Ruaha National Park

Overview

Located in southern Tanzania, Ruaha National Park is Tanzania’s largest national park, covering over 20,000 square kilometers. Despite its size and stunning biodiversity, Ruaha remains one of the country’s best-kept safari secrets, offering an exclusive and uncrowded wilderness experience.

  • 📍 Location: Southern Tanzania, near Iringa

  • 🌍 Size: ~20,226 km²

  • 🐾 Known for: Massive elephant and lion populations, remote wilderness, and diverse landscapes

Why Visit Ruaha?

 

  • 🐘 Elephant Capital: Home to over 12,000 elephants—the largest population in East Africa.

  • 🦁 Lion Stronghold: Supports 10% of the world’s lion population, often seen hunting in large prides.

  • 🐆 Big Cat Central: Frequent sightings of leopards, cheetahs, and even wild dogs.

  • 🐦 Birdwatching Paradise: Over 570 bird species, including rare and endemic species.

  • 🌳 Diverse Habitats: Miombo woodlands, baobab-dotted hills, open plains, and the life-giving Great Ruaha River.

Top Experiences

 

  • Game Drives: Explore the remote and rugged terrain with stunning encounters and few other vehicles.

  • Walking Safaris: Get close to nature on foot with expert rangers (available at some camps).

  • Birdwatching Tours: Spot everything from fish eagles to colorful kingfishers and endemic hornbills.

  • Photography: Unique light, landscapes, and predator-prey action make Ruaha a top spot for safari photography.

Best Time to Visit

 

  • Dry Season (June to October): Best for wildlife viewing, especially around rivers and waterholes.

  • Green Season (January to April): Beautiful scenery, excellent birdwatching, and fewer tourists.