Jabali Ridge is set on a rocky kopje in the northern part of Ruaha National Park - one of the best areas for wildlife, especially during the dry season when large numbers of animals gather along the Mwagusi and Ruaha Rivers. The park is famous for its lion population and herds of elephant as well as having plenty of giraffe.

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The lodge has eight 'bandas' dotted between the boulders of a modern design. Plenty of wood, stone and other natural materials characterize the rooms which are open-sided to maximize the views, with louvered floor to ceiling shutters.  These can be closed during the evenings, or opened completely during the day. The rooms are fairly 'zen' with earthy colours and a heavy wooden-framed king-sized bed with the centre-piece. Outside each room is a private veranda with a soft seating area, shaded by a wooden fringed canopy. Luxury continues into the large en-suite bathroom with an expansive rain shower, enclosed loo, double sinks and complimentary toiletries.

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The entrance takes you in between huge boulders and magnificent baobabs to a large central lounge and bar, with a separate space for dining. Given the warm climate it is completely open-sided with some of the best views from the lodge main areas. The spaces are decorated in a neutral colour scheme with plenty of wood panelling, modern furnishings and stylish 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 most notable areas of the lodge, on the highest point of the kopje, is the beautiful infinity pool which provides splendid views over the bush. Enjoy a cocktail from the pool deck area where a bar is located and an alternative dining area - we ate at multiple locations which was wonderful. In line with the luxury offering, there is also a small spa with a range of treatments on offer.

 

Food was some of the finest I have experienced at any lodge I have visited, if you ever get to meet 'Pastry Pete' you will know what I mean. Dining around the fire amongst the huge boulders was a treat.

The main activities are 4x4 game drives, in the morning and or afternoon with the option of doing an all day drive including a bush lunch. Night drives and safari walks are optional too. We enjoyed a walk with a superbly knowledgeable guide. We tried our hand at fishing for tiger fish, at a magnificent picnic spot in the park on the Ruaha River - well worth it just to enjoy the scenery.

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Ideal length of stay is 3-4 nights. Jabali Ridge is about a 45 minute drive from Msembe Airstrip which connects by light aircraft  widely in Tanzania with Selous, Katavi and Mahale parks in the south and with Arusha and Seronera in the north of Tanzania. Internationally into Tanzania is via Kilimanjaro International Airport or Julius Nyerere International in Dar es Salaam, which is about an hours flight away.

 

Fully inclusive - Per person sharing per night Rates:

 

• From $875.00 pp plus park fees

• Jabali Private House takes 6 - 8 people, with a private guide, from $4 375.00 per day for the house

• Dynamic rates and discounts apply

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