Ruaha is an area of Tanzania we absolutely adore – like anywhere in Africa it takes a while to reach, with daily, but long, light aircraft flights from Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar and Nyerere. It is worth the long flight to reach, it is pure wilderness with few camps and abundant wildlife, as well as hugely varied ecosystems. The baobab forests perfectly compliment the peaceful tranquil wilderness, dotted with huge herds of elephant, lions and leopard galore, and a myriad of smaller species.
Jongomero takes Ruaha to another level yet again, as it’s set in it’s own area away from the very few camps that inhabit the area around Msembe Airstrip. Jongomero boasts huge suites and a relaxed atmosphere, and game viewing without another soul in sight. Jongomero is made for long stays with a huge highlight being their spa menu, perfectly complimented by a swim in the natural hot springs near to camp.
We also adore Ikuka Ruaha, owner run (something that is very unusual in this day and age) – this camp is as friendly as they come. The real value here comes with the guides who are no doubt some of the best we have ever been guided by, not only in Tanzania but in Africa. Ikuka is small and intimate with the perfect blend of indoor outdoor living and some of the most dramatic and extensive views in Ruaha. Being elevated above this untamed wilderness just goes to emphasise how truly vast Ruaha is and why it should be on everyone’s bucket list. Ikuka is also hugely involved in the conservation efforts that go into Ruaha – protecting this vast area is no small feat and takes a literal army. Tourism only populates around 5% of Ruaha so there is 95% of 7,809 square miles of park to try and protect from poaching. A huge job.
Usangu Camp also deserves a mention, like Jongomero it is set miles from Msembe and the main Ruaha game viewing area – although this does not impact what you will see here. Set on the Usangu Wetlands this special camp is aimed at those that wish to see conservation in action with their own eyes, and get involved too. Small, rustic and uncomplicated this camp offers unique access to one of the most diverse wetlands in the world, your time here spent with those here to research the ecosystem.
We spend a lot of our time trying to explain to clients why they should head to these lesser known areas. We have explored them ourselves extensively so would never recommend an area unless it was going to exceed expectations. With off the beaten track travel becoming harder and harder it is areas such as Ruaha that really can provide you with some of the best game viewing without the crowds. Remember that all we want is for you to have a life changing holiday – a holiday that blows all others out of the park so we would never recommend a safari area unless we knew it was going to do that. Trust us, you won’t regret it!
