Tanzania’s Wild South

Ruaha National Park

The Untamed Heart of Tanzania

Scale

~20,226 km² (Tanzania’s Largest)

Predators

Largest Lion Population in East Africa (~1,000)

Lifeline

Great Ruaha River

Ecosystem

Miombo & Savannah Transitional Zone

The park’s life source. When the dry season peaks, herds cluster around riverbanks and predators follow close behind.

Iconic baobab-studded hills and rocky granite kopjes dominate the skyline; ideal for sunset photography.

Seasonal sand rivers (Mwagusi, Jongomero) that flow only periodically but teem with hidden wildlife year-round.

Lions: Estimated 800–1,000 individuals, the largest East African population.
Wild Dogs: Hosts one of Africa’s most stable populations (~100).
Elephants: Massive population (~10,000+) among Tanzania’s densest.
Antelope Diversity: Overlap of species including greater kudu, roan, and sable antelope.
Birdlife: 575+ species, including the endemic Ruaha red-billed hornbill.

Season	Months	Experience
Dry (Peak)	Jun–Oct	Peak wildlife, intense predator-prey scenes, river focus.
Green	Nov–Apr	Birding paradise, lush forest, fewer tourists.
Transitional	May, Nov	Perfect balance — color and wildlife both strong.

Wilderness Check: Ruaha’s remoteness keeps visitor density at <1% of Serengeti levels.

Game Drives: Focus on the rivers and sandbeds (Mwagusi, Great Ruaha) where animals converge in the dry season.
Walking Safaris: Available in the dry season with armed rangers; focus on tracking and reading prints.
Fly-Camping: Seasonal, minimalist tents under the stars, offering a deep wilderness experience.
Night Drives: Available at certain licensed camps ($50 pp supplement).

Access: Fly-in is standard (Msembe Airstrip/Jongomero) from Dar/Arusha. Road approach is long (2-day from Arusha).
Vehicle: 4×4 essential; carry dual spare tires and fuel for $\geq$300 km range.
Comms: Radio contact required for remote loops; coverage can be patchy.
Health: Tsetse flies are present around woodland edges—advise guests on neutral clothing.

Highlights: Baobab silhouettes, elephants crossing sand rivers with dust haze, and astrophotography (jet-black skies).
Conservation: Supports ~10% of the world’s lion population; Usangu Wetlands restoration is a key hydrological success.
Pairing 1: Nyerere National Park (Selous) for a river and boat safari contrast.
Pairing 2: Udzungwa Mountains for hiking, waterfalls, and primates post-safari.