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Ruaha National Park - Tanzania
Tanzania

Ruaha National Park

Discover one of East Africa's most spectacular destinations

4.9/5
Visitor Rating
500+
Annual Visitors
5+
Wildlife Species
UNESCO
Heritage Site

About Ruaha National Park

Ruaha National Park is Tanzania's largest national park, sprawling over 20,000 square kilometers of rugged wilderness in the southern region. Known for its raw, untamed beauty and incredible biodiversity, Ruaha offers an authentic African safari experience far from the well-trodden tourist paths. This vast park is a sanctuary for one of the largest populations of elephants in East Africa, alongside thriving prides of lions, elusive leopards, cheetahs, buffaloes, giraffes, and countless antelope species.

Ruaha's dramatic landscapes range from rocky hills and kopjes to open savannah and dense miombo woodlands, creating a rich mosaic of habitats that support a diverse array of wildlife. The Great Ruaha River flows through the park, providing vital water sources that attract animals, especially during the dry season when wildlife congregates along its banks.

One of Ruaha's most compelling features is its spectacular predator sightings, with some of the highest densities of lions in Tanzania, including rare black-maned lions. Birdwatchers also find Ruaha captivating, with over 570 bird species recorded, including raptors, colorful barbets, and bee-eaters.

Ruaha's remote location and low visitor numbers make it ideal for travelers seeking solitude and a genuine connection with nature. Safari activities include game drives, walking safaris, and birdwatching excursions, all led by expert guides who share their deep knowledge of the park's ecosystems.

Accommodations range from luxury lodges and tented camps to eco-friendly campsites, designed to blend harmoniously with the environment and provide comfort amid the wilderness.

Ruaha National Park

Highlights of Ruaha National Park

Discover the unique experiences that make this destination unforgettable

Vast Wilderness

Explore Tanzania's largest national park, with over 20,000 square kilometers of untamed landscapes including rugged hills, baobab valleys, open savannah, and dry riverbeds.

Abundant Wildlife

See Africa's largest population of elephants, powerful lion prides, leopards, cheetahs, wild dogs, hyenas, jackals, and diverse antelope species like kudu, sable, and roan.

Great Ruaha River

The park's lifeblood attracts large gatherings of wildlife during the dry season, providing thrilling game-viewing opportunities.

Birdwatching Haven

Over 570 bird species, making Ruaha a top destination for bird enthusiasts and wildlife photographers.

Remote and Untouched

Enjoy quiet, uninterrupted safaris far from crowds, with chances for walking safaris and expert-led bush excursions.

Photographer's Paradise

Stunning changing light and diverse ecosystems create perfect conditions for capturing dramatic wildlife and landscapes.

Plan Your Visit

When to Visit

The best time to visit Ruaha National Park is during the dry season, from June to October, when animals gather around shrinking water sources and the vegetation is sparse, allowing for easier wildlife sightings. These months are ideal for game drives, walking safaris, and photography, as the light is crisp and the skies are typically clear.The green season, which runs from November to May, offers a completely different and equally rewarding experience. Rain transforms the park into a lush and vibrant landscape. Birdlife is at its peak, with many migratory species arriving, and the scenery is rich in color and movement. While the rain may make some roads more difficult to access, the peace, privacy, and freshness of the park during this time appeal to travelers looking for a more reflective, intimate safari.Ruaha is often combined with nearby Nyerere National Park (Selous) for a comprehensive southern circuit safari. Together, these parks offer a more adventurous and less commercialized safari route, rich in wildlife, landscapes, and storytelling.

Where to Stay

Accommodations range from luxury lodges and tented camps to eco-friendly campsites, designed to blend harmoniously with the environment and provide comfort amid the wilderness.

How to Get There

Accessible by charter flights from Dar es Salaam, Arusha, or other major Tanzanian cities. Road access is possible but requires longer travel times.

Wildlife You'll Encounter

Experience incredible wildlife encounters in their natural habitat

African Elephants

African Elephants

Leopards

Leopards

African Wild Dogs

African Wild Dogs

Greater Kudu

Greater Kudu

Sable Antelope

Sable Antelope

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