Ruaha National Park
A vast hidden park, whose secret charm makes it a popular choice for safari-goers
Ruaha National Park
Ruaha National Park is a sprawling wilderness in central Tanzania, known for its vast landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Covering over 20,000 square kilometres, it’s the largest national park in Tanzania and an important part of the greater Rungwa-Kizigo-Muhesi ecosystem. The park’s terrain varies from open savannahs to rugged hills, with the Great Ruaha River carving through its southern edge, creating an oasis that draws an array of wildlife.
This park is renowned for its exceptional predator sightings, p articularly the large prides of lions that roam the plains. Ruaha is also a stronghold for wild dogs, a rare sight in other parks, alongside an impressive variety of antelope species and large elephant herds. The park’s diverse habitats support a rich array of wildlife, making it a top destination for those looking to witness Africa’s iconic animals in a truly wild setting.
Visitors to Ruaha can engage in a variety of activities that highlight the park’s natural beauty. Morning and evening game drives are ideal for spotting wildlife during the cooler hours of the day, while night drives offer a glimpse into the lives of nocturnal creatures. Walking safaris, guided by experienced rangers, allow you to explore the bush on foot, providing a unique perspective on the park’s flora and fauna. Ruaha’s mix of dramatic scenery and abundant wildlife ensures a Tanzania Safari Experience that leaves a lasting impression.
Best Time to Visit
The Best Time to Visit Ruaha National Park is from June to October when the Dry season is at its peak. During these months, the vegetation becomes sparse, drawing wildlife closer to the Great Ruaha River and its tributaries, making animal sightings more frequent and thrilling.
- Optimal Viewing – June to October (Superb for spotting wildlife)
- Peak Season – June to October (Fewer visitors, serene environment)
- Quieter Months – April and May (Some lodges may be closed)
- Perfect Weather – June to October (Little to no rain)
- Rainy Months – December to March (Highest rainfall)
To enjoy the rich wildlife and stunning landscapes, plan your visit during the Dry season when the park’s natural beauty is at its best.
How to Get to Ruaha National Park?
To reach Ruaha National Park, most journeys begin in Dar es Salaam, with Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) as the primary arrival point. After landing, your tour operator will usually take care of the rest, guiding you smoothly on the next leg of your adventure.
There are a couple of ways to make your way to Ruaha:
- By Road The road trip from Dar es Salaam to Ruaha covers approximately 600km (373 mi) and takes around 10 hours. Although the journey can be long and the road a bit rough, breaking it up with a visit to Mikumi National Park is a popular choice. From Mikumi, it’s another 320km (200 mi) to Ruaha, which takes about 5 hours.
- By Air Flying is a quicker alternative for those looking to skip the long drive. Charter flights are available from Dar es Salaam directly to Ruaha’s airstrip, bringing you closer to the wild landscapes in a fraction of the time.
Ruaha’s untouched wilderness awaits—plan your Tanzania Safari Trip and experience the raw beauty of one of Tanzania’s most captivating parks.
The Tanzania Safari Packages
Southern Circuit Tanzania
The Southern Circuit in Tanzania is a renowned travel route that showcases the country’s lesser-visited but spectacular natural attractions, including Selous Game Reserve, Ruaha National Park, and Mikumi National Park, offering rich wildlife experiences and stunning landscapes.
