer unforgettable chances to witness the Great Migration.

Accommodation

Dhala Camp (Mnyera River)
Your home for the first half of the trip. Four en suite wooden cabins with views over the Mnyera River, a central mess area, lounge, library, fly tying station, and charging points. Rustic and comfortable, this is immersive bush living with all the essentials.

Samaki Camp (Ruhudji River)
Set up seasonally on the banks of the Ruhudji River, Samaki Camp is smaller and more remote. En suite safari tents with twin or double options, no electricity, and meals enjoyed under the stars on a riverside sandbank.

Travel Information

Guests fly into Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, where the tour begins at the Seacliff Hotel. Airport transfers to the hotel are included. From Dar es Salaam, a 1hr45min charter flight (included in your package) takes you deep into the bush, landing near the Mnyera or Ruhudji Rivers.

  • Arrival: International guests should arrive in Dar es Salaam the day before the charter.
  • Departure: Return charter flights bring guests back to Dar es Salaam for onward connections.
Fact File: Dhala and Samaki Camps – Tanzania Tigerfish
Location
Mnyera & Ruhudji Rivers, Southwestern Tanzania
Type of Fishing
Fly Fishing
Best Season
August - November
Sustainability
Strict catch-and-release policy with single debarbed hooks; no beat fished twice per week; spawning areas strictly protected; low fishing pressure maintains fishery health
Angler Capacity
Limited groups with professional guiding — maximum 8 anglers split between two camps for personalized experience
Environment
Pristine freshwater river systems with diverse habitats including fallen timber, sandbanks, rocky drop-offs, and deep pools; rich aquatic ecosystem with abundant red-finned barbs as baitfish
Licence Required
Yes
Additional Notes
Nearest Airport/Transport Hub
Dar es Salaam International Airport
Accommodation
Dhala Camp (wooden cabins) on Mnyera River & Samaki Camp (tented bush camp) on Ruhudji River; both seasonal and comfortable with en suite facilities (electricity only at Dhala)
Dining
Meals served in communal thatched or open-air mess areas overlooking the river; includes all meals, soft drinks, and limited beer
Other Activities
Optional extended safaris in Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater during the great migration; wildlife viewing of buffalo, lions, leopards, elephants, plains game, and exceptional birdlife

Fishing Package Details

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Dhala and Samaki Camps – Tanzania Tigerfish

Basic pricing

9,650
12,950

per person sharing amenities

Included in the package:

  • Transfer from Seacliff Hotel to charter flight on morning of departure.

  • Return charter flights from Dar es Salaam.

  • 7 nights in camp – 6 days fishing on the Mnyera & Ruhudji rivers.

  • Access to 120 km of waters + boats and fuel.

  • Professional guiding.

  • All meals, accommodation, water, soft drinks, and limited beer.

  • Fishing licences and concession fees.

  • Tanzania Government Conservation Levy.

Excluded in the package:

  • Flights to Dar es Salaam.

  • Visas (USD 50–100 depending on passport).

  • Any hotel accommodation and meals in Dar es Salaam before or after the tour.

  • Wine, spirits (guests advised to bring their own from duty-free).

  • Beers over allocated amount in camp.

  • Guide and staff gratuities.

Your specialised Itinerary

We offer a custom itinerary to offer you your perfect fishing adventure.
After booking we will adjust our base itinerary to your wishes.

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Day 1

  • Morning: Charter flight from Dar es Salaam to camp. Welcome and briefing by head guide.
  • Accommodation: 4 anglers stay at Dhala Camp, 4 anglers move to Samaki Camp.
  • Note: No fishing on arrival day; guides/staff use this time for weekly admin and maintenance. Guests have time to set up tackle and orient themselves around camp.

Days 2–7

  • Fishing: Fish Mnyera/Ruhudji River.

  • Accommodation: Alternating between Dhala and Samaki Camps.

Day 8

  • Morning: Admin and charter flight to Dar es Salaam.

Conservation and Sustainability

This is a controlled fly fishing venture with conservation at its heart. Fishing pressure is carefully managed, and a portion of every trip supports anti-poaching efforts, river preservation, and local community initiatives. Fishing guests contribute valuable resources that support conservation efforts in one of the last remaining West African Savannah habitats.