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Asanja Ruaha Ndembo
Asanja Ruaha Ndembo
Asanja Ruaha Ndembo
Asanja Ruaha Ndembo
Asanja Ruaha Ndembo

Asanja Ruaha Ndembo


7°49’2.7"S 34°46’5.5"E

About Asanja Ruaha Ndembo

Asanja Ruaha Ndembo is a smart safari lodge in the southern section of Ruaha.

With eight stylish tents this looks to be a luxurious base from where you can explore the wilds of Ruaha.

With slick service, beautiful views and comfortable, spacious rooms Asanja Ndembo is an exciting addition to this remoter area of Ruaha National Park.

Our view

With slick service, beautiful views and comfortable, spacious rooms Asanja Ndembo is an exciting addition to this remoter area of Ruaha National Park.

Lyndsey Marris

Lyndsey Marris

Country manager: Tanzania

Accommodation

8 suites

Children

Best for 8+

Open

All year

Activities

Private activities

Private activities

Asanja Ruaha Ndembo: Our full report

Asanja Ruaha Ndembo is a smart safari lodge in the southern section of Ruaha.

With eight stylish tents this looks to be a luxurious base from where you can explore the wilds of Ruaha.

Asanja Ruaha Ndembo is located in a remote region of Ruaha National Park overlooking the Great Ruaha River. The name Ndembo means elephant in the local Bantu language, a nod to the high numbers of elephants found in Ruaha. Elephants are regularly seen around the camp and wading in the river nearby.

The lodge has been designed by Neil Rocher who is the designer behind a number of top safari and beach lodges, including Ikuka Safari Camp in Ruaha and White Sand Villas on Zanzibar. The lodge has quite a modern aesthetic, with an open-plan design, oversized furniture and a colour scheme of creams and soft greys. All areas are open-fronted to take in the views, and everything blends in well with the landscape.

Asanja Ruaha Ndembo has eight luxury tented suites, each of which has double or twin beds, and a small lounge area. The bathroom is open plan style with a freestanding bath and outdoor shower. To the front of each suite is a verandah and small plunge pool, making this the only lodge in Ruaha to have private plunge pools for every room. The suites are equipped with all the normal amenities, such as a writing desk, power points for charging batteries. There is also a ceiling fan, which is welcome during the hotter months of the year!

There is a lounge and dining area where meals are taken, although in good weather these can be served outside. As with all good safari camps, there is a fire pit surrounded by directors’ chairs where guests regularly gather for a pre-dinner drink.

Activities at Asanja Ruaha Ndembo revolve around game drives in remote areas of Ruaha National Park. The wildlife in Ruaha can be fantastic, particularly in the dry season, and the park is known for its high numbers of lions and elephants. Walking safaris are also available, at an extra cost, and focus on these is usually on the plants, birds and other smaller animal species which you often miss when driving. The camp also offers night drives, fishing and a fly-camping experience, ‘Asanja Under the Stars’, which is a small, exclusive camp set up for you in the middle of the bush. This experience is best booked in advance.

Geographics

Location
Ruaha National Park, Tanzania
Ideal length of stay
Stay for at least three nights to try the activities and explore the area.
Directions
Asanja Ruaha is around an hour drive from Msembe Airstrip or one hour drive from Jongomero Airstrip.
Accessible by
Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Full Board & Activities
Food quality
We found the food at Asanja Ndembo to be very good.

Breakfast is served either in camp or taken as a picnic if you have an early morning game drive. In camp, we enjoyed a selection of tropical fruit, a platter of freshly baked bread and cakes, as well as hot food cooked to order.

Lunch was three light, well portioned, courses, which we ate outside admiring the view. We enjoyed a Mexican tortilla style wrap with pineapple salsa, sweet potato and green bean salad.

Dinner is a three-course meal served to your own table. We had a delicious vegetable soup for starter, then for the main course we were served a warming curry with chapatis, rounding the meal off with crepes and fruit.
Dining style
Individual Tables
Dining locations
Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service
Room service is available on request
Drinks included
Drinks are at extra cost, and we expect these to be around $5 USD for a beer or glass of wine.

Children

Attitude towards children
Asanja Ruaha accepts children of all ages.
Property’s age restrictions
None
Notes
Asanja Ruaha is unfenced and wildlife wonders through the camp. Children should be supervised at all times.

Communications

Communications
There is WiFi both in the suites and in the communal areas.
TV & radio
No
Water supply
Borehole

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
Yes
Dangerous animals
High Risk
Security measures
Guests are accompanied after dark,
Fire safety

Activities

  • Private activities

    Private activities

Extras

Disabled access
Not Possible
Laundry facilities
A complimentary laundry service is included.
Money
There are electronic safes in the rooms

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Asanja Ruaha Ndembo's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Asanja Ruaha.


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When to go to Ruaha National Park

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Asanja Ruaha in Ruaha National Park


Jan

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

Jun

Jul

Aug

Sep

Oct

Nov

Dec

Ruaha National Park in January

In January, clear skies and sunshine prevail, with temperatures rising and rain showers not uncommon. This period is excellent for birdwatching, as resident birds enter breeding plumage and migrant species arrive. The Usangu wetlands teem with avian activity. After the end of the festive period, January offers great value and quiet park conditions. However, wildlife may be more dispersed in areas like Mwagusi.

The baobab-dotted landscape provides stunning backdrops for photography. Visitors can enjoy game drives along the river, spotting elephants, buffaloes, and various antelope species. Walking safaris offer intimate encounters with smaller creatures and flora.

  • Variable weather: dry, cloudy, or rainy
  • Occasional thunderstorms may occur
  • Good time for birding, many migrant species
  • Wildlife dispersed due to available water

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in January

Ruaha National Park in February

February in Ruaha is one of the hottest months, with temperatures reaching around 33°C/91°F. The short dry season continues, making it an excellent time for wildlife viewing around the Great Ruaha River and remaining water sources. There are few tourists in the park at this time, and lodge rates are lower.

This month is particularly rewarding for birdlife as northern hemisphere migrants join resident species in the Usangu wetlands and along the river banks. The Mwagusi area is prime for lion spotting, while the rolling hills and rocky escarpments offer breathtaking vistas. Visitors can enjoy bush picnics and guided walks to explore the diverse flora.

  • Hot and dry weather in Ruaha
  • Wildlife congregating around water sources
  • Excellent game viewing opportunities
  • Lush and green landscapes after rains
  • Fewer tourists, more intimate safari experience

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in February

Ruaha National Park in March

The Great Ruaha River swells, attracting diverse wildlife. This is an excellent time to visit as the vegetation becomes lush and vibrant. Cat sightings may be infrequent, but birdwatching remains exceptional, especially around the Usangu wetlands.

Many camps begin to wind down operations, but those remaining open offer great value. The rains transform the landscape, with baobabs and acacias in full bloom. Walking safaris may be limited, but game drives can reveal unique sightings of animals in their rain-season behaviours.

  • Hot with building humidity before rains
  • Wildlife viewing variable
  • Park is quiet with lower visitor numbers
  • Good time for birding in Ruaha
  • Green landscapes offer scenic photography

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in March

Ruaha National Park in April

April is the wettest month in Ruaha, with an average of 250mm of rain. The park's ecosystem thrives, with the Great Ruaha River and surrounding areas lush and teeming with life. This period is excellent for observing smaller creatures, insects, and birds.

Many of the lodges in the park will close, but a handful remain open, offering significant discounts. Visitor numbers are very low, but this is an ideal time for photographers capturing the park's verdant beauty and for those interested in the park's diverse flora. While big game viewing becomes more challenging due to dense vegetation, patient observers can be rewarded with unique sightings.

  • Heavy rains expected, dramatic thunderstorms
  • Some camps may close due to accessibility
  • Lush vegetation, wildlife more dispersed
  • Lowest visitor numbers and rates all year
  • Challenging time for game viewing

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in April

Ruaha National Park in May

As May progresses in Ruaha, temperatures start to drop slightly, and the rains begin to clear. The Great Ruaha River and other water sources remain full, supporting a wide range of wildlife. This transitional period offers a unique blend of lush landscapes and improving game viewing conditions. Herbivores begin to congregate as the land starts to dry.

Visitor numbers and lodge rates remain low, providing excellent value. This is an excellent time to explore the park's diverse habitats, from riverine areas to the baobab-studded savannas.

  • Rains continue, creating dramatic skies
  • Quiet period with few other tourists
  • Lush green landscapes throughout the park
  • Wildlife dispersed, fewer sightings
  • Lower prices make safaris more affordable

Our view

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in May

Ruaha National Park in June

June marks the end of the rainy season in Ruaha, with wildlife starting to concentrate around perennial water sources like the Great Ruaha River. The landscape begins to dry, but many areas remain green. This is the start of the shoulder season, with camps reopening and offering good value.

Game viewing improves as the month progresses, particularly around the river and remaining water holes. The Mwagusi area becomes excellent for predator sightings. Walking safaris and fly-camping options increase as the terrain dries. The Usangu wetlands continue to offer excellent birdwatching opportunities. Visitors can enjoy spectacular sunsets over the baobab-dotted landscape.

  • Variable weather: dry, cloudy, or some rain
  • Wildlife starting to gather near water sources
  • Park becoming less green, easier viewing
  • Good value with shoulder season prices
  • Moderate visitor numbers

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in June

Ruaha National Park in July

July in Ruaha National Park marks the beginning of the peak season. With no rainfall expected and pleasant daytime temperatures, it's an ideal time for safaris. The Great Ruaha River becomes a lifeline for wildlife, offering excellent game viewing opportunities. As the park dries, animals congregate in fewer areas, making sightings more frequent and spectacular. The Mwagusi area is particularly good for lion sightings. There is also increased chances of seeing cheetah and wild dog.

Walking safaris are at their best, allowing close encounters with the park's flora and smaller fauna. The rolling hills and rocky escarpments provide stunning backdrops for photography. Birdwatching remains excellent, especially around the remaining water sources. Night drives offer chances to see nocturnal species. Seasonal balloon safaris become available.

  • Dry and warm days, cool mornings/evenings
  • Excellent wildlife viewing as water diminishes
  • Popular time with higher visitor numbers
  • Peak season prices due to prime conditions
  • Seasonal balloon safaris commence

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in July

Ruaha National Park in August

August is the heart of the dry season in Ruaha, characterised by clear skies and sunny weather. Nighttime temperatures can be cool, so layered clothing is recommended for early morning game drives. The Great Ruaha River and other permanent water sources attract large concentrations of wildlife, offering excellent viewing opportunities. The Mwagusi and Usangu areas are particularly rewarding for game viewing, and this is traditionally a good time of year for cat sightings.

The iconic baobab trees stand out starkly against the dry landscape. Walking safaris and bush picnics are at their best.

  • Dry weather, cool mornings and evenings
  • Superb wildlife viewing around water sources
  • Busy season with many visitors in Ruaha
  • Book early as camps fill up quickly
  • Great time for predator sightings

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in August

Ruaha National Park in September

September is an excellent month to visit Ruaha. As the dry season peaks, wildlife becomes increasingly concentrated around remaining water sources, particularly the Great Ruaha River. This leads to high densities of animals and frequent predator sightings, especially in the Mwagusi area. The landscape is starkly beautiful, with baobabs and dry savanna dominating.

This is an ideal time for walking safaris and night drives. Birdwatching remains rewarding, especially around the shrinking water bodies. The Usangu wetlands, though diminished, still attract diverse birdlife.

  • Fantastic wildlife viewing opportunities
  • Parks slightly less busy than peak months
  • Very dry conditions, sparse vegetation
  • Cool mornings, warm days in Ruaha
  • High season prices still in effect

Our view

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in September

Ruaha National Park in October

October in Ruaha marks the end of the dry season, offering some of the best wildlife viewing opportunities. The Great Ruaha River and remaining water holes attract large concentrations of animals, making for spectacular game drives. Elephant sightings are particularly frequent during this time.

The landscape is at its driest, creating a striking backdrop for photography, though it can be dusty. Predator sightings, especially of lions and leopards, are common in areas like Mwagusi. Walking safaris provide intimate wildlife encounters. Birdwatching remains excellent as migratory species begin to arrive. There's a chance of early rains towards the end of the month, bringing relief to the parched landscape. Balloon safaris operate until the end of October.

  • Mostly dry with comfortable temperatures
  • Excellent game viewing, especially around rivers
  • Landscape can appear barren and dusty
  • Lower visitor numbers than earlier months
  • Chance of dramatic storms towards month-end

Our view

A very good time to visit

Weather in October

Ruaha National Park in November

November usually sees the start of the rains in Ruaha, though the timing varies yearly. Game viewing is very dependent on the rains. The landscape begins to transform, with new growth appearing. This is an excellent time for birdwatching as migratory species arrive in the Usangu wetlands and other areas. Most camps remain open, offering shoulder season rates and good value.

Early November can be particularly rewarding, combining late dry season wildlife concentrations with the first rains. The large buffalo herds tend to move up onto the escarpment. Walking safaris may be possible depending on conditions. The baobab trees start to leaf, creating a beautiful contrast with the dry landscape.

  • Variable weather: dry, cloudy, or rainy
  • Park relatively quiet, lower-end prices
  • Good wildlife sightings before rains disperse
  • Some camps may close for maintenance
  • Unpredictable conditions

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in November

Ruaha National Park in December

December is a quiet time to visit the park. Game viewing is good, with animals still relatively concentrated. The landscape is a mix of dry areas and new growth, creating diverse habitats. Birdwatching is excellent, with both resident and migratory species present in abundance, especially in the Usangu wetlands. The festive period can be busy, so early booking is essential.

Outside the holiday season, December offers great value with shoulder season rates. Temperatures are pleasant, averaging around 27°C/81°F, with occasional thunderstorms adding drama to the landscape. Walking safaris (weather permitting) and night drives provide varied wildlife experiences.

  • Variable weather with possible thunderstorms
  • Good game viewing in Ruaha's core areas
  • Very quiet early, becoming busier later
  • Prices low early, rising significantly later
  • Green vegetation starting to return

Our view

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in December

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