Ruaha National Park

Destination Zone

Southern Circuit

Best Time to Go

June to October

High Season

June to October

Nearest Airport

Julius Nyerere International Airport

Price Range

$500 to $5335

About Ruaha National Park

Ruaha National Park, located in central Tanzania, is one of the country’s largest and most remote parks, covering an area of approximately 20,226 square kilometers. It is named after the Great Ruaha River, which flows along the park’s eastern boundary, providing a vital water source for wildlife throughout the year. Ruaha is celebrated for its incredible diversity of ecosystems, ranging from savannas and woodlands to riverine forests and wetlands, making it a haven for both wildlife and bird species.

Ruaha is known for its large populations of elephants, lions, and other big game, as well as its impressive variety of antelope species. The park’s relatively low visitor numbers make it an excellent choice for those seeking a more private and untouched African safari experience. The park’s isolation, combined with its rich biodiversity, makes it a hidden gem for safari enthusiasts and photographers alike. With its vast, rugged landscapes and abundant wildlife, Ruaha offers an authentic and adventurous safari experience.

When is the Best Time to Visit Ruaha National Park

The best time to visit Ruaha National Park is during the dry season, which runs from June to October. During this period, wildlife concentrates around the river and other water sources, making it easier to spot animals. The lack of foliage during the dry season also improves visibility, making it an excellent time for game viewing. Temperatures are warm but not overly hot, and the park’s open landscapes provide fantastic opportunities for wildlife photography.

The wet season, from November to May, is a quieter time to visit, with fewer tourists and lush, green landscapes. While the roads in the park may become challenging to navigate due to rain, the rainy season offers a chance to witness newborn animals and see migratory birds. The wet season is ideal for birdwatching, and the vibrant scenery makes it a great time for those looking to experience the park’s natural beauty in its full glory. If you prefer a less crowded experience with a chance to see the park’s flora and fauna in full bloom, the wet season is an excellent time to visit.

Weather and Climate in Ruaha National Park

Ruaha National Park has a tropical climate, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season, from June to October, is the most popular time for safaris. During this time, temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) during the day, with cooler temperatures in the evenings and early mornings. The weather is typically sunny, and rainfall is minimal, making it the ideal time for game viewing.

The wet season lasts from November to May, with the heaviest rainfall occurring between March and May. During this period, the park’s landscape transforms into a lush, green paradise, attracting an abundance of birds and providing a beautiful backdrop for safaris. However, some areas of the park may become inaccessible due to muddy roads, and certain activities like game drives can be more challenging. Despite the rain, safaris during the wet season can still be rewarding, especially for those interested in birdwatching and witnessing the birth of wildlife.

Why Visit Ruaha National Park?

Ruaha National Park offers an off-the-beaten-path safari experience, making it perfect for those seeking a more exclusive and tranquil adventure in Tanzania. The park’s stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and relatively low visitor numbers provide an intimate and immersive safari experience. With abundant wildlife, including large herds of elephants, lions, leopards, and rare species like the African wild dog, Ruaha is a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.

The park’s remote location means that visitors can experience the beauty of Tanzania’s wilderness without the crowds found in more popular parks like Serengeti or Ngorongoro. The diversity of the ecosystem, combined with the opportunity to enjoy the park’s wildlife in a peaceful setting, makes Ruaha a must-visit for safari lovers looking for a true wilderness experience.

Reasons to Visit Ruaha National Park:

Large Elephant Herds: Ruaha is home to one of Tanzania’s largest elephant populations, making it a great destination for elephant lovers.
Diverse Wildlife: In addition to the Big Five, Ruaha offers opportunities to see rare species such as the African wild dog and sable antelope.
Birdwatching Paradise: The park boasts over 570 bird species, making it an excellent destination for birdwatching enthusiasts.
Remote and Exclusive: Fewer tourists visit Ruaha, providing a more private and intimate safari experience.
Stunning Scenery: The park’s combination of riverine, woodland, and savanna landscapes creates picturesque vistas for photography and exploration.
Great for Photographers: With its abundant wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and scenic rivers, Ruaha offers ample opportunities for stunning wildlife and landscape photography.

Things to Do in Ruaha National Park

Ruaha National Park provides a wide range of activities to suit various interests, from classic game drives to birdwatching and cultural experiences. The park is ideal for those looking to explore its diverse landscapes on traditional game drives, where visitors can spot lions, elephants, and other wildlife. Guided walking safaris are also available, providing a more intimate and educational experience as you learn about the park’s smaller creatures, tracks, and plant life.

For birdwatching enthusiasts, the park is home to a variety of species, and guided birdwatching tours can help visitors spot both resident and migratory birds. The Great Ruaha River offers a picturesque setting for boat safaris, where visitors can observe hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species from a unique perspective. Additionally, photography enthusiasts will find that Ruaha offers stunning opportunities to capture wildlife, landscapes, and dramatic river scenes.

Top Activities and Things to Do in Ruaha National Park:

Game Drives: Explore the park’s diverse habitats and spot iconic wildlife like elephants, lions, and leopards.
Guided Walking Safaris: Experience the park’s wildlife and ecosystems from a different perspective by walking with an expert guide.
Birdwatching: Discover over 570 species of birds, including migratory birds and rarities like the white-backed vulture.
Boat Safaris: Cruise along the Great Ruaha River and observe hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.
Photography: Capture the beauty of Ruaha’s wildlife, landscapes, and iconic river scenes.
Cultural Visits: Visit nearby villages and learn about the traditions and lifestyles of local communities.

How to Get to Ruaha National Park

Reaching Ruaha National Park typically requires a flight into the park or a road transfer from nearby cities like Iringa or Dar es Salaam. The park is accessible by a paved road from Iringa, which is about 130 kilometers (80 miles) away. The drive from Dar es Salaam takes approximately 10-12 hours, but many visitors opt for a domestic flight to the park’s airstrip for convenience.

There are daily scheduled flights from Dar es Salaam to Ruaha’s airstrip, which can be booked through various safari operators. Private charter flights are also available for those looking for a more luxurious and time-efficient option. The park is also accessible by road from nearby towns, although the long journey may be more suitable for those with a sense of adventure.

Ways to Get to Ruaha National Park:

By Road (Self-Drive): Drive from Iringa or Dar es Salaam, with a journey time of approximately 10-12 hours from Dar es Salaam.
Guided Tours: Join a guided safari with transportation to and from the park included.
By Air (Scheduled Flight): Take a domestic flight from Dar es Salaam to the park’s airstrip.
By Private Charter: Charter a private flight to the park’s airstrip for a more time-efficient and luxurious experience.

Where to Stay When Visiting Ruaha National Park

Ruaha offers a variety of accommodation options, from mid-range tented camps to high-end luxury lodges. Many lodges are strategically located near the park’s major wildlife areas, offering easy access to game drives and other activities. For those on a budget, there are also simple and comfortable campsites and tented accommodations that provide an authentic safari experience.

Luxury lodges in Ruaha typically offer spacious tents or suites, excellent service, and stunning views of the park’s landscapes. Many of these lodges also feature swimming pools, spas, and other amenities for guests looking to relax after a day of wildlife viewing. Staying within or near the park ensures that you are close to the action, maximizing your safari experience.

Accommodation Options in Ruaha National Park:

Budget: Ruaha River Lodge – A comfortable lodge with tented accommodations offering great views of the Great Ruaha River and wildlife.
Mid-Range: Mdonya Old River Camp – A charming tented camp with an authentic, rustic feel and good access to game drives.
Luxury: Jabali Ridge – A luxurious lodge offering exquisite service, stunning views, and spacious suites in the heart of the park.

Let's plan your trip around Ruaha National Park

Our team of Safari specialists are waiting to help you book your next adventure. Contact us today to start planning your tailor-made trip.

Photos of Ruaha National Park

Suggested itinerary featuring Ruaha National Park

This sample itinerary will give you an idea of what is possible when you travel in Ruaha National Park, and showcases routes we know work particularly well. Treat this as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.

5 Days Ruaha & Mikumi Simba Safari

You Visit: Ruaha National Park, Mikumi National Park

Best Time: Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct

Other Popular Destinations to Visit in Tanzania

Featuring heavily on our itinerary ideas for visiting Tanzania, these places are destinations that we know prove consistently popular with our travellers. How you choose to include them in your trip can be tailored into a route that best suits your preferences.

Ngorongoro Crater

Mahale Mountains National Park

Lake Manyara National Park

Udzungwa Mountains National Park

Mkomazi National Park

Gombe Stream National Park

Serengeti National Park