Banyan Group has opened Ubuyu, a Banyan Tree Escape, in Ruaha National Park, marking the hospitality group’s first safari property and first hotel in Tanzania.
The property comprises six villas including one-bedroom riverfront and river-glade villas. The two-bedroom River View Villa and the signature Ubuyu Private Retreat accommodate up to six guests across three independent suites. The private retreat measures 452 square metres and includes a 360-degree rooftop terrace, firepit lounge and a show kitchen with private chef service.
The architecture takes its cues from the surrounding landscape. Circular structures inspired by Maasai dwellings have been built with natural materials, including timber, clay and thatch. Mninga wood furnishings are crafted by Tanzanian artisans and the villas are solar-powered.
At the centre of camp is the open-air Living Room. The Open Kitchen, with its plant-forward approach, serves locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. Above it, the Mganga Bar draws on native botanicals. The riverfront Maji Spa incorporates local oils and herbs into treatments influenced by indigenous healing traditions.
Programmes are tailored to individual guest preferences, including game drives, walking safaris, cultural encounters and riverside dining.
Ubuyu works with the Ruaha Conservation Project to provide opportunities for guests to learn about the region’s conservation challenges and wildlife protection efforts. Cultural experiences with the Wahehe community are designed with emphasis on preparation, consent and respectful interaction.
According to Banyan Group, Ruaha has long been one of Tanzania’s most compelling safari destinations yet it remains considerably less visited than the Serengeti and Ngorongoro areas. It is Tanzania’s largest national park, particularly noted for its elephant population, high lion densities and African wild dogs. More than 570 bird species have also been recorded in the wider Ruaha landscape.
Access is via Msembe Airstrip, followed by a game drive of approximately 45-60 minutes. Scheduled air services connect Ruaha with Dar es Salaam, Arusha and Zanzibar as well as other safari destinations in Tanzania.
