Azura Selous Game Reserve Camp

Azura Selous sits on the bank of the Great Ruaha River inside the Selous Game Reserve, a vast reserve in southern Tanzania that covers roughly four times the area of the Serengeti yet receives a fraction of its visitors. The camp holds twelve tented villas spread along the riverbank, each built partly in stone and partly in canvas, with a reception entrance shaped to resemble a termite mound. Every villa has a private plunge pool overlooking the river rapids, a lounge deck with daybeds, indoor and outdoor showers, and kingsize or twin beds under mosquito netting. Villa Twiga, at the eastern end of the property, is the largest and most private of the twelve, with an outdoor sitting pavilion and a bigger plunge pool.

From camp, guided activities go out by open-sided Land Rover — vehicles hold four or six people — as well as on foot, by boat when the river is high enough, and by fishing rod on the fast-flowing Ruaha, which holds tiger fish and electric catfish among other species. Night drives are also available. Walking safaris focus on smaller wildlife, plant identification, and the relationship between flora and fauna. The reserve supports lion, elephant, buffalo, hippo, and wild dog, along with a wide range of riverine and migratory birds.

Dining is served in a different location each day and is not communal by default — each table is set separately unless guests ask to share. The kitchen offers à la carte meals and three-course lunches and dinners. Spa treatments are given on the deck of your villa, facing the river.