Ruaha National Park is one of Tanzania’s lesser visited wildlife destinations but it is one of our favourites, the feeling of remoteness is more apparent here than almost anywhere else in the country (with the exception of Katavi). It is not just the wilderness that draws us here, however, the wildlife is also great, you may have to work a bit harder than some places but we have some of our best sightings in Africa in this park and not only that but we had them to ourselves!
There are so many options in Tanzania for safari and each offers something very different, we think that Ruaha represents about the most authentic safari possible in the country, with only a handful of excellent camps within a vast area, a safari here can’t fail to result in an unforgettable experience.
One of the things that makes safari in Ruaha so interesting is the variety of landscapes within the one national park, there are riverscapes, plains, hills and bush thickets. The park is known for its large herds of elephants and healthy lion population, but with cheetah, leopard, various antelope and around 570 bird species there is something for everyone.
Ruaha is a brilliant wilderness destination, it is best visited during the dry season from June to October when the wildlife must all come to the Ruaha river for water. It is also the time when walking safaris and sleepouts are possible.
Ruaha can be accessed by light aircraft from a number of different destinations making a superb destination to combine with the Selous, the Serengeti or even the incredibly remote Katavi.
Due to the vastness of this area game driving is the main activity although more companies are now offering walking safaris as the terrain is perfect for it, including one really exciting walking focused operator.
Top Ruaha camps
Kigelia
Ruaha, Tanzania
Perfect for a wilderness experience in a tented camp with rustic luxury, open air showers and a near perfect location.
Kwihala
Ruaha, Tanzania
Perfect for a very traditional tented camp with a focus on the wildlife and exceptional guiding.
Kichaka
Ruaha, Tanzania
Perfect for a simple yet incredibly authentic safari experience, fantastic guiding and an exciting fly camping opportunity.
Jongomero
Ruaha, Tanzania
Perfect for a superb safari in the most remote part of Ruaha National park in a great camp.