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.
9 Day Safari Zanzibar -Ruaha – Mikumi – Selous to Zanzibar
STARTING FROM $2,207 pp (USD)
Highlights
From the beaches of Zanzibar to the wild heart of Ruaha National Park, Mikumi National Park, and Nyerere National Park, with an exclusive extension to Katavi National Park, a rare journey blending coast, classic safari, and untouched wilderness.
9 Days Selous (Nyerere) – Ruaha – Katavi Wilderness Safari Circuit
STARTING FROM $2,018 pp (USD)
Private Tour
Highlights
Explore the remote wilds of Nyerere National Park, Ruaha National Park, and Katavi National Park, an untamed safari circuit rich in predators, vast landscapes, and true off-the-beaten-path adventure.
8 Days Dar es Salaam – Nyerere (Selous) – Ruaha – Mikumi – Zanzibar Safari Circuit
STARTING FROM $1,719 pp (USD)
Private Tour
Highlights
Journey from Dar es Salaam through the wild landscapes of Nyerere National Park, Ruaha National Park, and Mikumi National Park, ending with relaxation on the beaches of Zanzibar, a perfect blend of safari and coastal escape.
8 Days Mikumi – Udzungwa Mountains – Ruaha National Park Safari Circuit
STARTING FROM $2,038 pp (USD)
Private Tour
Highlights
Discover wildlife in Mikumi National Park, hike to waterfalls in Udzungwa Mountains National Park, and explore the wild beauty of Ruaha National Park, a perfect mix of safari and adventure.
9 Days Selous (Nyerere), Ruaha, Katavi Wilderness Safari Circuit
STARTING FROM $2,018 pp (USD)
Private Tour
Highlights
Explore Tanzania’s ultimate wilderness safari circuit through the remote beauty of Nyerere National Park, Ruaha National Park, and Katavi National Park, home to untouched landscapes, massive wildlife populations, and authentic safari experiences.
8 Days Mikumi, Udzungwa & Ruaha Safari
Highlights
An 8-day southern Tanzania safari from Mikumi to Udzungwa and Ruaha, combining wildlife, rainforest hikes, and iconic landscapes.
9 Days Selous, Ruaha & Katavi Safari
Highlights
A 9-day safari through Selous, Ruaha, and Katavi for an exclusive journey into Tanzania’s most remote wilderness.
