Situated in central to southern Tanzania, Ruaha National Park lies about 130 km west of Iringa. Spanning 20,226 km², it is the largest protected area in Tanzania and East Africa. The park gets its name from the Great Ruaha River, which winds through its southeastern section, drawing an array of wildlife to its banks.
Ruaha is a crucial component of the Rungwa-Kizigo-Muhesi ecosystem, which covers an expansive 45,000 km². This ecosystem includes the Rungwa Game Reserve, the Kizigo and Muhesi Game Reserves, and the Mbomipa Wildlife Management Area, blending the best of Southern and East African nature.
Established initially as the Saba Game Reserve by the German colonial regime in 1910, it was renamed the Rungwa Game Reserve by the British in 1946. The southern part was designated as a national park in 1964.
Ruaha’s landscape is a stunning mix of vast savannahs, a life-giving river, and mountainous regions in the south and west. It boasts rare species such as wild dogs, cheetahs, and leopards, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.
Often overshadowed by Tanzania's more famous northern parks, Ruaha offers a tranquil safari experience, free from the bustling crowds. This remoteness and vastness are part of its allure. It forms a key part of Tanzania’s southern safari circuit, typically combined with a visit to Selous.
While rhinos are not found here, Ruaha boasts Tanzania’s largest concentration of elephants, along with a healthy population of lions and crocodiles along the Great Ruaha River. The park's remote location makes it less accessible, but the seclusion enhances the safari experience. Flight connections are limited, but worth the effort for the reward of a pristine wilderness.
You can reach Ruaha by plane or car, though flying is recommended for comfort and convenience. Driving offers a unique view of rural Tanzania, with changing landscapes that are continually captivating. Stops in Morogoro or Iringa provide a taste of traditional village life. The park is 625 km from Dar es Salaam, a drive that takes around nine hours. Alternatively, Iringa is just 130 km away.
Frequent flights from Dar es Salaam, Arusha, the Serengeti, Kigoma, and Dodoma land at Msembe and Jongomero airstrips. Coastal Aviation and Safari Airlink offer these flights, with private charters available on request. Kizza Adventures arranges all transport for your convenience.
The ideal time to visit is during the long dry season from June to October, when cooler temperatures and dwindling water sources make for excellent wildlife viewing. For bird enthusiasts, the European winter months (December to April) attract migratory birds. Note that some lodges close during the long wet season (March-May), so plan accordingly.
Morning game drives and walking safaris are popular in Ruaha, while night drives are not allowed. Walking safaris with experienced rangers offer a closer encounter with wildlife, such as elephants. The park provides fantastic opportunities for wildlife photography, with fewer visitors than Serengeti or Ngorongoro, offering a more intimate experience.
Hot air balloon rides provide a unique perspective of Ruaha’s wilderness. Though they are costly (around US$550 per person), they are a memorable experience.
Ruaha has East Africa’s largest elephant population, estimated at around 10,000. The park is also home to 10% of the world’s lion population. Other residents include leopards, cheetahs, zebras, elands, giraffes, impalas, bat-eared foxes, crocodiles, and jackals.
Ruaha’s position between Southern and Eastern Africa means it hosts species from both regions, such as the greater and lesser kudu. Rare species like the sable and roan antelopes are also found here. Cheetahs and leopards are often spotted, as are around 100 wild dogs.
Birdwatchers will delight in the 571 bird species recorded here. The park’s landscapes are dotted with acacias, baobabs, and over 1,650 plant species.
Enhance your safari with cultural experiences in Iringa, one of Tanzania’s largest cities. Iringa’s history includes German colonial architecture and recent Tanzanian influences. It’s a great place to buy souvenirs, try local food, and learn about Tanzanian culture with a local guide. Visit the Igeleke rock art site and the Isimila Stone Age Site for insights into Tanzania’s ancient history.
Due to its remote location, transport to Ruaha can be expensive, with flights costing up to US$380. Accommodation prices are comparable to other Tanzanian national parks. Visitors must pay entry and conservation fees, currently US$30 per non-Tanzanian adult and US$40 per foreign-registered vehicle, though these fees are subject to change.
For more information and to book your safari adventure to Ruaha National Park, please contact Kizza Adventures:
Let Kizza Adventures take care of all your travel arrangements and ensure you have a memorable experience exploring the wild beauty of Ruaha National Park