RUAHA NATIONAL PARK
- Country: Tanzania
- Location: Central Tanzania
- Language Spoken: Swahili
- Area (Km): 12.95 Km Squares
- Visa Requirement: yes
Ruaha National Park, located in central Tanzania, is the country's largest national park and a hidden gem for wildlife enthusiasts seeking a wilder, less-trafficked safari experience. The park's rugged and semi-arid landscape, defined by the Great Ruaha River and iconic baobab trees, offers an authentic bush feel and exceptional game viewing, especially during the dry season.
Wildlife highlights
Ruaha boasts an exceptional diversity of wildlife, including:
- Large Elephant Population: The park is famous for its large number of elephants, which congregate along the Great Ruaha River during the dry season.
- Predators: Ruaha is home to a significant population of lions, believed to account for over 10% of Africa's total lion population. Leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas are also frequently spotted.
- Endangered African Wild Dogs: The park is a crucial habitat for the endangered African wild dog, a major draw for wildlife enthusiasts.
- Unique Antelope Species: Ruaha is one of the only parks in East Africa where both the Greater and Lesser Kudu can be seen, along with other species like sable and roan antelopes.
- Birdlife: With over 570 species recorded, Ruaha is a birdwatcher's paradise, home to diverse residents and migratory birds.
Activities
- Game Drives: Classic game drives are the primary way to explore the park, with opportunities for both day and night safaris. Night drives allow visitors to spot nocturnal animals and predators during their active hours.
- Walking Safaris: Guided walking safaris with armed rangers allow for an up-close perspective on the smaller details of the ecosystem, such as animal tracks and diverse flora.
- Balloon Safaris: For a spectacular, bird's-eye view of the landscape and its wildlife, hot air balloon safaris are also available.
- Birdwatching: With its rich avian diversity, the park is a prime destination for dedicated birdwatching.
Best time to visit
- Dry Season (June–October): This is the ideal time for game viewing. The vegetation thins out, and animals are concentrated around the Great Ruaha River and its tributaries, making them easier to spot.
- Wet Season (November–May): This is a great time for birdwatching, as migratory birds arrive and the landscape becomes lush and green. However, some roads can become impassable due to rain.
Location and access
- Location: Ruaha is situated in central-southern Tanzania, about 130 km west of the town of Iringa.
- Access: The most convenient way to reach the park is by air, with scheduled flights available from Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, and other locations. It is also possible to drive from Dar es Salaam, though the journey takes around 10 hours.
