About Ikuka Safari Camp
Small, stylish and owner-run, Ikuka Safari Camp sits in a prime position high on the escarpment in Ruaha National Park.
From this superb vantage point, every part of the lodge looks out over the plains below, just 20 minutes from the park’s best game-viewing areas.
The hand of an experienced architect is clear from the outset. Neutral colours, from soft cream curtains to toning bed linen, combine with natural materials to instil a sense of both calm and sophistication.
Plenty of thought has gone into the setting of the seven open-sided rooms, which face either the sunrise or the sunset. Low quartz stone walls and large balconies make the most of the views, while high thatched roofs attract even the lightest of breezes.
The natural theme continues through to the two-storey lounge, built among boulders and complete with spotting scope trained on the plains. Leather chairs and low tables with a range of wildlife books invite relaxation; a large table encourages sociable dining over excellent meals.
Spend your days exploring the game-rich area around the Mwagusi River in an open 4x4 game-drive vehicle, or consider a guided walk and seek out the minutiae of the park’s flora and fauna.
Then return to the gorgeous infinity pool, just waiting to round off your day with a cooling dip-with-a-view.
Our view
We are always excited to see new owner-run camps open, and we think Ikuka is an excellent addition to this remote corner of Africa. It offers something quite special in Ruaha in terms of its elevated location.
Tanzania expert
Accommodation
6 tents
Children
Best for 8+
Open
1 June to 31 March
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Guided walking safari
Hot air ballooning
Private activities
Sleeping under the stars
Traveller reviews of Ikuka Safari Camp
61 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
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When we travel we take lots of photos ourselves to give you a real and un-edited view of the safaris. See our 50 pictures of Ikuka Safari Camp to get the candid view.
View gallerySafaris visiting Ikuka Safari Camp
Just ideas, we'll always tailor-make a trip for you
Jackal Fly-in Safari
8 days • 2 locations • 1 country
DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT
Enjoy a range of activities on this luxury fly-in safari. Explore the remoter regions of Ruaha National Park and Nyerere National Park with phenomenal guides during stays at two impressively comfortable camps that remain perfectly in keeping with their surroundings.
Visiting Nyerere, Ruaha
US$10,460 - US$12,080 per person
Red Colobus Monkey Safari
11 days • 3 locations • 2 country
DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT
This luxury holiday suggestion combines a wildlife safari in Ruaha National Park with a week on Zanzibar, exploring Stone Town’s narrow streets and relaxing on a palm-shaded beach.
Visiting Ruaha, Stone Town and 1 other area
US$6,660 - US$8,490 per person
Ikuka Safari Camp: Our full report
Built high on the escarpment, the upmarket Ikuka Safari Camp has commanding views of Tanzania’s Ruaha National Park.
It was opened in late 2016, about a 20-minute drive from the park’s best game-viewing areas, and stands out for its unique location.
Ikuka is one of the newest properties in the park, named after the area of Ruaha where it’s situated. It is managed by one of the owners Mark Sheridan-Johnson, an experienced safari guide and lodge manager in Tanzania. The architect behind the camp is Neil Rocher, whose portfolio also includes Chongwe River House and Luangwa Safari House in Zambia. All his designs make good use of natural materials to give a fresh, modern take on a traditional safari lodge.
Neil’s signature style is evident in Ikuka's seven open-sided rooms, strung out along the escarpment. They each have stunning views over the national park, with rooms 1-3 facing the sunrise and 4-6 facing the sunset, while a two-storey family room, added since our last visit, has its own plunge pool. All have been beautifully designed and feature low walls, created from locally collected white quartz, and high thatched roofs to allow for a fresh breeze. A neutral colour scheme and the architect's hallmark use of natural materials give the rooms a sophisticated look and a calm, relaxing atmosphere.
Each room has a central tented area with a super king-size bed, surrounded by full-length cream curtains. Two rustic wooden lamps sit either side of the headboard and glass decanters provide fresh drinking water. On one side of the room you will find a comfortable dark leather sofa with a scattering of tasteful cushions and a low coffee table. The floor is covered by makuti matting, with shoots of mother-in-law's tongue growing through it. Combined with large quartz boulders, this creates added interest and helps Ikuka feel in keeping with its surroundings.
The spacious en-suite bathrooms have a good rainfall shower, flush toilets and twin stone washbasins with lovely views. A large mirror hangs on the back wall and Ikuka provides complementary toiletries by Inaya Zanzibar. The bathrooms are separated from the bedroom by a shoulder-height wall constructed from a wooden frame filled with quartz rocks. This looks stunning, and gives the entire room an open, airy feeling, but does limit privacy within the room itself. All rooms have a gas boiler to provide an almost inexhaustible supply of hot water.
Outside, a large wooden balcony, complete with director’s chairs and a hand-carved table, allows you to relax while taking in the panoramic views.
The central area is equally stylish. As with the rooms, its wood-and-thatch construction has been left open-sided to maximize the views – helped by a viewing scope that has been set up to spot game on the plains below. This space has been built around several trees and boulders that were left in place during construction and form a focal point. At ground level you'll find a number of comfortable leather sofas and low tables with coffee-table books. The dining area forms the focus for all meals, which are sociable occasions, with all guests dining at one large table. Up a set of steep stairs is a second relaxation area with plump, colourful cushions and a small library containing several field guides.
From the central area, a few steps lead down to a raised wooden veranda where guests can relax by a beautiful oval swimming pool, set out with shaded sun loungers, and enjoy more spectacular views. Attentive staff are on hand to offer drinks.
Safari activities at Ikuka centre around 4x4 game drives, mainly in the game-rich area surrounding the Mwagusi River. While out on game drives in 2018, we encountered several large herds of elephants and prides of lions, and in the past we were lucky enough to have a leopard sighting.
Guided walks are also available for an extra cost of US$50 per person, and need at least 24 hours’ notice, so that the necessary park rangers can be arranged. The walks are usually led by Ikuka’s owner Mark, a highly experienced guide. You will typically head out early in the morning to learn about the tracks and signs of the bush and discover some of Ruaha's lesser-known birds and animals. You’ll then normally end with a full breakfast out in the bush.
Geographics
- Location
- Ruaha National Park, Tanzania
- Ideal length of stay
- Spend three or four nights at Ikuka to explore Ruaha National Park.
- Directions
- Ruaha is a two-and-a-half hour flight from Dar es Salaam; it is then a further 45-minute drive to Ikuka.
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board & Activities
- Food quality
- Expert Africa last visited Ikuka in 2018 when we found the food excellent. Dishes are international in flavour, and are fresh, tasty and beautifully presented.
A leisurely breakfast incorporates a selection of fresh fruits and cereals, as well as a full cooked breakfast. Alternatively, guests may take a bush breakfast out on safari, normally consisting of boiled eggs, bacon and toast, along with a selection of fruit, yoghurt and cereals.
A buffet lunch is served at around 1pm. We enjoyed homemade fish cakes with a sweet chilli dipping sauce, together with a selection of fresh salads and herb bread hot from the oven; dessert was a tasty rhubarb sorbet.
A three-course dinner is served from around 8pm. On one visit, we started with tempura vegetables with a soy sauce. Our main course was roast chicken with mashed potato, green beans and buttered carrots. For dessert we enjoyed a very good lemon tart. On another occasion, a fish curry was served with coconut rice, followed by a chocolate orange mousse. - Dining style
- Group Meals
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- Private dining can be requested if preferred, but most guests choose to eat together.
- Drinks included
- All drinks are include with the exception of premium wines and spirits, which are charged extra. There is a good selection of cocktails.
Special interests
- Family holidays
- Children over 7 years are warmly welcomed at Ikuka. The camp has recently constructed a family banda which can sleep up to five, and there is a communal swimming pool to enjoy in between game drives.
- See ideas for Family holidays in Tanzania
- Honeymoons
- With spectacular views and attentive service, Ikuka offers a very romantic option for a Tanzanian honeymoon. Couples can relax in the beautiful pool while its six elegant rooms offer both luxury and seclusion.
- See ideas for Honeymoons in Tanzania
- Birdwatching safaris
- Ruaha National Park is a paradise for birdwatching in Tanzania. More than 580 species have been recorded in the park and visitors could well spot a hundred or so different species in a single day. Ikuka’s lofty location is perfect to watch raptors soaring above the plains.
- See ideas for Birdwatching safaris in Tanzania
- Photography holidays
- Ikuka is an excellent choice for keen photographers in Tanzania. Owner and guide Mark Sheridan-Johnson is an accomplished photographer and is more than willing to share his skills and experience with guests.
- See ideas for Photography holidays in Tanzania
- Walking safaris
- Head out for a walking safari with a knowledgeable guide from Ikuka and discover the lesser-known flora and fauna of the bush. Learn how to identify bird calls and how to recognise animal tracks and scat, and the many medicinal uses of plants.
- See ideas for Walking safaris in Tanzania
- Wildlife safaris
- Ikuka is located in one of the best game-viewing areas in Ruaha, making it a great choice for wildlife safaris in Tanzania. The park is known for its particularly good numbers of lion and elephant and guests staying for several nights can expect some excellent wildlife sightings.
- See ideas for Wildlife safaris in Tanzania
Children
- Attitude towards children
- Ikuka welcomes mature, well-behaved children over the age of eight.
- Property’s age restrictions
- Children need to be over eight years old.
- Special activities & services
- There are no special activities for children at Ikuka.
- Equipment
- None
- Generally recommended for children
- While Ikuka welcomes older children, the camp generally has a rather adult atmosphere.
- Notes
- Ikuka is unfenced and animals regularly wander through camp; children should be under adult supervision at all times. There is a steep drop from the verandahs which could be dangerous.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Ikuka Safari Camp
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Ikuka Safari Camp have kindly recorded their wildlife sightings and shared them with us. The results are below. Click an animal to see more, and here to see more on our methodology.
100% success
100% success
100% success
98% success
82% success
82% success
78% success
70% success
55% success
32% success
26% success
17% success
16% success
6% success
0% success
0% success
Communications
- Power supply notes
- Ikuka has a back up generator, although this is rarely used. All rooms have three-pin UK-style plug sockets.
- Communications
- It is possible to connect to Wifi in the central area.
- TV & radio
- There is no TV at Ikuka.
- Water supply
- Borehole
- Water supply notes
- All rooms are fully plumbed and each has a gas boiler for instant hot water.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- Managers have basic medical training and there is a first-aid kit on site as well as in every safari vehicle. Ikuka has links with a flying doctor service in Dar es Salaam.
- Dangerous animals
- High Risk
- Security measures
- There are askaris on guard around the clock and you will be escorted to and from your room after dark. All rooms come equipped with air horns to raise the alarm in case of emergency.
- Fire safety
- All staff receive fire training and there are sand buckets and fire extinguishers in the rooms and central areas.
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Guided walking safari
Hot air ballooning
Private activities
Sleeping under the stars
Extras
- Disabled access
- On Request
- Laundry facilities
- Laundry is included and normally takes around 24 hours.
- Money
- There are electronic safes in all the rooms.
- Accepted payment on location
- Ikuka accepts Visa and Mastercard, although cash payments in either US dollars or Tanzanian shillings are preferred.
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Ikuka Safari Camp's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Ikuka Safari Camp.
Excursions from Ikuka Safari Camp
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Ikuka Safari Camp. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.
Balloon Safari over Ruaha
Three hours - one hour flight
Varied and scenically stunning, Ruaha National Park features rolling hills, woodlands, open plains and two wide meandering rivers: the Ruaha and the Mwagusi. What better way to view it than from the air, at sunrise? A balloon safari offers just this, the landscape unfolding below your basket as you float almost silently above.
More about Ballooning in RuahaOther lodges in Ruaha National Park
Alternative places to stay in this same area.
Mdonya Old River Camp
Designed with simplicity in mind, Mdonya River Camp focuses on a great wilderness experience rather than creature comforts.
Mwagusi Safari Camp
Mwagusi is a long-established, permanent, tented safari camp, on an attractive bend of the seasonal Mwagusi River.
Jongomero Camp
A stylish and luxurious camp in a remote part of Ruaha, Jongomero offers excellent guiding and service in a remote, wilderness area.
Kigelia Camp
Kigelia is a stylish tented camp, set amid a grove of sausage trees, and combining a simple set-up with comforts and luxury.
Kichaka Zumbua
Kichaka Zumbua is a small, luxurious camp offering on outstanding walking safaris in a remote area of Ruaha.
Ruaha River Lodge
In a lovely location beside a rocky river, the unpretentious Ruaha River Lodge is the largest and most economical camp in Ruaha National Park.
Jabali Ridge
One of Ruaha's most luxurious camps, Jabali Ridge nestles among kopjes and baobabs, with beautiful views of the surrounding area.
Usangu Expedition Camp
Usangu Expedition Camp is a seasonal camp in the Usangu Wetlands – a remote and enchanting part of Ruaha National Park.
Jabali Private House
Jabali Private House in Ruaha National Park provides luxurious accommodation for private groups booked on an exclusive basis.
Jongomero Walking
Fly-camping and walking safaris from Jongomero Camp give you the chance to explore remote safari areas in Ruaha National Park.
Asanja Ruaha
Asanja Ruaha Ndembo is a smart new safari lodge in a picturesque setting overlooking the Great Ruaha River.
When to go to Ruaha National Park
Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Ikuka Safari Camp 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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