Women-led Mpingo Lodge now offers affordable option for Nyerere

7 days ago

2 min read

Mpingo Lodge Selous is a women-owned safari lodge set on the banks of the Rufiji River in southern Tanzania right outside Nyerere National Park.

Founded by five Tanzanian women (Mary, Rose, Aminata, Martha and Grace), the lodge was designed and built from the ground up in 2015. Rose and Aminata lead its operations, drawing on their extensive hospitality experience to offer guests a personal and locally rooted alternative to larger commercial safari properties.

Mpingo has eight self-contained, solar-powered suites, each with a private deck overlooking the Rufiji River. The accommodation comprises five canvas tents on raised wooden platforms and three wooden cabins. The suites can be configured for couples, families, groups of friends and solo travellers. Riverside camping is also available for guests seeking a closer connection to the surrounding landscape.

As Co-founder, Grace Kido explained, "Women are central to the Mpingo experience. Rose and Aminata lead a skilled team of women guides, cooks and hospitality professionals who share their knowledge of southern Tanzania with every guest. By creating opportunities for women across different areas of safari tourism, Mpingo demonstrates the expertise and leadership of women in the region".

Guests can take part in day and night game drives in Nyerere National Park, sunset and full- day boat safaris on the Rufiji River, birdwatching, bush walks, cultural tours and riverside camping. The Mpingo experience also extends beyond conventional safaris.

Guests can explore locally marked trails and meet women who contribute to community life as craftspeople, teachers, entrepreneurs and community leaders. The lodge supports local initiatives that encourage meaningful interaction between visitors and residents such as the women soccer team, cooking experiences with the local community etc.

"Mpingo Lodge offers travellers an intimate way to experience the wildlife, landscapes and communities surrounding Nyerere National Park, guided by the people who know the region best."