Ruaha National Park

Ruaha National Park is a hidden gem in the heart of southern Tanzania, offering one of the most authentic and unspoiled safari experiences in Africa. As Tanzania’s second-largest national park and one of the least visited, Ruaha is a sanctuary for serious wildlife lovers, photographers, and those seeking solitude in the wilderness.

The Wild Heart of Tanzania

Covering over 20,000 square kilometers, Ruaha is a dramatic landscape of baobab-studded hills, open plains, rocky escarpments, and seasonal rivers. Its remote location means fewer visitors, ensuring uncrowded game drives and a deeply immersive safari atmosphere.

Incredible Wildlife Diversity

Ruaha boasts an extraordinary concentration of wildlife, often rivaling the more famous northern parks but without the crowds. Here you can find:

Large prides of lions—Ruaha has one of the highest lion densities in Africa
Leopards, cheetahs, and the rare African wild dog
Over 12,000 elephants, the largest population in Tanzania
Huge herds of buffalo, greater and lesser kudu, sable, and roan antelope
Over 570 bird species, making it a paradise for birders

Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventure

Ruaha is ideal for travelers who value genuine, untamed safari experiences. Lodges and camps are few and far between, offering exclusive stays with expert guides and intimate bush activities like:

Open-vehicle game drives
Walking safaris
Night drives (in select camps)
Cultural visits to nearby villages

Getting There

Ruaha is accessible by scheduled or charter flights from Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, or Arusha. It pairs well with Nyerere National Park or Mahale Mountains for a complete Southern Tanzania circuit.

Best Time to Visit

The dry season (June to October) is best for wildlife viewing, especially as animals congregate around shrinking water sources. The green season (November to April) is lush, scenic, and excellent for birding and photography, with fewer visitors.