Authentic big game experience without the crowds Warm friendly hosts and very experienced guides made this a very special 7 day trip. Photos shown are from phone. Highlights include wild hunting dogs, lions several times, leopard twice, outstanding encounters with elephants hippos and buffalo at wallow holes, bat eared foxes, mongoose, hyaena, not to mention about 200, often spectacular bird species. Small numbers of vehicles in park added to a real sense of wilderness. Great wildlife viewing from camp. Lodgings very comfortable. Flights in regular and east. Loved it!

Great food, great service, excellent hosts in a stunning location We spent 2 nights here and wished we could have stayed longer!
It was lovely to stay in the park and be able to have morning coffee and a treat served in our hut, go for a 2 h game drive and then return for a breakfast of fresh homemade muffins, cinnamon roll, and your choice of eggs and accompaniments along with fruit. After that, take another drive before returning for a delicious lunch, relax for a couple hours in your hammock or comfy seating overlooking the river, and then embark on an evening drive before returning for a nice hot... read moreWe spent 2 nights here and wished we could have stayed longer!
It was lovely to stay in the park and be able to have morning coffee and a treat served in our hut, go for a 2 h game drive and then return for a breakfast of fresh homemade muffins, cinnamon roll, and your choice of eggs and accompaniments along with fruit. After that, take another drive before returning for a delicious lunch, relax for a couple hours in your hammock or comfy seating overlooking the river, and then embark on an evening drive before returning for a nice hot shower followed by drinks by the campfire and a buffet dinner served under the stars. The food was phenomenal. Definitely return to the camp for lunch as the lunch they packed for us to take away on the day we left was not as good as the rest had been.
The location could not be beat, with a huge pride of lions, dik diks, giraffes, and even a couple of leopards being found nearby.
The owner and his son were excellent hosts, and made sure to make everyone feel welcome while giving interesting background on what it was like to grow up in the area.
You won't regret staying here, and we were happy that we picked it for our fancier accommodation on our trip. read less

Heaven on earth ✨😍 Honestly the best place in the world!! Everything is perfect. Not only was the wildlife everything but the guides who knew the answer to all questions made it that much better. Baldon and Geoffrey were incredible and are perfect for the job. Plus Baldons knowledge of the stars and all the plants were the icing on top of the perfect experience. The food was wonderful and they even made sure I didn’t miss out on anything even with a vegan diet. The Bandas are wonderful and always make me feel like I am living in a dream. I can’t... read moreHonestly the best place in the world!! Everything is perfect. Not only was the wildlife everything but the guides who knew the answer to all questions made it that much better. Baldon and Geoffrey were incredible and are perfect for the job. Plus Baldons knowledge of the stars and all the plants were the icing on top of the perfect experience. The food was wonderful and they even made sure I didn’t miss out on anything even with a vegan diet. The Bandas are wonderful and always make me feel like I am living in a dream. I can’t wait for my next trip here. read less

WAUW Wauw - just WAUW!!! If you go to Ruaha Nationalpark, you must stay at the Mwagusi Camp! The camp it self is fantastic, but the manager and the staff make this place absolutely fantastic. We felt very welcome from the moment, we were picked up at the airstrip. We had the best guide and driver, and we had so much fun in the car all the time. They found so many animals and birds for us.
The food, the tent and the surroundings are amazing.
Do try the night safari - that's amazing!
Thank you Chris and Rosie - we will... read moreWauw - just WAUW!!! If you go to Ruaha Nationalpark, you must stay at the Mwagusi Camp! The camp it self is fantastic, but the manager and the staff make this place absolutely fantastic. We felt very welcome from the moment, we were picked up at the airstrip. We had the best guide and driver, and we had so much fun in the car all the time. They found so many animals and birds for us.
The food, the tent and the surroundings are amazing.
Do try the night safari - that's amazing!
Thank you Chris and Rosie - we will never forget you and your fantastic team:) read less

A step back in time to when nature ruled My adventure took me to the captivating Mwagusi Camp, a true sanctuary in the heart of the Ruaha National Park in southern Tanzania. This expansive reserve, the largest in the country, is where the camp is perched, right on the sandy banks of the Mwagusi River. The camp's unique position offers a front-row seat to the captivating wildlife that frequents the area, including elephants, lions, and a vast variety of bird species.

It was a truly fantastic experience.

Guided by the renowned Chris Fox, a true son of Tanzania and quite possibly Africa's most experienced wildlife expert, my journey was... read moreMy adventure took me to the captivating Mwagusi Camp, a true sanctuary in the heart of the Ruaha National Park in southern Tanzania. This expansive reserve, the largest in the country, is where the camp is perched, right on the sandy banks of the Mwagusi River. The camp's unique position offers a front-row seat to the captivating wildlife that frequents the area, including elephants, lions, and a vast variety of bird species.

It was a truly fantastic experience.

Guided by the renowned Chris Fox, a true son of Tanzania and quite possibly Africa's most experienced wildlife expert, my journey was enriched by his profound knowledge and unwavering passion for wildlife. His understanding of Africa's intricate web of life is unparalleled, making him a true national treasure.

The camp, managed by a team that has been an integral part of Chris' journey for generations, offers a delightful and personalized experience. With a limited number of spacious tents, delectable cuisine, and guides who are experts in their field, the camp ensures a memorable stay for every guest.

Undecided about where to head in Tanzania - look no further if you're seeking a very special experience. read less

Mwagusi Camp-WOW! When visiting Tanzania, Mwagusi Camp far exceeded my expectations! From the Bandas, to the food, to the fabulous game drives. But more importantly the care and knowledge the entire staff had in providing an unforgettable experience. Chris Fox the owner, made sure his guests had everything to make their stay one that will never be forgotten. From his fabulous stories, to the delicious cuisine, Mwagusi Camp is a camp you will want to experience. His staff is honest and very hard working and it shows. I highly recommend Mwagusi Camp to experience what is a once in... read moreWhen visiting Tanzania, Mwagusi Camp far exceeded my expectations! From the Bandas, to the food, to the fabulous game drives. But more importantly the care and knowledge the entire staff had in providing an unforgettable experience. Chris Fox the owner, made sure his guests had everything to make their stay one that will never be forgotten. From his fabulous stories, to the delicious cuisine, Mwagusi Camp is a camp you will want to experience. His staff is honest and very hard working and it shows. I highly recommend Mwagusi Camp to experience what is a once in a lifetime adventure. read less

A very special camp in magical Ruaha Baobabs everywhere! Wonderful animal sightings (even Leopards in Baobabs!).

Ruaha is a wild & beautiful place and the cherry on top must be Mwagusi Camp. We traveled as a family (our girls are aged 5 and 8) and everyone had a wonderful time.

Thank you Chris & the Mwagusi Team.

Mwagusi Camp intimate, authentic, wonderful! My son and I have just left Mwagusi Camp having stayed three nights.
The experience was exceptional.
The accommodation consists of Bandas which are basically a tent with a thatched roof above which helps to keep the interior surprisingly cool. The food and beverage offering is also remarkable bearing in mind the camp is in the middle of the bush.
The camp is owned and run by Chris Fox who is a gentleman and a consummate host. Chris is also a fascinating raconteur who willingly shares his exciting safari stories with you each evening at supper. This commences with all guests sitting around... read moreMy son and I have just left Mwagusi Camp having stayed three nights.
The experience was exceptional.
The accommodation consists of Bandas which are basically a tent with a thatched roof above which helps to keep the interior surprisingly cool. The food and beverage offering is also remarkable bearing in mind the camp is in the middle of the bush.
The camp is owned and run by Chris Fox who is a gentleman and a consummate host. Chris is also a fascinating raconteur who willingly shares his exciting safari stories with you each evening at supper. This commences with all guests sitting around a camp fire with a drink or two then moving to a beautifully laid table all situated on the dry bed of the river Mwgusi.
It's a magical experience with the like of leopard hunting monkeys very nearby.
Chris is very ably assisted by Rosie and their endearing young son Freddie!
Our guide and driver Jimmy and Johan were extremely friendly and knowledgable.
I found the three days to be very enjoyable, also incredibly peaceful and rejuvenating with plenty of free time to relax.
I'd thoroughly recommend a visit. More read less

Hakuna Matata does exist! This place is magical. I cannot speak highly enough about this place. I would go back in a heartbeat. Worth every nickel. The bandas were superb, beautiful, large, clean, romantic. But truly it is the service that shines through. Our guide was amazing - Baldon, who knew every animal in sight. All of the staff were so attentive to every detail of our stay, and so very kind. Chris himself shared many meals with us. The evening dinners in the riverbed by torchlight was spectacular. If you want the trip of a lifetime, I highly recommend Mwagusi. Just watch out... read moreThis place is magical. I cannot speak highly enough about this place. I would go back in a heartbeat. Worth every nickel. The bandas were superb, beautiful, large, clean, romantic. But truly it is the service that shines through. Our guide was amazing - Baldon, who knew every animal in sight. All of the staff were so attentive to every detail of our stay, and so very kind. Chris himself shared many meals with us. The evening dinners in the riverbed by torchlight was spectacular. If you want the trip of a lifetime, I highly recommend Mwagusi. Just watch out for those monkeys because they seem to know when tea and biscuits are served in the bandas, and they will take your cookies! read less

Very comfortable safari camp We had an excellent stay for two nights at Mwagusi camp. The tents are very comfortable, the food was excellent, and the game drives were better than any we've done before. Ruaha is much less crowded than other parks, and Mwagusi's guides are incredibly knowledgeable and friendly. All the staff at Mwagusi are courteous and helpful.

We began the day with coffee delivered to the tent, and ended it with dinner and drinks served at tables set up in the riverbed. We did have a few minor issues that keep me from giving five stars (toilet problems,... read moreWe had an excellent stay for two nights at Mwagusi camp. The tents are very comfortable, the food was excellent, and the game drives were better than any we've done before. Ruaha is much less crowded than other parks, and Mwagusi's guides are incredibly knowledgeable and friendly. All the staff at Mwagusi are courteous and helpful.

We began the day with coffee delivered to the tent, and ended it with dinner and drinks served at tables set up in the riverbed. We did have a few minor issues that keep me from giving five stars (toilet problems, broken tent zipper), but nothing that would make me think twice about staying again. read less

Simply marvellous! Our staying at "Mwagusi camp" was exactly what we were looking for : the tent was super, spacious and very well kept , food was excellent, ( very good chef indeed ) Silence and quite completed our stay!
Chris and Rosie are 2 perfect hosts . Chatting with them in the evening, during dinner, is an added value : they share their knowledge about the park, wildlife, and also the country - thank you both
BUT our major THANKS !! goes to our Guide Jimmy and our Driver Hemed : they were simply marvellous!
so much engaged to make us happy and to... read moreOur staying at "Mwagusi camp" was exactly what we were looking for : the tent was super, spacious and very well kept , food was excellent, ( very good chef indeed ) Silence and quite completed our stay!
Chris and Rosie are 2 perfect hosts . Chatting with them in the evening, during dinner, is an added value : they share their knowledge about the park, wildlife, and also the country - thank you both
BUT our major THANKS !! goes to our Guide Jimmy and our Driver Hemed : they were simply marvellous!
so much engaged to make us happy and to let us see, discover whatever possible in wildlife, giving us daily surprises and emotions "
Their knowledge about wildlife ( and also small slopes ) is un-believable and for sure we will never forget them and their kindness More read less

A tue insider tip!! Mwagusi Camp at Ruaha National Park Tanzania A true insider tip....!
Not our first trip to Tanzania but our first safari. We were looking for a unique nature experience far away from mass tourism as you know it from the Serengeti. What did we get: far more than expected! First of all, who is chasing the Big 5 is wrong here. There are no rhinos. What there is: a wonderful bush and river landscape in absolute isolation. Animal encounters very often alone or with a maximum of 3 other jeeps. A very respectful interaction with the wildlife and among the guides. No jockeying for the best spots. From... read moreA true insider tip....!
Not our first trip to Tanzania but our first safari. We were looking for a unique nature experience far away from mass tourism as you know it from the Serengeti. What did we get: far more than expected! First of all, who is chasing the Big 5 is wrong here. There are no rhinos. What there is: a wonderful bush and river landscape in absolute isolation. Animal encounters very often alone or with a maximum of 3 other jeeps. A very respectful interaction with the wildlife and among the guides. No jockeying for the best spots. From lions to elephants, from hippos to crocodiles, an absolute variety of animals. We saw more than we expected. The camp is located directly on the Mwagusi River. It consists of spacious beautifully appointed bandas nestled in the river landscape and offers a wonderful view to the few waterholes (we were in September, dry season). We had a visit from a herd of elephants right in front of the banda, like in the movies! Chris Fox, his wife and little son had lunch and dinner with us every day and Chris told us about his exciting life. A really extraordinary man who is very committed to the conservation of nature in Africa. Among other things, he runs and supports his own reforestation project in the mountains. The food at the camp is fantastic and varied cooked with love and home grown vegetables. We had chosen exclusive tours (without other guests) for our game drives and did not regret it. Our guide Baldur and our driver were absolutely top. We always felt safe and learned a lot from them. Baldur loves nature and even explained the stars to us at night. In summary, the 4 days in Ruaha National Park were an experience of a lifetime, perhaps the best we have experienced so far while traveling. Thank you Chris Fox with family and to the whole team, good luck and strength for the future, what you do and have created is authentic, valuable and great. Respect!!
Christina and Michael (the Oktoberfest refugees from Munich 😉) read less

We did not want to leave! The minute my friend Lynn and I were greeted at the local airport and loaded into our safari vehicle, our amazing time spent at Mwagusi Camp was underway!

From the get-go our knowledgeable and delightful guide Jimmy and driver Eli gave us a wonderful taste of what was to come. They were so thoughtful and kind; enjoyable to chat with and learn from; and accommodated our interests and goals during each unique safari we went on with them. What a pleasant kickoff to our four days at this beautiful and atmospheric camp, with the gorgeous lands & animals that surround... read moreThe minute my friend Lynn and I were greeted at the local airport and loaded into our safari vehicle, our amazing time spent at Mwagusi Camp was underway!

From the get-go our knowledgeable and delightful guide Jimmy and driver Eli gave us a wonderful taste of what was to come. They were so thoughtful and kind; enjoyable to chat with and learn from; and accommodated our interests and goals during each unique safari we went on with them. What a pleasant kickoff to our four days at this beautiful and atmospheric camp, with the gorgeous lands & animals that surround it.

We were equally surprised and delighted to be immediately welcomed to camp by co-host Rosie & the other friendly staff who were awaiting our arrival. They ushered us to a delightful lunch with other guests in one of the cool & enchanting open air, communal dining/lodge spaces.

It was so helpful to be given Rosie’s thorough orientation at the start of our stay—an introduction to the comfortable flow of the days to come and how to make the most of our visit. Throughout, we were constantly delighted by the attention and courteous care we received from all of the staff at Mwagusi and owner/host Chris, making us feel appreciated and at home.

Lynn and I had such fun staying in the well & beautifully designed tent/banda accommodations; with such attention to detail and a feeling of blending perfectly with the landscape. How fun to be outdoors and indoors at the same time! We continually enjoyed the view of the dry riverbed (we chose our early September dates specifically to hit this time) that looked like an outdoor art installation. We were also entertained throughout by the wildlife that visited the riverbed & loved our downtimes relaxing after lunch or sipping early morning coffee before heading out on safari at first light.

We were pleased to have Gertruda, an apprentice guide, join Jimmy for our last few outings, bookending our excellent Mwagusi safaris. We were delighted to see her in this role & be able to share her knowledge and experiences with us, too. Well done!

Last but not least, the riverbed dinners—fireside and lantern lit; cooking pots full of the evening’s delicious meals and the long family-style dining table—endeared us to the other guests as we chatted about our days’ adventures and enjoy each other’s company.

Now home, I pour over my beautiful photos to remember and relive the amazing time we spent with the Mwagusi camp family & new friends. Thank you for your hospitality, Chris, Rosie, and staff! We would be fortunate indeed to be able to come back again. read less

Beautiful and luxurious Safari Camp Mwagusi Safari camp is beautiful. The staff are super attentive took care of our every need. The location is right in the middle of Ruaha National Park, which is the second largest national park in Tanzania.
The dinner at the camp was on the dry riverbed with candlelight. Beautiful.
Our baranda (tent suite) was lovely, comfortable beds, a view of the river bed. I could have hung out there all day.
The guide (Val) and driver (Eli) were fantastic, knowledgeable, fun and took great care of us. It was not crowded and we saw some amazing sites including a pride of lions... read moreMwagusi Safari camp is beautiful. The staff are super attentive took care of our every need. The location is right in the middle of Ruaha National Park, which is the second largest national park in Tanzania.
The dinner at the camp was on the dry riverbed with candlelight. Beautiful.
Our baranda (tent suite) was lovely, comfortable beds, a view of the river bed. I could have hung out there all day.
The guide (Val) and driver (Eli) were fantastic, knowledgeable, fun and took great care of us. It was not crowded and we saw some amazing sites including a pride of lions eating their recent kill (Cape Buffalo) and Leopard in a tree, tons of interesting birds and giraffes and elephants galore. The sunset was beautiful. More read less

Incredible place We could not be happier with our stay in the camp and park.

Staff worked very hard and were super friendly.
The rooms were beautiful, incredible view, great location, unreal baranda ,very spacious, comfortable and very clean, the only issue we’ve had was the shower, not really hot water and very little pressure, other than that everything was excellent.

The vehicles were amazing, very open, comfortable seats, best vehicles for safari i’ve ever had.

And for me and my wife the best thing about the experience, the drives and the guides.
We have been very lucky with animal sittings, but there... read moreWe could not be happier with our stay in the camp and park.

Staff worked very hard and were super friendly.
The rooms were beautiful, incredible view, great location, unreal baranda ,very spacious, comfortable and very clean, the only issue we’ve had was the shower, not really hot water and very little pressure, other than that everything was excellent.

The vehicles were amazing, very open, comfortable seats, best vehicles for safari i’ve ever had.

And for me and my wife the best thing about the experience, the drives and the guides.
We have been very lucky with animal sittings, but there is no doubt that is thanks to our 2 guides. They had incredible knowledge, amazing attitudes, always happy, very funny and a very hard work mentality, great tracking of animals, eye sight and very attentive. 2 of the best guides i’ve ever had.

Management of the camp was excellent as well.

The conclude, the experience was incredible and impecable. It was our honey moon and the went above and beyond for us (traditional dance and singing from the staff).
Highly recommend . read less

Simply amazing The staff and management were extremely helpful and kind. The rooms were very accommodating and the view spectacular. We want to thank our driver Gaspar and guide Baldon for being so incredible, they were very attentive, amazing to be around and extremely knowledgeable. Can’t wait to return!

Amazing family safari It's hard to know where to start when you talk about Ruha. It felt risky initially taking 4 children ( aged between 9 and 16) for their first safari experience somewhere a little off the beaten track. Two of our children are nervous flyers and when they saw the tiny propellor plane we were about to get onto they went a bit quiet. This changed quickly as the plane was full (all 12 of us ) so John had to sit in the copilot seat. Seeing their father at the front actually made them laugh and actually the nerves... read moreIt's hard to know where to start when you talk about Ruha. It felt risky initially taking 4 children ( aged between 9 and 16) for their first safari experience somewhere a little off the beaten track. Two of our children are nervous flyers and when they saw the tiny propellor plane we were about to get onto they went a bit quiet. This changed quickly as the plane was full (all 12 of us ) so John had to sit in the copilot seat. Seeing their father at the front actually made them laugh and actually the nerves disappeared completely as we landed en route briefly in Selous and saw a lion next to the runaway (what?). Arriving in Ruha, we were met by our fantastic guide Val and driver Jaspar who were with us for the entire time. So much wildlife spotting even on the way to the camp. Honestly we could not have been more happy when we arrived. Chris, his eldest son Kiasly, wife Rosie and darling Freddie had literally thought of everything . We had three tents in a row which the children loved the independence of. We were here in July so the river was dry but that didn’t stop the wildlife coming down. Stylish bandas with beautiful verandahs, comfy beds, breakfast in the “bush”, delicious food, big skies, thick stars in the sky at night, animal noises as you are dropping off to sleep were all heavenly . The wildlife spotting was fantastic. Val and Jaspar encouraged the children, went all out to spot all sorts of things for us and gave us so much information as we drove around in the truck. One lunchtime back in the lodge there was much excitement when were just about to sit down to eat and Chris announced “ Kaisly is sitting on a leopard with a kill up a tree, do you want to head out? “ Which sent us all racing back to the trucks, food temporarily abandoned but so worth it. Chris and his family and all his staff are wonderful hosts. The children grew up here in the 4 days we stayed for sure, making conversation with strangers at supper as we dined by candlelight on the dried up river bed under the cast African sky and facing an elephant in the dark on their way to bed ( supervised - no one is allowed to wander around on their own after dark). The conversations were so enriching and so many made us “sit up and listen” to what life is like living, running a business and working in Tanzania. We delighted in hearing about Chris’s many adventures as well the experiences the other guests had had. We could not have felt more welcome and it was by the far the highlight (voted by all 6 of us) of our trip to Tanzania.
As Ruha gets more recognition, and more tourists come, there will be change for sure. I hope above all hopes that it is managed and Ruha keeps the soul it clearly has. There is definitely something in the land here. I cried as we left and definitely left some of my heart behind but I did take a small pebble with me (sorry, not sorry) so will always have a bit of Ruha to hold in my hands. I can not recommend Mwagusi Camp enough. Do whatever you can to get there. read less

An amazing stay! A very authentic Tanzanian camp experience. The accommodations were well-designed and created with local materials. They had about everything that we needed and we made ourselves at home quickly. The common areas were very cool, and we had different locations for dinner every night, taking in the river area in a unique fashion...beautiful stars, lantern lit river banks, and even a little local talent, too. The staff was very concerned about our needs and worked hard to ensure we were well-cared for. The food was great, and they offered free drinks throughout our stay, including... read moreA very authentic Tanzanian camp experience. The accommodations were well-designed and created with local materials. They had about everything that we needed and we made ourselves at home quickly. The common areas were very cool, and we had different locations for dinner every night, taking in the river area in a unique fashion...beautiful stars, lantern lit river banks, and even a little local talent, too. The staff was very concerned about our needs and worked hard to ensure we were well-cared for. The food was great, and they offered free drinks throughout our stay, including tea each afternoon. The guides and drivers worked tirelessly to help us see all the animals we were hoping to see, and the park was amazingly quiet so we felt like we had it all to ourselves. We would definitely recommend this camp to family and friends! read less

An amazing stay! A very authentic Tanzanian camp experience. The accommodations were well-designed and created with local materials. They had about everything that we needed and we made ourselves at home quickly. The common areas were very cool, and we had different locations for dinner every night, taking in the river area in a unique fashion...beautiful stars, lantern lit river banks, and even a little local talent, too. The staff was very concerned about our needs and worked hard to ensure we were well-cared for. The food was great, and they offered free drinks throughout our stay, including... read moreA very authentic Tanzanian camp experience. The accommodations were well-designed and created with local materials. They had about everything that we needed and we made ourselves at home quickly. The common areas were very cool, and we had different locations for dinner every night, taking in the river area in a unique fashion...beautiful stars, lantern lit river banks, and even a little local talent, too. The staff was very concerned about our needs and worked hard to ensure we were well-cared for. The food was great, and they offered free drinks throughout our stay, including tea each afternoon. The guides and drivers worked tirelessly to help us see all the animals we were hoping to see, and the park was amazingly quiet so we felt like we had it all to ourselves. We would definitely recommend this camp to family and friends! More read less

Wonderful Stay at Mwagusi Safari Camp The safari camp is located directly on the Mwagusi River. The morning sunrise was gorgeous from our tent cottage (Banda) and the lodging was VERY comfortable. We loved the opportunity to eat all meals that we were in camp for with the owner and his family, and all of the staff we met were very welcoming. Our guides were clearly very knowledgeable and worked hard and successfully to share the many wildlife and varying beautiful views with us. We could not have asked for a better introduction to Africa and the wonders of Tanzania’s bush.