Ruaha National Park

Considered to be one of the great "undiscovered" wilderness areas of East Africa, Ruaha is one of Tanzania's least accessible parks, and as result, it is totally untouched and remains one of the most exciting game reserves.

Size & Location: 12 950km² in central/southern highlands of Tanzania
When to visit the park: Mid May - November (see predators and large mammals)
Climate: Ruaha has a hot and dry climate. Daytime temperatures in excess of 40°C
Rainfall: 500mm falls between November and May, peaking in February and March.
Altitude: Ranges from 750m to 1 900m above sea level

Reserve Information:

Located in south central Tanzania, it is the third largest game conservation area after Selous and Serengeti. The terrain is varied and fascinating with wild fig trees, rare baobab forests and gorges of glowing orange sandstone. A visual treat with wild landscapes of miombo forest and rolling woodlands, hills, rivers and plains, Ruaha is accessible only by aeroplane or with a pre-booked safari.

The main feature of the park is the Ruaha river, which rises in the swamps to the south and sweeps north and eastward through the park. It's deep pools, gorges and swirling rapids make for excellent fishing. The River features large numbers of hippos and crocodiles as well as the clawless otter.

Other animals include the reedbuck, waterbuck and buffalo, with their predators - the lion, leopard, jackal, spotted hyena, and the distinctive African hunting dog. In the grasslands live animals like the kudu, large herds of elephant, eland, impala, Grant's gazelle, dik dik, zebra, warthog, mongoose, wild cat, porcupine and shy civet. Over 350 species of birdlife have been recorded including Kingfisher, plover, hornbill, green wood hoopoe, bee-eater, Sunbird and egret as well as birds on their migratory routes.

The best time for game-viewing in Ruaha National Park is traditionally considered to be June to November when the grass is low and the animals are drawn to the water.

Main Attractions: