Ruaha National Park is a magnificent and lesser-known gem located in southwestern Tanzania. It is the largest national park in Tanzania, covering an area of about 20,226 square kilometers (7,809 square miles). Here’s some key information about Ruaha National Park:

  1. Wildlife: Ruaha National Park is renowned for its abundant wildlife, including large populations of elephants, buffalos, giraffes, zebras, impalas, kudus, and elands. It is also home to a significant number of predators, such as lions, leopards, cheetahs, and wild dogs. The park’s remote location and relatively fewer visitors offer a more exclusive and pristine wildlife experience.
  2. Scenic Landscapes: Ruaha is characterized by diverse and breathtaking landscapes. The park features rugged mountains, rolling hills, rocky outcrops, riverine ecosystems, and vast savannah plains. The Great Ruaha River, which flows through the park, provides a lifeline and attracts a rich variety of wildlife.
  3. Birdwatching: With over 570 bird species recorded, Ruaha is a paradise for birdwatchers. The park’s diverse habitats, including woodlands, wetlands, and riverbanks, support a wide range of birdlife, including African fish eagles, hornbills, kingfishers, owls, and many more.
  4. Game Drives: Game drives are a popular activity in Ruaha National Park. You can explore the park’s vast landscapes and encounter a diverse array of wildlife. The park’s large size and relatively low tourist numbers allow for an uncrowded and immersive safari experience.
  5. Walking Safaris: Ruaha is known for its exceptional walking safaris. Led by experienced guides, you can explore the park on foot, learning about the smaller details of the ecosystem and enjoying a more intimate connection with nature. Walking safaris offer a unique perspective and an opportunity to appreciate the park’s flora and fauna up close.
  6. Night Game Drives: Unlike many other Tanzanian parks, Ruaha National Park allows for night game drives. This offers a chance to spot elusive nocturnal wildlife, including leopards, hyenas, genets, and bushbabies. Night game drives provide a thrilling and different perspective on the park’s wildlife.
  7. Ruaha River: The Great Ruaha River is the lifeblood of the park, attracting wildlife, especially during the dry season. It is a great spot for game viewing, as animals congregate along the riverbanks to drink and cool off. Boat safaris along the river are also available in some areas.
  8. Cultural Encounters: Nearby communities, such as the Barabaig and Maasai, offer cultural experiences for visitors interested in learning about the local culture and way of life. You can visit villages, interact with the local people, and gain insights into their traditions, customs, and traditional practices.
  9. Accessibility: Ruaha National Park is located in a remote part of Tanzania, approximately 130 kilometers (80 miles) west of Iringa. The park can be accessed by road or by small aircraft, with flights available from Dar es Salaam or other major airports.

Visiting Ruaha National Park offers a unique and off-the-beaten-path safari experience, with its diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and uncrowded wilderness. It provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, enjoy exceptional wildlife sightings, and appreciate the tranquility and untouched beauty of one of Tanzania’s hidden treasures.

Best safari lodges & tented camps in Ruaha National Park Tanzania:

Ruaha National Park in Tanzania is known for its remote and wild landscapes, abundant wildlife, and stunning scenery. Here are some of the best safari lodges and tented camps in Ruaha:

  1. Jongomero Camp: Located in a remote part of Ruaha National Park, Jongomero Camp offers a secluded and intimate safari experience. The camp provides spacious tented accommodations with en-suite bathrooms and private verandas. Guests can enjoy game drives, walking safaris, and birdwatching in the park.
  2. Kwihala Camp: Situated in the heart of Ruaha National Park, Kwihala Camp offers a classic safari experience. The camp features comfortable and stylish tented accommodations, a dining tent, and a communal lounge area. Guests can go on game drives, walking safaris, and birdwatching excursions.
  3. Ruaha River Lodge: Located on the banks of the Great Ruaha River, Ruaha River Lodge offers comfortable accommodations with beautiful views. The lodge features spacious stone-built bandas with en-suite bathrooms and a swimming pool. Guests can enjoy game drives, walking safaris, and birdwatching in the park.
  4. Mdonya Old River Camp: Mdonya Old River Camp provides a rustic and authentic safari experience in the heart of Ruaha National Park. The camp offers comfortable tented accommodations with en-suite bucket showers and bush-style toilets. Guests can go on game drives, walking safaris, and birdwatching excursions.
  5. Kwihala Selous: Kwihala Selous is a mobile tented camp that offers exclusive and flexible safari experiences in Ruaha National Park. The camp moves to different locations within the park, providing guests with a unique and immersive wilderness experience. Guests can enjoy game drives, walking safaris, and birdwatching.
  6. Tandala Tented Camp: Situated just outside the Ruaha National Park, Tandala Tented Camp offers comfortable tented accommodations in a tranquil setting. The camp features spacious tents with en-suite bathrooms, a swimming pool, and a dining area. Guests can go on game drives, walking safaris, and birdwatching excursions.

These are some of the best safari lodges and tented camps in Ruaha National Park. Each property offers its unique features, locations, and wildlife experiences. When choosing your accommodation, consider your preferences, budget, and desired activities within the park. Consulting with reputable & reliable tour operators like Adeli Kenya Safaris or travel experts can also help you select the best lodge or camp that suits your needs for a memorable Ruaha safari.