Kwihala Camp

About Kwihala Camp

Head out on game drives to see elephants — the largest population in Tanzania is located here — and lions, known for hunting giraffes, buffalo and even elephants. On foot, discover the smaller inhabitants of the bush and learn how to identify animal prints and dung. At night, venture out with a spotlight to find nocturnal animals like bush babies and hyenas. Finish off the day around the campfire with a glass of wine under the glittering Milky Way. If you listen carefully, you hear the nearby Ikuka waterfall in the still night air, and even spot a meteor shower in the pristine sky. 

Finish off the day around the campfire with a glass of wine under the glittering Milky Way. You should be able to hear the nearby Ikuka waterfall in the still night air, and you may even spot a meteor shower in the pristine sky. 

accommodation

Rooms

The six tents at Kwihala are spacious and simple with king-sized beds. The en suite bathrooms have double vanities, flushing toilets and hot water safari bucket showers. Sitting out on your shady veranda, watch for elephants or kudus wandering past camp. At night, you’ll stay cool and comfy with a fan and a mosquito net. 

Experiences

Expedition-style camp

Kwihala, positioned in the wildlife-rich Ruaha National Park, is simple and comfortable, designed in homage to the old expedition camps. The tented lounge and dining room is the social heart of the camp, where you’ll enjoy meals with fellow guests and chill out in the afternoon. After sunset, sit around the campfire to share safari stories over a couple of G&Ts. 

Experience

A typical day on safari at Kwihala Camp

We aim to be out in the bush at the coolest times of the day — early morning and late afternoon — when the animals are at their most active. Exact times may differ slightly with the seasons. If you have booked a private vehicle, feel free to plan your schedule with your guide. 

A typical day at Kwihala starts off bright and early with a wake-up call and tea or coffee. Enjoy breakfast at camp, or have it packed as a picnic and get a head start on your morning game drive. You’ll be back in time to relax before lunch. 

The afternoons can get really hot, so it’s a good opportunity to relax and read a book or take a nap beforeafternoon tea. After refuelling, we’ll depart for your afternoon game drive or walk, accompanied by sundowners. In the evening, have a drink and a chat around the campfire before enjoying a well-deserved dinner.  

Experiences

Game drives

We offer twice-daily game drives in six-seater, open-sided vehicles. The canvas roofs and sides give an unobstructed view but can be rolled down if it rains. All vehicles are equipped with fridges and power points to keep you and your camera fully charged. Private vehicles are available for families or guests with specific interests. In between wildlife sightings, we’ll stop at a picturesque spot for coffee in the morning and sundowners in the evening. 

Experiences

Hot-air balloon rides

Unlike in the Serengeti where night drives are not allowed, we can explore Ruaha after dark. Our guides use a powerful spotlight to help you spot nocturnal animals and predators on the hunt. 

Experiences

Walking safaris

Head out on foot accompanied by one of our expert guides and skilled local trackers to learn about plants and insects, identify dung and prints, and simply appreciate the experience of walking through the Tanzanian wilderness. 

Experiences

Photographic safaris

Nearby Jabali Ridge is home to one of our specially modified photographic vehicles which is can be booked by Kwihala guests. 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. You can read more about the vehicle here. Please enquire to ensure availability of the vehicle and confirm any additional fees. 

Experiences

Family safaris

We welcome families with children over 5 and have a tent that sleeps four people (children under 12 must share with an adult). Depending on how full the camp is, we may be able to accommodate younger children. Please enquire if this is of interest. Note that Kwihala does not have any specific activities for children. Please chat to your agent about the option of a private vehicle for your family safari. 

Experience

Meals and refreshments

All meals are prepared in camp, from our fresh breads and cakes to salads and sorbets. If you’d like to extend your morning game drive, we can pack a picnic breakfast for you to enjoy in the bush. Alternatively, have a cooked brunch back at camp after your game drive. Lunch is a light buffet and dinner is a three-course meal served communally. In the dry season, enjoy dinner in the sandy Mwagusi riverbed, where elephants sometimes stroll past. In the green months, eat alongside the flowing river. In the rainy season, meals are served undercover. 

Please let us know in advance if you have any special dietary requirements and we’ll be happy to cater for you.