META DESCRIPTION: Explore untouched natural beauty. Explore large elephant populations, lions, and other beautiful wild animals.
RUAHA NATIONAL PARK: TANZANIA’S UNTAMED WILDERNESS
When planning a Tanzania safari, most safari-goers usually think of the northern circuit. Sometimes the circuit becomes overcrowded. So, you may visit the remote southern circuit instead. Ruaha is one of the fascinating attractions in the southern part of Tanzania.
What is the Name and origin of Ruaha National Park?
The name “Ruaha” is derived from the giant river—the Great Ruaha River. This spectacular river runs through the southeastern margin of the park.
The establishment of Ruaha National Park dates back to the German and British colonizers. The Germans established the Saba Game Reserve in 1910. After the overthrow of German rule by the British, Saba Game Reserve was renamed to Rungwa Game Reserve.
The southern portion of this reserve was then upgraded into a national park. In 2008, the authorities merged the borders of the Usangu Game Reserve with that of Ruaha National Park to create the current Ruaha National Park.
Ruaha covers an area of 20,226 square kilometers. It is, therefore, the second-largest national park in Tanzania. It sits in the remote south corner of Tanzania.
What is Ruaha famous for?
It is well-known for having the largest concentration of elephants in the country. The number of such terrestrial giants is staggering, counting to 100,000. A large number of greater kudus make Ruaha famous. If you are interested in seeing these animals, then this is your must-visit destination.
How to get to Ruaha?
The most convenient way to get to Ruaha is by air. There are two airstrips in Ruaha: Msembe Airstrip and Jongomero. They receive scheduled flights from Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Dodoma, and Kigoma.
The distance from Dar es Salaam to Ruaha is 625 km and 130 km from Iringa. It takes 9 hours by vehicle to arrive at Ruaha from Dar es Salaam and 4-5 hours from Iringa.
When to visit Ruaha
The best time is during the dry season. As a general rule, the dry season starts in June and ends in October. The weather is dry and sunny.
The grass is short, and animals congregate in a few water sources available. So, it is easier to spot animals during the dry season.
Birders can enjoy a lot of bird species in the rainy season. Migratory birds settle in Ruaha for breeding from November to April. The vegetation is green, creating a beautiful backdrop for photos.
Attractions in Ruaha National Park
Wildlife
Ruaha is home to Tanzania’s diverse wildlife. It is overshadowed by northern circuit destinations, like Serengeti and Ngorongoro. However, its remoteness creates seclusion. Wild animals include zebras, elands, giraffes, cheetahs, impalas, jackals, snakes, and crocodiles.
You should expect a large number of elephants and prides of lions. Ruaha is also a great refuge for greater and lesser kudus. Rare species including sable and roan antelopes are also seen. About 100 African wild dogs also live in the Ruaha National Park.
Birds
Ruaha is home to over 500 bird species. You can enjoy the views of such avian species. Raptors, hornbills, and rollers are commonly encountered.
Ngalambulwa Mountain
This is a hotspot for hikers visiting Ruaha National Park. Its highest peak is at 1600 meters above sea level. Surrounding this mountain is the stunning green vegetation of grasslands and rocky terrain.
What to do in Ruaha
Hot-air balloon safari
This is a unique way to view the landscape of Ruaha National Park. It gives a bird’s-eye view of the park and its stunning wildlife. A balloon safari is usually not included in the normal itinerary. It is an extra activity organized at an extra cost of up to $550.
The adventure begins early in the morning, at around 5:30 a.m. Pick up from the lodge to the launch site. After a short brief from the pilot, the crew will light up the balloon.
The takeoff is bumpy and may make you uncomfortable. For an hour, you will be floating in the air while appreciating the natural beauty of Ruaha.
As the crew prepares the landing site, you will start the descent slowly. A champagne breakfast then follows to celebrate the experience.
Game drives
Both day and night game drives are available at Ruaha National Park. The extensive diversity of wildlife makes it a stunning spot for day game drives.
The night safari welcomes you to the world of nocturnal animals. These wonderful creatures spend much of their daytime in shades and burrows. They become very active in the night.
Hiking and canoe safaris
The Ngalambulwa Mountains give challenging hikes to visitors interested in hiking safaris. It is a warm-up trek to acclimatize and to get your muscles active. The great Ruaha River is navigable on a canoe and boat. You can explore this river on a canoe or boat.
Bird watching
With over 500 bird species, Ruaha is a stunning birding site. Beautiful and colorful birds can be seen here. As you drive close to the riverbanks, pull out your camera and take photos of different birds that inhabit the riverine forests. A pair of binoculars can also maximize the views of such birds.
If you’re wondering how you can start a plan, we have you covered. Bob Geor Adventures and Safaris organizes unforgettable safaris to Ruaha and other off-the-beaten-track destinations.
