Ruaha National Park Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Located in the Iringa region of Tanzania, Ruaha National Park is the largest national park in the country, covering an area of over 20,000 square kilometers. The park is named after the Great Ruaha River, which flows along its southeastern border, and is known for its diverse and abundant wildlife.
Visitors to Ruaha National Park can expect to see a wide variety of animals, including elephants, giraffes, lions, leopards, cheetahs, and more. The park is also home to over 570 species of birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. With its rugged terrain and vast open plains, Ruaha offers a unique and exciting safari experience for nature enthusiasts.
In addition to its wildlife, Ruaha National Park also boasts stunning landscapes, including rolling hills, rocky escarpments, and the Great Ruaha River itself. The park is a haven for outdoor activities such as game drives, walking safaris, and birdwatching, offering visitors the chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Tanzania.
For those interested in experiencing the local culture, the nearby villages surrounding Ruaha National Park provide an opportunity to engage with the indigenous communities and learn about their traditional way of life. Visitors can also sample authentic Tanzanian cuisine and purchase handcrafted souvenirs from local artisans.
Ruaha National Park Attractions - What to See and Explore
Ruaha National Park offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Msembe Airstrip. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Best Time To Visit Ruaha National Park
Learn when is the best time to travel to Ruaha National Park weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the Park
Wildlife
AnimalsSee what popular animal species you can meet in this location.
Elephant
Elephants, the largest land mammals on Earth, belong to the Elephantidae family within the Proboscidea order. There are three primary species: the African bush elephant, the African forest elephant, and the Asian elephant.
Mammals
White stork
The white stork is a striking bird characterized by its predominantly white plumage, black-tipped wings, long red legs, and sharp red beak. This large bird measures about 100 to 115 cm in length and boasts a wingspan of 155 to 215 cm.
Birds
Sable antelope
The sable antelope is a striking species inhabiting the wooded savannas of East and Southern Africa, ranging from Kenya to South Africa, with a distinct population in Angola. This majestic animal belongs to the genus Hippotragus and is part of the Bovidae family.
Mammals
African wild dog
The African wild dog, also known as the painted wolf or Cape hunting dog, is an intriguing canine native to sub-Saharan Africa. It is the largest wild dog on the continent and the only extant member of its genus, Lycaon.
Mammals
Superb starling
The superb starling, formerly known as Spreo superbus, is a striking member of the starling family. These vibrant birds inhabit various regions of East Africa, including Ethiopia, Somalia, Uganda, Kenya, Sudan, and Tanzania.
Birds
Iringa