Ruaha National Park is Tanzania’s largest national park, located in the heart of the country and forming part of the vast Ruaha-Rungwa ecosystem. The park is characterized by rugged landscapes, rolling hills, open plains, and the Great Ruaha River, which sustains wildlife throughout the dry season.
Ruaha is renowned for its raw, untamed beauty and high predator densities, offering an off-the-beaten-path safari experience. Its remote location ensures fewer visitors, making it ideal for travelers seeking exclusivity and exceptional wildlife encounters.
June–October
The dry season offers excellent wildlife viewing as animals congregate along the Great Ruaha River, with sparse vegetation improving visibility.
The wet season transforms the park into lush greenery with dramatic landscapes, abundant birdlife, and fewer visitors, though access can be limited.
Ruaha National Park hosts large populations of elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, and African wild dogs. The park is particularly famous for its large lion prides and impressive antelope diversity, including greater and lesser kudu.
Birdlife is rich, with over 570 species recorded, making Ruaha one of Tanzania’s top birding destinations. The varied habitats support both resident and migratory species, enhancing year-round wildlife viewing.
Ruaha National Park features dramatic landscapes shaped by rocky escarpments, baobab-studded plains, and seasonal rivers. The Great Ruaha River is the park’s most prominent feature, attracting wildlife during the dry months.
The park’s isolation and size contribute to its reputation as one of Tanzania’s most rewarding safari destinations.