Ruaha National Park
A vast wilderness of baobabs and massive lion prides.
About Ruaha National Park
Ruaha National Park is the largest national park in Tanzania, yet it remains one of its best-kept secrets. This is a wilderness of staggering proportions, characterized by a rugged landscape of ancient baobabs, rocky hills, and the Great Ruaha River. It is a place for the serious safari-goer, where the wildlife is wild and the human footprint is incredibly light.\n\nThe park is legendary for its predator population, specifically its massive lion prides which can sometimes number over 20 individuals. It is also one of the few places in East Africa where you can see both Greater and Lesser Kudu, alongside a significant population of the endangered African wild dog. The river banks are a constant theater of life, drawing elephants, buffalos, and waterbucks in high numbers during the dry season.\n\nBecause of its remote location, Ruaha offers a level of exclusivity and solitude that is hard to find in the northern parks. You can drive for hours without seeing another vehicle, allowing for an intimate connection with the landscape. Whether you are tracking leopards in the riverine forest or watching the sun set behind a thousand-year-old baobab, Ruaha delivers a raw and authentic African experience.
“Ruaha is Africa as it was a century ago: wild, rugged, and completely uncompromising.”
Wildlife in Ruaha National Park
Lion
Very CommonRuaha holds about 10% of the world's remaining lion population, with famously large prides.
Wild Dog
RareOne of the best places in Africa to search for these highly social and endangered predators.
Greater Kudu
CommonThe park's emblem, these elegant antelopes are frequently seen in the bush lands.
Elephant
Very CommonMassive herds congregate along the Great Ruaha River during the dry months.
Leopard
CommonOften spotted in the large trees lining the riverbanks and rocky outcrops.
Best Time to Visit Ruaha National Park
The Predator peak
- · Large lion prides
- · Wild dog tracking
- · River action
The Emerald Wilderness
- · Migratory birds
- · Lush baobabs
- · Newborn animals
The Solitude Season
- · Total wilderness feel
- · No other vehicles
- · Dramatic light
Experiences in Ruaha National Park
Ruaha River Tracking
Follow the lifeblood of the park on a game drive, witnessing the intense daily drama at the water's edge.
Walking with the Giants
A guided walk among the ancient baobabs, learning about the smaller inhabitants and tracking predators on foot.
Bush Picnic at Sunset
Enjoy a private sundowner overlooking the vast plains as the sky turns into a canvas of oranges and purples.
Where to Stay in Ruaha National Park
PremiumJabali Ridge
SuperiorRuaha River Lodge
StandardMdonya Old River Camp
Travel Information
- Visa
- Standard Tanzanian eVisa applies
- Best Time
- July to October for game viewing
- Transport
- Exclusively by light aircraft and 4x4 safari vehicles
- Getting There
- 1.5h to 2h flight from Dar es Salaam or Arusha
Ruaha National Park FAQs
Is Ruaha better than the Serengeti?
It's different. While Serengeti has the migration, Ruaha offers a more rugged, remote wilderness feel with fewer tourists and exceptionally large lion prides.
Can we see wild dogs in Ruaha?
Yes, Ruaha is one of the premier locations in Tanzania for seeing African wild dogs, though they are highly mobile and sightings are never guaranteed.
How do I get to Ruaha?
The only practical way to reach Ruaha is by light aircraft from Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, or Arusha, landing at one of the park's bush airstrips.
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