Kichaka Zumbua

A pared-back and intimate camp in the untouched Eastern sector of Ruaha's wilderness.

As the sole safari-makers in this area of Ruaha, Kichaka promises a sense of exclusivity, made only more tangible by its staggeringly remote location. Set high on a ridge overlooking the Great Ruaha River, Kichaka Zumbua is run with a careful hand...

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Jonty

Eve

Kristin

4.9 out of 5 stars Average guest rating

About Kichaka Zumbua

As the sole safari-makers in this area of Ruaha, Kichaka promises a sense of exclusivity, made only more tangible by its staggeringly remote location. Set high on a ridge overlooking the Great Ruaha River, Kichaka Zumbua is run with a careful hand by Moli and Noelle, who enjoy hosting meals for their guests and telling their incredible stories from the bush. You'll gather memorable tales of your own on a walking safari with Kichaka's expert guides, who know the region like their own backyard. Back at base, the camp takes inspiration from the grasslands laid out before it, and nature is never far away...

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From $1,150 person/night

Lodge

3 Rooms

Ruaha, Tanzania

What you'll love

Safaris don't get more intimate than this, with zero crowds and up-close encounters on foot.

Insiders tip

Stay at Zumbua for an extra night or two to enjoy Kichaka's wonderful fly-camping experience.

Something to think about

The camp offers a set menu, but the team will happily adapt it to suit your diet - just be sure to let them know well in advance. And heads up, there's no wifi or cellphone service.

The property

Gazing across Ruaha's quiet grasslands, where baobabs rise like sentinels, scarred by a thousand years of elephant use, Kichaka Zumbua fits right in. With thatched roofs and an understated style, the main lodge is split into three: the cushy lounge and information centre, open-air 'Star Bar' where you'll gather round the fire for drinks, and a dining room. The camp is completely solar-powered, but equipped with all-important charging points for cameras.

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The rooms

Adding to its exclusivity, Zumbua has just three suites designed with organic materials and giant canvas windows that reveal the fabulous view. Down a short path, you'll find your open-sided bathroom, complete with a carved stone tub and outdoor shower. On the other side of the suite, there's a sitting area and crescent plunge pool, and, up a set of steps, a rooftop terrace for the ultimate vantage point. There are three larger bandas opening in 2024 as well.

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Activities

Kichaka's specialty is walking safaris (for ages 16 and over) and with a seasoned guide leading the way, you'll set off to find rare antelope and even shadow a herd of elephant on foot. Apart from being home to the highest concentration of elephant in Tanzania, you can also spy huge prides of lion, leopard, spotted hyena and African painted dog on day or night drives. During the rainy season, Ruaha is especially good for birding as the migrating flocks arrive at the river.

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About Ruaha National Park

Ruaha

Escape the crowds in this rugged park where 10% of the world’s lion roam amongst the mighty baobabs.

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Wildlife in Ruaha National Park

Elephant

Occasional

Giraffe

Abundant

Hippo

Occasional

Black Rhino

None

White Rhino

None

Lion

Abundant

Cheetah

Rare

Leopard

Rare

Hyena

Occasional

Wildebeest

None

Buffalo

Occasional

Zebra

Abundant

Warthog

Occasional

Wild Dog

Occasional

Meerkat

None

Show all wildlife

Expect a variety of wildlife in the intimate Ruaha National Park, a region characterised by mixed acacia vegetation, rolling savannah and the skeletal baobabs that dot its countryside. Look out for species such as lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard and a guest favourite: the African wild dog. Not to be forgotten is the magnificent birding of Ruaha, with over 450 species colouring the landscape.

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