News from Hodi Hodi Bush Camp in Ruaha – Tanzania

Since we started our community partnership patrolling the 20,000 square kilometres around the Hodi Hodi Ruaha Bush Camp, which borders the Wildlife Management Area on the Ruaha National Park boundary, we have noticed a significant change in wildlife behaviour.

Five years ago when we arrived to build the camp, the game was skittish, but now we have over a dozen resident or frequent visitor mammal species in camp - Yellow Baboon, greater and lesser Kudu, Zebra, Impala, Cape Buffalo, Sable Antelope, Silver Backed Jackal, Klipspringer, Civet Cat, Warthog, Giraffe, Bush Pig, Leopard, Hyena, African Wild Dog, occasionally roaming Lion and little beasts like Lesser Galago, Tree Hyrax, White Tailed and Banded Mongoose, plus all types of moles and field mice etc.. and of course, Elephant.

Five years ago, the Elephants were very wary and upset, but we have now gained their trust. In fact, two babies have been born right near the guest tents.

Working with the community village-based rangers and the wildlife authorities, we have developed a sanctuary from poaching.

Providing a waterhole near our bar & restaurant area with cool fresh water pumped up by solar from deep underground helps the Elephants to avoid the long walk around the mountain to the nearest village and river, and the temptation to raid crops while there.

In the dry season, we get daily visits from several herds who come to drink and bathe and socialise.

From June to December, you'll be welcomed at camp as the Elephants gently stroll up to the restaurant at Hodi Hodi (Swahili meaning "May I enter, I'm coming through") - offering you a close-up and safe encounter, for both humans and wildlife.