Mwagusi is among the best-known safari camps in the Ruaha, famous not so much for its style or lavish accommodation but for its excellent guiding and wonderful atmosphere. Managed by safari guide Chris Fox, Mwagusi is one of the only owner-run safari camps in the park, and has acquired a reputation over the years for its very personal service. Chris is both a charismatic host and an expert guide (he runs a guide training school on-site), and he gives the camp its individual character. There's a slightly ramshackle feel to Mwagusi, but for many this is part of the appeal—that and the superb game-viewing.
Mwagusi Camp is a comfortable retreat, with the feel and atmosphere of a back-to-basics bush camp, but the facilities of an upper range safari camp. Guests sleep in spacious bandas – reed and thatch-enclosed tented rooms – positioned along the banks of the Mwagusi sand river. At the centre of the camp is an open-air thatched banda, with open-plan dining area and lounge. Though exceptionally comfortable, Mwagusi is totally without pretence, its emphasis on providing a homely setting and a hospitable atmosphere.
Mwagusi's location on the edge of the Mwagusi sand river ensures that it enjoys some of the best game-viewing opportunities in the park. The dry riverbed functions as a game corridor, and sees a great deal of animal movement, including regular elephant processions!
With its wonderful location, top guides, and welcoming atmosphere, Mwagusi Camp is one of our favourite safari camps in Ruaha National Park.
Accommodation
Mwagusi's thirteen tented rooms are positioned along the banks of the Mwagusi River. Each has a verandah overlooking the dry river bed, where big game is often sighted. Constructed from natural materials, the bandas are decidedly rustic in character, and help blend in easily with their wild surroundings.
The rooms at Mwagusi are furnished in a bright, quirky style, and feature vibrant hand-woven bed quilts and carved wooden trunks. At the back of each unit is a reed-enclosed en-suite bathroom with flush loo and shower supplied with constant hot running water. The rooms have electricity (solar-powered).
Dining
Breakfast is served in camp or, on request, out in the bush. Lunch and dinner are typically served under canvas in the dining area or out in the open under the stars, though those on full-day safaris will take a picnic.
The food at Mwagusi is delicious! The buffet lunches and dinners are something to look forward to, with lots of tasty dishes prepared with locally-grown produce.
Facilities
- Lounge and bar
- Dining area
- Viewing decks
Activities
- Game drives
- Walking safaris
Child Policy
Mwagusi Safari Camp accommodates children of all ages, though do note that walking safaris are restricted to those aged 16 and over. Please also note that the camp is unfenced and, due to its location on the banks of the Mwagusi sand river, sees a lot of game. Elephant often wander through the camp.
