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RUAHA

With ancient baobab trees, rugged hills, open grasslands, thick woodland and sandy riverbeds, Ruaha has a distinctive atmosphere that feels very different from the open plains of the Serengeti. Dry season savannahs are golden and dotted with baobab trees, while misty hills stretch across the horizon. The annual rains bring lush green grasslands and nudge the ancient baobabs to bloom.

For travellers looking for a more remote and unhurried safari, Ruaha is very rewarding. Its relatively low visitor numbers, excellent guiding and varied habitats make it an outstanding destination for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. You can drive for hours through ever-changing habitats and be mesmerized by its towering baobabs. The park is especially well known for its elephants, large buffalo herds and impressive lion population, as well as for its less frequently encountered antelope and African wild dogs.


Ruaha also has a remarkable sense of timelessness. During the dry season, the seasonal rivers become broad stretches of pale sand, with only isolated pools or small trickles of water remaining. Elephants dig into the riverbeds to reach cleaner water beneath the surface, while birds and other animals gather around the few remaining sources. These quiet, ancient-looking scenes are among the most memorable aspects of a Ruaha safari.


Ruaha’s wildlife is exceptionally varied, partly because the park lies at a meeting point between East African and southern African ecological zones. The result is a fascinating mix of species and habitats, from riverine woodland and open savannah to extensive miombo woodland.


Elephants are one of Ruaha’s great attractions. Large herds move through the park, often gathering along the Great Ruaha River and its tributaries during the dry months. Watching elephants dig for water in a sandy riverbed, sometimes with young calves close by, is a characteristic Ruaha experience. Buffalo are also abundant, occasionally forming enormous herds that attract the attention of lions and hyenas.


One of Ruaha’s distinctive features is its antelope diversity. Greater and lesser kudu, sable, roan, and other species occur here, with the overlap of different ecological zones contributing to the variety. Giraffe, zebra, impala, waterbuck and other plains game provide further interest, while hippos and crocodiles inhabit the permanent stretches of the Great Ruaha River.


Birdlife is equally impressive, with more than 550 species recorded and the park particularly rewarding for birds of prey. Whether you are interested in large mammals, predators, unusual antelope or photography, Ruaha offers a varied and often highly personal safari experience.


The main dry season runs from June to October, while the rains generally begin around November and continue into April, sometimes extending into May.


June to August – the beginning of the dry season. The landscape gradually dries out, vegetation becomes less dense and wildlife begins to concentrate around permanent water sources. Days are generally pleasant for game drives, although mornings and evenings can be cool. This is an excellent period for combining attractive scenery with increasingly productive game viewing.


September to October – the peak dry season. These are particularly rewarding months for wildlife enthusiasts. Water becomes scarce, the bush thins and animals gather along the Great Ruaha River and the remaining pools. Elephants digging for water, large buffalo herds and active predators are among the highlights. October can be extremely hot, and the landscape may appear dusty and harsh, but the concentration of wildlife can be extraordinary.


November to December – the first rains. The arrival of rain brings fresh growth, greener scenery and a change in atmosphere. Migratory birds begin to arrive, and the landscape becomes increasingly photogenic. Wildlife is more dispersed than at the height of the dry season, and showers can affect road conditions, but this can be a rewarding time for travellers seeking a quieter, greener safari.


Ruaha has a good selection of small safari camps, from understated, traditional tented properties to stylish luxury retreats with swimming pools, private decks and exceptional views. The camps are spread across a very large park, so location is an important consideration: staying in the central area offers convenient access to the main wildlife regions, while a camp in the remote south provides an even greater sense of isolation. Ruaha lies in south-central Tanzania, west of the regional town of Iringa. Its remote location is part of its appeal, and most visitors arrive by light aircraft, flights are daily but dont necessarily connect elsewhere every day.


Covering approximately 20,226 square kilometres, Ruaha is Tanzania’s second-largest national park and forms part of the country's less-visited southern safari circuit. It combines particularly well with Nyerere National Park, and can also be paired with Katavi or the chimpanzee forests of Mahale for a more extensive journey through Tanzania's wilder regions. Contact us to help plan your Tanzania safari!


CHECK OUT OUR RUAHA GALLERY FROM A RECENT VIST

SERENGETI
SERENGETI
SELOUS/NYERERE
SELOUS/NYERERE
NGORONGORO
NGORONGORO
MAHALE
MAHALE
TARANGIRE
TARANGIRE
ZANZIBAR
ZANZIBAR
RUAHA
RUAHA
KATAVI
KATAVI

TANZANIA SAFARI ITINERARIES
GET SOME IDEAS AND LET US CUSTOMIZE A TRIP FOR YOU!

TARANGIRE, NGORONGORO & SERENGETI MIGRATION SAFARI

13 DAYS

from $11 650.00 pps

This journey offers a classic and immersive Tanzania safari, combining iconic wildlife regions with rich cultural experiences and a beach escape. From Tarangire to the Ngorongoro Highlands and a spectacular full-day safari on the crater floor, known for its dense wildlife and dramatic scenery. To the Serengeti, starting in the central and eastern regions and moving north to Kogatende area for the Great Migration (seasonal), with the chance to witness large herds and possible river crossings, along with heightened predator activity.

NGORONGORO & SERENGETI MIGRATION SAFARI

10 DAYS

from $8 615.00 pps

This journey offers a classic and immersive Tanzania safari, combining iconic wildlife regions with rich cultural experiences and an optional beach escape. From the Ngorongoro Highlands and a spectacular full-day safari on the crater floor, known for its dense wildlife and dramatic scenery. To the Serengeti, starting in the central and eastern regions and moving north to Kogatende area for the Great Migration (seasonal), with the chance to witness large herds and possible river crossings, along with heightened predator activity.

RUBONDO ISLAND, LAKE VICTORIA

4 DAYS

from $2 070.00 pps

It’s a rare privilege to set foot on Rubondo. Bar a handful of park wardens, wildlife researchers and camp staff, the island is uninhabited by humans and has been set aside as a refuge for threatened chimpanzees, families of elephant and the shy sitatunga antelope. The surrounding waters of Lake Victoria are a crucial breeding ground for tilapia and the enormous Nile perch.

WESTERN TANZANIA & CHIMPS

11 DAYS

from $13 650.00 pps

This Western Tanzania & Chimps safari is a journey into some of Africa’s most remote and rewarding wilderness areas. From the dramatic savannahs and baobabs of Ruaha, to the vast, untamed floodplains of Katavi, and the forested mountains and pristine shores of Mahale where you track wild chimpanzees, it offers a rare combination of big-game encounters, primate adventures, and breathtaking landscapes. Far from the usual tourist routes, this itinerary immerses you in true wilderness, with intimate camps, remarkable wildlife, and unforgettable scenery at every turn.

LUXURY RUAHA AND ZANZIBAR

10 DAYS

from $7 780.00 pps

We have handpicked these two lodges to make a short and luxury Tanzania 10-day adventure. Spend the first night in Dar es Salaam with private airport transfers before heading into the wilds of Ruaha National Park, home to diverse wildlife, staying at a stunning owner-managed lodge with superb guides. Followed by relaxation on Zanzibar's pristine beaches staying at one of the more exclusive and ultra stylish resorts. Enjoy luxurious accommodations, expert guides, and unforgettable moments in nature and paradise.

INTO NORTHERN TANZANIA

17 DAYS

from $12 985.00 pps

This comprehensive itinerary covers a variety of ecosystems, from the savannahs of Tarangire and the Serengeti to the coral reefs of Chumbe Island. Staying in comfortable to luxury tented camps and lodges, with a private vehicle and guide for the safari portion - it combines wildlife exploration with cultural and historical experiences, promising a memorable journey through Tanzania and Zanzibar.

VINTAGE SOUTHERN TANZANIA & STONE TOWN

11 DAYS

from $5 250.00 pps

Embark on a remarkable journey: 1 night at Serena Dar es Salaam, 3 thrilling nights at Rufiji River Camp in Nyerere NP, 3 captivating nights at Ruaha River Lodge in Ruaha NP, and 3 enchanting nights at Zanzibar Coffee House. Experience wildlife, culture, and relaxation in Tanzania's finest destinations.

STYLISH SOUTHERN TZ & MAFIA ISLAND

11 DAYS

from $8 785.00 pps

An unforgettable 10-night Southern Tanzania adventure, beginning with three nights at Siwandu Camp in Selous Game Reserve for thrilling wildlife encounters on game drives, guided walks, and boat safaris. Move on to Jongomero Camp in Ruaha National Park for another three nights, discovering the park's abundant wildlife and enjoying an exclusive safari experience. Finally, spend four idyllic nights on Mafia Island, relishing the serene paradise, snorkeling in turquoise waters, and basking on sandy beaches. This journey promises an exceptional blend of safari excitement and tranquil island bliss.

RIVERS, CRATERS & PLAINS

9 DAYS

from $5 750.00 pps

With vast wilderness areas that teem with big game, interesting cultures, easy logistical links, and some of the most iconic landscapes on the planet, this comfortable northern Tanzania safari experience, with a private vehicle and guide, takes you from the colourful town of Arusha, through Tarangire’s baobab forests, before going on to the world-renowned Ngorongoro Crater, finishing the trip on the grassy plains of the Serengeti, surrounded by wildlife.

PREDATOR PARADISE

10 DAYS

from $9 926.00 pps

On this luxury Tanzania safari you will travel from the exclusive predator paradise of the Serengeti’s eastern corridor where lion rule the plains and the cheetah pose on kopjes; through to the glorious northern Serengeti, on the banks of the Mara river which offers year-round Big 5 viewing as well as providing the backdrop to the famous migration crossings from July – October; and lastly the jewel of the south, Ruaha National Park, offering superlative game viewing from our open-sided game vehicles or on a thrilling walking safari with our expert guides. 3 nights at Namiri Plains, 3 nights at Sayari Camp, both camps in the Serengeti National Park and finally 3 nights at Jabali Ridge in Ruaha National Park.

EXPLORING TANZANIA

10 DAYS

from $7 155.00 pps

With countless combinations available throughout Tanzania’s “Northern Circuit”, this nine-night itinerary has been carefully curated to combine a bush and beach experience. From the scenic vistas of the Ngorongoro Crater to the endless plains of the Serengeti and white sandy beaches of Zanzibar, our Exploring Tanzania itinerary offers the ultimate “safari and beach” experience. Stay 1 night at Rivertrees in Arusha, 2 nights at Entamanu at the Ngorongoro Crater, 3 nights at Dunia in the Serengeti and 3 nights at Breezes in Zanzibar.

TANZANIA'S WILDER SOUTH

8 DAYS

from $6 450.00 pps

Explore Tanzania's wild southern parks on this 6 night safari itinerary, with a night spent in Dar es Salaam before departing.
3 nts Roho ya Selous - Selous Game Reserve or Nyerere National Park - something like the Amazon; a watery wilderness of palms and forests, savannahs and sandy islands.
3 nts Jabali Ridge - Ruaha National Park is one that attracts many return visitors; excellent big game along with vast and varied landscapes to explore.
Both parks combine to create a diverse and comprehensive safari while staying at wonderful camps with excellent food and quality guides!

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