Ruaha National Park

Overview

Ruaha National Park is Tanzania’s largest national park, covering over 20,000 square kilometers of raw, untouched wilderness. Located in the heart of the country, Ruaha is famed for its rugged landscapes, towering baobabs, and abundant wildlife—yet it remains one of East Africa’s best-kept safari secrets. With fewer tourists than the Northern Circuit parks, Ruaha offers an authentic and secluded safari experience, often described as “Africa the way it used to be.”

Why Visit Ruaha?

• Elephant Stronghold: Home to the largest elephant population in Tanzania.

• Big Cat Haven: Lions, cheetahs, and leopards thrive here, with Ruaha boasting some of the highest predator densities in Africa.

• Birdwatching Paradise: Over 570 bird species, including both East and Southern African species, thanks to its unique ecological crossroads.

• Diverse Landscapes: Rolling hills, rocky escarpments, open plains, and the life-giving Great Ruaha River.

• Exclusive Safaris: Remote, uncrowded, and intimate game drives compared to busier parks.

When to Visit

• Best Time: June to October (dry season), when animals gather around the rivers and visibility is at its best.

• Green Season (November–April): Lush landscapes, dramatic skies, excellent birding, and predator action during calving season.

• Avoid April–May: Heavy rains can make some areas inaccessible.

Location

Ruaha is located in central Tanzania, about 625 km (9–10 hours by road) from Dar es Salaam and 130 km from Iringa town.

How to Get There

• By Air: Daily flights connect Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Zanzibar, and Serengeti to Msembe Airstrip in Ruaha.

• By Road: A full-day drive from Dar es Salaam or Arusha via Iringa—adventurous but long.

Popular Attractions & Activities

• Game Drives: Spot elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, and African wild dogs.

• Walking Safaris: Explore on foot with expert guides for a truly immersive bush experience.

• Great Ruaha River: A lifeline for wildlife, especially during the dry season, offering dramatic predator-prey action.

• Birdwatching: Ideal for spotting endemics and migratory species.

• Scenic Landscapes: Baobab-studded plains, rocky outcrops, and sweeping vistas for stunning photography.

Accommodation Options

• Luxury Lodges: Jabali Ridge (Asilia Africa), Ikuka Safari Camp, Kigelia Ruaha.

• Mid-Range Camps: Ruaha River Lodge, Mdonya Old River Camp.

• Budget Options: Park-run bandas and campsites near Msembe headquarters.

Travel Tips

• Ruaha is remote—plan for at least 3–4 nights to make the most of the journey.

• Dry season is ideal for big game, while green season is better for birders and photographers.

• Pack light, breathable clothing but include warm layers for early morning game drives.

• Combine Ruaha with Selous (Nyerere National Park) or Mikumi for a Southern Circuit safari.

• Malaria precautions are essential—carry repellent and consult your doctor before travel.