A Week in the Ruaha Wilderness on Foot

Located in southern Tanzania, away from the main safari circuit, Ruaha National Park has huge areas with interesting terrain suited to exploration on foot. Kichaka Wild, a 7-night dry season expedition into the outer fringes of Ruaha National Park, is the most unique way to discover the beauty and diversity of this truly wild eco-system.

Known for its immense wilderness and vast diversity Ruaha has endless opportunities to explore remote areas that even some park rangers have yet to venture into. Personally led by Andrew Molinaro, Kichaka Wild provides the perfect opportunity for adventure enthusiasts who want to experience what it feels like to be a modern day explorer. From climbing the gigantic Kopjes of Mpululu to roaming through the tranquil forests of Kilola Star you will be uncovering Ruaha’s hidden gems in some of the last true wildernesses left on this planet.

Typically set up along the banks of rivers or nestled into the nearby forests, the camp consists of 3 dome tents each with its own bucket shower and short-drop loo for privacy. Activities will mainly be centred around walking safaris, however game drives, and night drives will be on offer to help you enjoy these new areas to their fullest.

Each expedition is booked on a private basis and is customised to the clients specific interests. Kichaka Wild offers four remote locations guests can chose from.

The minimum age for walks is 12. As well as this seasonal 7-night itinerary, Kichaka Expeditions offer year-round walking from fixed camps and fly-camps. 

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. Enjoy a game drive in the afternoon and overnight at Kichaka Zumbua camp. 

Day 2

Set out by vehicle to a suitable location to begin the walking. The vehicle continues to the selected camp location, so that everything is set up and ready for your arrival. The vehicle remains at camp, allowing for game drives in the afternoons.

Days 3-7

Each day, set out on foot in a different area, exploring a variety of terrain and habitats.  Setting out at dawn carrying just water and snacks, morning walks are usually 3-4 hours in duration, with plenty of opportunities to pause and appreciate interesting flora and fauna. After a rendezvous with the vehicle, guests return to camp, spotting game along the way. There is then time to freshen up, enjoy a cooked breakfast and relax and spot birds during the middle of the day.

After lunch in the early afternoon, and as the day cools and shadows get longer, the group sets out again for a drive with a shorter walk and a sundowner.  Meals cooked over the fire are taken at camp tables under a stunning starscape.

Day 8

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.

• 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