Ruaha National Park

Tanzania's second-largest national park, in the south-centre of the country. Baobab-covered hills, sand rivers and the Great Ruaha River draw elephant, big cats and wild dog, and the park's remote position keeps it uncrowded.

Best time
June to October, the dry season, when wildlife gathers along the Great Ruaha River. The rains run from about November to May.

The Great Ruaha River runs along the south-east of the park and is its only permanent river. By the end of the dry season, in October, even it slows to a trickle in places. From June to October wildlife gathers along it and at the pools left in the sand rivers, where elephants dig for water.

Ruaha lies where eastern and southern African wildlife overlap, so sable, roan and both greater and lesser kudu live here alongside elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard and cheetah. More than 550 bird species have been recorded.

Scheduled and charter flights use the Msembe and Jongomero airstrips. By road the park is about 130 km from Iringa. Walking safaris with an armed guide are possible.

Wildlife

  • Elephant
  • Lion
  • Leopard
  • Cheetah
  • African wild dog
  • Greater kudu
  • Lesser kudu
  • Sable antelope