Ruaha National Park

Ruaha National Park is Tanzania’s largest national park, covering over 20,000 square kilometers in the south-central part of the country. Known for its rugged landscapes, baobab-studded hills, and dramatic river systems, Ruaha offers an authentic and remote safari experience far from the crowds of northern Tanzania. The park forms the heart of the Greater Ruaha Ecosystem, one of the most ecologically diverse areas in East Africa.

Unlike more tourist-heavy parks, Ruaha remains a well-kept secret, ideal for travelers seeking raw wilderness, exclusivity, and rich wildlife encounters in a largely untouched environment.

Facts About Ruaha National Park

• Named after the Great Ruaha River, the park’s primary water source and wildlife lifeline.

• Covers more than 20,000 km², making it the largest national park in Tanzania.

• Part of the larger Rungwa-Kizigo-Muhesi ecosystem.

• Home to about 10% of the world’s lion population, with large prides commonly seen.

• One of the few places where east and southern African species coexist.

• Supports over 570 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.

Excursions and Activities

Ruaha is all about immersive, off-the-beaten-path safaris. Popular activities include:

• Game Drives (Day and Night): Explore remote areas in 4×4 vehicles with expert guides, including opportunities for night drives (in private reserves or camps).

• Walking Safaris: Led by experienced guides and armed rangers, offering a close-up view of the bush.

• Birdwatching Safaris: A highlight due to the park’s huge bird diversity, especially between November and April.

• Photography Safaris: Capture dramatic scenery and unique wildlife behavior without tourist congestion.

• Cultural Visits: Learn about the Hehe and Barabaig tribes in the surrounding areas (arranged by lodges or camps).

Best Time to Visit

Ruaha offers rewarding experiences year-round, but the seasons shape the safari style:

• Dry Season (June to October):

  • Best time for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources.

  • Vegetation is sparse, making sightings easier.

  • Ideal for first-time visitors and photographers.

• Green Season (November to April):

  • Lush landscapes and a birder’s paradise.

  • Calving season for many herbivores.

  • Fewer tourists and better rates at lodges.

  • Excellent for travelers who enjoy a peaceful, scenic safari with dramatic skies.