Kichaka Expeditions

OVERVIEW:

Kichaka Expeditions is made up of two camps – Frontier (main camp – made up of three spacious tents) and Untamed (fly camp). The experience can also be booked as an exclusive basis for a minimum of two and maximum of 8 persons. The camps were set up by Moli and Noelle with the aim of offering an experience that is vastly different from what other properties in this amazing park provide. Please note, there are three types of fixed itineraries for those who do not book Kichaka on an exclusive basis – a 3-, 5-, or 7-night stay. Additionally, the fly camp is closed during low season, from 1st December to 31st March.

ACCESS & LOCATION:

Kichaka is located in untouched and remote areas on the east side of Ruaha National Park. Situated on the banks of the seasonal Lunda river, it is far from any other camp or lodge. So unless you go on a day-long game drive, you are very unlikely to see another vehicle – this ensures a completely authentic experience. The camp is accessed via an average of 3 hours’ road transfer from Msembe Airstrip, and a picnic stop is often included on the way.

ACCOMMODATION & FACILITIES AT KICHAKA EXPEDITIONS:

There are just three tents at Kichaka Frontier, providing all the comforts you could desire. Each is constructed using natural canvas on a metal frame and is positioned in the shade of trees. An outer layer of canvas extends over the inner structure to create a veranda, set with a couple of cushioned deckchairs and two small fold-up tables. Inside, you’ll find a nicely made double bed or twin beds, bedside tables and lighting, and ample storage furniture. The washing facilities are rigged up a few meters from the side of each tent, and they comprise short-drop toilet, basin, and classic bucket shower! At Kichaka Untamed, the tents are smaller, dome-style, yet once again you have everything you need, including private facilities a short distance away. All tents are very well appointed overall.

Kichaka Frontier has a mess tent, containing lounge and dining areas. In the lounge, well-cushioned wood-framed sofas and armchairs surround a coffee table, and there’s a small yet well-stocked bar alongside. There’s some reading material too. The dining area features one large table where everyone eats together. The sides of the mess tent are usually rolled up, so you can marvel at views over Ruaha while relaxing and tucking in to delicious meals! Breakfast, enjoyed before the first activity of the day, consists of cereals, fruit, toast, and even a full English if required, while lunch is often provided in the bush, cooked over a gas stove. Dinner is always served back at camp – it involves three satisfying courses and an adventurous al fresco location! At Kichaka Untamed, the campfire is the central part of camp. The food and drink is really high quality, and the chefs are happy to accommodate any special requirements.

ACTIVITIES AT KICHAKA EXPEDITIONS:

• The focus of activities at Kichaka is walking safaris. All walks are led by Moli or expert guide Jacques, guaranteeing amazing experiences!
• You’ll explore the remotest parts of Ruaha, encountering a wealth of wildlife. Four of the Big Five are in residence – lion, leopard, elephant, and buffalo.
• There are numerous smaller predators and herbivores too, not least cheetah, serval, caracal, wild dog, giraffe, wildebeest, zebra, and all sorts of antelopes!
• Keen birders can look out for over six hundred types of feathery friends, among them raptors, waterbirds, and songbirds.
• While walking with Moli or Jacques, you’ll also have the opportunity to learn bush skills, such as tracking, fire lighting, and a few survival basics.
• Game drives are available during early morning and late afternoon into evening. You can go on night drives too, spotting the likes of civet, genet, porcupine, and the charming pangolin!
• Photographic safaris are possible as well, and at the end of each day, you can enjoy a little stargazing before returning to your comfy tent.

*This property is unfenced and located in a wildlife area, so large and potentially dangerous animals do pass through. If you opt to stay here, always be alert when walking around the camp and request for a member of staff to escort you if you have any concerns. Any guest is escorted after dark as a matter of course.