Ruaha National Park
Tanzania's Wilderness Jewel
Overview
Ruaha National Park is a wilderness jewel — vast, rugged, and wonderfully wild. Named after the Great Ruaha River, which flows along its southeastern boundary, the park combines dramatic scenery with outstanding wildlife viewing and a feeling of total isolation. This is Tanzania's largest national park, offering an authentic African wilderness experience far from the beaten path.
Location
In central Tanzania, west of Iringa town.
Size
About 20,226 sq km — Tanzania's largest national park.
Distinction
Home to Tanzania's largest elephant population and exceptional predator densities.
Park Highlights
Exceptional Wildlife
Ruaha supports Tanzania's largest elephant population, as well as strong numbers of lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, and the elusive African wild dog. It's one of the few places where you can see both greater and lesser kudu — a rare treat for wildlife enthusiasts.
The Great Ruaha River
The river is a lifeline for animals during the dry season, attracting massive herds of buffaloes, elephants, and numerous predators. The riverbanks become a natural theater for dramatic wildlife interactions and predator-prey encounters.
Spectacular Birdlife
Over 570 species have been recorded, including colorful kingfishers, impressive hornbills, and majestic fish eagles. The diversity of habitats supports both resident and migratory species, making Ruaha a premier birding destination in Tanzania.
Dramatic Landscapes
Rolling hills, baobab-studded plains, rocky escarpments, and river valleys create breathtaking vistas and varied habitats that support Ruaha's incredible biodiversity.
Rolling Hills
Undulating terrain offering panoramic views of the wilderness
Baobab Plains
Ancient baobabs dot the savanna creating iconic African scenes
Rocky Escarpments
Dramatic rock formations and kopjes shelter wildlife
River Valleys
Lush riverine forests along the Great Ruaha River
Wildlife
Ruaha National Park is renowned for its exceptional wildlife diversity. The park supports Tanzania's largest elephant population, impressive numbers of predators including lions, leopards, cheetahs, and the endangered African wild dog. It's also one of the few places where both greater and lesser kudu coexist, along with numerous other antelope species.
African Elephant
Tanzania's largest population
Lion
Strong pride populations
African Wild Dog
Endangered and elusive
Leopard
Elusive nocturnal predator
Hornbills
Over 570 bird species recorded
Atmosphere & Experience
Remote and exclusive, Ruaha offers a true "wild Africa" feel — fewer vehicles, more wilderness, and deeper connections with nature. The park's vast size and relatively low visitor numbers mean you'll often have wildlife sightings entirely to yourself.
This is authentic wilderness at its finest, where the rhythms of nature remain undisturbed and the sense of discovery is palpable. Expert guides reveal the park's subtler wonders, from tracking wild dogs to understanding the intricate balance of the ecosystem.
Ideal For: Experienced safari travelers and photographers seeking intense wildlife encounters in a pristine, untamed environment. Perfect for those who value solitude, authenticity, and raw wilderness over convenience and crowds.
Activities
Game Drives
Explore Ruaha's diverse landscapes on expertly guided game drives. Track elephants through baobab forests, witness predators along the river, and discover the park's incredible wildlife diversity across varied habitats.
Walking Safaris
Experience the African bush on foot with armed guides. Walking safaris offer intimate encounters with smaller wildlife, tracking opportunities, and a deeper understanding of the ecosystem's interconnected web of life.
Birdwatching
With over 570 species recorded, Ruaha is a birding paradise. From fish eagles soaring above the river to rare woodland species, the park offers exceptional opportunities for bird enthusiasts throughout the year.
Photography Safaris
Capture stunning images of wildlife against dramatic backdrops — from elephants silhouetted against baobabs to predators stalking prey along the river. Expert guides help you find the perfect shots.