About Jabali Ridge
Jabali Ridge is an exciting new luxury addition to Ruaha National Park.
It opened in September 2017, in a prime game viewing area with commanding views over the park and the Mwagusi River.
Jabali Ridge aims to offer one of the most luxurious stays in Ruaha National Park and is really unique and striking in its design. The guiding, food and service are befitting of a truly high-end, well-run and stylish lodge. Initially there were few cases of 'style over substance' that did somewhat detract from the overall quality of the stay. On our previous visit we did not stay, and as such can not guarantee that these problems have been completely ironed out, however we did not experience any issues with privacy and noise as previously reported. The management were aware of previous criticisms and seem to be actively addressing them to improve guest experience. Jabali is a stunning addition to Ruaha, and certainly a highly luxurious option, but we would highly suggest discussing this lodge in more detail with us to see if it will be the right fit for your stay.
Our view
Jabali Ridge aims to offer one of the most luxurious stays in Ruaha National Park and is really unique and striking in its design. The guiding, food and service are befitting of a truly high-end, well-run and stylish lodge. Initially there were few cases of 'style over substance' that did somewhat detract from the overall quality of the stay. On our previous visit we did not stay, and as such can not guarantee that these problems have been completely ironed out, however we did not experience any issues with privacy and noise as previously reported. The management were aware of previous criticisms and seem to be actively addressing them to improve guest experience. Jabali is a stunning addition to Ruaha, and certainly a highly luxurious option, but we would highly suggest discussing this lodge in more detail with us to see if it will be the right fit for your stay.
Accommodation
8 bandas
Children
Best for 12+
Open
Seasonal
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Guided walking safari
Hot air ballooning
Night drive
Private activities
Traveller reviews of Jabali Ridge
5 real, un-edited reviews from Expert Africa's travellers.
Arrived 22 Jan 2024, 3 nights
"Stylish in Ruaha National Park"
Overall rating: Good
Arrived 15 Nov 2023, 3 nights
"Jabali Ridge review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 18 Aug 2022, 4 nights
"Stunning lodge, less prolific game"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 2 Aug 2021, 3 nights
"Jabali Ridge review"
Overall rating: Excellent
Arrived 24 Sep 2017, 3 nights
"Utterly unique, brilliant concept!"
Overall rating: Excellent
























Expert Africa's gallery
When we travel we take lots of photos ourselves to give you a real and un-edited view of the safaris. See our 43 pictures of Jabali Ridge to get the candid view.
View gallerySafaris visiting Jabali Ridge
Just ideas, we'll always tailor-make a trip for you


Superb Starling Fly-In Safari
7 days • 2 locations • 1 country
DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT
Explore Nyerere and Ruaha national parks from two luxurious sister camps within wildlife-rich locations. Both offer a range of land- and water-based activities, a superb standard of guiding and access to beautifully contrasting landscapes.
Visiting Ruaha, Nyerere
US$9,180 - US$12,950 per person


Marabou Stork Fly-in Safari
13 days • 5 locations • 1 country
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Four luxurious camps enable exploration of Tanzania’s north and southern regions. With a range of land- and water-based activities available throughout, decidedly comfortable accommodation and applicable long-stay discounts, this adventurous safari is excellent value.
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Jabali Ridge: Our full report
Jabali Ridge is an exciting new luxury addition to Ruaha National Park.
It opened in September 2017, in a prime game viewing area with commanding views over the park and the Mwagusi River.
Jabali Ridge is owned and managed by the same team who run a number of high quality safari camps across Tanzania; including neighbouring camp Kwihala. They have established an excellent reputation in Tanzania for their standards of guiding, service and food and as their flagship camp in the southern circuit Jabali is no different.
Jabali Ridge is set between rocky kopjes located in the northern area of Ruaha National Park. This is one of the best areas of the park for wildlife, and during the dry season large numbers of animals congregate in search for water. Ruaha is famous for its high lion population and sightings of elephant and giraffe are also common.
The lodge has eight bandas dotted between the boulders. They are extremely contemporary in design, with plenty of wood, stone and other natural materials. Each banda is completely open-sided to maximise the views, with louvered floor to ceiling shutters that can be closed during the evenings, or opened completely during the day. The rooms are quite minimalist in style and neutral, earthy colours are used throughout. The heavy wooden-framed king-sized beds are surrounded by stylish mosquito nets. Though if you prefer not to have a net around your bed (the ones at Jabali are quite heavy and so do restrict vision out into the room), you can instead request for netted shutters to be put in place around the edges of the room.
The furniture in the room is not always the most comfortable but it is very striking - think stylish metal chairs that look beautiful but that you can't sit in for more than an hour! Whilst outside each banda is a private veranda with a soft seating area, shaded by a chunky wooden fringe canopy. There is a large en-suite bathroom with a vast rain shower, separate loo, double sinks and complimentary toiletries.
The main quibble we had with the rooms at Jabali is that the louvered shutters that run round most sides of the bandas do not provide much privacy from neighbouring bandas. The lack of privacy is also evident when outside on the veranda, as a number of the bandas overlook each other due to poor spacing between them. The lodge have since installed sisal walling which has improved both room privacy and sound proofing.
Jabali Ridge has a spacious central lounge and bar, with a separate space for dining. As with the bandas, they are completely open-sided structures, and are set higher up the kopje so are afforded some of the best views from the lodge. The spaces are decorated in a neutral colour scheme with plenty of wood panelling, modern furnishings and striking lighting. There is an information area with a library containing a number of wildlife guides and natural history books, as well as novels to help you fill your siesta time.
One of the lodge's highlights is the beautiful stone infinity pool which offers panoramic views over Ruaha. Surrounded by wooden decking, there are also a number of sun loungers, a shaded seating area and a pop-up bar. In this area, there is also a small spa with a range of treatments on offer.
Activities at Jabali Ridge focus on 4WD game drives, either split into a morning and an afternoon session or doing an all day drive including a bush lunch. Guests can also go out on night drives here. There is also the possibility of doing walking safaris, lead by some particularly good walking guides, where you will head out on foot to discover some of Ruaha's smaller, less well-known wildlife.
Geographics
- Location
- Ruaha National Park, Tanzania
- Ideal length of stay
- 3-4 nights
- Directions
- Jabali Ridge is about a 45 minute drive from Msembe Airstrip.
- Accessible by
- Fly-and-Transfer
Food & drink
- Usual board basis
- Full Board & Activities
- Food quality
- Jabali Ridge offers private dining, communal on request.
- Dining style
- Mixture of group dining and individual tables
- Dining locations
- Indoor and Outdoor Dining
- Further dining info, including room service
- Room service is possible if requested.
- Drinks included
- Most drinks are included, with the exception of premium spirits, cellar wines and Champagne.
Special interests
- Luxury
- Jabali Ridge is an elegant retreat with beautiful views from every part of the property – a luxurious take on an African safari. This is easily one of the smartest properties ever built in Ruaha National Park!
- See ideas for Luxury in Tanzania
Children
- Attitude towards children
- The lodge has an age restriction of 5 years old but welcomes families with older children.
- Property’s age restrictions
- The lodge accepts children aged 5 and above.
- Equipment
- There is no special equipment for children.
- Generally recommended for children
- Jabali has a very adult atmosphere, is set over quite a large area and, with the exception of the swimming pool, does not have much provision to keep younger children occupied. We would recommend this lodge for older children or teenagers who will enjoy the luxury of the lodge and the game drives.
- Notes
- The lodge is set over a large area where big game regularly is seen; children must be under parental supervision at all times.
Our travellers’ wildlife sightings from Jabali Ridge
Since mid-2018, many of our travellers who stayed at Jabali Ridge 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

100% success

100% success

100% success

67% success

50% success

33% success

0% success

0% success

0% success

0% success

0% success

0% success

0% success
Communications
- Power supply notes
- A very large solar farm is being built at Jabali Ridge to provide the camp with outstanding sustainable energy. There is also a backup generator.
- Communications
- Wi-Fi is available in all suites and communal areas.
- TV & radio
- There is no television or radio at the lodge.
- Water supply
- Borehole
- Water supply notes
- The bathrooms are fully plumbed and filtered water is available for drinking.
Health & safety
- Malarial protection recommended
- Yes
- Medical care
- All guides and managers are first-aid trained. There is first-aid equipment in camp and in all of the vehicles. For emergencies, Jabali is linked to the flying doctor service.
- Dangerous animals
- High Risk
- Security measures
- Askaris (guards) patrol the lodge and guests are escorted to their rooms, during hours of darkness.
- Fire safety
- There is a fire break around the lodge and fire extinguishers throughout.
Activities
4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Guided walking safari
Hot air ballooning
Night drive
Private activities
Extras
- Disabled access
- Not Possible
- Laundry facilities
- Laundry is included.
- Money
- Payment for any extras can be made in US dollars, Tanzanian shillings, British pounds or euros.
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Jabali Ridge's location
Look closer at the environment and surroundings of Jabali Ridge.
Excursions from Jabali Ridge
Optional extra day-trips and excursions possible whilst you're staying at Jabali Ridge. 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.


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

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.

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 Jabali Ridge 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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