Jongomero
Luxury
Overview
- Just eight spacious tented suites
- Game walks a speciality
- Only lodge in this part of Ruaha National Park
- Great birding
- Good possibility of sighting some rarer antelope
- Swimming pool
Jongomero has a wonderful secluded location - under shady acacia trees - on the banks of the seasonal Jongomero River, in Ruaha National Park. Ruaha's size and the fact that it is relatively undiscovered means that overcrowding is seldom a problem anywhere in the Park. Being the only camp in the south-western part of Ruaha, Jongomero offers even greater privacy: it's highly unlikely you will see vehicles from other camps.
Game-viewing
Ruaha covers a fascinating transition zone where eastern and southern fauna and flora species coexist in varied terrain; from open plains to thick inhospitable bush; from riverine environments to acacia woodlands. Sightings of rarer antelope, such as sable, roan and both lesser & greater kudu are highly likely at Jongomero Camp. An abundance of plains game usually brings the larger predators: Ruaha conforms to this pattern, with leopard and large prides of lion. The bird life, too, is impressive, with some 530 species recorded so this makes a great base for keen birders.
Accommodation at Jongomero
Jongomero is probably the most stylish camp in Ruaha - with a slight colonial feel - yet it retains a suitable sense of the wild. Accommodation at Jongomero is in eight spacious tented suites on raised wooden platforms, with makuti thatch roofs. Each stylish room has a huge dhow wooden bed, gleaming wooden floors, leather chairs, en suite bathroom with shower, double vanity units with hot and cold running water (solar heated with backup immersion heater), and a spacious front veranda overlooking the Jongomero River.
Facilities
The lounge and dining area is shaded by an ancient ebony tree and has uninterrupted views of the Jongomero River - a favourite haunt for elephants. Polished wooden floors, comfy sofas, Persian carpets and some traditional African artefacts make is a relaxing place for a drink or quiet read. Dining is a mix of table d'hote, elegant buffets, alfresco dinners under the stars and campfire cooking. There's also a small swimming pool for cooling off.
Morning and afternoon game drives are on offer as well full day excursions with classic safari picnics to reach the game-rich Mwagusi river area. Jongomero also offers fly-camping and longer bush walks for a real wilderness experience, subject to a supplement. We recommend 3+ nights here or perhaps combine a stay here with Mwagusi.
Jongomero gallery
Jongomero on the map
Rooms
Click on the Green Dot to see Room Images
Jongomero's Tented Suites
Blending in beautifully with its surroundings, the camp is tucked below a dappled riverine canopy on the banks of the Jongomero sand river, a natural pathway for animals in search of water.
Positioned on one of the meanders with sweeping views of the bank beyond lies the camp bar, lounge and restaurant; an open wooden terrace shaded by a high thatched roof and filled with sumptuous sofas and striking furniture made of reclaimed dhow wood. It is an inviting spot to relax with a cup of tea while leafing through one of the camp library’s reference books or socialise with camp managers and fellow guests around the bar with an ice cold drink in hand. Alternatively, on warm days, laze around the pool and enjoy the sights and sounds of being so close to nature.
Accommodation at Jongomero comprises eight large and well-appointed tented suites, built on raised wooden platforms, under enormous thatched roofs that also encompass a spacious private veranda which overlooks the riverbed. Snuggle under warming quilts in an eight-foot wide dhow wood emperor bed and fall asleep to the hum of Africa beyond the canvas and wake up to the morning tea tray and animals ambling past your mosquito net windows. The quintessence of luxury in the wilds.
