With a name that translates as ‘Heart of the Selous’, it is fitting that Roho ya Selous does indeed lie at the heart of the photographic sector of the vast Nyerere National Park (Selous Game Reserve). Set on a hill overlooking the Rufiji River, it is close to Lake Manze and Lake Nzerakera, an area considered to offer the best game viewing in the reserve. Elephants and buffalo herds make their way to water where there are pods of hippo and abundant birdlife, and the Nyerere has a great mix of predators, including lion, crocodile, leopard and wild dog.

A newly-built, high-quality tented camp of the well-respected Asilia brand, Roho ya Selous offers eight stylish suites with a natural air-conditioning system as well as a private bathroom and a shady veranda. Guides are highly knowledgeable about the area and lead 4X4 game drives as well as guided walks, river safaris and even catch-and-release fishing trips, all designed to give guests a well-rounded and diverse Nyerere safari.

Closed during the Nyerere wet season (mid-March to the end of May), Roho ya Selous is the perfect introduction to the giant reserve for safari travellers looking for a new destination or for seasoned Nyerere travellers keen to explore a different area. A three-and-a-half-hour flight from the Serengeti, the camp welcomes families with children over five but it is a camp better suited for older children.

Highlights

• Prime game viewing & birding destination
• Game drives, guided walks & river safaris
• Excellent big game sightings & predator action
• Luxury camp with wifi & highly knowledgeable guides

Activities

• 4X4 DRIVES
• BIRD WATCHING
• BOAT EXCURSIONS
• BUSH DINING
• FISHING
• FULL-DAY SAFARIS
• GAME DRIVES
• GUIDED WALKING SAFARIS
• GUIDED WALKS
• NIGHT DRIVES
• PICNICS
• SPECIALIST GUIDES
• SUNDOWNERS

I love off-the-beaten-path areas and Roho ya Selous is the winning package – gorgeous décor, wildlife on your doorstep and the chance to explore Africa in many exciting ways. My tip would be to combine this with the beautiful Jabali Ridge in Selous or at the end of a more iconic safari. Why follow the crowds when you can enjoy your own private Africa?

Rooms

Tent

There are eight tented suites at Roho ya Selous, each a generous 60 square metres (645 square feet) and equipped with a private veranda with breathtaking views. With an attractive design of natural materials, neutral colours and modern comforts, the sleek suites have an almost-silent, low-power air conditioning system to cool them and provide a very comfortable living environment.  Each tent has an en suite bathroom with indoor and outdoor showers as well as complimentary toiletries.

Other Rooms

One of the suites at Roho ya Selous has been designed for use by a family.

Facilities

Roho ya Selous is a simple camp with a central lounge and bar with indoor and outdoor dining areas. The camp uses solar power and has a backup generator; batteries can be re-charged and you have electric lighting in your suite. A complimentary laundry service is offered and Roho ya Selous also has free Wi-Fi internet.

Dining

Meals are prepared in camp by resident chefs and are usually enjoyed communally inside or – most often - outdoors.

Your day begins with early morning tea and coffee before your safari activity, after which breakfast is served buffet-style on your return to camp. Lunch is also a buffet and includes fresh salads and vegetables with your main course. Mid-afternoon tea and cake are a safari tradition and are served before your afternoon game drive. Sunset drinks are enjoyed out in the bush and you return to a relaxed 3-course dinner served by candlelight.