Ruaha National Park is a vast and untamed jewel of southern Tanzania, offering raw beauty, solitude, and some of the most authentic safari experiences on the continent. As Tanzania’s largest national park, Ruaha stretches across nearly 20,000 square kilometers and remains blissfully off the beaten track.
Set where East and Southern Africa’s ecosystems meet, the park showcases a rich diversity of landscapes and wildlife, creating a rare and magical safari environment far from the crowds of the north.
Park Highlights
Largest Elephant Population in Tanzania – Ruaha is home to over 10,000 elephants, often seen in large family herds.
Predator Paradise – Hosts one of Africa’s largest lion populations, alongside leopards, cheetahs, and endangered African wild dogs.
Abundant Game – Huge herds of buffalo, sable and roan antelope, greater kudu, giraffe, and more roam the plains and woodlands.
Diverse Ecosystems – From baobab-studded savannah to dry riverbeds and rocky hills, Ruaha’s scenery is as varied as its wildlife.
Birding Hotspot – Over 570 bird species thrive here, including many that are endemic or rare in other regions.
Best Time to Visit Ruaha
June to October (Dry Season): Wildlife is easier to spot as animals gather around water sources. This is the peak safari season with excellent visibility and cooler weather.
November to April (Green Season): Lush landscapes return with the rains, attracting migratory birds and newborn wildlife. Fewer tourists make this a peaceful time to visit, though some lodges may close.
Ruaha National Park is ideal for seasoned safari-goers or those seeking a deeper, quieter connection with nature. It’s where ancient baobabs watch over the land, predators rule vast territories, and visitors find not just wildlife, but wildness itself.
