Ruaha National Park

Why Visit: Encounter East Africa’s largest elephant herds and an impressive array of predators in a vast, untamed wilderness.

Ruaha National Park is Tanzania’s second-largest park and one of its wildest. From the moment your plane lands, you may spot giraffes and zebras grazing beside the runway before they scatter at the sound of the engines. This rugged, semi-arid wilderness in central Tanzania rivals Katavi for sheer remoteness and untouched beauty.

Wildlife and Habitats

Ruaha is home to East Africa’s largest elephant population – over 10,000 strong – often seen sheltering under baobab trees or protecting their calves. The Great Ruaha River, which forms the park’s eastern boundary, draws vast numbers of animals in the dry season, from impala and waterbuck to predators lying in wait. Lions, cheetahs, and leopards are frequently spotted, alongside striped and spotted hyenas and rare packs of African wild dogs.

The park is famous for its diverse antelope species, including East Africa’s largest population of greater kudu, known for the males’ striking corkscrew horns. Birdwatchers can tick off nearly 450 recorded species, from the colourful yellow-collared lovebird to the musical crested barbet.

Things to Do

• Game drives along the river and through open plains
• Walking safaris for an immersive bush experience
• Cultural and historical visits to the Stone Age site of Isimila near Iringa
• Birdwatching year-round, with peak predator viewing in the dry season

Best Time to Visit

• Dry season (mid-May–Dec): Best for large mammals and predator action
• Wet season (Jan–Apr): Best for birdlife, wildflowers, and lush scenery
• June: Male greater kudu most visible during breeding season

Access

Flights from Dar es Salaam, Nyerere, Serengeti, Arusha, Iringa, and Mbeya

Road access via Iringa from Dar es Salaam (approx. 10 hours) or from Arusha via Dodoma

Plan Your Visit

Based in Dar es Salaam, Daigle Tours is ideally positioned to connect you to Ruaha quickly and smoothly – whether you fly in for maximum time on safari or combine your visit with other southern circuit parks.