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Ruaha National Park

A Remote Safari Haven with Diverse Wildlife and Breathtaking Landscapes

Ruaha National Park

All About Ruaha National Park

Ruaha National Park is Tanzania’s largest national park. It covers an area of 20,226 square kilometers and is known for its rugged landscapes, dramatic escarpments, and diverse wildlife. Located in central Tanzania, Ruaha National Park is home to one of the largest populations of elephants in East Africa, along with large prides of lions, cheetahs, leopards, African wild dogs, and a variety of antelope species. The Great Ruaha River, which flows through the park, attracts an abundance of wildlife, including crocodiles, hippos, and a diverse range of bird species. Its remote location ensures an exclusive and less crowded safari experience, making it a hidden gem for wildlife enthusiasts.

Ruaha National Park offers a unique combination of landscapes, from vast open savannahs to rocky escarpments and baobab-dotted plains. The park is also home to over 570 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. With its breathtaking scenery, exceptional predator sightings, and a wealth of diverse wildlife including large herds of elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and the endangered African wild dogs, Ruaha National Park provides one of the most rewarding safari experiences in East Africa.

The best time to Visit Ruaha National Park

When is the Best Time to Visit Ruaha National Park?

Peak Season

June to October. This dry season is the best time for wildlife viewing as animals gather around rivers and waterholes. The vegetation is sparse, making it easier to spot wildlife, and the lack of water forces animals to congregate around permanent water sources. However, accommodations may be more expensive due to high demand.

Green Season

November to April. While this period experiences short and long rains, it is the best time for birdwatching, as thousands of migratory birds arrive. It is also calving season, making it an exciting time for wildlife sightings. However, some areas may be inaccessible due to muddy roads.

Low Season

March to May. These months see the heaviest rainfall, making some roads impassable. However, it’s an ideal time to experience the park in its lushest form, with fewer tourists and an abundance of young wildlife.

High Season

June to October. The dry season is the best time for game viewing, as animals gather around water sources, and the sparse vegetation makes them easier to spot. Predators like lions, leopards, and wild dogs are frequently seen during this time.

Ruaha National Park Weather and Climate

Weather and Climate in Ruaha National Park

Ruaha National Park experiences a tropical savanna climate with distinct dry and wet seasons. The dry season (June to October) offers the best wildlife viewing opportunities, while the wet season (November to May) transforms the park into a lush paradise, ideal for birdwatching and photography.

Month Temperature (°C) Temperature (°F) Rainfall (mm) Season
January 17 – 30 63 – 86 120 Wet (Green) Season
February 17 – 30 63 – 86 100 Wet (Green) Season
March 17 – 29 63 – 84 130 Wet Season (Peak Rainfall)
April 16 – 28 61 – 82 140 Wet Season (Peak Rainfall)
May 15 – 28 59 – 82 50 Wet Season (End of Rains)
June 14 – 27 57 – 81 5 Dry Season (Coolest Month)
July 13 – 27 55 – 81 2 Dry Season
August 14 – 28 57 – 82 1 Dry Season
September 16 – 30 61 – 86 1 Dry Season (Warming Up)
October 17 – 31 63 – 88 5 Dry Season (End)
November 18 – 31 64 – 88 60 Wet (Short Rains Begin)
December 17 – 30 63 – 86 100 Wet (Green) Season

How to Get to Ruaha National Park

Ways to Travel to Ruaha National Park

By Road: Ruaha National Park can be accessed via a long drive from Dar es Salaam (about 10-12 hours) or from Iringa (2-3 hours). The road from Iringa is well-maintained, making it a convenient entry point. The park can be reached by 4WD vehicles, which are recommended due to the rough terrain, especially during the rainy season.

By Air: Several domestic airlines offer flights to Msembe Airstrip, which is the main airstrip in Ruaha National Park. Flights operate from major airports, including Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam, Arusha Airport (ARK), and Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). The flight takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, significantly reducing travel time compared to road journeys.

Google Map of Ruaha National Park

Ruaha National Park Map Showing its location

The below Ruaha National Park Map shows the exact location. Expand it to see more details, surrounds, and directions of where you could be coming from, to help you access it easier and better.

Ruaha National Park Fees Entrance

Park Fee Entrance to Ruaha National Park

Category East African Citizens (KES) Residents (USD) Non-Residents (USD)
Adults 1,000 30 50
Children (5-15 years) 500 10 25
Children under 5 Free Free Free
Vehicles (per day) 3,000 – 10,000 (varies by weight) 30 – 150 30 – 150
Camping Fees 2,000 20 30

Note: Fees may change, and additional costs apply for special activities such as guided safaris or night game drives.

Visitors must pay the park entrance fees via the Online Payment System on the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA) website or at the park gates via electronic payment methods such as credit/debit cards or mobile money services (Airtel Money, M-Pesa, and Tigo Pesa). Cash payments are generally not accepted. It is advisable to check current rates and payment methods on the official TANAPA website before visiting.

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