There is still the excitement and trepidation of being just a few millimetres of canvas away from the great outdoors amid the sounds and scents of the bush.
Kwihala is about as good as it gets when it comes to a temporary canvas shelter. It is only when camping that you can get the feeling of being at one with Africa. It's exciting, it's wild and you are part of it, but it is not only about smart designer tents, it is about the camp itself. The central mess tent for dining and relaxing, the camp fire, the friendly staff and experienced guides, the amazing food produced from a ‘camp’ kitchen, the camaraderie, the hospitality and our enthusiasm to show you the best of Ruaha National Park and Southern Tanzania’s truly magnificent wildlife and birdlife. An experience you are unlikely ever to forget.

In order to enjoy the camping experience to the full it is recommended that guests stay for a minimum of 3 nights.

 

Kwihala means "bush" - and this is some of the most beautiful African bush you will see. The camp is set in a high area with views over the surrounding countryside,
near the Mwagusi Sand River - one of the best game areas in the National Park.

Designed by well-known contemporary African designer – Jacquie Resley, the 150 sq metre spacious mess tent is the main social centre of the camp.
The separate dining and relaxing areas create a homely feel, although canvas walls and open sides leave one with no illusions that one is camping in the bush.

 

Evening dining is outside under the stars – weather permitting.

 

Under the wide African night sky, it is hard to imagine a more romantic setting.

 
 
 

The interior of the Mess Tent has both lounge and dining areas.

   
 

Drinks are complimentary at Kwihala camp. The furnishings have African flair!

Location

Kwihala Campis located in the northern part of the Ruaha National Park, near the Mwagusi sand river, on the edge of the Escarpment in a beautiful and game rich area.
It is a mere 45 minutes drive from the Airstrip at the Park Headquarters at Msembe.
You can get to Kwihala by flying in to Msembe airstrip in Ruaha National Park. Msembe is a 2:30 hours flight from Dar es Salaam and Arusha.
On arrival at Msembe one of Kwihala's vehicles and guides will be waiting to start your adventure with you. The drive to the camp is usually 45 minutes but as you will be game driving on the way a good sighting could mean that this journey takes slightly longer.

Excursions

 

Game Drives are included as part of the daily activities.
The resident 'family' of manager field guides and staff are there to make sure that each guest enjoys the Kwihala camping experience to the full. It is designed to be a canvas 'home' in the bush rather than a hotel or a safari lodge. Our guests’ enjoyment is our reward.

Climate

 

Ruaha National Park is situated between 7° and 8° south of the Equator, so it enjoys very warm sunny days and warm evenings.
However the altitude of the park varies between 1200 and 1600 metres above sea level so can be cool in the early mornings and at night.
The main season, mostly dry, is from 1st June until 24th March each year after which the camp is closed during the rainy season, till the end of May.
In the rainy season, Nov to Dec and April to May there is heavy rainfall of usually short duration during part of the day or at night.
Rain washes and waters all the vegetation and results in a profusion of wild flowers and plants.

Recommended Clothing

For most of the year the lightest and most comfortable clothing is recommended, preferably of natural fibre.
The heat is dry and the sun can be fierce, so long sleeves are recommended for safaris. A sun hat or bush hat is an essential item on safari.
Sometimes in the evenings and early mornings the drop in temperature may require a light sweater to be worn, particularly in the “winter” months
– June, July and August. It is advisable to select clothes in shades of brown, green, khaki etc when interacting with the bush.
White is not advisable when game driving or walking and certain shades of blue attract flying insects.
However in the evenings you will be pleased to know all colours and patterns are acceptable.

Private Groups & Exclusive use

Private groups and exclusive use of the camp bookings are welcomed and special arrangements can be made for individual requirements.

Special Occasions

Great care and pride will be taken in organising a special occasion or event whilst camping with Kwihala. We can provide the right atmosphere and menu for a birthday, anniversary, special bush lunches, dinners and sundowners.

Children

For safety reasons, due to the proximity of wild animals wandering freely through the area, we do not allow children 0-6 years to stay at the camp.

 

Ruaha National Park is situated between 7° and 8° south of the Equator, so it enjoys very warm sunny days and warm evenings. However the altitude of the park varies between 1200 and 1600 metres above sea level so can be cool in the early mornings and at night.

In the rainy season, Nov Dec and April May there is heavy rainfall of usually short duration during part of the day or at night. Rain washes and waters all the vegetation and results in a profusion of wild flowers and plants.

The Emerald Season is a stunning time, when birds, insects and butterflies abound. Don't let the rain put you off coming, its a beautiful time to be there - and we do offer a lower rate as well!
Take a look at this fun report by Marius Swart, one of the Manager Guides at Kwihala.

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