Best of Ruaha National Park in Tanzania

Size: 13,000 sq km (5,000 sq miles)

Established: 1964

Distance from Dar es Salaam: 625 km (388 miles)

Ruaha National Park – Tanzania’s Untouched Wilderness

Ruaha National Park is one of Tanzania’s last true wildernesses, raw, remote, and unbelievably rich in wildlife. As the largest national park in the country, Ruaha offers travellers a safari experience that feels exclusive, authentic, and deeply connected to nature. With dramatic landscapes, abundant wildlife, and the iconic Ruaha River shaping life across the region, this park stands out as a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an unspoiled African safari.

A Landscape of Striking Contrasts

Ruaha’s vegetation changes dramatically from one zone to another, creating a unique ecological mosaic rarely found elsewhere in East Africa.

You’ll explore:

• Vast open savannahs

• Miombo woodlands

• Thick, dry bushlands

• Swamps and wetlands

• Lush riverine forests

With almost 1,650 recorded plant species, Ruaha is a botanical paradise and a fascinating destination for nature enthusiasts.

The park lies within a remarkable transition zone, where Eastern and Southern African wildlife overlap, making Ruaha one of the most biodiverse ecosystems in Tanzania. The Great Rift Valley also runs through the park, carving dramatic escarpments and creating natural springs that sustain wildlife year-round.

The Lifeline of the Ruaha River

Ruaha National Park is named after the majestic Great Ruaha River, 160 km of which winds through the park. This river is the beating heart of Ruaha’s ecosystem, especially during the dry season when it shrinks into a chain of life-saving waterholes.

During this time, predators take full advantage of the concentrated wildlife along the banks. The riverine thickets create perfect natural cover for:

• Lions

• Leopards

• Cheetahs

• African wild dogs

• Spotted hyenas

This makes the Ruaha River zone one of the best predator-viewing areas in the entire park.

Wildlife You Can Expect on a Ruaha Safari

1. Africa’s Largest Elephant Populations

Ruaha is famous for hosting one of the highest concentrations of African elephants in East Africa. Herds of up to 200 individuals are often seen feeding under ancient baobab trees—one of the most iconic sights on a Ruaha safari.

2. Rare and Majestic Antelopes

Ruaha is among the few parks where you can see both species of kudu:

• Greater kudu with their majestic spiral horns

• Lesser kudu, more elusive but equally impressive

The park is also home to sable and roan antelopes, two of Africa’s most sought-after and rarely seen antelope species.

3. Incredible Birdlife

Bird lovers will be thrilled to discover more than 529 recorded bird species, making Ruaha one of Tanzania’s most important birding destinations.

Notable species include:

• Ruaha red-billed hornbill (endemic)

• Kingfishers

• Sunbirds

• Black-collared lovebirds

• Ashy starlings

• Ground hornbills

• Bateleurs

• African fish eagles

Both resident and migratory species thrive in the park’s diverse habitats.

Why Visit Ruaha National Park?

• Less crowded compared to northern parks like the Serengeti

• Perfect for authentic, off-the-beaten-path safaris

• High predator density with excellent big cat sightings

• Stunning diversity of landscapes

• Some of Africa’s best elephant viewing

• Superb birdwatching opportunities

• Ideal for photographers and nature lovers

Whether you’re on a game drive, walking safari, or relaxing at a riverside lodge, Ruaha offers an unforgettable safari experience shaped by nature in its purest form.

Plan Your Ruaha Safari With Kiwoito Africa Safaris

At Kiwoito Africa Safaris, we craft personalised itineraries that immerse you in Ruaha’s untouched wilderness. Our experienced safari guides take you through the park’s most productive wildlife zones, ensuring you get the most out of every moment.

Whether you’re combining Ruaha with Selous/Nyerere National Park, Mikumi, or travelling deeper into Southern Tanzania, we help you design the perfect safari journey.

Ready to explore Ruaha National Park?
Send us your travel dates, and our safari specialists will prepare a tailor-made itinerary just for you.