This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. Learn more

Skip to main content

Talk to an expert 1-800-242-2434 Lines open now

User menu
Jabali Private House
Jabali Private House
Jabali Private House
Jabali Private House

Jabali Private House


7°36’55.1"S 34°50’23.7"E

About Jabali Private House

The luxurious three-bedroom Jabali Private House is located in Ruaha National Park, which is known for its ...

... particularly high population of lions. The house caters for just one group at a time, looked after by their own team of dedicated staff including a private chef and a guide, so it offers a highly exclusive safari experience.

Jabali Private House would be a fantastic choice for small groups and families who are looking for a private safari in a remote, game-rich area of Tanzania. It is the only private house in Ruaha, and certainly the most luxurious and exclusive option we have seen for small groups in this part of Tanzania. We loved our stay here and thought that the food, service and guiding was as good as it gets!

Our view

Jabali Private House would be a fantastic choice for small groups and families who are looking for a private safari in a remote, game-rich area of Tanzania. It is the only private house in Ruaha, and certainly the most luxurious and exclusive option we have seen for small groups in this part of Tanzania. We loved our stay here and thought that the food, service and guiding was as good as it gets!

Lyndsey Marris

Lyndsey Marris

Country manager: Tanzania

Accommodation

3 en-suite bedrooms

Children

Best for 6+

Open

1 Jun to 15 Mar

Activities

4WD Safari

4WD Safari

Birdwatching

Birdwatching

Guided walking safari

Guided walking safari

Hot air ballooning

Hot air ballooning

Private activities

Private activities

Traveller reviews of Jabali Private House

2 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.


100%
2 reviews since August 2007
Excellent
2
Good
0
Average
0
Poor
0
Terrible
0
The VD familyfromLondon

Arrived 15 Nov 2023, 3 nights

"Jabali Private House review"

"Jabali Private House is fabulous and it was an unforgettable experience …" Read The VD family’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

Mr DfromDevon

Arrived 11 Jul 2018, 3 nights

"Luxury at Jabali Private House"

"Our family group of 6 enjoyed 3 nights of luxury in Jabali Private House. We …" Read Mr D’s full holiday review

Overall rating: Excellent

See all Jabali Private House reviews

Jabali Private House: Our full report

The luxurious three-bedroom Jabali Private House is located in Ruaha National Park, which is known for its ...

... particularly high population of lions. The house caters for just one group at a time, looked after by their own team of dedicated staff including a private chef and a guide, so it offers a highly exclusive safari experience.

Jabali Private House is built in a similar style to Jabali Ridge, its sister property just a few minutes’ walk away.

Inside, wooden, wicker and black-metal furniture combine beautifully with the neutral colour scheme and seem almost to reflect the natural bush outside. The effect is rustic, yet contemporary – and bordering on industrial.

Large wooden doors at the back of the property enter into a spacious indoor and outdoor lounge and dining area with wooden shutters that can be left open to enjoy the surrounding bush, or closed by your house attendant if you prefer. A huge grey leather sofa scattered with cushions beckons you to lounge with a book or a drink. Rather less comfortable, but very stylish chairs and poofs are centred around a coffee table, scattered with beautiful photography books.

The open-plan kitchen has a large breakfast bar that is often set for informal brunches. You can help yourself to drinks and snacks from the fridge – though the unobtrusive staff will often be on hand to serve you; you just need to ask. Out on the veranda is a more formal dining table, looking out across the pool. Guests at the Private House may dine at Jabali Ridge if they like – just ask a little in advance and it can easily be arranged. When we stayed in July 2018, we had the occasional meal at the main lodge, taking in the striking views, thanks to its higher vantage point, and enjoying the convivial atmosphere.

Outside at the front of the Private House is a further lounge area with large beanbags for sunbathing, and towels for the large plunge pool.

With three bedrooms, Jabali Private House can comfortably accommodate up to six people. There are two identical master bedrooms, each with a king-size bed or twins (the choice is yours) facing out towards the scenery at the front of the house. On the writing desk behind the beds is a radio, helpful should you need to call anyone from the main lodge, along with a selection of books to read during siesta time. You can charge appliances here, too.

The en-suite bathroom is open-plan, its twin stone sinks set on a lovely wooden table. The walk-in shower is lovely and hot, and although it is technically ‘indoors’, you only need to open all the shutters to feel as though you are having an outside shower instead. There is hanging space for your clothes, and thoughtful touches include flip-flops, robes and Asilia branded toiletries.

At the back of the house is a very cosy third bedroom with twin beds, hanging space for clothes and a small en-suite bathroom. This room is definitely best suited to children, who won’t mind the lack of space.

Jabali Private House is located near the Mwagusi River, one of the best areas in Ruaha for game viewing, and activities focus on game drives with your own private vehicle and guide. Typically a day starts at 5.45am with tea/coffee and biscuits served at the breakfast bar before a 6.00am departure. You can expect to be back at camp between around 11.00am and midday, in time for lunch. Afternoon game drives depart at 4.00pm and return after sunset at around 7.00pm. That said, as you have your own dedicated guide these timings can be totally flexible (within park rules on times you can drive, of course). We especially enjoyed the night drive, when we got to see some of Ruaha’s more elusive nocturnal species – such as the porcupine, civet and serval.

Walking safaris in the hills around Jabali are also possible, usually lasting around three hours. Walks are best done in the morning, when it tends to be cooler than in the afternoon.

Everything at Jabali Private House is tailored specifically for its guests. Your private chef cooks up delicious meals personalised for the group. You can arrange to have a spa treatment in the privacy of your own room or out on the deck in front. Your own guide takes you out on private activities. It adds up to a highly exclusive safari, ideal for a small family or group of friends.

Geographics

Location
Ruaha National Park, Tanzania
Ideal length of stay
Three to four nights would be ideal for exploring this part of Ruaha.
Directions
Jabali Private House is about a 45-minute drive from Msembe Airstrip.
Accessible by
Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis
Full Board & Activities
Food quality
When we stayed in July 2018, the food at Jabali Private House was very good. On arrival we were asked if we had any allergies or any food preferences, and from then we were served wonderful set meals by our private chef. The ingredients were fresh, menus varied and dishes well presented.

Breakfast or brunch, depending on the time, was a vast spread of cereals, muffins, breads, pastries, fruit, cold meat and cheeses, as well as eggs cooked to order. We ate brunch at the breakfast bar, out in the bush and around the pool too – it was always exceptional.

Lunch was usually a delicious buffet, light but filling. One day we helped ourselves to beef with Chinese noodles and a mix of stir-fry vegetables; on another there was falafel with salads, home-made humous and baba ganoush.

Dinner may be served in a variety of locations – at the private dining table in the house, up at the main lodge or even in the ‘boma’ – an outside area set within the rocks near to the main lodge reception. Usually there are three courses, served to the table, but one night we enjoyed a barbecue in the boma area with a variety of meats, salads and vegetables.

No matter where we ate, our house attendant was always there to look after us. At lunch and dinner he always offered an appropriate wine – and it always complimented the food well.
Dining style
Individual Tables
Dining locations
Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service
Yes
Drinks included
Included. Filtered drinking water is provided.

Special interests

Family holidays
With a prime location in Ruaha National Park, Jabali Private House would be a perfect choice for a family seeking a private and exclusive experience, in luxurious surroundings, for a family safari in Tanzania.
See ideas for Family holidays in Tanzania

Children

Attitude towards children
Jabali Private House welcomes children of all ages.
Property’s age restrictions
There are no age restrictions at Jabali Private House.
Special activities & services
Jabali Private House will happily work around children and their schedules. Activities can be timed accordingly, special meals can be made and families can relax knowing that they are not impacting on any other guests.
Equipment
No
Generally recommended for children
We recommend Jabali Private House for older children who will appreciate the activities from the camp. We also feel that the very open nature of the house is better suited to older children who may be a little bit more aware of their surroundings.
Notes
Jabali Private House has a deep plunge pool on the front veranda, as well as high ledges around the front of the property. The property is unfenced, so dangerous wild animals do pass by. Parents and guardians must take full responsibility for their children at all times.

Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Jabali Private House

Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Jabali Private House 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.

Buffalo

100% success

Elephant

100% success

Giraffe

100% success

Hippo

100% success

Leopard

100% success

Lion

100% success

Zebra

100% success

Wild dog

50% success

Aardvark

0% success

Cheetah

0% success

Eland

0% success

Pangolin

0% success

Roan antelope

0% success

Sable antelope

0% success

Spotted Hyena

0% success

Striped Hyena

0% success

Communications

Power supply notes
A large solar farm at Jabali Ridge provides the camp with outstanding sustainable energy. There is also a back-up generator.
Communications
WiFi is available throughout the house.
TV & radio
There is no television or radio at the house – or the lodge.
Water supply
Borehole
Water supply notes
The bathrooms are fully plumbed with hot and cold water.

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended
Yes
Medical care
All guides and managers at Jabali are first-aid trained. There is first-aid equipment in camp and in all of the vehicles. For emergencies, Jabali Private House is linked to the flying doctor service.
Dangerous animals
High Risk
Security measures
Askaris (guards) patrol the area around the lodge and the private house. During the hours of darkness guests visiting the main lodge are driven the short distance to and from the private house.
Fire safety
There are fire extinguishers dotted around the house and a firebreak around the lodge.

Activities

  • 4WD Safari

    4WD Safari

  • Birdwatching

    Birdwatching

  • Guided walking safari

    Guided walking safari

  • Hot air ballooning

    Hot air ballooning

  • Private activities

    Private activities

Extras

Disabled access
On Request
Laundry facilities
Laundry is included; it is usually returned within 24 hours.
Money
There are safes in each room.
Accepted payment on location
Payment for any extras may be made in US dollars, Tanzanian shillings, British pounds or euros. Credit cards are also accepted.

Plan and book your trip with Expert Africa

All of our trips are tailor-made, so we'll always adapt them to suit you.
Talk to an Expert and let us plan and arrange your perfect trip.


Talk to an Expert

Call or email us now!
We’ll match you with the Specialist in our team who is best suited to help you. Then together we can start planning your trip.

Set up your itinerary

Based on our experience and your ideas, your specialist will create a detailed, costed itinerary. We’ll refine it together, until we have a trip that you’re perfectly happy with.

Prepare for your trip

The same Specialist will make the seamless arrangements for your trip, send you detailed travel documents, and be available to answer any questions before you depart.

Travel with peace of mind

After you set off, you’ll be cared for by our partners in Africa, most of whom have worked with Expert Africa for decades. And if you ever need us urgently, we’re available 24/7.

When you return

We love to learn about your trip, and so will always be grateful if you’ve the time to give feedback to your Specialist when you return.

Jabali Private House's location

Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Jabali Private House.


Excursions from Jabali Private House

Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Jabali Private House. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.


Balloon Safari over Ruaha

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 Ruaha
100% (1 reviews)

Other lodges in Ruaha National Park

Alternative places to stay in this same area.


Mdonya Old River Camp

Mdonya Old River Camp

Designed with simplicity in mind, Mdonya River Camp focuses on a great wilderness experience rather than creature comforts.


92% (134 reviews)
Mwagusi Safari Camp

Mwagusi Safari Camp

Mwagusi is a long-established, permanent, tented safari camp, on an attractive bend of the seasonal Mwagusi River.


96% (117 reviews)
Kwihala Camp

Kwihala Camp

Kwihala is sadly now closed, and its sister Kokoko sits in its place.


99% (111 reviews)
Ikuka Safari Camp

Ikuka Safari Camp

Upmarket and stylish, Ikuka Safari Camp is set high on an escarpment with spectacular panoramic views over Ruaha National Park.


98% (61 reviews)
Jongomero Camp

Jongomero Camp

A stylish and luxurious camp in a remote part of Ruaha, Jongomero offers excellent guiding and service in a remote, wilderness area.


96% (48 reviews)
Kigelia Camp

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.


95% (37 reviews)
Kichaka Zumbua

Kichaka Zumbua

Kichaka Zumbua is a small, luxurious camp offering on outstanding walking safaris in a remote area of Ruaha.


99% (34 reviews)
Ruaha River Lodge

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.


92% (12 reviews)
Jabali Ridge

Jabali Ridge

One of Ruaha's most luxurious camps, Jabali Ridge nestles among kopjes and baobabs, with beautiful views of the surrounding area.


96% (5 reviews)
Usangu Expedition Camp

Usangu Expedition Camp

Usangu Expedition Camp is a seasonal camp in the Usangu Wetlands – a remote and enchanting part of Ruaha National Park.


100% (3 reviews)
Jongomero Walking Safaris

Jongomero Walking

Fly-camping and walking safaris from Jongomero Camp give you the chance to explore remote safari areas in Ruaha National Park.


80% (2 reviews)
Asanja Ruaha Ndembo

Asanja Ruaha

Asanja Ruaha Ndembo is a smart new safari lodge in a picturesque setting overlooking the Great Ruaha River.


No reviews yet
Kokoko Camp

Kokoko Camp

Kokoko is a small, exclusive-use safari camp in a prime location in Ruaha National Park


No reviews yet

When to go to Ruaha National Park

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Jabali Private House 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

Inspire me

Looking for inspiration on where to travel next?

Visit our trip chooser to explore your options and find inspiration for your perfect African adventure

Inspire me

Login to Expert Africa

Login or create an account below.

Forgotten your details?

Enter your email address and we'll send you a link to re-set your password.

Create wish-lists, send enquiries, make and manage your safari bookings, and more...

It's free & quick to set up

Benefits from creating an account.

  • Save your wish-list
  • Send us an enquiry
  • Pay online and manage your trip
  • Subscribe to our newsletter
  • Give us feedback on your trip
  • Enhanced features

Need some help? Talk to our team
Africa