Location: Southern Circuit, Iringa Region
Area: 20,226 km²
Category: National Park

Overview

Ruaha National Park is Tanzania’s largest national park and a crown jewel of the Southern Safari Circuit. Covering over 20,000 square kilometers, Ruaha is part of the greater Rungwa-Kizigo-Muhesi ecosystem, which spans more than 45,000 km². The park offers a raw, authentic safari experience with dramatically fewer visitors compared to the northern parks, making it ideal for adventurers and wildlife purists.

Named after the life-giving Great Ruaha River that forms part of its southeastern boundary, the park’s landscapes are beautifully diverse—ranging from open savannah, baobab-dotted plains, and rocky escarpments to lush riverine habitats. The river attracts animals year-round and plays a vital role in the ecosystem’s vibrancy.

The park is home to one of the largest populations of elephants in East Africa and is also a stronghold for Greater Kudu, Roan, and Sable antelopes. Ruaha is a designated Lion Conservation Unit and offers exceptional chances to witness predators like lions, leopards, cheetahs, and African wild dogs in action. Bird enthusiasts will find paradise here, with over 570 recorded species, including migratory rarities such as Eleonora’s falcon.

Ruaha remains one of Africa’s best-kept secrets—an untamed wilderness where nature thrives and crowds are minimal.

Highlights

• Tanzania’s largest national park

• Exceptional elephant and predator sightings

• Home to rare antelope species like Kudu, Roan, and Sable

• Part of a vast and untouched ecosystem

• Over 570 bird species, including raptors and migratory birds

• Unique scenery with baobab trees, rivers, and rocky outcrops

Activities

• Game Drives – Day and evening drives with high chances of spotting elephants, lions, and more

• Bird Watching – Spot diverse species including hornbills, eagles, and endemic birds

• Walking & Hiking – Guided bush walks offer up-close encounters with nature

• Canoeing & Kayaking – Seasonal opportunities on the rivers

• Balloon Safari – Aerial views of the vast and wild landscapes

Wildlife Highlights

• Large Mammals: Elephant, lion, leopard, cheetah, buffalo, hippo, giraffe, zebra, kudu, sable, roan

• Predators: Lions (in large prides), leopards, spotted hyenas, cheetahs, African wild dogs

• Rare Species: Bat-eared foxes, jackals, elands, and the endangered wild dog

• Birdlife: African fish eagle, Eleonora’s falcon, Tanzanian red-billed hornbill, Goliath heron, Crested barbet, Southern ground hornbill, and more

FAQs

When is the Best Time to Visit Ruaha?

• Dry Season (June to October): Best for game viewing as animals gather near water sources.

• Wet Season (November to May): Lush landscapes and superb bird watching, but more difficult access.

How Do I Get There?

• Ruaha is accessible by road from Iringa or by scheduled/charter flights to airstrips within or near the park.

What is the Climate Like?

• Semi-arid with warm days and cooler nights. It gets hotter from September to November and greener during the rains from December to April.

Nearby Attractions

• Udzungwa Mountains National Park – Eastern Circuit biodiversity hotspot

• Isimila Stone Age Site – Archeological site showcasing early human history

• Igeleke Rock Art Site – Ancient rock paintings near Iringa

Are You Ready to Roam the Wild?
Start planning your Tanzanian wildlife safari today. Let African Giant Adventures guide you to the unforgettable.