Unique Stay: Jabali Ridge

Tour Description

Jabali Ridge: A Luxurious Wilderness Retreat in Tanzania’s Ruaha National Park

Jabali Ridge is an exquisite boutique lodge perched atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the Mwagusi River within Ruaha National Park, Tanzania. Known for blending luxurious comforts with the wild landscapes of East Africa, Jabali Ridge caters to travelers seeking an intimate experience with nature. The lodge boasts a beautifully designed infinity pool and on-site spa, perfect for relaxing after a day of safari exploration.

A landscape of sun-bleached plains, mighty baobabs and hardy shrubs, Ruaha is home to large numbers of lion, elephant, buffalo and even endangered African wild dogs. During the rainy season, visitors can hear the incredible thundering of the Ikuka waterfalls and even witness the Mwagusi beginning to flow after being dry for seven months. The dry season is equally exciting, with opportunities to spot buffalo herds in the riverbed and elephants digging in the sand for water.

Ruaha National Park is uniquely situated at the crossroads of southern and eastern African ecosystems, providing an exceptional diversity of wildlife. The park is renowned for its thriving lion population and offers some of Africa’s finest walking safaris.

Jabali Ridge’s eight suites are set among giant granite boulders. Relax in the hammock on your wooden deck and unwind with a book. Cool off in the glorious infinity pool, which overlooks the vast plains, or head to our spa to smooth out any tensions with a hot-stone massage. After a day spent walking through the bush or tracking lions in a game vehicle, pause for a refreshing G&T as the sun sets over Ruaha.

ACTIVITIES AT JABALI RIDGE:

Jabali Ridge offers a diverse array of activities designed to bring guests closer to the wilderness of Ruaha National Park:

Walking Safaris:
Join a guided walking safari to experience Ruaha’s landscapes up close. This intimate journey offers unique perspectives on the behavior and movements of wildlife, from elephants and buffalo to the smaller creatures often missed from a safari vehicle. With a focus on safety and environmental understanding, our expert guides provide insights into the ecosystem, wildlife, and flora.

Night Game Drives:
Explore the park under starlit skies, where nocturnal species reveal a fascinating side of Ruaha. With skilled guides and powerful spotlights, uncover the mysteries of the African night. Look for prowling lions, elusive leopards, and an array of smaller creatures like chameleons, bush babies, and nightjars.

Daytime Game Drives:
Twice-daily game drives allow guests to journey across Ruaha’s savannahs and along its riverbanks. With a maximum of six guests per vehicle, these excursions ensure personal and comfortable wildlife viewing. Enjoy picnic breakfasts at sunrise or sundowners at sunset, while spotting elephants, antelope, and big cats.

Photo Safaris:
For photography enthusiasts, Jabali Ridge offers specialized vehicles equipped for capturing the park’s wildlife. With 360-degree rotating seats, drop-down sides, and charging ports, these vehicles are designed to enhance your photography experience, providing prime angles for that perfect shot.

Hot Air Balloon Safari:
From June to October, guests can experience the beauty of Ruaha National Park from above on a hot-air balloon safari. Drift over the savannahs and rivers, witnessing herds of wildlife from a unique aerial perspective. This seasonal activity allows you to marvel at the iconic landscapes dotted with baobabs and spot diverse wildlife from the skies.

WHEN TO VISIT JABALI RIDGE:

June - September:
As the dry season unfolds, Ruaha’s landscapes transform into golden hues, and wildlife becomes concentrated around water sources, providing ideal game viewing. Walking safaris are especially rewarding in these months.

October - January:
The dry season peaks, making it prime for safari adventures. By November, the first rains begin, reviving the landscape and attracting migratory birds. January, while wetter, offers lush scenery and a lower visitor count for a more exclusive experience.

February - May:
February sees warm days and fewer visitors, creating a peaceful ambiance perfect for intimate game-viewing experiences. The camp closes mid-March to May for the rainy season.

TOP TIP:
Combine your stay at Jabali Ridge with a hot-air balloon safari over the majestic Ruaha landscapes. Speak with our Africa Specialists to create a personalized journey, blending the best of Tanzania’s wilderness with this unforgettable experience.