Lodge-based Walks in a Remote Corner of Ruaha

Vast and off the beaten track, Ruaha National Park is known for its healthy population of elephants and many endemic species.  The interesting terrain of the park's river valleys are ideal for exploration on foot. Kichaka Zumbua camp specialises in walking safaris, and is home to owners Andrew Molinaro and Noelle Herzog. It is sited on a ridge in the Eastern corner of Ruaha with a fine view of the Great Ruaha River - often the scene of animal crossings. 

Each room consists of a central airy and spacious tent with thatched roof and raised platform base, open in the day to allow for views and breeze, but closed in the night for safety and complete bug protection. Adjoining each tent sits a lavish bathroom complete with flushing loo, bathtub and outdoor shower and because there is never too many options on how one can refresh oneself, on the other side of the tent is your own personal plunge pool for that instant gratification after your morning activities.

The privacy and seclusion of the rooms contrast beautifully with the social feel and setup of the main area. Split into three sections, a relaxed lounge with comfy sofas with an information centre where you can admire the views or read a book with a cup of tea, a dedicated dining room where you can enjoy an excellent and varied menu of cuisine, and finally a central pool and well stocked “Star-Bar” to chat by the fire or admire the tremendous night sky.

The minimum age for walks is 12. As well as this 3-night itinerary, Kichaka Expeditions offer longer walk itineraries, including adventurous fly-camping explorations of remote parts of Ruaha. 

Day 1

It's a 1 hour 40 minute flight from Dar es Salaam to Msembe Airstrip in Ruaha National Park. Pick up from Msembe or any other camp in the park around lunchtime depending on plane schedules. Your first game drive into the wilderness begins immediately which may take up to 5 hours depending on what animals you see along the way. Jump straight in with both feet, it will not be long before you encounter your first elephant. With a fabulous bush lunch and refreshments en route we will arrive at the camp late afternoon or early evening to settle in after a warm welcome from our friendly staff.

Day 2

The first day will commence with a steaming tray of coffee delivered to your room, sip it as you wake up and enjoy the paling of the African sky as dawn slowly sheds its light on a new day full of anticipation. After a quick but nourishing breakfast we depart camp to tackle our first walking experience lasting about 5 hours and covering approximately 10 km. Allow yourself to fall into natures rhythms, test your senses as you begin to learn and observe the natural world on foot, interpret the smells, sounds and signs which all form part of the addictive walking experience. For all afternoon activities there is a choice, from learning about tracking, short walks into the vast kopje and inselberg systems (huge rock outcrops), specialist birding, and normal game drives to name but a few.

Day 3

Another early morning departure on foot after breakfast as we push further into Ruaha's wilderness. Armed with our previous days knowledge we now put it to the test. Hone your tracking skills and pit your wits against some of natures mightiest beasts. Every footprint, bent blade of grass, dropping and urine smell must be analysed in detail to provide clues as to the current whereabouts of the quarry as we slowly apprehend it. You will learn quickly though, some you win and some you loose but every step is a reward in itself. After lunch in camp the usual afternoon activities will apply and the evening will be spent viewing the African Milky way with our high powered telescope.

Day 4

A more relaxed breakfast today, but departure soon after to commence the long drive back to ‘civilization’ with arrival at the Msembe airstrip in time for the scheduled flight or a mid-morning drop off at any other camp in the Park.

If desired, this itinerary can be extended with a couple of nights at Kichaka Kidogo.

• Full board accommodation
• All drinks except champagne and premium brands
• Laundry
• Air strip transfers (Msembe)
• All activities
• VAT

• TANAPA Park Fees for Walking, Park Entry, Guide, Ranger & Concession Fees ($130 PPPN)
• Tanzanian Tourism Board Fee ($2 PPPN)
• Medical Evacuation Coverage ($2 PPPN)
• Insurance
• Airport taxes
• Gratuities and personal requirements