Tanzania's vast, untamed southern wilderness.
Ruaha National Park is located in central Tanzania, covering an area of approximately 20,226 square kilometers (7,809 square miles). It is situated between the Iringa and Mbeya regions, and it is easily accessible by air from Dar es Salaam or Arusha, with the closest airport being the Ruaha Airstrip. The park is about a 10-hour drive from Dar es Salaam and offers a more remote and secluded safari experience compared to other parks in Tanzania. Its location along the Great Rift Valley escarpment makes it one of the country’s most scenic and diverse safari destinations.
Top Attractions & Highlights
Wildlife
Ruaha is one of the best places in Tanzania to see large populations of elephants. The park is home to over 10,000 elephants, and during the dry season, they can often be seen gathering at waterholes in impressive numbers. In addition to elephants, Ruaha is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and various species of antelope, including kudu, impala, and gazelle.
Birdwatching
Ruaha is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 570 species of birds recorded. The park’s rivers, wetlands, and woodlands attract a wide variety of birds, from colorful kingfishers and hornbills to majestic raptors like the bateleur eagle and African fish eagle. The park is especially popular for birdwatching during the wet season (November to April) when migratory species arrive.
Great Ruaha River
The Great Ruaha River is the lifeblood of the park and a key feature of the landscape. It winds through the park, providing water to the wildlife, and is particularly scenic during the dry season, when animals gather around its banks to drink. The river is also home to crocodiles and hippos, and boat safaris along its stretches offer unique perspectives of the park's wildlife.
Safari Drives
Ruaha offers some of the best game drives in Tanzania. The park’s varied terrain, including open savannas, woodlands, and riverine forests, provides a rich diversity of habitats for wildlife. Game drives are often less crowded than those in more popular parks, providing a more intimate and exclusive experience. Visitors can spot a wide range of animals, including the park’s famous prides of lions and cheetahs.
What to See & Do
Best Time to Visit
The dry season is the best time to visit Ruaha, as it is easier to spot wildlife around the river and waterholes, where animals gather to drink. The weather is warm but not overly hot, and the lack of rain makes it…
The wet season brings lush green landscapes and a higher chance of bird sightings, especially migratory species. While some of the park’s roads may become impassable, the wet season is a good time for visitors who are…
Photo Gallery
