Leave Mikumi for an afternoon of alternative Tanzanian experiences. Discover the remarkable tools and history of Isimila, a Stone Age archaeological site that reveals 100,000 years of history. Pass through Iringa and stop in a small village where life has remained unchanged for many generations. It’s off-the-beaten-track Tanzania at its finest, a reservoir of smiles epitomizing the benign welcome and openness of traditional life. Continue the drive and you’ll arrive in Ruaha National Park around early evening. Settle into a lavish lodge, soak up nature’s soundtrack, and you’re all set for exploring Tanzania’s largest national park. You will check in at the luxurious Kigelia Ruaha Camp.

Named after the Kigelia Africana (sausage tree), which tower above the camp’s spacious tents, Kigelia Ruaha is a quintessential East African safari retreat, which offers fantastic service and a range of game viewing activities. Unpretentious, yet oozing charm, you can expect a truly authentic safari experience within the pristine wilderness of the Ruaha National Park. Six tents are well appointed with locally crafted furniture and include an al fresco hot bucket shower, ensuite bathroom and a flush toilet. Mouth-watering menus are served in the intimate dining tent or under a blanket of twinkling stars. After a successful day of game viewing, retreat to the roaring campfire with your favourite beverage – the perfect opportunity to swap tales of the day’s adventures. Witness the park’s famed wildlife on a thrilling game drive or get closer to nature on a walking safari.

Dozens of self-guided walking trails traverse pristine rainforest, biking, and rafting trips can be arranged and are included in your package, and there are few more uniquely African experiences than rock climbing with monkeys. No experience is necessary; just try it out and wait for the monkeys to swing past and show you how it’s done. Remote Ruaha encapsulates the dreamy feelings of adventure this vacation is all about. Camps are small and private, the wilderness remains completely untouched, and you can easily go a full day of safari without seeing a single other vehicles. This sublimity is enhanced by little romantic touches. Share cocktails as Tanzania’s largest elephant population roam beneath your balcony. Grab your partner’s hand and walk through a rugged plain of baobab trees. Unwind beneath the stars as a lions roar and hippo grunt from the Great Ruaha River.