Ruaha walking expedition

Your adventure begins as you arrive at Ruaha National Park, home to Kichaka Wild, one of Africa’s last true wilderness experiences. Far from the crowded northern safari circuits, Kichaka Wild offers unparalleled solitude and untouched nature. After meeting your guide, Andrew ‘Moli’ Molinaro—a seasoned explorer and conservationist—you’ll journey deep into the park’s most remote areas. With Moli as your guide, there’s no better companion when venturing hundreds of miles from civilisation. Your first camp, set up along a serene riverbank, will be your base as you immerse yourself in the sounds and sights of the wild. At Kichaka Wild, you’ll experience the essence of Ruaha’s diverse landscapes and wildlife, making every moment uniquely memorable.

Over the next two days, you will explore some of Ruaha’s most secluded regions—places that even park rangers rarely visit. Led by Moli, one of Africa’s top guides, you’ll embark on walking safaris that immerse you fully in the environment. Moli’s expertise allows you to safely explore remote landscapes, from rocky outcrops to lush riverine forests. As you walk through the terrain, Ruaha’s incredible diversity reveals itself, with sightings of rare wildlife and unique plant species at every turn. Back at camp, you’ll find comfort in dome tents with bucket showers and private short-drop loos, blending rustic simplicity with convenience. Evenings are spent around the campfire, where stories of the day are shared under a canopy of stars, deepening your connection to the wild.

The Great Ruaha River serves as the park’s lifeline, supporting an extraordinary array of wildlife. Over the next two days, you’ll trek along its winding banks, moving through acacia forests, tall palm groves, and rolling hills that shape the landscape. The scenery changes every 20 minutes, offering a new perspective on Ruaha’s ecological richness. As you walk, you may spot elephants wading through shallow waters or encounter antelope grazing near riverbanks. Birdwatchers will delight in the diversity, with over 700 species to discover, including kingfishers and fish eagles. Each step along the river connects you more deeply with the rhythms of this wilderness, revealing hidden details of Ruaha’s natural world that can only be appreciated on foot.

As your journey continues eastward, you’ll venture into the lesser-known regions of Ruaha, where few travellers tread. This day’s trek guides you through prime wildlife areas, offering chances to encounter elephants, buffalo, and the elusive leopard that roam freely. Crossing sand rivers, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of the park’s varied topography, transitioning from the elevated western reaches at 1,800 metres to the more expansive eastern plains at 700 metres. Walking through these landscapes, you’ll appreciate the subtle shifts in vegetation and terrain, each step bringing new discoveries. Your camp at Lunda, set in a peaceful corner of this remote section, will provide a base to continue your exploration. Here, solitude reigns, offering an unmatched sense of peace and connection to nature.

On your final day, enjoy one last walking safari through Ruaha’s landscapes, soaking in the stunning surroundings and abundant wildlife. This expedition has taken you across one of Africa’s most diverse and remote wilderness areas, offering a truly unique safari experience. Walking through the wild has given you a close connection to the land, the animals, and the intricate details of Ruaha’s natural world. As you trace the paths of wildlife and spot rare birds, you’ve embraced the tranquillity of the wild, all within the embrace of Ruaha’s untouched beauty. After your morning walk, you’ll begin your journey back, carrying memories of this pristine wilderness and a deep appreciation for a side of Africa that few ever experience.

Kichaka Wild offers fully customisable expeditions tailored to your specific interests, whether you’re an avid birdwatcher, a wildlife photographer, or simply seeking solitude. With four remote locations to choose from, each offering a unique perspective on Ruaha’s ecosystem, this safari can be crafted to suit your desires. Your journey not only immerses you in the wild but also supports conservation efforts that help preserve these pristine landscapes for future generations.

Photo credits: Kichaka Expeditions