Jabali Ridge

About JABALI RIDGE

A landscape of sun-bleached plains, mighty baobabs and hardy shrubs, Ruaha is home to large numbers of lion, elephant, buffalo and even endangered African wild dogs. During the rainy season, visitors can hear the incredible thundering of the Ikuka waterfalls and even witness the Mwagusi beginning to flow after being dry for seven months. The dry season is equally exciting, with opportunities to spot buffalo herds in the riverbed and elephants digging in the sand for water. 

accommodation

Rooms

The eight raised suites at Jabali are expansive and airy with bird-nest thatched roofs and wooden shutters that slide to open up the rooms. Beds are king sized and en suite bathrooms have flushing toilets and rain showers. Out on the deck, guests can get comfy on one of the large cushioned benches and relax with a coffee or cold drink, admiring the golden plains and hundred-year-old baobabs.

Experiences

Blending into its environment

Jabali Ridge has been carefully designed to blend into its environment, making use of open spaces and natural materials. Even the existing granite boulders have been incorporated to provide privacy and shade. With just eight suites, the camp feels blissfully exclusive and remote.

After a morning game drive and lunch, spend your afternoon cooling off in the infinity pool with a drink in hand or head to our spa for a rejuvenating treatment before your afternoon activity. Dinner is served al fresco under a blanket of stars.

ExperienceS

A typical day on safari at Jabali Ridge

We head out for a game drive first thing in the morning and again late in the afternoon, when it’s cooler and the animals are active. Times differ slightly with the seasons. A typical day starts off with an early wake-up call and tea or coffee. Head off on your first game drive of the day after breakfast, or have it packed to take with you as a picnic. Arrive back at camp in time to freshen up before sitting down to lunch. If you have a private vehicle, you can plan your day with your guide. 

Mid-afternoon is time for a rest. Read a book, take a dip in the pool or visit the spa. Afterward, enjoy afternoon tea and then an evening game drive or walk with sundowners. End the day with a drink at the bar and a leisurely dinner under the stars. 

Experiences

Game drives

The best times to depart on a game drive are early morning and late afternoon to avoid the heat of the day, when animals are less active. It also allows us to find predators such as lions either setting off hunting at dusk or wrapping up after a busy night. Our vehicles are open-sided, six-seaters with removable canvas roofs and sides that offer unobstructed views. Vehicles are also equipped with power points and coolers to keep your batteries full and drinks chilled. 

If you have a specific interest in some aspect of the ecosystem, enquire about booking one of our private vehicles.

Experiences

Walking safaris

Feel part of the Ruaha landscape by taking a walking safari with one of our experienced guides and local trackers. This is a completely different way to experience the bush. Your senses are much more engaged as you spot tiny but fascinating creatures you’d never see from the vehicle, such as dung beetles, ants and butterflies. Get a thrilling close up view of kudu and elephants, or spot hyena dens amid the kopjes.

Experiences

Night drives

See a different side of Ruaha with a night drive. It’s a special opportunity to spot shy, nocturnal animals and those that prey on them. With the aid of a knowledgeable guide, keep your eyes out for leopard, genet, serval, honey badger, civet and African wildcats on the hunt; as well as bushbabies, nightjars and owls going about their business. Take a moment to gaze up at the breathtaking night sky.

Experiences

Photographic safari

Jabali Ridge is home to one of our specially modified photographic vehicles. The open vehicle allows keen amateurs and professional photographers alike to shoot at eye level with wildlife. It is equipped with all the gear to ensure award-winning shots — from beanbags and camera rests to 360° swivel seats. Please enquire to ensure availability of the vehicle and confirm any additional fees. 

Experiences

Asilia Spa

Visit the spa for a relaxing massage after a long flight or a hot day in the bush. If you’d prefer, we can also organise treatments in your suite. 

Experience

Family safaris

We welcome families with children over 5 years old, with exceptions made based on camp occupancy upon enquiry. Jabali Ridge does not have any programmes specifically for kids and children under 12 should share a tent with an adult. Please ask your agent about hiring a private vehicle to make your family’s stay more convenient. 

Experience

Meals and refreshments

Everything at Jabali is homemade, from fresh breads and cakes to salads and ice creams. We can prepare a picnic breakfast to have during your game drive or enjoy a leisurely cooked brunch back at camp. Lunch is a light meal in the dining area and in the evening we serve a delicious, gourmet three-course dinner under the stars.

Please let us know of any dietary requirements ahead of your arrival and we’ll be happy to cater to your needs.