Kigelia Camp
August 10, 2021Kigelia Camp
August 10, 2021
Located in the central part of Ruaha National Park and shaded by acacia woodland along the Old Mdonya riverbed, Mdonya Old River Camp offers an authentic, back-to-basics safari experience that connects you directly to the wild.
Ruaha is Tanzania’s biggest and wildest national park, and Mdonya Old River Camp is designed to fully experience it. Initially established by a pair of lion researchers, this eco-friendly camp stays true to its roots: simplicity, immersion, and outstanding value. There are no barriers here; the camp is unfenced, allowing you to feel the thrill of the wilderness as elephants and lions frequently wander through the grounds. A member of staff will escort you the short distance from your tent to the main area if you have any concerns. Any guest is escorted after dark as a matter of course.
While the experience is rustic, you will remain comfortable, and everything is catered to. The camp comprises only 12 Meru-style tents, set amid the bush for privacy. Each tent features a spacious, shady veranda—ideal for an "armchair safari" where you can observe wildlife without leaving your room. Inside, you will find comfortable beds, a writing desk, and en-suite bathrooms equipped with flush toilets and classic safari bucket showers, reconfirming that you only need a few essentials for a world-class safari.
Your days here are dedicated to exploration. Accessible via the nearby Msembe Airstrip, Mdonya specialises in expert-led game drives with a driver and spotter to maximise sightings. Whether tracking large prides of lions, huge buffalo herds, or more than 600 bird species, the wildlife density here is exceptional. You can choose full-day trips with picnic lunches or early-morning excursions with a bush breakfast.
At Mdonya, simplicity is the ultimate luxury. From communal dinners served in the open-sided tent to sharing stories around the roaring campfire under the stars, this is a place where you stop being an observer and start being part of the bush.
Safari Tents
Each traditional safari tent is comfortably furnished, catering for solo travelers, couples or families. All the tents have ensuite bathrooms with dressing room, open-roofed solar heated shower and separate flush toilets. Mdonya tents can be modified to host families, adding an extra tent room on the veranda.
12 Safari Tents
Family Tents
Ensuite Bathroom
Solar Power
Charging Facilities
In Room Safe
Curio Shop
Vehicle Safari
Full Day Game Drive
Birding Safari
Big Five: Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Buffalo
