- Private
- Mid-Range
- Lodge & Tented Camps
- 5 Days
- 1430 Per Person
You Visit: Ruaha National Park, Mikumi National Park
Best Time: Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep, Oct
Destination Zone
Southern Circuit
Best Time to Go
June to October
High Season
June to October
Nearest Airport
Julius Nyerere International Airport
Price Range
$500 to $5335
About Ruaha National Park
Ruaha National Park, located in central Tanzania, is one of the country’s largest and most remote parks, covering an area of approximately 20,226 square kilometers. It is named after the Great Ruaha River, which flows along the park’s eastern boundary, providing a vital water source for wildlife throughout the year. Ruaha is celebrated for its incredible diversity of ecosystems, ranging from savannas and woodlands to riverine forests and wetlands, making it a haven for both wildlife and bird species.
Ruaha is known for its large populations of elephants, lions, and other big game, as well as its impressive variety of antelope species. The park’s relatively low visitor numbers make it an excellent choice for those seeking a more private and untouched African safari experience. The park’s isolation, combined with its rich biodiversity, makes it a hidden gem for safari enthusiasts and photographers alike. With its vast, rugged landscapes and abundant wildlife, Ruaha offers an authentic and adventurous safari experience.
When is the Best Time to Visit Ruaha National Park
The best time to visit Ruaha National Park is during the dry season, which runs from June to October. During this period, wildlife concentrates around the river and other water sources, making it easier to spot animals. The lack of foliage during the dry season also improves visibility, making it an excellent time for game viewing. Temperatures are warm but not overly hot, and the park’s open landscapes provide fantastic opportunities for wildlife photography.
The wet season, from November to May, is a quieter time to visit, with fewer tourists and lush, green landscapes. While the roads in the park may become challenging to navigate due to rain, the rainy season offers a chance to witness newborn animals and see migratory birds. The wet season is ideal for birdwatching, and the vibrant scenery makes it a great time for those looking to experience the park’s natural beauty in its full glory. If you prefer a less crowded experience with a chance to see the park’s flora and fauna in full bloom, the wet season is an excellent time to visit.
Weather and Climate in Ruaha National Park
Ruaha National Park has a tropical climate, characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season, from June to October, is the most popular time for safaris. During this time, temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F) during the day, with cooler temperatures in the evenings and early mornings. The weather is typically sunny, and rainfall is minimal, making it the ideal time for game viewing.
The wet season lasts from November to May, with the heaviest rainfall occurring between March and May. During this period, the park’s landscape transforms into a lush, green paradise, attracting an abundance of birds and providing a beautiful backdrop for safaris. However, some areas of the park may become inaccessible due to muddy roads, and certain activities like game drives can be more challenging. Despite the rain, safaris during the wet season can still be rewarding, especially for those interested in birdwatching and witnessing the birth of wildlife.
Why Visit Ruaha National Park?
Ruaha National Park offers an off-the-beaten-path safari experience, making it perfect for those seeking a more exclusive and tranquil adventure in Tanzania. The park’s stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and relatively low visitor numbers provide an intimate and immersive safari experience. With abundant wildlife, including large herds of elephants, lions, leopards, and rare species like the African wild dog, Ruaha is a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.
The park’s remote location means that visitors can experience the beauty of Tanzania’s wilderness without the crowds found in more popular parks like Serengeti or Ngorongoro. The diversity of the ecosystem, combined with the opportunity to enjoy the park’s wildlife in a peaceful setting, makes Ruaha a must-visit for safari lovers looking for a true wilderness experience.
Reasons to Visit Ruaha National Park:
- Large Elephant Herds: Ruaha is home to one of Tanzania’s largest elephant populations, making it a great destination for elephant lovers.
- Diverse Wildlife: In addition to the Big Five, Ruaha offers opportunities to see rare species such as the African wild dog and sable antelope.
- Birdwatching Paradise: The park boasts over 570 bird species, making it an excellent destination for birdwatching enthusiasts.
- Remote and Exclusive: Fewer tourists visit Ruaha, providing a more private and intimate safari experience.
- Stunning Scenery: The park’s combination of riverine, woodland, and savanna landscapes creates picturesque vistas for photography and exploration.
- Great for Photographers: With its abundant wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and scenic rivers, Ruaha offers ample opportunities for stunning wildlife and landscape photography.
Things to Do in Ruaha National Park
Ruaha National Park provides a wide range of activities to suit various interests, from classic game drives to birdwatching and cultural experiences. The park is ideal for those looking to explore its diverse landscapes on traditional game drives, where visitors can spot lions, elephants, and other wildlife. Guided walking safaris are also available, providing a more intimate and educational experience as you learn about the park’s smaller creatures, tracks, and plant life.
For birdwatching enthusiasts, the park is home to a variety of species, and guided birdwatching tours can help visitors spot both resident and migratory birds. The Great Ruaha River offers a picturesque setting for boat safaris, where visitors can observe hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species from a unique perspective. Additionally, photography enthusiasts will find that Ruaha offers stunning opportunities to capture wildlife, landscapes, and dramatic river scenes.
Top Activities and Things to Do in Ruaha National Park:
- Game Drives: Explore the park’s diverse habitats and spot iconic wildlife like elephants, lions, and leopards.
- Guided Walking Safaris: Experience the park’s wildlife and ecosystems from a different perspective by walking with an expert guide.
- Birdwatching: Discover over 570 species of birds, including migratory birds and rarities like the white-backed vulture.
- Boat Safaris: Cruise along the Great Ruaha River and observe hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.
- Photography: Capture the beauty of Ruaha’s wildlife, landscapes, and iconic river scenes.
- Cultural Visits: Visit nearby villages and learn about the traditions and lifestyles of local communities.
How to Get to Ruaha National Park
Reaching Ruaha National Park typically requires a flight into the park or a road transfer from nearby cities like Iringa or Dar es Salaam. The park is accessible by a paved road from Iringa, which is about 130 kilometers (80 miles) away. The drive from Dar es Salaam takes approximately 10-12 hours, but many visitors opt for a domestic flight to the park’s airstrip for convenience.
There are daily scheduled flights from Dar es Salaam to Ruaha’s airstrip, which can be booked through various safari operators. Private charter flights are also available for those looking for a more luxurious and time-efficient option. The park is also accessible by road from nearby towns, although the long journey may be more suitable for those with a sense of adventure.
Ways to Get to Ruaha National Park:
- By Road (Self-Drive): Drive from Iringa or Dar es Salaam, with a journey time of approximately 10-12 hours from Dar es Salaam.
- Guided Tours: Join a guided safari with transportation to and from the park included.
- By Air (Scheduled Flight): Take a domestic flight from Dar es Salaam to the park’s airstrip.
- By Private Charter: Charter a private flight to the park’s airstrip for a more time-efficient and luxurious experience.
Where to Stay When Visiting Ruaha National Park
Ruaha offers a variety of accommodation options, from mid-range tented camps to high-end luxury lodges. Many lodges are strategically located near the park’s major wildlife areas, offering easy access to game drives and other activities. For those on a budget, there are also simple and comfortable campsites and tented accommodations that provide an authentic safari experience.
Luxury lodges in Ruaha typically offer spacious tents or suites, excellent service, and stunning views of the park’s landscapes. Many of these lodges also feature swimming pools, spas, and other amenities for guests looking to relax after a day of wildlife viewing. Staying within or near the park ensures that you are close to the action, maximizing your safari experience.
Accommodation Options in Ruaha National Park:
- Budget: Ruaha River Lodge – A comfortable lodge with tented accommodations offering great views of the Great Ruaha River and wildlife.
- Mid-Range: Mdonya Old River Camp – A charming tented camp with an authentic, rustic feel and good access to game drives.
- Luxury: Jabali Ridge – A luxurious lodge offering exquisite service, stunning views, and spacious suites in the heart of the park.
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Photos of Ruaha National Park
Suggested itinerary featuring Ruaha National Park
This sample itinerary will give you an idea of what is possible when you travel in Ruaha National Park, and showcases routes we know work particularly well. Treat this as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.
Other Popular Destinations to Visit in Tanzania
Featuring heavily on our itinerary ideas for visiting Tanzania, these places are destinations that we know prove consistently popular with our travellers. How you choose to include them in your trip can be tailored into a route that best suits your preferences.
Happy Travelers Share Their Experiences
We have been receiving outstanding reviews from our clients, and Fondness Vacations is proudly rated 5/5 by our customers. This honor is a reflection of our unwavering commitment to ensuring that every aspect of our clients’ safari experiences is fully tailored to their needs. We go above and beyond to make sure their adventure is nothing short of exceptional and satisfying.
Verified
chiara b2025-08-15Highly recommended experience The tour operator helped us organise the tour and everything was perfect. We saw lots of animals and leart a lot about all the species that live there!VerifiedFrancesco L2025-08-15100% suggested experience Unforgettable experience! The safari was perfectly organised from the beginning to the end. Both the tour operator and the guide are really expert and will help you in every details of the trip!VerifiedNickson M2025-07-08Amazing Day - Safari Trip Worth every penny spent. For those who want to get a day trip safari this is one of a kind with Fondness Vacations, Steve team was incredible from start to end. The guide Jephter was amazingly a kind driver he made us feel as special and elaborated to us wonderful knowlegde about the park Tarangire, though steve wasnt with us during the safari, we felt his presence. We recommend this agency endlessly.VerifiedGila Z2025-04-12Big Five guaranteed - absolutely great The Safari with Fondness Safari Tour was great. I was 4 days on the road in the Serengeti/Ngorogoro crater, all drivers absolutely nice and accommodating, I did not have to carry my luggage myself. Our guide Godson was absolutely top-notch, professional know-how, joy in the animals, respect for the animals, insane driving skills. The Jeep was super equipped with charger in every place, water, Coke, beer and wine included, as was the food.We saw the Big 5 and had incredibly beautiful, touching moments. Stephen and his team do everything they can to make the guest feel comfortable. The accommodations are appealing, depending on the budget you have booked. Overall a great experience. Stephen and his team are fully committed to the welfare of their guests. Overall a great experience🙏 CongratulationsVerifiedKelly M2025-04-035 Day Safari I had an incredible time on my 5 day safari through Tarangerie, Serengeti and Ngorogoro! From the moment I enquired to book until getting dropped off on the last day, the service from Fondess Vacations was 10/10! Accommodation, food, the tour guide, the vehicle - everything was perfect! We managed to see every animal on my tick list, of course including the big five so I am extremely happy! If you’re thinking of doing a safari with Fondness Vacations I would highly highly recommend, you will not regret it!VerifiedLogan Nixon2025-03-28I highly recommend this Fondness Vacation Tour and Safari. I had an absolutely amazing experience exploring Serengeti National Park with Tanzania Safari Fondness Vacations Tours & Safaris, We saw the endless herds of wildebeest, zebras, and even a thrilling lion hunt and every game drive felt like a new adventure. It was only a three-day trip, we are very happy. I recommend this Fondness Vacations Tours & Safaris. It is very good for trips to visit wild animalsVerifiedJared Hickle2025-03-07My experience was memorable Enjoyed and wais happy of the safar... they were on time and made sure my experience was memorable. Very organised. Saw the animals i wanted to see and more.. it was a comfy safari jeep with top view.. my driver and guide was good and made sure I was comfy and made it to my next destinatioj after. I will definitely book again for future travels.VerifiedFelipe Planells2025-01-10THE BEST safari experience I’ve had! Everything was exceptional. Flawless service since the beginning. Stephen understood my needs as a traveler & photographer and crafted the BEST SAFARI experience I’ve ever had; and this was my tenth! Me and my family were treated with so much love and care by everyone, specially Jephter, our amazing guide who did everything to turn our safari dream into a mesmerizing memory. Special thanks to Dr. Po, our incredible chef, who cared for us during the whole experience cooking with so much dedication the most delicious meals we’ve had in Tanzania.Stephen & Fondness Vacations Team, Asante Sana!VerifiedCaden E2024-12-16Helpfully and unforgeable tour My friend and I booked Hobby Vacation Tours and Safaris for 10 days. Godson was an amazing tour guide! He had so much knowledge about animals and saw them from a distance. He was kind enough to let us borrow his binoculars and explain exactly where to look! He took great care of us. Explained to us every step of the way where we were going answering all our questions. The car was always very clean, we got to see the big five and were always made sure we were ok. Looking for an amazing experience I highly recommend Choice Vacation Travel and Safaris!VerifiedClay P2024-12-07it was a very good tour I traveled with very luxury fondness vacation tours and safaris and I learned a lot and most importantly I saw these big five animals and different species of birds it was a very good tour. Our guide was Athumani and he was knowledgeable and friendly. Athumani helped us see different species of animals and you treated us very friendly from start to finish. Many thanks Sneh Vacation Tours and Safaris
