Usangu Expedition Camp

Located south of Ruaha, Usangu is a hidden gem in the landscape of Tanzania’s national parks. The Usangu Game Reserve was annexed into the Ruaha National Park in 2006 due to its immense value as a wildlife hotspot and as a water source for the Great Ruaha River. Today, Usangu is at a critical juncture where conservation efforts are essential for the survival of its wilderness. As a visitor, you are invited to be part of this conservation story, realizing the region’s potential and enjoying the unique opportunity to explore an undiscovered wetland area.

In addition to the Usangu Expedition Camp, the Trails Camp offers an exciting sleep-out-under-the-stars experience within walking distance from the main camp, allowing for an extended mobile walking safari experience that can be tailored to the requirements of your party. Whether you prefer swimming in hot springs, brewing coffee over an open fire, or counting the stars, you can marvel at the untouched beauty of the Usangu Wetlands.

For those who wish to further immerse themselves in this unique experience, there are customized conservation activities tailored to your specific interests. Usangu Expedition Camp offers an intimate and unforgettably authentic safari experience.

Experience & Activities:

True to its name, the Usangu Expedition Camp offers a remarkable expedition into the heart of Africa’s untouched wilderness. It’s not just a destination; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Ruaha National Park and to play a part in its conservation. The camp is strategically located next to the Douglas Bell Eco Research Station, which facilitates all the region’s conservation research.

Whether it’s the thrill of open vehicle game drives, a serene boating adventure or the intrigue of setting camera traps for predator identification, there’s never a dull moment at Usangu Expedition Camp. Here, you can be part of a larger story – one of conservation and understanding of the African wilderness. Depending on the researchers in the camp during your visit, you may have the unique opportunity to join them in their efforts, tracking collared sable and roan antelopes or observing the stunning Usangu wetlands’ diverse habitats.

The Usangu Expedition Camp experience begins upon your arrival at the Jongomero Airstrip, where you’ll embark on an insightful journey into Usangu. Your expedition starts with an introduction to the area’s significance, and it extends to encounters with the wildlife you meet along the way. Throughout your stay, you’re free to customize your experience, choosing to spend your days on foot or in a vehicle, exploring the wilderness or diving into the rich world of conservation research.

Accommodations:

An authentic experience wouldn’t be complete without an appropriate place to rest, and Usangu Expedition Camp does not disappoint. The camp comprises four guest tents, each of which can be arranged as a double or twin (no triples). These tents reflect the essence of the African bush, complete with ensuite bathrooms featuring flushing toilets and bucket showers for your convenience.

Located a stone’s throw away from the main camp, the Trails Camp offers a distinct and exciting alternative – a sleep out under the stars. This unique accommodation option provides comfortable, cube-shaped netted tents fitted with a mattress and proper bedding for a memorable night under the untouched African sky. For your convenience, a handwashing basin is provided outside your cube, with a shared short drop toilet and shower available in separate tents.

For guests interested in a multi-day walking safari, the camp provides canvas dome tents, perfect for packing up, moving, and setting up in a new location during your journey. After a day of walking through the wilderness, there’s nothing quite like returning to your private dome tent, nestled in the heart of the African bush. These accommodation options all contribute to a seamless blend of adventure and comfort, giving you the freedom to immerse yourself fully in the Usangu experience.