Ruaha River Lodge occupies pride of place on the banks of the Ruaha River, in the heart of Ruaha National Park. Part of the Foxes family of safari camps, River Lodge is the oldest and best-established lodge in the park. It is also among the largest, and doesn't offer quite the same levels of intimacy as other, more recently established camps in the Ruaha. Very much a classic safari lodge, the emphasis at Ruaha River Lodge is on game-viewing rather than luxury pampering, though the camp certainly has its charms.
Built with natural stone and thatch, Ruaha River Lodge blends easily into the surrounding bush. Guests are accommodated in spacious riverside 'bandas', from where you can watch the game stroll by from the comfort of your private verandah.
Despite being quite a large camp (26 rooms), Ruaha River Lodge doesn't feel impersonal. Indeed, the service at Ruaha River Lodge, like all Foxes Camps, is excellent, and the overall atmosphere relaxed and down-to-earth. The camp has been loosely divided into two sections, each with separate dining and lounge areas, so even when the camp is full guests are well spread out, meaning it never feels too crowded. Spacious bandas, scattered along the banks of the river, provide a private space in which to relax and enjoy the views.
Game-viewing at Ruaha River Lodge, as at all Foxes camps, is marvellous. Ruaha is one of Tanzania's most impressive National Parks, and the top guides at River Lodge will take you right into the heart of it on well-conducted walking safaris and game drives. For those looking for a classic safari lodge with an emphasis on game-viewing, look no further than Ruaha River Lodge.
Accommodation
There are 26 bandas at Ruaha River Lodge, each with either twin beds or a double bed (and the option to add a third bed to make a triple room). The rooms are very large but sparsely furnished. They feature the essentials—mosquito netting, and en-suite bathrooms with shower, flush loo and constant hot water—but not much else. Private verandahs overlook the river.
Dining
Tasty, hearty meals are prepared with fresh local produce. A full cooked English breakfast is provided each morning, accompanied by tea and coffee, fresh fruit, and freshly baked bread. Lunch is a cold buffet, accompanied by a light desert. Dinner is a three-course affair, with a selection of menus (including a vegetarian option).
There's a pleasant bar located on a raised wooden deck overlooking the river.
Facilities
- Dining area
- Lounge area
- Bar
Activities
- Game drives
- Fly camping
Child Policy
Children of all ages can be accommodated. The relaxed atmosphere at River Lodge, along with the spacious rooms, make this one of the few camps in Ruaha National Park that is suitable for families with younger children.
