I was lucky enough to end 2022 & start 2023 at Ikuka, which feels like an incredible privilege. This was my second stay at Ikuka but it won’t be my last, as I just love the place & people so much. I’ve already written one glowing review here from my first visit but will try to top it…

First of all, Ruaha is an amazing park. I visited in the dry season previously and having seen the green beauty during the small rains now in late Dec, I can’t decide which is more beautiful. Both seasons have their charm for sure. It’s amazing to see the park so vividly green and bursting with life & happy animal babies. Also, there aren’t too many cars and you’ll get to enjoy the nature & animals in peace which is a HUGE plus.

The animals .. I will never tire of seeing them casually roam around. Impala, zebra, elephants, lions, leopards, hippos, kudu & so many more. We were even lucky enough to see a big pack of happy wild dogs! There’s something so magical & peaceful of just watching a herd of elephants, and I think it’s such a privilege to see these animals roam free - and from such a close distance! After two safaris, it still blows my mind.

On things that blow my mind: the camp itself. It’s just wonderful in every way. The location & views are stunning and you really feel like you’re in the middle of the bush, but in a luxurious way. When I say luxurious, it’s by no means stuffy or awkward. Everything is so casual, tailored to your needs and every person at camp makes you feel welcome. The small details (like “welcome back”- pillowcases!!) really are the cherry on top. The delicious food is plentiful and the kitchen makes an amazing job, as does the team at the bar. Special shout-out to the “leftover” ham sandwiches after new year’s.

The people.. I mean just the nicest bunch. Tommy & Chevy really ensure you’re having a great time, but they do it in a way that makes you feel like they’re your pals, instead of it being overbearing. Everyone at camp is so nice, I honestly can’t wait to see them again. I do believe that even with the nicest camp, it’s the people that make or break it. In Ikuka’s case, they are gems. It’s a big, fantastic family and it’s fabulous to be part of it for the few days.

And lastly.. my guide Geoffrey. This is the second time I’ve been lucky enough to drive around Ruaha with Geoffrey - I did reach out before my arrival to check if he’s available. We get along great and seem to have a similar appreciation for nature & animals, so basically I’m always happy with his plans cause they match my expectations perfectly. So calm, so nice & able to spot animals in a way that’s unreal to me. The knowledge and respect for nature is inspiring and I can’t wait to drive around with Geoffrey again. Such a gem.

Right, I hope you’ve enjoyed this short story about my love for Ikuka. I can’t recommend it enough & hope to go back soon for a third time. Asante sana, Ikuka family.

My husband and I stayed for 4 nights and we had an unforgettable time. We we meant to come in Nov 2020 however Covid delayed our trip. So worth the wait!
Safari started as soon as we left the Airstrip which we didn't expect.
From arrival at Ikuka camp, it was clear to see that this place is pure luxury!
Food was fantastic. All the staff were so friendly and couldn't do enough for you.

Masai escort you to your tent at night and patrol the camp so you are perfectly safe.
Tommy, the manager, was hospitable and very friendly. He offered valuable advice and shared stories.
You are provided with your own personal water flask that take with you on safari.
Shampoo, body wash, bug spray and repellent provided. 1 wardrobe.
We were in tent 6 which had alot of activity throughout the day and night. You could see animal tracks outside your room in the morning.

Our room had its own plunge pool and veranda which was special. Huge bed! Charging points. UK plug sockets. His and hers bathroom sinks.
Tent is zipped up at night and folded up in the morning by staff.

You have the choice to have a bush breakfast which we did, various food options such as fruit, pancakes, sausages etc.
Evening drives included a pit stop to have a refreshing G+T and snack. You can pick your chosen drink before you leave camp.

We shared the game drives with a friendly couple throughout the whole stay. Festo was our guide. He was simply fantastic! He is a funny man and made laugh alot. He has years experience and could spot animals from miles away. He shared such knowledge! We got to know him personally and learn about the culture and animals. His bird calls were on point! Brilliant.

Drinks cooler is on the truck at all times. Hot water bottles and blanket provided on the 5:30am game drives because it can get chilly.

All guests eat dinner together at around 8pm and talk about your day which is nice.The camp cater to all dietry requirements. I asked Tommy if i could change my breakfast and dinner options on a few occasions, to which he obliged without hesitation.

Communal pool with sunbeds and towels.
The camp has breathtaking views of the park.

Tommy kindly offered our own private dinner in our room however we politely declined because we wanted to have dinner with Festo and other guests which we enjoyed.

We saw Elephant, Giraffe, Lion including cubs, Warthog, Zebra, Buffalo, Hyena, Impala, Kudu, Baboons, Wilderbeast, Hippo, Ostrich, Jackal and various birds.
Your welcomed back to camp after the game drive by Tommy and staff, along with a hot towel and drinks. This was a nice touch.

There is a tip box for staff is in the bar area. Guides to be tipped separately. We used US dollars for tips. There is tip recommendations in your room depending on length of stay.

We cannot thank everyone enough for a truly amazing experience. Words cannot really say how much we loved every minute. I genuinely had a tear in my eye as we left the camp because i didn't want to leave!
Ikuka stole our hearts and will remember this place.

Asante Sana! We will we back!

Love , Mr & Mrs Read