Ruaha National Park, Tanzania’s largest park, is named after the Ruaha River that flows along its southeastern border. This river serves as a vital water source and attracts vast concentrations of wildlife, especially during the dry season. Located in the southern circuit, Ruaha offers a more remote and exclusive safari experience compared to the northern parks.
Covering 20,226 square kilometers, Ruaha is home to diverse ecosystems that support a rich variety of wildlife, including large herds of elephants and buffaloes, as well as predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs. It’s also a bird lover’s paradise with over 450 species recorded. The park’s dramatic landscapes, dominated by baobab trees, provide a stunning backdrop for wildlife viewing.
Size: 20,226 sq km (7,809 sq miles).
Location: Southern Tanzania, 130 km west of Iringa.
Drive from Iringa (2-3 hours) or fly from Dar es Salaam or Arusha to Msembe Airstrip.
Game drives, walking safaris, bird watching, cultural tours.
The dry season (May to December) for game viewing, while the wet season (January to April) is perfect for bird watching.
Ruaha’s diverse landscapes, from semi-arid savannahs to the lush greenery of the riverbanks, create a unique habitat for a wide range of species. The park is especially famous for its large populations of elephants, with herds numbering over 100 at times, and for hosting significant populations of lesser and greater kudu, as well as the rare sable and roan antelopes.
The Ruaha River, which never completely dries up, sustains a remarkable number of hippos and crocodiles, and attracts predators including lions, leopards, and the elusive African wild dogs. Birdlife in Ruaha is equally impressive, with species like fish eagles, kingfishers, and hornbills found throughout the park.
Visiting Ruaha guarantees an intimate safari experience, far removed from the crowds of other parks. Whether you’re drawn to its large elephant herds or the beauty of its rugged landscapes, Ruaha National Park offers one of Tanzania’s most unforgettable safari experiences.