Jabali Ridge

Set on a rocky promontory in Ruaha National Park, Jabali Ridge is a great base from which to explore this vast and remote wilderness. Covering over 20,000 sq km in south western Tanzania, Ruaha is characterised by diverse landscapes ranging from rolling hills to groves of spiky baobab trees, and is home to more than 80 animal species and over 570 bird species. Children from five years are welcome.

Accommodation & Facilities
The eight suites of Jabali Ridge provide elegant and sophisticated accommodation in a spectacular site in the heart of Ruaha. Hidden among the boulders of this large rocky outcrop, each stylishly decorated en-suite room has an expansive wrap-around bleach wood terrace with sunken seating area for perfect relaxation during safari down-time. There are no specific family suites but some are closer together and work perfectly for families.  Around the main lodge area there is an infinity pool with a handy (and child friendly) ledge to sit and enjoy the view with a drink, a spa, library and curios shop and plenty of space to simply sit and admire the view over the baobab valley.

Eating & Sleeping
The chefs are happy to prepare any foods that children enjoy at times to suit (e.g. pizza, hamburgers, chicken strips, etc.) and will discuss children’s dietary preferences with parents on arrival.  Specific dietary requirements can be accommodate with advance notice.

There is no formal childcare provision but should parents wish to dine later than the children an “askari” (guard) can be posted outside the tent.

Wildlife & Activities
The lodge is located close to the core wildlife viewing area of the Mwagusi River valley, and guests can take day and night wildlife drives as well as walking safaris to explore the wilderness and its wildlife. The area is well known for high densities of lion, leopard, elephant and buffalo. Hot air ballooning is an optional extra.

Specifically for children …
Children will be given an activity pack on arrival which is filled with toys and games to keep them entertained both in camp and out on safari.  In areas of such dense wildlife, safety is always the top priority and the wilderness environment here is not conducive to providing a specific outdoor activity programme for children. That said, all guides are adept at keeping children engaged and making the bush exciting and fun.  The excellent location means that the lodge is already in prime big wildlife territory. Hot air ballooning is an option for seven years and above and walking safaris 16 years and above.