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Kigelia Camp
Kigelia Camp is in the heart of Ruaha National Park in Tanzania and offers a complete escape from everyday life and an ultimate safari experience.
Tucked away in the beating eastern heart of Ruaha, Kigelia is our understated little bush-camp—quiet, simple, and steeped in the rhythms of the wild. For years, it has sat where the wildlife is most concentrated, making it the perfect launchpad for daily sorties into some of Africa’s richest game country. Encounters with great mammals here are thrilling, often unforgettable, and can make it hard to tear yourself away.
But when you do return, Kigelia welcomes you into a peaceful, canvas refuge. A soft retreat, shaded by shaggy thatch and surrounded by whispering trees, occasionally disturbed by our most welcome visitors: the elephants. They just don’t make camps like this anymore.
With just a handful of light, airy safari tents, each with its own open-air star bed, Kigelia offers everything you need, and nothing you don’t. Its carefully judged simplicity brings you closer to the bush and to the creatures we share it with. There's no Wi-Fi here, but there’s connection of a different kind - one that's far more lasting.
This is expedition country untamed, remote, and magnificent. And while there’s always the thrill of a big game drive, some of the most profound discoveries come on foot. Take the time to walk beneath ancient baobabs, their strangely human shapes full of secrets. Feel their dust-scented bark, crunch their lemony-furred seeds underfoot, and peer into their crevices - home to owls, reptiles, even bats. The bush reveals its quieter wonders to those who walk.
Each day begins with a sense of anticipation as you grab your shades and camera, climb into an open vehicle with your Nomad guide, and head out to see what the day holds. Out here, anything is possible: adrenaline, awe, and stillness all in one breath.
Kigelia Camp
about:
6 Authentic Mobile Safari Tents
2 night minimum stay
Children aged 16+ welcome
Limited WiFi in rooms
Mobile phone coverage patchy & not guaranteed
Private bathrooms with indoor & outdoor bucket showers
Game Drives (with private vehicle and guide)
Full board with local soft and alcoholic drinks (communal dining)
Return local airstrip transfers
Low Season: Early June & Nov-Feb
High Season: Mid June to Oct
Kigelia Camp
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Kigelia Camp
rates | inclusions & exclusions:
Kigelia Camp
Accommodation with all meals & local beverages (alcoholic & non-alcoholic, complimentary laundry, game viewing activities, emergency evacuation cover, meet & greet from local airstrip.
Why this Camp..?
(According to Google Reviews)
Kigelia Camp (Kigelia Ruaha), in Ruaha National Park, receives excellent reviews for its authentic, "back-to-basics" eco-friendly approach, fantastic guides like Raphael and Ken, delicious food, and intimate, high-quality tented accommodations with outdoor showers. Guests praise the close wildlife sightings, especially big cats and elephants, the magical atmosphere around campfires, and the attentive, knowledgeable staff, making it a top choice for a raw, wild Ruaha safari.
Key Highlights from Reviews
Expert Guiding:Guides are highly praised for their deep knowledge of the bush and wildlife, leading to incredible sightings and a deeper understanding of the environment.
Authentic Bush Experience:The camp offers a "back-to-basics," eco-focused experience with a minimalist, open-sided communal area and rustic tents that blend into the environment.
Exceptional Wildlife:Guests report spectacular encounters with lions, leopards, elephants, and other wildlife in the untamed Ruaha National Park.
Quality Tented Accommodation:The large, comfortable tents have huge beds, flushing toilets, and unique outdoor bucket showers where you can wash under the stars.
Warm & Professional Staff:The camp manager, guides, and all staff are described as cheerful, helpful, and dedicated to providing a memorable stay.
Delicious Food:Meals are enjoyed in unique settings, including under the stars in the riverbed, and are consistently described as delicious and varied.
Magical Ambiance:Evenings spent by the campfire, chatting about the day's adventures, are a highlight, creating a strong sense of connection and wonder.
Things to Note
Basic Amenities:The camp is intentionally rustic; while high-quality, the design is simple, with basic sinks and no running water at the sinks.
Heat:The tents can get quite warm in the afternoon, though standing fans are provided to help.
Wi-Fi:Limited Wi-Fi is available in the communal area for occasional connection to the outside world.
