The oldest lodge in Ruaha National Park is run by Peter and Sarah Fox whose family have been visiting the area for the last 40 years. The lodge is set on the mighty Great Ruaha River and has probably the best location of all lodges in the park. The scenery is stunning, the rapids over which the lodge looks always have game drinking and the nearby pools are filled with crocodiles and hippos.

The river bank is surrounded by rocky outcrops and it is on and around these that the lodge is built. The lodge is split in to two distinct camps; each with their own facilities and dining areas; there is new camp (ten bandas) and the old, original camp (eight bungalows), and although this seems large, each individual camp feels small and personal.

The bandas are large and made of stone and thatch all with a good veranda and plenty of comfy seats. The rooms are a good standard with flush toilets, hot water and electricity. Meals are served on the river bank or high on a rocky outcrop, the food is wholesome and plentiful with fresh veg provided by the family farm in Iringa.

Walking safaris are possible but the main focus is on open-sided game drives, usually accompanied by a guide and tracker from the local community.

The River Lodge is not comparable to the more expensive lodges of Jongomero and Mwagusi; but is good value for money and comes highly recommended.