Rufiji River Camp

Rufiji River Camp is a long-established, family-owned basic tented safari camp located directly on the banks of the Great Rufiji River (Tanzania's largest river) on a high bank/headland in the northeastern part of Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve). Situated slightly elevated on a headland overlooking the wide Selous plains and beautiful River Rufiji, the camp is close to Mtemere entry gate and airstrip. The camp is seasonal, only open June to end of March, and is powerfully powered exclusively by solar energy.

Rooms

The camp consists of 11 permanent tented guest facilities and 3 suites (14 total units), all pitched underneath thatched Makuti palm roofs with massive verandas giving views up and down the river. Tents are simple yet comfortable with polished wooden floors, high thatched roofs, feature stonework, en-suite bathrooms, and solar-heated hot water for showering. The open-sided restaurant and bar are thatched with palm, set within sight of the river in a lush stretch of woodland populated by birds and monkeys. 

Views & Wildlife

The camp offers an enviable location high up on the banks of the Great Rufiji River, with spectacular views and 270-degree vistas over the river delta and Selous plains. From your own tent, you can observe numerous animals that inhabit the river banks: crocodiles sunbathing on sandbanks, hippos grunting and splashing around before sunset, birds soaring over water, and monkeys in the forest area. The river is home to up to 400 bird species, and the forest area around the camp is populated by numerous birds and monkeys, making it a perfect spot for wildlife watching.

General facilities

The camp has a large central area under one high thatch roof with stone floors, including lounge, small library, bar, and dining area. A campfire is situated at the front of the camp for evening gatherings. A shaded swimming pool with loungers is available for relaxing and sunbathing between safari activities. The camp is eco-friendly and environmentally-friendly, using solar panels to provide electricity and heat hot water for bathrooms. It offers full board accommodation with simple yet comfortable amenities, ideal for budget-conscious travelers seeking good value for money.

Activities

Rufiji River Camp offers a mix of safari activities: 4×4 game drives in safari vehicles, memorable walking safaris (thrilling bush walks), and boat trips on the River Rufiji and nearby lakes where guests see hippos, crocodiles, and nearly 400 bird species. All activities are led by experienced guides with bush refreshments as appropriate. The camp's location makes it an ideal starting point for safaris in Nyerere National Park, offering extensive safari experiences combining land and water-based adventures at reasonable cost.

About

The camp is perfect for budget-conscious travelers offering good value for money while exploring Selous by land and water. It's ideal for those seeking simple yet comfortable accommodation with breathtaking river views, wildlife observation from tents, and a welcoming family-owned atmosphere. The camp suits travelers wanting to experience Africa's largest protected wilderness with experienced guides and diverse safari activities in a picturesque, well-located riverside setting.