The Ruaha National Park in Tanzania Wildlife Safaris & Tours

Ruaha National Park Tanzania

Ruaha National Park is Tanzania’s largest national park. The Park is known for its diverse landscapes, including rolling hills, river valleys, rocky outcrops. It is also known for the stunning Great Ruaha River. The Park is home to a wide range of wildlife species, including one of the largest elephant populations in Tanzania. Ruaha is believed to host an estimated 12,000 elephants. The Park is also famous for its large lion population, which makes up 10% of the world’s lion population. The Park is also home to a healthy leopard population. Other commonly sighted animals include African wild dogs, giraffes, zebras, hippos, and crocodiles. The Park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 500 bird species recorded.

Facts about Ruaha National Park 

  • Ruaha National Park is the largest national park in Tanzania and the second-largest in Africa.
  • The park’s name is derived from the Hehe word “Luhava,” meaning “great river,” referring to the Great Ruaha River.
  • Ruaha National Park is home to over 1,650 plant species.
  • The Park is located at an altitude between 750 and 1,868 meters.
  • Ruaha National Park is accessible by road and air, with daily flights from Dar es Salaam and Arusha.
Giraffe Ruaha National Park

Ruaha National Park Safaris and Tours

Features and Attractions 

Ruaha National Park is one of the largest national parks in Tanzania, located in the southern part of the country. Here are some of the key features and attractions of Ruaha National Park:

Diverse Wildlife

Ruaha is home to a vast array of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, lions, leopards, cheetahs, wild dogs, and over 500 species of birds. It is known for its large elephant and buffalo populations.

Ruaha River

The Ruaha River is the lifeblood of the park, providing water and sustenance for the diverse wildlife. Visitors can enjoy game drives and boat safaris along the river to spot animals.

Baobab Trees

Ruaha is famous for its ancient and towering baobab trees, which dot the landscape and provide a unique and iconic backdrop for safari experiences.

Diverse Landscapes

The Park features a range of landscapes, including open savannas, rocky outcrops, and dense woodlands, providing a variety of habitats for the wildlife.

Cultural Attractions

The Park is home to several ancient rock art sites, providing insights into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Ruaha National Park Activities 

Here are some of the best activities to do in Ruaha National Park: 

Game Drives

Game drives are the main activity in Ruaha, allowing you to spot a wide variety of wildlife including large herds of elephants, buffaloes, zebras, giraffes, impalas, greater kudus, and predators like lions, leopards, and wild dogs. The best times for game drives are early morning and late afternoon when animals are most active.

Walking Safaris

Walking safaris provide an intimate experience to explore the bush on foot with experienced armed guides and local trackers. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of the area’s wildlife and habitat while immersing your senses in the sights, sounds and scents of the bush.

Birdwatching & Photography 

Ruaha is a birdwatcher’s paradise with over 500 species recorded, including both migratory and resident birds. Some notable species include the lilac-breasted roller, white-bellied go-away bird, Kori bustard, and Bateleur eagle. Guided birdwatching is best done early morning in the bush and surrounding areas when birds are most active. 

Night Game Drives

Night drives allow you to spot nocturnal animals like bat-eared foxes, African genets, porcupines, and bush babies that are rarely seen during the day. You’ll be accompanied by an armed ranger and use spotlights to locate the animals.

Cultural Tours

Cultural tours provide an opportunity to visit local Hehe villages and learn about their way of life, culture, history, food, and crafts. It’s an amazing add-on activity to get a glimpse into the local culture. Other activities include bush meals, picnicking, and hot air balloon safaris. The best time to visit is during the dry season from June to October when wildlife viewing is at its peak.

Best Time to Visit Ruaha National Park

The best time to visit Ruaha National Park is during the dry season, from June to October. During this period, animals are drawn to the Great Ruaha River and other water sources, making them easier to spot. For birdwatchers, the best time to visit is during the rainy season, from November to April, when migratory birds have arrived and resident birds are breeding.

Accommodation at the Ruaha National Park

Ruaha National Park offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury lodges to budget campsites. Some popular options include:

  • Mwagusi Safari Camp
  • Ikuka Safari Camp
  • Kichaka Expeditions
  • Kwihala Camp
  • Jabali Ridge Lodge
  • Mid-Range Camps
  • Jongomero Camp
  • Budget Options
  • Mdonya Old River Camp
  • Ruaha River Lodge
  • Asilia Jabali Ridge
  • Ruaha Hilltop Lodge

Safety Guides and Tips 

  • Pre-Trip Planning: Before embarking on the Volcanoes National Park Safari, ensure a qualified guide accompanies you. That’s where we come in. Nature’s Wonderland Safaris offers professional guides on Volcanoes, National Park tours, and Safaris.
  • Dressing: Pack enough breathable clothes fit for the jungle. The weather at Volcanoes National Park can be unpredictable with sudden rains. Therefore, you are advised to wear sturdy hiking boots and pack rain gear.
  • Emergency Preparedness: Carry a first aid kit, a fully charged phone, and emergency contact information. Stay close to your group and follow instructions in case of an emergency.

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