Kokoko Camp: Our full report

Opened in July 2024, Kokoko Camp is an intimate, exclusive-use safari camp in the heart of Ruaha National ...

... Park, designed for small groups of up to six people. Tucked within a shaded woodland along the Mwagusi River, this seasonal camp, operational from June to October, offers you access to one of the park's best wildlife areas. Once the site of the former Kwihala Camp, Kokoko provides excellent wildlife-viewing opportunities in the wilderness of Ruaha.

Kokoko’s three unusual tents blend simplicity and comfort, featuring a half-moon, retractable roof that adds a sense of adventure by revealing the stunning African night sky. Inside, the tents are cozy and unpretentious, with double or twin beds, a basic hanging area for clothes, and soft chairs to unwind after a day of exploration. The en-suite bathroom offers the essentials, including a standard flush toilet and a single basin, and safari-style bucket shower under the stars. The front porch - with its wooden chairs and coffee table - provides a front-row seat to wildlife along the dry riverbed. Though modest, the natural materials and warm, neutral tones create a welcoming atmosphere, while the retractable roof adds a playful touch.

The camp’s communal area overlooks the riverbed, perfect for quiet relaxation or sharing stories. On one side, a comfortable lounge is an inviting spot to unwind, while the other side offers a more formal dining area. Whether you help yourself to a drink from the bar or let the friendly staff prepare one for you, the ambience is always warm and inviting.

A standout feature at Kokoko Safari Camp is the dining experience, where evening meals are cooked over an open fire. You can enjoy this unique, interactive setup, eating from wooden trays and seated on director’s chairs. The combination of freshly prepared food and the warmth of the campfire creates a lovely, relaxed atmosphere, making each meal a memorable part of your safari.

Activities at Kokoko predominantly focus on game drives in the central Ruaha area around the Mwagusi River. This is arguably one of the best areas in Ruaha for wildlife and the park is home to good numbers of lions and elephants. Other optional activities include night drives and walking safaris with a highly experienced walking guide and armed ranger. Balloon flights can also be arranged, offering a magical morning of floating over the open plains with stunning views of the Ruaha River and the hills beyond.

Our view

We were thoroughly impressed with Kokoko Safari Camp and we feel it’s a fantastic addition to Ruaha. We love its location on the banks of the Mwagusi River, while the innovative tent design sets it apart from more traditional safari camps. Kokoko is an excellent choice for older families or groups of friends travelling together and offers a very exclusive safari experience.

Claire Scott

Tanzania expert

Geographics

Location: Ruaha National Park, Tanzania
Ideal length of stay: Stay at least three of four nights to explore the wilderness of Ruaha National Park.
Directions: Kokoko is around a 45-minute drive from Msembe Airstrip in Ruaha.
Accessible by: Fly-and-Transfer

Food & drink

Usual board basis: Full Board & Activities
Food quality: Kokoko has quite a novel dining concept, with evening meals cooked and served around an open fire. Watch as your chefs cook up delicious feasts over the open flame. Meal options could include stir fries, where you're encouraged to choose from a selection of fresh ingredients to cook up, or possibly a Swahili style barbecue. It's certainly a fun and interactive experience.
Dining style: Group Meals
Dining locations: Indoor and Outdoor Dining
Further dining info, including room service: Room service can be arranged on request
Drinks included: All drinks are included with the exception of premium wines, spirits and champagnes.

Special interests

Wildlife safaris: Ruaha is one of Tanzania's hidden gems: far from the bustling northern parks, this region offers a vast area of stunning wilderness. Explore Ruaha with your private guide to discover large herds of elephants and prides of lions with barely a vehicle in sight.; See ideas for Wildlife safaris in Tanzania

Children

Attitude towards children: There are no fences at Kokoko and large animals frequently pass through the camp, so young children are not able to stay.
Property’s age restrictions: 12-plus
Special activities & services: None
Equipment: None
Generally recommended for children: Kokoko is suitable for mature teenagers, but not children.
Notes: Teenagers will enjoy the sense of adventure, but as the camp is unfenced they need to behave responsibly at all times.

Communications

Power supply notes: There is a backup generator
Communications: There is limited WiFi is available at Kokoko
Water supply: Borehole
Water supply notes: Drinking water is provided

Health & safety

Malarial protection recommended: Yes
Medical care: Staff are first-aid-trained and the camp has links with a flying doctors service.
Dangerous animals: High Risk
Security measures: Guests are escorted after dark and security patrol the camp throughout the night
Fire safety: There are fire extinguishers in each tent and also at the communal area.

Activities

4WD Safari
Birdwatching
Guided walking safari
Hot air ballooning
Night drive
Sleeping under the stars

Extras

Disabled access: Not Possible
Laundry facilities: Laundry is included. Please note that underwear is not accepted for cultural reasons, and washing powder is provided in the rooms.
Money: There are electronic safes in all rooms.
Accepted payment on location: Kokoko accepts most major credit cards with the exception of Amex. There is a small surcharge. Cash is accepted in most major currencies, including GBP, USD and Euros.