ruaha best time for safari

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​Best Time To Visit – Ruaha NP

Philip is a renowned Africa expert and author of many Bradt guidebooks to African destinations, including the guide to Tanzania.

Philip is a renowned Africa expert and author of the Bradt guidebook to Tanzania.

Philip is the author of the Bradt guidebook to Tanzania.

The middle and end of the Dry season, from June to October, is the prime time for watching wildlife in Ruaha National Park. Animals are easier to spot because the bush thins out and wildlife concentrates around the Great Ruaha River and its tributaries.

May to October – Dry Season

• Wildlife viewing is easier since the bush thins out and animals gather around water sources
• Skies are bright with almost no rain
• The heat is less overpowering and it is not as humid
• It is dusty and dry

Wildlife Photos

November to April – Wet Season

• The scenery is green and lush
• The presence of migrating birds means bird watching is at its finest
• Roads sometimes become impassable
• Wildlife viewing is not as good as during the Dry season
• It is hot and humid

Best Time To Go by Major Park

• Gombe National Park Gombe National Park Fair "> Jan J Fair "> Feb F Fair "> Mar M Poor "> Apr A Fair "> May M Good "> Jun J Excellent "> Jul J Excellent "> Aug A Excellent "> Sep S Excellent "> Oct O Good "> Nov N Fair "> Dec D
• Katavi National Park Katavi National Park Fair "> Jan J Fair "> Feb F Poor "> Mar M Poor "> Apr A Poor "> May M Good "> Jun J Excellent "> Jul J Excellent "> Aug A Excellent "> Sep S Excellent "> Oct O Fair "> Nov N Fair "> Dec D
• Lake Manyara National Park Lake Manyara National Park Good "> Jan J Good "> Feb F Fair "> Mar M Fair "> Apr A Good "> May M Excellent "> Jun J Excellent "> Jul J Excellent "> Aug A Excellent "> Sep S Excellent "> Oct O Good "> Nov N Good "> Dec D
• Ngorongoro Crater Ngorongoro Crater Excellent "> Jan J Excellent "> Feb F Good "> Mar M Good "> Apr A Excellent "> May M Excellent "> Jun J Excellent "> Jul J Excellent "> Aug A Excellent "> Sep S Excellent "> Oct O Excellent "> Nov N Excellent "> Dec D
• Nyerere National Park Nyerere National Park Fair "> Jan J Fair "> Feb F Poor "> Mar M Poor "> Apr A Fair "> May M Excellent "> Jun J Excellent "> Jul J Excellent "> Aug A Excellent "> Sep S Excellent "> Oct O Good "> Nov N Good "> Dec D
• Ruaha National Park Ruaha National Park Fair "> Jan J Fair "> Feb F Poor "> Mar M Poor "> Apr A Fair "> May M Excellent "> Jun J Excellent "> Jul J Excellent "> Aug A Excellent "> Sep S Excellent "> Oct O Good "> Nov N Good "> Dec D
• Serengeti National Park Serengeti National Park Excellent "> Jan J Excellent "> Feb F Fair "> Mar M Fair "> Apr A Fair "> May M Excellent "> Jun J Excellent "> Jul J Excellent "> Aug A Excellent "> Sep S Excellent "> Oct O Good "> Nov N Good "> Dec D
• Tarangire National Park Tarangire National Park Fair "> Jan J Fair "> Feb F Fair "> Mar M Fair "> Apr A Fair "> May M Good "> Jun J Excellent "> Jul J Excellent "> Aug A Excellent "> Sep S Excellent "> Oct O Excellent "> Nov N Good "> Dec D

Want To Visit Ruaha NP?

64 Ruaha Safaris

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Safari Tours to Ruaha NP

3-Day Wildlife Safari to Ruaha National Park

$644 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Budget Banda

You Visit: Iringa (Start) , Ruaha NP, Iringa (End)

Kitonga Tours and Safaris

4.9 /5  –  21 Reviews

5-Day The Beauty of Ruaha and Mikumi National Park

$1,100 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Banda

You Visit: Dar Es Salaam (Start) , Mikumi NP, Ruaha NP, Dar Es Salaam (End)

Kihindo Tours and Safaris

5.0 /5  –  207 Reviews

9-Day Private Safari - Selous/ Southern National Parks

$8,201 pp (USD)

Tanzania: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Tented Bush Camp

You Visit: Dar Es Salaam (Start) , Nyerere NP, Mikumi NP, Ruaha NP, Dar Es Salaam (End)

Velam Safaris

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WHEN TO GO TO RUAHA

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Where to stay in ruaha.

At Jongomero Camp, you will experience the ultimate in luxury living in an isolated setting in the southern wilderness. The less opulent Mwagusi offers a charming accommodation sited at a sand river.

SAFARI & TOUR IN RUAHA

The finest way to make the most of your dream trip to Ruaha is combining game drives with authentic walking safaris. Few camps in Ruaha offer fly camping expeditions for the more adventurous.

GUIDE ON RUAHA PARK

Ruaha in southern Tanzania is one of the most awe-inspiring and untouched African safari destinations. An incredible total of 64 mammal species inhabit the park, including varied predators and prey.

AFRICANMECCA REVIEWS

Jambo Raza, It was a wonderful experience in Tanzania. Rogers, our guide was superb; knowledgeable, helpful and very friendly. We were treated very well by all your ground team and everything ran smoothly. I enjoyed it all.

Alan Winner - Minnesota, United States

Ruaha was everything we had hoped it would be. We couldn't imagine a trip there without visiting Ngorongoro Crater and a combination of Ruaha and Selous. Our thanks to the AfricanMecca team and Raza for a most exceptional trip!

Warren & Sharon Hanselman - California, United States

Loretta and I had a great time on our honeymoon. Simiton, your safari guide in Tanzania was awesome! He was very professional, very accommodating and very knowledgeable. We are already talking about our next trip to Africa!

Loretta and Danny Haag - California, United States

First off, we had the most amazing time ever and wanted to thank you very much. Tanzania proved without a doubt to meet all of our expectations. Every detail was thought of on our trip by AfricanMecca and were are all flawless.

Marcy Burton & Ryan Kerr - Ontario, Canada

I booked my safari holiday through AfricanMecca. They were the most helpful company I have ever dealt with and I work within the travel industry. I had the most amazing time. The holiday went as clockwork with no hitches anywhere.

Shelley Roberts - Hemel Hempstead, United Kingdom

We wanted to thank you for the great amount of care you put into helping us with our travel planning for Africa. We were very much in your hands. Many thanks again, Raza for all your care, attention, advice and professionalism.

Lorraine Beach and Marilyn Jolly - Marrickville, Australia

AfricanMecca's professionalism and care understands that what distinguishes Africa is its authenticity, the land, people and wildlife who do not share our world of fashion and fanfare that distinguish so many travel companies today.

Cyril Christo & Marie Wilkinson, Conservation Photographers, Authors & Wildlife Documentary Producers - USA

East africa safari booking trip idea for ruaha in southern tanzania.

When visiting Ruaha National Park, we recommend combining it with offbeat parks in Southern and Western Tanzania such as Nyerere (Selous) or Katavi ending with a chimpanzee trekking safari at Gombe or Mahale . You may optionally extend out to Northern Tanzania safari parks such as Tarangire , Lake Manyara , Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti ( wildebeest migration ). End your trip with a Swahili cultural tour and beach holiday in Zanzibar .

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RUAHA CAMPS & LODGES

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Jabali Ridge

Kwihala Camp

Jongomero Camp

Mwagusi Safari Camp

Mdonya Old River Camp

Kigelia Camp

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Ruaha National Park: The Complete Guide

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Things to Do

Wildlife viewing, where to camp, where to stay nearby, how to get there, tips for your visit, ruaha national park.

Tanzania's Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Conservation Area top the bucket list of many safari lovers. But, Ruaha National Park , another pristine wilderness located in the south-central part of the country, is considered Tanzania’s best-kept safari secret. Spanning more than 7,800 square miles, Ruaha is the largest national park in East Africa . The park is named for the Great Ruaha River, which flows along its southeast border and provides a vital source of water for animals during the dry season . Its habitats range from rolling hills to open grasslands, and from groves of baobab trees to dense miombo and acacia woodlands. These pristine environments provide a home to an incredible variety of wildlife, making Ruaha a perfect destination for dedicated safari-goers wanting to escape the crowds and experience untamed Africa.

Visitors come to Ruaha National Park primarily to spot wildlife , and there are several different ways to go about it. The park’s camps and lodges offer guided game drives and night drives, giving you the benefit of an experienced ranger who knows which areas yield the best sightings. You can also head out on a self-drive around the park during daylight hours. This is an exciting option for adventurers who like to explore independently.

Walking safaris are also popular in Ruaha, whether you choose to sign up for one through your lodge or with the Tanzanian Parks service. The latter offers guided day hikes that last from two to four hours, in addition to the multi-day Kichaka to Kidabaga route. You can also view the animals and landscape from the air by embarking on a hot air balloon safari.

Back on the ground, enjoy bush meals organized by your lodge or guided safari trip, go birdwatching, or visit cultural and historical sights, like the Nyanywa rock paintings, the natural pillars at Isimila, and a trip to the Mkwawa Museum.

Ruaha National Park is particularly famous for its large predator sightings. Research conducted by the Ruaha Carnivore Project , established in 2009, showed that the park is home to a whopping 10 percent of Africa’s lions , including large prides with 20 or more members. This land also supports one of only four East African cheetah populations with more than 200 adults, and boasts the world’s third-largest population of endangered African wild dogs. Ruaha is also an excellent destination for leopard and spotted hyena sightings, while jackals and bat-eared foxes are relatively common, as well. Of course, all these predators have to eat, and Ruaha has an extensive menu for them to choose from. Antelope species are varied and abundant, including waterbuck, kudu, roan, and sable.

The park also has one of Tanzania’s largest elephant populations, with over 10,000 of the magnificent animals roaming freely across its vast expanse. The Great Ruaha River provides the perfect habitat for aquatic creatures, including hippos and Nile crocodiles. The only notable absence on the park’s wildlife roster is the rhino, which was poached to extinction here in the early 1980s.

Several lodges and outfitters give you the option to view all these magnificent creatures up close. In fact, a few will turn your walking safari into an unforgettable " fly camping " experience. This trip style includes a night or two spent under the stars in the middle of the bush, with nothing but mosquito netting separating you from the wilderness.

Serious birders should carve out time to spend in Ruaha National Park, as more than 570 different species live here, including an exciting mix of birds from both Southern and East Africa. Keep an eye out for endemics like the yellow-collared lovebird, the ashy starling, and the Tanzanian red-billed hornbill. Raptors occur in abundance here, and vultures are a specialty. In total, there are six vulture species in Ruaha, including the critically endangered hooded vulture, the white-backed vulture, the white-headed vulture, and Ruppell’s vulture.

The rainy season offers some of the best birding in Ruaha National Park, as the migrant species arrive from Europe, Asia, and North Africa. Rising water levels in the Usangu wetlands and around the Great Ruaha River attract a plethora of waterbirds, including large flocks of white and Abdim’s storks. Rare, smaller birds of prey are another highlight of summer in central Tanzania. Sooty falcons, Eleonora’s falcons, Amur falcons, and Eurasian hobbies make an appearance at this time of year, while resident birds are sporting their breeding plumage.

Five public campsites offer tent space within the park, while a plethora of private operations provide glamping opportunities in permanent and seasonal camps. Some offerings include a "back to the basics" approach, complete with only a tent, a meal, and a fire, while other, more extravagant outfitters boast tented main lodges and luxury camping suites.

• Ikuka Permanent Tented Camp : This tented lodge is located in the northern part of the park overlooking the Mwagusi River Valley. Accommodations at Ikuka include seven luxury, open-sided tents with thatched roofs, king or twin beds, a dressing area, a walkway to a bathroom with rain showers, and a large deck and seating area to take in the view. An on-site pool tops off this elegant stay that is slightly less adventurous than some of the other camping options.
• Kigelia Camp : The simple Kigelia Camp is located in a grove of Kigelia trees and contains six tents in a bush setting. Each tent is furnished with locally crafted wood furniture, an en-suite bathroom, and a safari-style outdoor bucket shower. The dining tent offers tasty locally-inspired meals and evening cocktails. The birdwatching from this location is unparalleled.
• Kichaka Expedition Camp : At Kichaka, you can choose between three accommodation options. The first includes one of three spacious, airy, and well-furnished tents that hold a maximum of 8 guests. The second option takes you into remote sections of the park where you'll set up fly camps amid the bush. The third option allows you to book out either the entire property, complete with en-suite tents, or the fly camp, for a completely private experience.
• Tanzania Parks Public Camping : Public camping is available at three campsites within the park (Tembo, Kiboko, and Simba), as well as two special campsites (Mbagi and Ifuguru). The better-equipped public campgrounds have basic facilities, including toilets, showers, and a communal kitchen. Whereas, the special campsites are wild camps with no facilities and should be booked in advance.

There are several choices when it comes to accommodations in Ruaha National Park. Luxury stays include lodges inside the park run by private innholders, while more affordable options are offered by the park service itself, and include cottages, bandas, and a hostel.

• Ruaha River Lodge : Pull up a ringside set to the wildlife action at this luxury lodge located on the banks of the Great Ruaha River. This lodge offers 24 stone chalets, each with comfortable double beds, an en-suite bathroom, and a spacious veranda for game-viewing. Two dining areas, one at the river's edge and one perched up high, offer breakfast, lunch, dinner, and drinks, and a reading area, complete with sofas.
• Jabali Ridge : Jabali Ridge is perched on a rocky outcropping overlooking the park and offers eight luxury suites, an infinity pool, and a spa. There are also several tented camps on site. The mess tent here serves breakfast and lunch, including homemade specialties like bread, cakes, biscuits, and ice cream, and a three-course dinner.
• Msembe Headquarters Bandas, Cottages, and Hostel : Tanzania Parks offers a range of more affordable accommodation options , including self-catering cottages, bandas, and a hostel. The bandas sit directly on the river; several have private bathrooms. If you stay in a banda, you can cook in or arrange for prepared meals. The cottages sit on a rise overlooking the river and all have private bathrooms. A dining hall next door serves inexpensive meals. The hostel can be booked for large groups and contains no-frills beds and a kitchen.

The easiest way to get to Ruaha is to fly into one of two airstrips—one is located at the park's headquarters in Msembe, and one is in Jongomero. Coastal Aviation offers daily flights from Arusha, Dar es Salaam, Selous, the Serengeti, and Zanzibar. Auric Air and Safari Airlink also fly to Ruaha from various destinations across Tanzania. Once you arrive at the airstrip, a representative from your lodge or camp will transfer you to your accommodations via a four-wheel-drive vehicle. If you choose to drive to Ruaha, it’s a three-hour drive along a dirt road from Iringa (approximately 80 miles) or a 10-hour drive from Dar es Salaam . Don't attempt these drives by yourself during the rainy seasons.

• All visitors must pay a daily conservation fee of $30 per adult or $10 per child, plus a vehicle entry fee, which is cheaper for Tanzanians and East Africans, and more expensive for foreigners.
• Ruaha National Park follows the same general weather patterns as the rest of Tanzania, with a dry season, which lasts from June to October, and two rainy seasons. The short rains happen in November and December, while the long rains last from March to May.
• The best time to travel to Ruaha National Park is during the dry season, when the weather is sunny, but not too hot, and the roads are easy to navigate. This is also the best time for game-viewing.
• During the rains, the park is green and beautiful and birding is best. However, some of Ruaha’s remote areas may be inaccessible during this time. 
• Ruaha’s roads are challenging, in general, especially during the rainy season. You will need a four-wheel-drive vehicle, and the know-how to drive it, if you choose to embark on a self-drive safari.

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Ruaha National Park

When to go, best time to visit ruaha.

The best time to visit Ruaha National Park depends on your priorities but if these are to enjoy the best possible game viewing in the most comfortable climate, then the June to October period is unbeatable.

During this time, temperatures range between an average maximum of 27°C/81°F during the day and an average minimum of 14°C/57°F at night with barely a drop of rain at any time. The Ruaha back-country becomes increasingly arid and so thirsty wildlife gathers in greater and greater concentrations around water sources such as the Ruaha River. Game viewing at this time is very rewarding whether by vehicle or on foot.

The coldest and driest months are June to August; the hottest are September, October and November, and then once the rains begin, the wettest months are December through March. Note that most camps in Ruaha close down for some time between January and the end of May. Most roads become impassable and wildlife disperses into the trackless woodlands.

The rainy summer in Tanzania is often referred to as the Green Season and an early summer safari can be a rewarding time in Ruaha. The bird watching is truly amazing at this time and many antelope, zebra and giraffe give birth to take advantage of the fresh greenery; needless to say it is a good time of year to see predators in action.

If you would like to combine a Ruaha safari with the Serengeti/Masai Mara wildebeest migration, then the October to July period is when the wildebeest are in Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park . From late July to early October (when it is considered the best time to visit Ruaha) the herds are mostly in Kenya’s Masai Mara Reserve : ask us for more information on when to go to Ruaha and get the best timing for the wildebeest migration or the  migration river crossing in the Serengeti/Masai Mara.

Activities To Look Forward To

With so much wildlife around, morning & afternoon game drives with an expert guide are the main activity in Ruaha; safari vehicles are open-sided & sit high off the ground to provide the best photographic opportunities.

Lace up a pair of boots & enjoy a nature walk with your professional guide: such an experience opens your eyes up to the smaller details of the landscape & it is highly recommended for photographers & birdwatchers.

With around 500 recorded bird species, Ruaha is a phenomenal birding destination whether you are a casual birder or an advanced twitcher. You’ll see plenty of birds on your game drives & around camp but we recommend going for a walk with a guide too.

Ruaha usually delivers its best predator sightings in the dry season. Concentrations of buffalo, giraffe, zebra & antelope gather at water sources such as the Ruaha River, attracting lions, leopards & cheetahs as well as packs of wild dogs & hyenas.

Several lodges are permitted to conduct spot-lit night drives, introducing you to the little-seen world of Ruaha after sunset. You’ll be on the lookout for nocturnal predators such as owls and genets as well as unusual animals such as porcupines, honey badgers & bush babies.

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Safari Online have been nothing but professional and incredible from the time we made our first enquiry to the last day of our stunning holiday. Nothing was too much trouble for Walter. We are now starting to plan our next family Safari for 2019. Guess who we will be booking with??? Safari Online we hope you are ready!!!!!

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From the very first contact we’re very happy about the respond time and quality of information from safari-online.com. Based on the received first tailor-made quote, which is a weblink with all the details about the flights, photos of the lodges etc. we knew that this is “our” partner for this trip. Our expectations were excelled!!!

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Discover Tanzania’s iconic destinations: from the vast Serengeti plains to the majestic heights of Kilimanjaro. Immerse yourself in diverse landscapes, vibrant cultures, and unforgettable wildlife encounters in this East African gem.

ICONIC DESTINATIONS

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Mafia Island

Saadani National Park

Ruaha National Park

When to Go for Safari in Ruaha

Best time for safari in ruaha national park.

Ruaha National Park, nestled in the heart of Tanzania, stands as a beacon of untamed wilderness, drawing adventurers and wildlife enthusiasts from around the globe. Amidst its sprawling landscapes teeming with diverse fauna, timing is key to unlocking the full splendor of this iconic safari destination. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the intricacies of when to embark on a safari in Ruaha National Park, unveiling the prime seasons for unparalleled wildlife encounters.

Understanding Ruaha’s Seasons:

Ruaha’s climatic rhythms dictate the ebb and flow of its wildlife spectacles, shaping distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season, spanning from June to October , heralds a landscape parched by the African sun, where animals congregate around dwindling water sources, offering optimal game-viewing opportunities. Conversely, the wet season, spanning from November to May, blankets Ruaha in a verdant tapestry, beckoning with lush foliage and vibrant birdlife amidst sporadic downpours.

The Best Time for Safari in Ruaha:

Discerning the best time for safari in Ruaha hinges on aligning one’s preferences and expectations with the nuances of each season. During the dry season, from June to October , the park unveils its raw essence, with sparse vegetation laying bare the theater of predator-prey dynamics. This period also coincides with peak tourist influx, necessitating advanced bookings for accommodations and guided tours.

Conversely, the wet season, from November to May, unveils Ruaha in a different light, shrouded in the emerald hues of renewed life. While game viewing may be less predictable amidst dense foliage, the wet season rewards intrepid travelers with tranquil landscapes, prolific birdlife, and the mesmerizing drama of predator-prey interactions amidst lush surroundings.

Factors to Consider:

When deliberating the best time for a safari in Ruaha National Park , various factors merit consideration to tailor the experience to individual preferences. Budgetary constraints may steer travelers towards the shoulder seasons, offering a balance between favorable weather and reduced accommodation rates. Wildlife enthusiasts with a penchant for birdwatching may find solace in the wet season’s avian symphony, while those seeking iconic predator sightings may favor the dry season’s heightened game concentrations.

Expert Tips for Safari Success:

Embarking on a safari in Ruaha necessitates meticulous planning and insider knowledge to maximize the safari experience. Secure accommodations well in advance, particularly during peak seasons, to avoid disappointment. Opt for guided tours led by seasoned safari guides well-versed in Ruaha’s wildlife dynamics, ensuring enriching encounters and safety amidst the wilderness. Pack essentials such as lightweight clothing, sunscreen, binoculars, and a keen sense of adventure to fully immerse in Ruaha’s untamed beauty.

Conclusion:

Choosing the best time for safari in Ruaha National Park is essential for unlocking unforgettable wildlife encounters and immersive nature experiences. Whether you opt for the dry season’s unparalleled game viewing opportunities or the wet season’s lush landscapes, a safari in Ruaha promises to be a journey of discovery and wonder.

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Ruaha National Park – Your Ultimate Safari Guide

Home to sweeping herds of antelope, all-conquering prides of large carnivores, elephant families that churn up the river beds, as well as a vibrant bird population – the Ruaha National Park is one of our planet’s last remaining vestiges for nature in its rawest form.

Lying deep in the southern part of central Tanzania lies the vast, untamed wilderness that is the Ruaha National Park. The park forms part of the Iringa region and was called ‘Ruaha’ by the Kihehe people, which aptly means 'river'. The Great Ruaha River courses along the southern border of the park and is central to all life in the region, drawing people as well as wildlife to its banks.

I've been fortunate enough to visit this wildlife sanctuary twice in my lifetime. Each visit to Ruaha National Park has helped me reflect on the gravity of preserving these unique animal habitats. 

In this article, I will share my best insights into what makes Ruaha so famous, the costs of Ruaha safaris, the best times to visit Ruaha, how to get to Ruaha, the best budget and luxury accommodation in and around Ruaha, and what wildlife you can expect to see in Ruaha. 

Let's begin. 

Ruaha National Park is east of the DRC and Zambian borders and 493 kilometres from Selous National Park.

Before we dive into the Ruaha National Park FAQs, it would be a good idea to first orient yourself with our dynamic map of Tanzania above. As you'll see, Ruaha National Park is located in southern Tanzania and measures more than 20,000 km² (roughly 7,000 sq mi), making it one of the biggest wildlife havens in the country.  

Now, I'll go ahead and answer your burning questions about Ruaha National Park!

Ruaha National Park FAQs

Why is ruaha national park so famous .

Ruaha National Park is famous for two important reasons: it's the biggest wildlife conservation area in East Africa, and it boasts scores of unique wildlife species and ecosystems.  

The park’s unparalleled predator sightings recently put Ruaha into the spotlight. The Big Cats of Ruaha   documentary by National Geographic aired a saga of three lion families sharing hunting grounds in an idyllic oasis along the Mwagusi River   known as ‘the Glade’.

Established in 1964, Ruaha is one of the newer reserves in East Africa situated in an area of the world known for its endless horizons, sprawling plains and all-encompassing wildlife arenas. Ruaha is neighboured on the south by the largest national park in Africa, Selous Game Reserve .

Ruaha has within the last few years earned the right to call itself the largest protected area in all of Tanzania. Having recently incorporated the Usanga Game Reserve into its borders in 2008 and several other wetland areas, Ruaha now spans an area covering an enormous 20,226 square kilometres.

Although the biggest, Ruaha is by no means the most frequented area of Tanzania and it attracts a relatively smaller number of tourists. In doing so, the Park has maintained a glorious aura of mystery and intrigue about it as one of the untouched lands of Africa.

How much does a safari to Ruaha National Park cost? 

A safari to Ruaha National Park costs anywhere from $150 per person to $1750 per person. This is for safari expenses like flights, park entrance fees, accommodation, meals, and additional activities like game drives and hot air balloon rides.  

Trips to Ruaha National Park tend to be pricier due to its location in the heart of Safari Country in Southern Tanzania. Its remoteness also means less foot traffic from other tourists in the area, which makes for a more exclusive safari experience. 

Check out more info on the best safari trips in Tanzania , how much a typical safari in Tanzania costs and the best local Tanzania safari tour operators . 

Which tour? Here are 3 Ruaha safari tours I highly recommend: 

• Budget Ruaha Wildlife Safari (incl. Mikumi) (5 days)
• Best of Selous, Mikumi and Ruaha Safari  (8 days)
• Epic Ruaha Adventure Safari (incl. Mikumi and Selous) (9 days)

See more  Ruaha safari deals .

When is the best time to visit Ruaha National Park? 

The best times to visit Ruaha National Park are split into two seasons - the dry season (June-October) is great for safaris while the wet season (November-April) is great for bird-watching. 

The best time for safaris 

Safaris are most prolific in the dry season due to the animals congregating at river edges and watering holes. Although more popular for tourists, the park is remote enough that even in the height of the optimal game-viewing season it remains wonderfully peaceful and unspoiled by diesel engines.

Another benefit of the dry season is fewer mosquitoes and a reduced chance of catching malaria . 

Yellow-collared lovebird

The best time for bird watching

Those visiting the park this season have the chance to witness jaw-dropping vistas encompassing crisp, exuberant grasslands. Bird enthusiasts will be treated with the opportunity to see abundant flocks of both resident and migratory birds, including the  Yellow-collared lovebird  and  ashy starlings .

Red-billed hornbill

More recently, tourists have discovered the Tanzanian  red-billed hornbill  residing in Ruaha as well.  

The rainy season sees many of the lodges closing their doors from March-May . For budget hunters, however, the lodges still open for business in this period offer significantly reduced rates. 

Being close to the equator, the temperature fluctuates little throughout the year. In recent years the weather has become more temperamental due to climate change and can’t be as easily predicted as before. 

Below is a complete breakdown of the dry and wet seasons to help you optimise your ultimate safari experience at Ruaha National Park: 

Dry season (June-October)

The dry season is generally cooler, with temperatures around 27°C (81°F) in the day and 15°C (59°F) at night.

For these dryer and colder days at Ruaha National Park, I recommend you pack some warm and comfortable clothes to wear on a safari . 

Wet season (November-April)

The wet season generally has more hot and humid conditions, with temperatures mostly around 28°C (82°F) in the day and 17°C (63°F) at night. It rarely rains the whole day and afternoon showers are usually expected. 

The temperature peaks at the start of the rainy season during November and December and can reach a high of 38°C (100°F). 

Also see more info on the best time of year to visit Tanzania . 

What is the best way to get to Ruaha National Park? 

The best way to get to Ruaha National Park is to take a direct flight from Dar Es Salaam to the park's airstrip. Coastal Aviation and Safari Airlink are the airlines to contact that offer daily flights.

There are also flights that can be booked as part of a larger northern or southern safari package. 

One of the reasons for Ruaha’s exclusivity is its significant distance from any major civilization. The nearest major town of Iringa is a 130km drive west of Ruaha National Park with over 500km separating the reserve from Tanzania’s largest city, Dar Es Salaam. The drive from Dar Es Salaam will take about 10 hours and can be quite rough. If you choose to drive to Ruaha, I recommended a halfway overnight stop and a combined visit to multiple southern  Tanzania national parks with Mikumi National Park. 

Where can you stay in or near Ruaha National Park?

There are several places where you can stay in and around Ruaha National Park. Discerning tourists have multiple options between budget and luxury accommodation. 

Where to stay? Here are 3 of my favourite accommodation options in and around Ruaha: 

• Mabata Makali Luxury Tented Camps (bordering Ruaha National Park and Idodi Village)
• Bwawani Village Resort (Iringa)
• Stonecape Resort (Iringa)

See more  Ruaha accommodation options in Iringa .

Ruaha is known for its wide selection of lodges – classics include Kwihala Camp, Kigelia Camp, Jabali Ridge, Jabali Private House, Jongomero Camp, Ikuka Safari Camp and the newly established Asanja Ruaha. All these options offer guests a high level of comfort and luxury set amid the rugged landscape for a variable cost. 

For those looking for an immersive experience in the great wilderness area, there is Mdonya Old River Camp. Set in acacia woodland, the camp is simplistic in style but unparalleled in its ability to make its guests feel part of their surroundings. 

For superbly guided walking safari, Kichaka Expeditions and Jongomero Walking both grant travellers the chance to explore remote areas of the park on foot, providing a wilderness experience like no other. 

The largest and oldest camp in the park, Ruaha River Lodge, also provides the most economical accommodation option. Set in a beautiful location along a rocky river, the attractive lodge maintains a very natural feel with excellent service and is also the best option for those on a tighter budget.

What wildlife can I see in Ruaha National Park? 

There is so much wildlife to be seen in Ruaha National Park. If you have a favourite wild animal, you'll most likely find it living in this wildlife sanctuary. 

The Ecosystems of Ruaha

While the Glade has become one of the iconic images of Ruaha, the park is so vast that within it lie several vastly different biomes all tainted differently by the seasons. From mountainous regions and skeletal baobab groves to the vast, open expanses of the plains, Ruaha will leave visitors awestruck at its varied and dramatic scenery. 

Huge Elephant Population

On the opposite end of the scale to the birds that flit through the vegetation are the parades of elephants that look to the greenery for sustenance. The Ruaha ecosystem is one of the last few real wilderness refuges for large mammals on the planet and is home to the largest elephant population in East Africa.

Despite heavy poaching, the elephants in the park thrive and over 12,000 migrate through the greater Ruaha area each year. In scenes that are normally reserved for television, guests at the park have the chance to witness elephants digging for freshwater with their trunks and tusks along the desolate riverbanks during the dry season, a behaviour that has been copied by some of the park’s lions.

Founded in 2009, the Ruaha Carnivore Project is a much-commended programme dedicated to protecting the park’s bountiful population of large carnivores. Ruaha has a proud reputation as a conservation unit with roughly 10% of the world’s lion population residing in the greater Ruaha landscape. Prides of over 20 lions are regularly spotted, making the lions the undisputed kings of the park. 

The Ruaha National Park is also home to the third-largest remaining group of critically endangered African  wild dogs , with around 100 reported in the area.

One of the four remaining cheetah populations in East Africa also calls Ruaha home as well as a host of hyenas, jackals  and  leopards .

Other Animal Sightings

While the big predators are a major drawcard for visitors, the Ruaha region also boasts a vast and varied array of  antelope . Both the  lesser  and  greater kudu  can be found here as well as some of the more unusual and lesser spotted species such as Roan and sable.

Over 500 different species of birds also call the reserve home. Although the rains scatter the herds and larger predators, the birds revel in the verdant foliage and blooming wildflowers of the park in the wet season. 

And that's a wrap on my best insights for Ruaha National Park! I hope your next adventure begins and ends in Southern Tanzania's most prolific wildlife kingdom. 

Mark Whitman

Hi, I'm Mark! Welcome to Climb Kilimanjaro Guide - the Web's No.1 Trekking Guide to Mount Kilimanjaro. This site is your one stop shop for everything Kilimanjaro. To date over 5 million people have visited Climb Kilimanjaro Guide, many of which have gone on to summit Kili! I hope you find all the answers you are looking for, but if you have any questions don't hesitate to drop a comment below!

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Ruaha National Park safari | Travel guide

Ruaha National Park (NP) is a park of 5,000 square miles in south-central Tanzania and was originally part of the Rungwa Game Reserve. Located 6 miles west of the town of Iringa, Ruaha was officially made a national park in 1964.

It is the 2nd largest national park in Tanzania and unique due to its wilderness area and game viewing in a fascinating landscape comprising plains, forested highlands, significant rivers, lakes and wetlands. 

Table of Contents

Why visit Ruaha National Park?

Safari in ruaha np.

A safari in Ruaha NP offers visitors the chance to go on guided walking safaris and see big wildlife on game drives including large numbers of elephants along the Great Ruaha River, huge crocodiles, grunting hippos as well as buffaloes, kudus and sable antelope. 

Ruaha is popular with Tanzania honeymoon safaris also due to the breathtaking scenery, range of big game wildlife viewing on show, superior luxury lodges on offer and with bird watching to rival Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park) and the Ngorongoro Crater .

Visitors on this African safari can also make use of hot air balloons to view the incredible range of wildlife from above as well as being one of the best places in East Africa to see big cats and the African wild dog. 

Accommodation is also excellent with numerous luxury lodges and camping grounds. 

Visitors will be in awe of the variety and numbers of large animals with the big five present including the lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo as well as the cheetah, zebra, kudu, bushbuck, roan and sable antelope, hartebeest, the crocodile and the hippo, amongst others. 

In addition, with large herds of elephants and 10% of the world’s lion population, the park is also known for harbouring smaller animals including monitor lizards and snakes. 

Over 450 species of birds can be found here, particularly by the riverside waters including the glossy ibis and hadada, fish eagle, kingfisher, goliath, and night heron, stilts, storks, scops and pearl-spotted owls. The giant eagle owl is also sighted regularly. 

Lying in the Eastern (Great) Rift Valley, the park, established in 1964, consists mostly of rolling plains east of the Great Ruaha River. Vegetation consists of clumps of palms and patches of open grassland; in the north there are baobab trees & scrubby woodland. 

Ruaha NP is full of plants such as the Greater Kudu which can not be found in any other national park and an almost untouched and unexplored ecosystem.

Other activities at Ruaha NP

There are multiple activities and things to do in Tanzania that can be added to your safari including walking safaris . Here are some other activities which visitors can consider during their visit:

• Hot air balloon safaris: A magical way of seeing the wildlife in a hot air balloon flight over the landscape offers a very unique perspective. 
• Walking safaris: Explore the wildlife with a local Ruaha safari company on foot, an authentic and economical means of exploring the wildlife and explore the Udzungwa mountains to the east of the Park and the hot springs of Maji Moto.
• Boat cruise: Choose a luxury boat or speedboat and feel the Great Ruaha River breeze while savoring views of the surrounding scenery.
• Sleep under the stars: Also known as fly camping in a simple tent whilst viewing the most incredible African skies in a hand carved​​ four-poster ‘starbed’ encased in soft white netting.  
• Bird tours: With an incredible range of birds to view including the crested barbet and the yellow-collared lovebird, experience birding in a tranquil setting.

How to get to Ruaha National Park?

By flight .

Popular with guests from South Africa and other international destinations, Ruaha NP is located via chartered or scheduled flight from Dar es Salaam to the park’s airstrip. 

International flights into the country also arrive via Dar es Salaam (DAR) airport for visitors wondering how to get to Tanzania . DAR airport is located 18km south of Dar Es Salaam and a Tanzania visa and certain vaccinations may be required to enter the country.

The drive to Ruaha from Dar es Salaam on the east coast takes about 10 hours on dusty, bumpy roads. 

Many people traveling to Ruaha make a stopover at Mikumi National Park. From Mikumi, the distance to Ruaha is about 200miles, and the drive takes five hours.

Tariffs & Regulations 

Entrance fee.

Prices per day:

• USD $35 per adult to enter  
• USD $15 per child 
• USD $40 per vehicle 

Carrying a small amount of Tanzanian currency , the Tanzania Shilling (TZS) is recommended as back-up when paying for items where credit card facilities are unavailable. Visitors can also review further details on overall Tanzania safari prices here . 

Regulations

Visitors must respect the rules of Ruaha National Park, including the flora and fauna. Details will be provided at the park entrance gate.

Accommodation at the Ruaha National Park  

Ruaha NP offers a good selection of accommodation, particularly luxury lodges, a perfect holiday for honeymoon guests. 

Visitors can choose from: 

• Most lodges are located in the center of the park, on the banks of the Ruaha River.
• Camping: Two campsites in Ruaha NP
• Tented camps

Bars/restaurants/amenities : Lodges will typically have all meals and drinks included in the lodge package. 

Useful information  

• Geography: Located in south-central Tanzania and accessed via chartered or scheduled flight from Dar es Salaam to the park’s airstrip. 
• Weather: Day-time high temperatures range from 26C/78F to 30C/86F with the last of the rain falling in May.
• Understanding the best time to visit Tanzania is useful as this impacts flight prices and availability. 
• Health: Visitors should seek medical advice from their doctor and consider antimalarial medication before travelling to Ruaha.

Where is Ruaha National Park located?

In south-central Tanzania, 6 miles west of Iringa town. 

How much is the entrance fee to the Ruaha National Park?

USD $35 per adult, USD $15 per child and USD $40 per vehicle.  

What animals will visitors see?

Visitors can expect to find the big five including the lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo as well as the cheetah, zebra, kudu, bushbuck, roan and sable antelope, hartebeest, the crocodile and the hippo, amongst others. 

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Ruaha is Tanzania’s largest national park.

It offers guided walking safaris...

...where you might spot some of the park’s fantastic birdlife...

...as well as a good amount of wildlife.

Ruaha is known for its dramatic scenery, including rolling hills...

...and open plains with skeletal baobab trees.

Ruaha’s wild and untrammelled feel sets it apart from other reserves.

Ruaha National Park

Hot, dry and wild, the untrammelled expanse of Ruaha National Park is Tanzania's best kept wildlife secret.

In 2008 the Usangu Game reserve merged its borders with Ruaha transforming it into Tanzania’s largest national park; it now covers more than 20,000km². Despite the size of the park there are still only a handful of camps found here, which has built Ruaha’s reputation as Tanzania’s best kept game viewing secret. Ruaha’s wild and untrammelled feel is what sets it apart from other reserves, making it a popular choice for regular east African safarigoers. Click here for a sketch map of Ruaha National Park , or a much more detailed interactive Google map of Ruaha , where you can see camp locations plotted precisely on satellite maps of the area. Ruaha is well known for its varied dramatic scenery, which includes rolling hills; large open plains; groves of skeletal baobabs and along its southern border, the Great Ruaha River, from which the park gets its name. This is by far the most dominant geographical feature of the national park and, for the wildlife it is the most important. Ruaha has a hot, dry climate which means the animals don’t tend to stray too far from dependable water sources. This makes predicting game movements far easier, particularly in the dry season. The best game viewing in this national park is generally from May to November, but the bush is greener and prettier from January to June, and birding peaks during the European winter months of December to April.

Ruaha National Park: in detail

Safaris visiting Ruaha

Just ideas, we'll always tailor-make a trip for you

Yellow Baboon Fly-In Safari

7 days • 2 locations • 1 country DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT

Two authentic bushcamps offer access to Ruaha’s remote wildernesses through walking safaris, day and night 4WD drives and fly-camping. Explore in almost utter isolation, with superb guiding to heighten your immersion in nature.

Visiting Ruaha

US$7,950 - US$9,220 per person

Read more about the Yellow Baboon Fly-In Safari

Jackal Fly-in Safari

8 days • 2 locations • 1 country DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT

Enjoy a range of activities on this luxury fly-in safari. Explore the remoter regions of Ruaha National Park and Nyerere National Park with phenomenal guides during stays at two impressively comfortable camps that remain perfectly in keeping with their surroundings.

Visiting Nyerere, Ruaha

US$7,740 - US$9,960 per person

Read more about the Jackal Fly-in Safari

Topi Fly-in Safari

Explore Nyerere National Park and Ruaha National Park from two luxurious, colonially styled camps. Chosen for their access to good game viewing and thrilling remoteness, these camps also offer a range of varied safari activities.

US$6,540 - US$6,870 per person

Read more about the Topi Fly-in Safari

Red Colobus Monkey Safari

11 days • 3 locations • 2 country DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT

This luxury holiday suggestion combines a wildlife safari in Ruaha National Park with a week on Zanzibar, exploring Stone Town’s narrow streets and relaxing on a palm-shaded beach.

Visiting Ruaha, Stone Town and 1 other area

US$6,020 - US$7,820 per person

Read more about the Red Colobus Monkey Safari

Superb Starling Fly-In Safari

Explore Nyerere and Ruaha national parks from two luxurious sister camps within wildlife-rich locations. Both offer a range of land- and water-based activities, a superb standard of guiding and access to beautifully contrasting landscapes.

Visiting Ruaha, Nyerere

US$8,300 - US$11,720 per person

Read more about the Superb Starling Fly-In Safari

Dwarf Mongoose Fly-in Safari

6 days • 2 locations • 1 country DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT

Stay in two eco-friendly, rustic bush camps in Nyerere National Park and Ruaha National Park. Remote wilderness, a diversity of habitats and a good range of activities are available in these two wildlife havens.

US$4,110 - US$5,060 per person

Read more about the Dwarf Mongoose Fly-in Safari

Turaco Safari

12 days • 4 locations • 2 country DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT

This top-value holiday idea combines two safari areas with a week on the Indian Ocean island of Zanzibar. Photograph lions and elephants, then relax under the palms on a powder-sand beach.

Visiting Nyerere, Ruaha and 2 other areas

US$5,460 - US$6,330 per person

Read more about the Turaco Safari

Spotted Hyena Fly-in Safari

Stay in one of Nyerere National Park's best safari camps before experiencing a truly authentic tented camp in Ruaha. Remote locations, superb guiding and a range of activities await guests during this comfortable fly-in safari.

US$7,350 - US$9,360 per person

Read more about the Spotted Hyena Fly-in Safari

Marabou Stork Fly-in Safari

13 days • 5 locations • 1 country KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT

Four luxurious camps enable exploration of Tanzania’s north and southern regions. With a range of land- and water-based activities available throughout, decidedly comfortable accommodation and applicable long-stay discounts, this adventurous safari is excellent value.

Visiting Tarangire, Serengeti and 3 other areas

US$16,050 - US$23,210 per person

Read more about the Marabou Stork Fly-in Safari

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Our travellers’ wildlife sightings in Ruaha

This is their success for sightings in Ruaha National Park. Click on a species for more detail. How we work this out.

100% success

99% success

95% success

85% success

82% success

68% success

63% success

52% success

22% success

15% success

12% success

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When to go to Ruaha National Park

Our month by month guide: What it's like to visit Ruaha in Tanzania

Tanzania in January

January usually marks the start of the short dry season, although the exact timings of this are a little unpredictable. You can expect clear blue skies and sunshine, if the short rains have stopped, and the temperatures will be building. The short dry season is a little less pronounced in Southern Tanzania, and so it can still be wet in these areas. It is an interesting time for avians as resident birds go into breeding plumage and migrant species can be present. Once the New Year busy period has quietened down, January can offer great value and quieter parks, although the weather can be variable, and in the Selous and Ruaha the wildlife is more dispersed.

• Variable weather: clear & dry or cloudy with some rain.
• Occasional thunderstorms may occur.
• A good time of year for birding as and many migrant species are around
• The wildebeest migration is gathering in the southern Serengeti.
• Busy in early January, quietening down through the month.

A good time to visit, with pros & cons

Weather in January

Tanzania in February

February is during the short dry season and is one of the hottest months in Tanzania, with temperatures reaching around 33°Celsius. This can be a good time to visit, as some areas of the Northern Circuit are comparatively quieter than during the European summer months, and lodge rates are also a little lower. The wildebeest will typically be on the southern plains of the Serengeti for their calving season, which tends to occur in a 2-3 week window in early-mid February – although this does vary year on year. This is also a particularly rewarding time for birdlife, as northern hemisphere migrants join the resident species.

• Hot and dry weather.
• Wildebeest migration calving on Serengeti’s southern plains.
• Ngorongoro Crater and southern Serengeti busy for the migration.
• Selous and Ruaha are typically quiet at this time.
• The parks are likely to be lush and green, leading to pretty landscape

A very good time to visit

Weather in February

Tanzania in March

The heavier ‘long rains’ start in earnest in March although exactly when varies year on year. With no need to stay close to permanent water sources, migratory wildlife disperses, and so game viewing starts to become more challenging. This is most prominently seen in Tarangire National Park. The wildebeest migration may still be calving, or have moved on into the central regions of the Serengeti. Many of the camps in the southern parks close mid March and mobile tented camps in the Serengeti will wind down towards the end of the month in order to move location or carry out refurbishments, ready for the new tourist season.

• Hot with building humidity, before the rains begin at some point.
• Wildlife viewing is variable depending on the start of the rains.
• Parks are quiet and rates are low.
• Not great for southern or western Tanzania.
• March can be a good time for birding, with many migrant species.

Weather in March

Tanzania in April

April is in the middle of the long rainy season and is the wettest month, with on average 250mm of rain. Temperatures are fairly high and humid in comparison to the rest of the year. Expect the bush to be lush and flowering, and alive with insects, birds and smaller animals. It is however also dense, allowing wildlife to hide, which in turn makes game viewing harder. This is a very quiet time in terms of visitor numbers. Many of the tented camps are closed in April, however the larger lodges remain open. The rates are significantly cheaper, and so if you are willing to work harder to spot the bigger game, some accommodation bargains can be had.

• Heavy rain expected, with impressive thunderstorms and lightning.
• Many camps closed and roads impassable due to ground conditions.
• Rates are at their lowest all year round, with very few other tourists
• Places that are open are green and vibrant, wildlife more dispersed.

This is not a great time to visit

Weather in April

Tanzania in May

As Tanzania is close to the equator there is no dramatic difference in climate throughout the year, but temperatures do start to drop a little in May. The rains are likely to still be present, although potentially clearing towards the end of the month. Visitor numbers and lodge rates are still low. The wildebeest migration is making its way through the western regions of the Serengeti, crossing the Grumeti River. Virtually all camps in southern Tanzania remain closed, and many of the roads and tracks in the Selous become impassable.

• Heavy rains and storms are likely, this can create some dramatic skies
• Blissfully quiet in northern Tanzania, and a good time to avoid crowds
• The parks are likely to look lush and green, with long grass.
• Wildlife is likely to be more dispersed, with fewer sightings.
• The low prices make safaris much more affordable at this time.

Weather in May

Tanzania in June

The rains come to an end at some point during the month and migratory wildlife begins to be drawn back to perennial water sources as the land starts to dry up. It’s likely that the parks will still be quite green and the grass high though, so walking and fly-camping may be unlikely. This marks the start of the season with camps reopening, but prices are still more affordable than the subsequent months. The migration may still be in the Western Corridor, or on the move northwards towards the Mara River. Western Tanzania presents more challenging conditions for chimpanzee trekking in Mahale National Park, as the chimps are higher in the mountains.

• A transitory time for the migration – moving from west to north.
• The parks may still be quite green, and grasses high.
• Wildlife may be dispersed still.
• Relatively low visitor numbers and good value, shoulder season prices.

Weather in June

Tanzania in July

July is considered to be the start of the peak season, with no rainfall expected and pleasant daytime temperatures. As the parks dry, the wildlife congregates in fewer areas, grass is eaten and trampled by the migration, and game viewing gets better and better. The wildebeest are typically arriving in the northern Serengeti, ready to begin their period of crossings of the Mara River. In the Selous and Ruaha wildlife sightings can be fantastic, with animals gathering around the lakes and rivers. Great conditions and school holidays mean the parks are at their busiest, with Ngorongoro and the Serengeti particularly crowded.

• Dry and warm daytimes, chilly and windy in the mornings and evenings.
• Great wildlife viewing, as water sources diminish.
• The most popular time of year with very high visitor numbers.
• Prices are at their highest due to the great conditions on the ground.
• To avoid the crowds consider Tanzania’s southern parks.

Fantastic: the very best time to visit

Weather in July

Tanzania in August

August is the middle of the long dry season, with clear skies and sunny weather. You can expect some cooler weather at night and first thing in the morning. Remember to pack layered clothing, so you can wrap up warm on your early morning game drives, but remain comfortable as it heats up throughout the day. August is a very popular time to visit, so accommodation prices are at their highest and advanced booking is necessary. It can get noticeably busier in some of the northern parks – in particular the Ngorongoro Crater and northern Serengeti, as visitors flock to the area in hope of witnessing an exciting migration river crossing.

• Dry and warm daytimes, chilly in the early mornings and evenings.
• General wildlife viewing should be excellent.
• An exciting time of year for the wildebeest migration.
• Certain areas will be very busy and camps fill up fast.
• Great wildlife sightings in the Selous and Ruaha, and fewer people.

Weather in August

Tanzania in September

September can be an excellent time of year to visit Tanzania. As the parks continue to dry up the wildlife becomes increasingly reliant on the remaining water sources, leading to high densities of animals. Whilst early September can be busy, with fewer families traveling at this time the parks typically become quieter as the month goes on. You are still likely to see the wildebeest migration in the northern Serengeti, with river crossings occurring on a regular basis. Tanzania’s southern parks are also fantastic at this time of year, generally receiving far fewer visitors than the north, and wildlife sightings can be great. Prices remain high and the weather generally remains good.

• Wildlife viewing in September can be fantastic.
• Whilst still fairly busy, often the parks are typically a little quiet
• The parks will start to become very dry, with little new vegetation
• Cooler mornings and evenings, warming up during the day.
• Prices remain high.

Weather in September

Tanzania in October

At the tail end of the dry season, the wildlife should be the easiest to spot, although photographers should be aware that it can be a bit dusty at this time of year, as there has been no rain for several months. Great general wildlife viewing throughout as animals are attracted to remaining sources of water. Elephant numbers are particularly high at this time in Tarangire, and Mahale and Katavi are especially rewarding with frequent wildlife sightings close to camp. There is a chance of rainfall towards the end of the month, if the short rains commence. While prices remain high, visitors numbers are significantly lower than in July-August.

• Mostly dry and temperatures comfortably warm, with the chance of storm
• Great game viewing although the landscape can be a bit barren.
• Much lower visitor numbers than the earlier months.

Weather in October

Tanzania in November

In November you can expect the start of the short rains, although the start date varies every year. The rains are highly localised, and are much lighter and more unpredictable than the long rains that occur earlier in the year. These should not really interfere with your safari – as the game viewing at this time is still good - but you should pack a waterproof jacket and be prepared for some short rain showers! The majority of tented camps remain open, but some of the mobile camps in Northern Tanzania will close for the latter half on the month. Given the seasonality, camps are charging shoulder season rates so there are often some bargains to be had. Early November can offer great value for money and the weather conditions are likely to be comparable to late October.

• Parks are comparatively quiet and prices at the lower end.
• Some camps will close towards the end of the month for maintenance.
• Good wildlife sightings, but animals will disperse when rain starts
• The wildebeest migration is on the move and the location unpredictable

Weather in November

Tanzania in December

December is also during the short rainy period, but this does not stop Tanzania being a popular destination to spend the festive period. Be aware that many of the lodges book up early, and charge peak rates over this time. Advanced booking is essential over this period, especially if travelling in larger family groups. Travelling in December outside of the festive period allows travellers to make use of excellent shoulder season rates. Temperatures are pleasant with the averages of 27Celsius, although there is the chance of intermittent thunderstorms.

• Variable weather:clear & dry or cloudy with some rain and thunderstorm
• Good general game viewing in parks with low seasonality - Serengeti.
• Very quiet early in the month, becoming exceptionally busy.
• Prices reflect this – great value rising to the highest they are.
• The wildlife in southern Tanzania is more dispersed.

Weather in December

Tanzania fact file

Useful information and advice to help you prepare for a trip including Ruaha National Park.

Flights to Tanzania

How to get to and within the country

LGBT travel in Tanzania

Attitudes, the law & our experiences

Privately guided safaris

Safari with a private guide in your own 4WD

The Great Wildebeest Migration

Info to maximise the experience

Tanzania general info

Essential travel information

Tipping in Tanzania

Expectations & guidelines for tipping

Weather & climate

The best time to visit Tanzania

Excursions in Ruaha National Park

Optional extra day-drips and excursions possible whilst your staying within Ruaha National Park. Talk to us: these are usually best arranged before you go.

Balloon Safari over Ruaha

Three hours - one hour flight

Varied and scenically stunning, Ruaha National Park features rolling hills, woodlands, open plains and two wide meandering rivers: the Ruaha and the Mwagusi. What better way to view it than from the air, at sunrise? A balloon safari offers just this, the landscape unfolding below your basket as you float almost silently above.

Other areas in Tanzania

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Ngorongoro Crater

Mafia Island

Tanzania Coast

Lake Manyara

Mahale Mountains

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On safari in Ruaha National Park, Tanzania's next big wildlife destination

​The largest protected wildlife area in Tanzania, Ruaha National Park is a land of astonishing sights. Now, a new ‘citizen science experience’ is offering hands-on conservation experiences in the heart of the park’s wild Usangu Wetlands.

Msembe Airstrip is no high-tech air hub. It’s a stripe of red earth in the depths of the Tanzanian outback, with bushwillow shrubs and baboons in place of a departure lounge. Hawk-eagles perch just off the runway and colourful lizards scuttle in the dust. It has an unassuming, middle-of-nowhere feel — but don’t be fooled. The airstrip is a portal to a land of giants. Minutes away from where my little Cessna has buzzed down to land, I stare half-dazed as a large herd of elephants plods past a baobab tree. There’s a rare beauty to a mature baobab tree. It towers over the grasslands like some sort of biological error, its trunk vast and lumpen and its branches fat and twisted. In its sheer girth, it’s a miracle. “We call them lifetime trees,” says guide Gerald Minja, cutting the engine of his Land Cruiser. The baobab stands stoic in the hot July sun. “Every three feet of circumference represents 100 years of growth,” says Gerald. It makes the specimen in front of us at least a millennium old. The elephants file past, accustomed to this sort of thing, silent save for their steady progress through the brushwood.   Here in little-visited Ruaha National Park — the largest protected wildlife area in Tanzania, and one of the most biodiverse in East Africa — the sights and statistics are often improbably sized. My two-part trip is taking me to a new conservation camp in the park’s remote southern wetlands, but I’m starting in the more traditional safari confines of Jabali Ridge. The lodge is set on a rocky outcrop above the savannah and showcases two contrasting types of luxury. There’s the cultivated kind — wide balconies, four-poster beds, a breeze-cooled spa — and the more organic kind, where the surroundings serve up widescreen drama for fun.   On my first morning, I wake at first light to see three giraffes browsing acacia leaves outside my balcony, the plains behind them tinted with a tangerine glow. Half an hour later, on a dawn drive, we round a corner in the bush to find the way blocked by a 200-strong herd of buffalo. We stop. They stare, nostrils glistening. “They always look at humans like we owe them money,” laughs Gerald. As he talks, oxpeckers perch on some of the bigger males, snaffling ticks from their flanks. “Buffalos are dangerous animals, but they’re so good for the land. They’re always eating, pooing and stomping. They keep things fertile.”  

To judge from the terrain around Jabali Ridge, these landscape gardeners have an environment in which they can thrive. Fan palms and euphorbia share the grasslands with sausage trees and baobabs; the latter’s jelly-belly silhouettes are a surreal counterpoint to the dainty dik-diks that totter beneath them on featherlight legs. On a drive, winding between thickets of wild lavender as sunbirds flit overhead, it’s easy to lose all sense of which is way is north, south, east or west. The tropical vegetation is all-enfolding.  

This is unsurprising, given that Ruaha National Park covers an area of around 7,800 sq miles. For context, that’s about thirteen times the size of the Maasai Mara or (to cite somewhere with rather less megafauna) three times the size of Devon. Yet the park remains relatively unknown, drawing fewer than 10% of the annual visitor numbers enjoyed by the smaller but hugely popular Serengeti, elsewhere in the country. Exactly why isn’t fully clear. The infrastructure here is far less developed, but those who do come calling can expect serious wildlife rewards.   At sunset, our Land Cruiser parks by a dry riverbed and I’m handed a cold beer. I step onto the sand. The heat of the day is still strong and the sky’s turning scarlet. Soon there’s a kerfuffle on the opposite bank, as a troop of vervet monkeys sound warning calls. Hopping back in the vehicle, we find the cause: a well-sated leopard sauntering through the grass. As we edge closer it stops and rests, belly on the ground, eyes alive. But as the light dims, so too does the view of the cat, until there’s nothing left but insect-buzz and an indistinct shape, and the knowledge that the leopard, just feet away, can see far more of the dark than we can.   There’s a further big-cat highlight on my final evening before we move on to the wetlands. We come across a pride of six lions reclining in the grass, a mass of honey-hued muscle that takes the breath away. They’re lying in the shade of a broad-leaved shepherd tree, licking their giant paws and slumbering on each other like house cats. The adult males have no real mane to speak of — an evolutionary quirk to cope with the Ruaha heat — but every yawn reveals teeth as deadly as daggers.   We watch them at length, until Land Cruiser and lion pride go their separate ways. We return to the comfort of the camp, where button-nosed hyraxes bumble up and down the rocks and Bloody Marys are mixed at the bar. The predators head into the dark, in search of sustenance of their own. Somewhere out there, an antelope or two are about to have a really bad night.  

A new paradise

The giantess is coming. She steps along the riverbank, panning her gaze left and right. Her bill is a bayonet, her eyes are beads of amber, her neck forms a perfect S-shape. She’s a 5ft-tall goliath heron, and the river is hers. Without warning, she unfurls into flight, her vast wings outspread like sails as she slow-beats along the watercourse. She’s a titan in bird form, a vision of grace soaring above   flatulent pods of hippos, and any fish she might spy is not long for this world. Fadhili Saning’o looks on with interest. “There haven’t been formal wildlife observations in these wetlands until recently,” he whispers, gesturing at the acacia groves and the seasonal, straw-coloured grasslands around us. “But nearly 500 species have been spotted now.” Fadhili is guiding me on an early-morning walk in the Usangu Wetlands. Bush thorns snag our trousers as we wander. Rippling banks of cumulus clouds fill the sky, but there’s life wherever we turn — swallows gusting above the treetops, crocodiles at the water’s edge, herds of impala on the flatlands. Fadhili is the manager of the newly opened Usangu Expedition Camp, a self-styled ‘citizen science experience’ in the heart of the wetlands. It has an adventurous-sounding name for a reason: the site has just four guest tents, runs largely on solar power and is the sole camp in the wetlands (its nearest neighbour sits some 40 miles away, beyond thick miombo woodland). Its isolation, and its focus on conservation, means the camp plays an important role in current efforts to understand the diversity and behaviour of the local ecosystem, with guests actively encouraged to log what they see.     This is significant. When Ruaha was granted National Park status in the 1960s, the Usangu Wetlands lay outside its borders. Only in 2008 was the park expanded to include this colossal spread of riparian land, which spent a century as an unprotected hunting reserve that also suffered from the effects of cattle-ranching, poaching, illegal fishing and mismanaged irrigation. This in turn means there has only ever been a loose understanding of exactly what lives here, and how best it can be protected. When I arrive at the canvas-covered camp HQ, I’m shown two old poachers’ bicycles hung from silver cluster-leaf trunks. The decoration has a simple message: things in the wetlands are moving on.   The region’s ongoing recovery is vital. The Great Ruaha River, the mighty freshwater artery that has its beginnings here in the wetlands, is the lifeblood of both the park itself and much of south-eastern Tanzania. “There are 15 staff at the camp, and we all grew up locally,” young guide Anderson Pakomyus Mesilla tells me, as we watch lilac-breasted rollers swooping from tree to tree. “We understand why this place is so important.”   Predators roam nearby — one morning we find the chewed-clean skull of an unfortunate reedbuck — but safari guests are a novel proposition here, and vehicles are a far from customary sight, so the wildlife is more prone to keeping its distance. This doesn’t stop the long grass around the tents being full of unexplained rustles, of course, nor does it stop ready sightings of everything from zebras and jackals to frogs and fish eagles.   Usangu Expedition Camp — which, like Jabali Ridge, is run by responsible safari specialist Asilia Africa — is open from June to November every year, when lower water levels mean the wetlands become grassy plains. It’s a special area by day, and magical by night, with all cooking at the camp done over an open fire.   A study by the African Leadership University’s School of Wildlife Conservation showed that some 623,000 people were employed in Tanzanian tourism pre-pandemic, a figure that was projected to have fallen by more than 475,000 during the Covid-19 outbreak. The recovery will be far from instant, but there are heartening stories from this far-flung corner of the national map.  

“My grandparents lived here before it was a reserve,” Anderson tells me. “My grandpa is almost 97 now, but he still tells me tales of life here, so when Asilia was looking for staff three years ago, I applied as a casual worker.”   Twelve recruits spent three months making a track through the woodland for vehicles to reach the new camp. In this time, Anderson began learning English by downloading Barack Obama speeches from the internet. “Birdlife is one of my passions,” he continues. “My dream was to become a guide, and now it’s happened.”   It’s only in the vicinity of the camp the true scale of the wetlands becomes clear. In the mornings, pale greens and sun-bleached yellows stretch out in an infinite prairie, with massed herds of kudus and waterbucks roaming the land like troops across a war map.   As a safari destination, it feels different   to the norm. This is partly because the wildlife, as I’ve seen, is more skittish than in areas with more visitors. But if you want time in the wilderness, where the nightjars chirr and the chances of seeing another vehicle are virtually zero, you need to take it on its own terms.

Campfires and conservation

Night has fallen, and the glow-in-the-dark impalas move through the trees like ghosts. The herd is less than 100ft away, but I’m watching their progress on an iPad showing live imagery from a thermal monocular camera. Anything with body warmth —   bushbabies, impalas, big cats on the prowl   — glows white-hot on the screen. There’s no disturbance to the animals, no lights being shone in their direction, just a private viewing of the plains at night. It’s also an effective way of formally recording the movements of whatever happens to be out and about.     This approach to conservation is no token gesture. Supported by investment from billionaire businessman Jim Ratcliffe, the camp plays a key role in a three-way partnership between Asilia, the Tanzania National Parks Authority and the Tanzania Wildlife Research Institute, which are collectively conducting a biodiversity audit of the wetlands. Everyone who stays at the camp is given a motion-sensitive camera trap on arrival, a device that’s placed out in the bush.   It’s then monitored when the guest departs. The results form part of the wider data set; rare species such as pangolins and wild dogs have already been spotted on camera. “The goal of the whole project is to get a better understanding of what lives here and the threats they face,” explains one of the coordinators, Leena Lulandala, when I meet her in the Douglas Bell Eco-Research Station, housed in a tent on the camp outskirts. “We’ve captured 45,000 images over the past 11 months.” She then talks me through the iNaturalist app, which guests are encouraged to download to record any unusual sightings. Visitors can even pay to assist in the darting and collaring of a lion or leopard, a measure that helps safeguard the cats’ future.   In line with the conservation ethos, the two safari vehicles used by the camp are upcycled old Land Rovers, rebuilt from the wheels up. They’ve been modified to run on ethanol, a fuel made from molasses from a nearby sugar plantation. “We call this one ‘gongo’,” says Anderson, as he hops up behind one of the steering wheels. “It’s a local word for moonshine.”      

The lack of any other camps in the region gives the whole area the feel of somewhere unsullied. Guests can try walking safaris and water safaris, as well more standard exploratory drives. All of them feel like trips into a private outback. One evening we drive out to a bend in the river for a drink. We’re surrounded by birdsong and darkening woods.   Hippos stir the river’s surface, hornbills fly overhead, warthogs and ostriches appear from stage right. And there’s not another traveller in sight. Back at camp, as stews bubble on the fire and constellations dot the night, the conversation turns to large antelopes. The floodplains are full of them, each one a precision-engineered herbivore with tall shoulders, delicate markings and don’t-hassle-me horns. One species in particular is here in high volumes. “We’ll find topis tomorrow,” says Fadhili. “Lots of them.” He’s true to his word. Early the next morning, we head off to reach some of the wide-open grasslands further from camp. As the land begins to lighten, zebras and cattle egrets appear in numbers. We pass through rolling scrubland and clusters of trees covered in the dangling baubles of weaverbird nests. After an hour, chocolate-brown specks start to busy the horizon.   By the time we cut the engine, these specks have multiplied. Each one is a topi with banded thighs, pink ears and legs built to run. A vast herd is passing across the land, slowly at first until, on some unseen signal, it stirs to life as though called to a pressing appointment on the other side of the plains. The spectacle of hundreds of cantering antelopes is hypnotic. The herd’s behaviour will go down in the log — another piece of data to help build a picture of life on the wetlands — but for now the animals flow like water across this remote pocket of East Africa, travelling south as the savannah billows out around them.  

Getting there & around

No airlines fly direct from the UK to Tanzania. Carriers with one-stop options between London and Dar es Salaam’s Julius Nyerere International Airport include Emirates (via Dubai), Kenya Airways (via Nairobi) and Turkish Airlines (via Istanbul). From Dar es Salaam, internal flights on small Auric Air planes land at various airstrips in Ruaha National Park. Getting from Jabali Ridge to Usangu Expedition Camp is done either by 4x4 (5-6 hours with stops) or via helicopter.  

Ruaha is best visited during the long dry season between June and October. Unlike some of the busier parks in the north of the country, it’s unlikely to feel crowded, even in peak season.  

Where to stay

Usangu Expedition Camp : from US$700 (£610) per person per night, with minimum three-night stay and a compulsory conservation donation of US$250 (£220) per person per day. Jabali Ridge : from US$875 (£775) per person per night.  

How to do it

Asilia offers a seven-night safari with three nights at Usangu Expedition Camp, three nights at Jabali Ridge and a night at the Dar es Salam Serena Hotel, from US$8,020 (£7,025) per person, based on two people sharing. This rate includes all internal flights from Dar es Salaam, safari activities, all meals and house drinks, as well as a US$750 (£655) conservation donation to the Usangu project. asiliaafrica.com

Published in the November 2022 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK)

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• Ruaha National Park Tanzania
• Tanzania safaris

Ruaha National Park Tanzania -Best time to visit – top big wildlife safaris in Tanzania – Things to do in the park

Ruaha National park Tanzania – One of the country’s most outstanding wilderness areas It is the second largest National Park, covering an area of 20,226 sq.km located in south-central Tanzania. During the dry season, when game viewing is at its best, animals are drawn to the Great Ruaha River and other water sources. The name Ruaha was derived from the hehe word called ‘ ‘Luhava” meaning the great river.

It is located in the middle of Tanzania about 130 kilometres from Iringa. The park is part of a more extensive ecosystem, which includes Rungwa Game Reserve, Usangu Game Reserve, and several other protected areas. The name of the park is derived from the Great Ruaha River, which flows along its South-Eastern margin and is the focus for game-viewing. The park can be reached by car via Iringa and there is an airstrip at Msembe, park headquarters.

Ruaha National Park Tanzania  has a bimodal pattern of rain forest; the short rainfall season begins November to February, while the long season is between March and April. The park experiences its dry season between June and October. The park is one of the Tanzania birds’ paradise with more than 571species and some of them are known to be migrants from within and outside Africa. Ruaha is believed to have high concentration of elephants than any National Park in East Africa. It is also a place where, magnificent mammals like Kudu, Sable and Roan antelopes can easily be spotted in Miombo woodland. The park is also a habitat for endangered wild dogs. Other animals in the park include lions, leopards, cheetah, giraffes, zebras, elands, impala, bat eared foxes and Jackals.

Apart from large animals, the park also harbors a number of reptiles and amphibians such as crocodiles, poisonous and non-poisonous snakes, monitor lizards, agama lizards and frogs The park is characterized by semi-arid type of vegetation, baobab trees, Acacia and other species. There are over 1,650 plant species that have been identified.

Birds of Ruaha National park.

With 574 species recorded in Ruaha, it is difficult to visit this beautiful Park and not be impressed by the number and variety of birds you see.

The resident  birds  of the  Ruah a National Park Tanzania  are: the Crested barbet, Dickinson’s kestrel, Pale-billed hornbill, Violet-crested turaco, Racket-tailed roller, Plovers, Kingfishers, Hornbills, Green-wood hoopoes, Sunbirds, Bee-eaters and Egrets.

Wildlife of Ruaha national park.

This is the place where visitors can see both Lesser and Greater Kudu because it is the southernmost limit for Lesser Kudu in African continent.

It is also possible to see, Sable and Roan antelope, Lichtenstein’s Hartebeest, Topi, both Southern and Bohor reedbuck and it is the southernmost limit of Grants Gazelle.

In addition to this, Ruaha boasts a healthy population of Wild Dogs, Leopard, Lions, Cheetah, Buffalo, and Elephant, not to mention all the other species, of which there are plenty

Getting Ruaha national park.

The park is accessible by road and air.

Road . From Iringa town it is 108km to the main gate (Y-Junction), 625Km from Dar es Salaam and 480Km from Mbeya City.

Air.  Daily flights   from Dar es Salaam and Arusha is the easiest way to Ruaha .  Airstrips are located at Msembe and Jongomero. Coastal Aviation, Auric Air and Safari Link all have scheduled flights to Ruaha.

Where to stay in Ruaha national park.

• Don suites Hotel.
• CRJE estate limited.
• Cordura LTD.

Best time to visit Ruaha National park.

For larger mammals the  best time to visit Ruaha National Park Tanzania is in the dry season  between June and October. As a simple rule, the drier it gets, the fewer places there are for the game to drink and the more the animals congregate around remaining water sources.

You can now combined a Tanzania safari with mountain gorilla trekking in Uganda’s Bwindi impenetrable National park. Read more;

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Where to stay in ruaha, hand picked tanzania itineraries, where to stay in ruaha national park , ruaha national park safari prices , ruaha national park balloon safaris, we don't just know tanzania , client reviews.

Ikuka Camp - Reviews Fantastic lodge, couldn't fault it! The main owner Giles was there so we got to know him a bit. Nothing was too much trouble for Mark and his team, they have the experience just right from the coffee in your room before you go out for the early morning drives, to the G&Ts in the sunset only metres from elephants/buffalo. * * * * * - B. Mason

Kichaka Camp - Reviews Kichaka is a fantastic place,and for people who don't want to just count sightings it is the best.The team there are great,location fantastic and Ruaha is the best park we went to.Food was also the best we had and the eagerness to ensure we experienced everything was good.Would recommend this place to anyone who wants something different to the normal camps. * * * * * - J Merton

Jongomero Camp - Reviews Just a quick note to say how much we enjoyed our holiday. Everything worked perfectly and all three Selous properties were excellent and provided great diversity. Jongomero was probably our favourite due to its remoteness and Molly and Noelle but we loved Selous and Ras Kutani as well. The trip was a perfect length, a day more or less at any of the places would not have been as good! I couldn’t think of a better camp than Jongomero to remember as our last stop. * * * * * - Kibbey, UK

Mdonya Old River Camp - Reviews Mdonya camp was the perfect way to immerse us all into the safari holiday. We enjoyed the day- long game drives, starting with coffee and cake brought to the tent, colourful Masai blankets to keep us warm until the sun came up and packed breakfast and lunch in the bush. We saw all the animals we wanted to see and were amazed at the knowledgable guides. * * * * * - J. Donnelly

Mwagusi Safari Camp - Reviews Mwagusi (Ruhaha Park) : we really enjoyed Ruhaha and the lodge. As promised, Mwagusi is amazing, the games drives were excellent – we had wonderful guides and driver (Isaac and Vicent) – and we brought back beautiful pictures * * * * * - Challe

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Best Time To Visit Ruaha National Park

Travel essentials.

Ideal duration: 2-3 days

Best Time: June - October Read More

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What is the best time to visit Ruaha National Park?

The ideal time to explore Ruaha National Park is during the dry season, which typically spans from June to October. This period offers the most favourable conditions for wildlife viewing and safari experiences. As the rains recede, animals gather around water sources, making it easier to spot wildlife in action. The vegetation also thins out during this season, providing better visibility for observing animals and capturing stunning photographs. Moreover, the weather is pleasant, with cooler temperatures and lower chances of rainfall, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable safari adventure.

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Selous, Ruaha, and Mikumi National Parks Exploration - 8 Days/7 Nights

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A World-Class Safari in Undiscovered National Parks

Southern tanzania: off the beaten path.

From $11,995

Easy to Moderate

Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

Tanzania's true wild side is in its southern reaches, where legendary wildlife reserves like Ruaha National Park and the great Selous (now Nyerere National Park) stretch for thousands of square miles relatively undisturbed by human activity. Selous and Ruaha have been protected for more than a hundred years and they shelter globally important populations of wildlife: massive prides of lions (10 percent of Africa's lions reside here), plenty of crocodile, lion, leopard, cheetah, hippo, elephant, black rhino, buffalo, and more than 400 bird species. And southern Tanzania is absolutely the best place in Africa to watch packs of African wild dogs on the hunt. Yet these remote reserves see a fraction of the tourists that visit the northern parks! With our long-time Tanzania safari leader Goodluck Urassa, we'll set off for exciting game drives, off-road tracking, bush walks, river safaris, and even a rainforest hike. Urassa is known for his keen spotter's eye and extensive knowledge of African wildlife, and he'll be joined by local guides at all our camps. We'll explore Nyerere National Park, Tanzania's second largest wildlife sanctuary, watered by the photogenic Rufiji River, Mikumi National Park, with its plains game and African hunting dogs, and the immaculate rainforest of the Udzungwa Mountains National Park, home to a wide array of endemic birds and plants—and even two endemic species of primates! Our grand finale finds us in immense Ruaha National Park, Tanzania's best kept secret, with 7,800 square miles of wildlife-rich wilderness spanning both the eastern and southern African biomes. There are but a handful of safari camps in this vast region, and we've chosen the most comfortable and best located ones, where we'll enjoy a warm welcome. Join us for an unforgettable off-the-beaten-path safari!

Arrive: Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Depart: Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

• Safari in the less-traveled wildlife reserves of southern Tanzania, with fantastic elephant herds, plenty of lion prides, leopard, hyena, hippo and huge Nile crocs
• Discover Ruaha National Park, Tanzania's best-kept secret, a kingdom of predators and home to 12,000 elephants
• Explore Nyerere National Park (“the Selous”), an oasis for wildlife and the best place in Africa to spot endangered African wild dogs
• Hike in the Udzungwa Mountains, a biodiversity hotspot of virgin forest full of primates and birdlife
• Enjoy 4WD exploration, walking safaris, river safaris, and a rainforest hike
• Stay in remote safari camps where you'll see abundant game and few other safari-goers

Dates & Pricing

Pricing below is per person and based on double occupancy. The earlier you book, the more choice you’ll have. WT also has the most generous cancellation and transfer policies in the industry, we make it easy if you change your mind. Have a small group of your own? Take over an existing date or choose your own. You’ll have your own private guide–and the adventure–all to yourselves!

Payment & Cancel Schedule

At time of reservation: $600 90 days prior to departure: Balance

Cancellation & Transfer Schedule

Up to 91 days prior to departure: No Charge! 61-90 days prior to departure: 25% of trip cost 46-60 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost 45 days or less: 100% of trip cost

• Expert leadership of a Wilderness Travel Trip Leader and local guides
• Accommodations in safari camps and hotel
• All meals included except 1 lunch and 1 dinner as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
• A glass of wine or beer with dinner
• All ground transportation and baggage handling from meeting until departure
• All activities as indicated in Detailed Itinerary

Not Included

• Travel to and from the arrival and departure location as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
• Additional hotel nights outside the trip's scheduled dates
• Optional gratuities to Trip Leaders or staff
• Optional travel insurance
• Other expenses of a personal nature (some alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc.)

Accommodations

Scroll through our signature accommodations for this trip below. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.

Salaam Serena Hotel

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Day 1 (1 night)

Roho ya Selous

Nyerere National Park, Tanzania

Days 2-4 (3 nights)

Vuma Hills Tented Camp

Mikumi National Park, Tanzania

Days 5-6 (2 nights)

Hondo Hondo Camp

Udzungwa Mountains National Park, Tanzania

Days 7-8 (2 nights)

Jabali Ridge

Ruaha National Park, Tanzania

Days 9-11 (3 nights)

Trip Leaders

Wilderness Travel Trip Leaders have a passion and a joy for creating an unforgettable journey. We are extremely proud of them and the incredible travel experiences they make possible. For more information, including client comments about them and which specific trips they will be leading, please click on their profiles below.

Goodluck Urassa

What the Trip is Like

The game-tracking walks are accompanied by a professional tracker and are conducted at a pace that allows an intimate exploration of the African bush.

The longer optional mountain hike on Day 8 follows a track through montane forest, but our group will likely leave the trail for periods of time to track the mangabey monkeys. This hike can be steep, slippery, and have loose footing at times, and therefore it is only recommended for travelers in good physical conditioning and with confidence in their stability on rough trails. The shorter option follows a more established trail and can be taken at a slower pace.

Extend Your Trip

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From $3,395

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Book your trip today

Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

Submit the form below to download itinerary

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Trip Levels

With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult—see descriptions below for explanations of each number. A plus (+) sign means the trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of that level. The detailed explanation of each trip—below the bar with the number rating—is perhaps more important, specifying activities, altitudes, hiking, and travel conditions. The Detailed Itinerary, available by download or mail, gives further information. Our Area Managers can also answer questions and guide you to the trip that best suits your interests.

Level 1 – Easiest

Non-camping journeys, optional walks, little elevation gain or loss.

• Royal Rajasthan and Villages of India
• Small ship cruises

Level 2 – Easy to Moderate

Hotel nights and/or safari-style camping, hikes of two to four hours on some days. Other physical activities are sometimes included, such as optional sea kayaking.

• Our African safaris
• Costa Rica Wildlife

Level 3 – Moderate

Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our snorkeling adventures.

• Tuscany & the Cinque Terre
• Argentina: Hikes and Estancias of Patagonia
• Palau Snorkeling & Sea Kayaking
• Some trips with minimal hiking but rugged travel conditions or long drives, such as  Tribal Ghana, Togo & Benin,  are Trip Level 3.

Level 4 – Moderate to Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-6 hours), mountainous terrain, significant elevation gains and losses (hiking up or down as much as 3,000 feet) on many days. Altitudes no greater than about 10,000 feet.

• Ultimate Patagonia
• Hiking the Spanish Pyrenees

Level 5 – Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 12,000 feet are in this category.

• Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
• Everest Lodge to Lodge

Level 6 – Very Strenuous

Full-day hikes (5-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Most hikes take place at altitudes above 10,000 feet, with some days ascending as high as 18,000 feet.

• Everest Base Camp

Experience Ruaha

Book an unforgettable safari with Asilia Africa in Ruaha National Park, Tanzania's best-kept secret.

What people say about our camps

"Jabali Ridge is the perfect place to end your safari, because you won’t find a more delightful spot! The rooms are so thoughtfully designed, the food is exceptional, and the staff goes above snd beyond every day. Smiles and interesting sightings abound! Plan to stay at least three nights!"

February 2023

"Kwihala was divine! I went to Kwihala with my family of six. We had the most incredible time. Our guides, Erasto and Bahati, went above and beyond every single day and the staff at the camp were tremendous as well. I wish I could still have Toran's cooking and go dancing with Bahati every weekend. The Kwihala staff is an exceptionally fun, thoughtful, driven, and meticulous group."

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Our Camps in Ruaha

Why travel with asilia africa.

Positive Impact

Protecting our wilderness areas and the surrounding communities is a key part of who we are.

Prime Locations

Situated in the very best locations within prime game-viewing areas.

Rich Experiences

Our safaris are immersive, authentic and engaging.

Warm Hospitality

Our team welcomes you with warmth and makes you feel at home with genuine African hospitality.

Depend On Us

Our expert on-the-ground teams will safeguard your trip, ensuring all runs smoothly.

Commitment To Quality

Rely on us to arrange anything you may need, with superb level of quality throughout.

True Experts

Our internationally recognised team has a genuine passion to share Africa with you.

Are you ready to start planning your safari?

Ruaha National Park in the centre of Tanzania takes its name from the Hehe word for ‘river.’ The eponymous Great Ruaha River serves as a lifeline for the park’s wildlife. Although it’s one of the largest national parks in the country and rich in wildlife, Ruaha is one of the least busy places to visit in Tanzania, so safaris here feel remote and exclusive.

Every guest who stays with Asilia can be assured that all our camps are situated in the very best locations within carefully considered prime game-viewing areas.

We create tailor-made itineraries for every traveller. From unique scenery, wildlife and cultures to the unrivalled hospitality in our camps, we cannot wait to tailor your journey to suit your every need. Here are some of our best African safari packages to get you started:

Southern Tanzania Safari

Destinations: 

• Dar es Salaam
• Nyerere (The Selous)

Explore the wildlife-rich and unspoilt wilderness areas of southern Tanzania’s game reserves on safari, before hopping by plane to the island of Zanzibar for days spent snorkelling on tropical reefs and enjoying sandbank picnics. Explore the waterways and plains of Nyerere National Park by boat, vehicle and on foot, before searching for big cats in Ruaha National Park, home to 10 percent of Africa’s lion population. 

FROM US$6,882

Western Wilderness

Tanzania north to south.

FROM US$8,580

See Tanzania in style, staying at some of the country’s finest accommodation in four very different national parks. Watch herds of elephant in Tarangire, game-drive in the dormant Ngorongoro Crater, visit an authentic Maasai village, search for cheetah in the Serengeti and look for leopard in Ruaha. You will visit some of East Africa’s most famed national parks as well as lesser known gems, offering a rewarding and unique safari experience.

FROM US$11,092

11 days off the beaten track. The national parks in the south of the country not only have far fewer visitors than their counterparts in the north, but they are also home to some of the largest populations of wildlife in Tanzania and arguably, some of the most stunning and dramatic scenery found anywhere in Africa. The Western Wilderness itinerary offers a diverse and exciting safari experience.

Ready to create your dream safari?  

Contact us today to start planning your very own Tanzanian adventure.

No problem! Sign up to our newsletter instead and be the first to hear about our exclusive offers and experiences. 

Not ready to start planning your trip?

Our safari trip ideas.

Why Travel to Ruaha?  

Ruaha National Park is renowned for its excellent wildlife-sighting opportunities. Combined with the low numbers of visitors, this makes it a spectacular destination. The wider Ruaha area hosts 10% of the world’s lion population and it is not uncommon to find prides of more than 20 lion in the park.

Jabali Ridge Camp, Ruaha

Jabali Ridge is a stylish camp in the wildlife-rich Ruaha National Park, set on a rocky outcrop overlooking the Mwagusi River and Ikuka escarpment. 

HIGHLIGHTS: 

Game Drives

Swimming Pool

Photography on Safari

Night Drives

Nature Walks

Usangu Expedition Camp, Ruaha

On the banks of the wetlands, just beyond the seasonal high-water mark, Usangu Expedition Camp sits among the woodland offering the perfect location to enjoy the multitude of activities available across this largely unexplored wilderness. 

Natural Hot Springs

Boat Safari

 Lion Tracking

Excellent Game Viewing

Exquisite and exclusive camps.

Asilia operates 14 camps in Tanzania including tjhree in Ruaha National Park. Our camps promise you excellent game viewing, unrivalled hospitality, and a range of activities for a complete immersion into your safari experience.

Add a Beach Holiday onto your Safari

The tropical beaches, turquoise waters, and colourful coral reefs that form Zanzibar Island are worlds away from life on a safari. Short and relatively cheap internal flights make it easy and inexpensive to extend a safari and enjoy some rest and relaxation on the beach. 

Ruaha National Park

Ruaha National Park is a wilderness area that combines excellent game viewing with spectacular landscapes. The park’s unexplored ecosystem means that safari experiences are more private and authentic than those in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro. The Great Ruaha River, and the Mwagusi, Jongomero, and Mzombe Rivers are the main source of water for wildlife during the dry season. Waterbuck, impala, and Grant’s gazelle risk their lives for water as the shores of the Ruaha are a permanent hunting ground for lion, leopard, cheetah, jackal, hyena and the rare and endangered African wild dog. 

Highlights:

• Ruaha National Park is renowned for its excellent wildlife-sighting opportunities. Combined with the low number of visitors, this makes it a spectacular destination.  
• The wider Ruaha area hosts 10% of the world’s lion population and has been a Lion Conservation Unit since 2005. It’s not uncommon to find prides of more than 20 lion in the park.  
• Other predators that can be found in the park include; almost 100 endangered wild dog and leopard, cheetah, wild dog, hyena and black back jackal.
• There are more than 570 species of birds, including the eponymous Ruaha red-billed hornbill. Migrant birds from Europe, Asia, Australia and Madagascar arrive during the rainy season between February and April.   

Kwihala Camp, Ruaha

Kwihala is set deep in the bush of Ruaha National Park. It’s the largest national park in Tanzania, with plentiful wildlife, yet it feels remote and peaceful, with fewer visitors than other parks. 

Cultural Visits

Hot-air Balloon Safaris

• Tanzania Travel Advice
• Tanzania Yellow Fever Requirements
• Tanzania weather
• Best Time to Visit Tanzania
• Flying Doctors Services
• Sustainable Travel
• The Hakuna Matata Academy
• About Tanzania Specialist
• Our Experts

9 DAYS SAFARI MIKUMI + RUAHA + SELOUS

From $2978 usd * / 24/7 service / 9 days.

*price p.p. incl. guide, 4x4 safari vehicle, accommodation, park entrance fees and internal flights; excl. international flight (Based on 6 persons)

• Tanzania Safari
• 9 days Safari Mikumi + Ruaha + Selous

This is a perfect safari combination to explore three of the southern national parks in Tanzania.

Mikumi national park  has a great variety of animals like the ‘Big Five’ and the chance that you will encounter lions climbing up trees is greater here than in other parks!  Ruaha national park  is not only the second largest park but is probably home to more elephants than any other  national park  in East Africa. And  Selous Game Reserve  is Tanzania’s largest park. Due to its wildlife diversity and undisturbed nature even a UNESCO World Heritage Site!

This private safari offers you the flexibility to travel at your own pace, exactly the way you like it. You will have a private safari vehicle and guide.

Our safaris in Tanzania offer an opportunity to explore the country’s incredible wildlife and stunning landscapes. We specialize in private safaris, which means you have a 4×4 Landcruiser or jeep all to yourselves. You have the flexibility to decide when the safari starts and ends, and our experienced guides can help you make that decision on the day of your adventure. Whether you want to witness the animals at their most active during sunrise and sunset when temperatures are pleasant, or if you fancy ending the day by the pool, it’s entirely up to you. Tanzania’s diverse wildlife is active at various times of the day, so you’ll have plenty of opportunities to spot the animals in action.

At Tanzania Specialist, we’re all about co-creating your perfect journey. When you plan your Tanzania adventure with us, you’re not just booking a trip; you’re embarking on a personalized experience. We start by understanding your wishes and preferences, and we won’t stop until every aspect of your journey aligns perfectly with your vision. Our team works closely with you to ensure that your entire trip is tailor-made to your satisfaction. And for added convenience, we offer a selection of our most popular Tanzania trips and safaris as a starting point for your consideration.

Absolutely, Tanzania is renowned as one of the prime destinations to encounter the Big Five. These magnificent creatures—lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros, and buffalo—can be observed in their natural habitats, making Tanzania a preferred choice for wildlife enthusiasts.

Absolutely, Tanzania is a safe and welcoming destination for travelers. The country offers a hospitable environment, especially in tourist areas like Arusha, and you can explore its beautiful landscapes and wildlife with confidence. Local people are friendly, and safety measures, such as keeping an eye on your belongings, are always advisable, just as you would in any other part of the world. Tanzania’s natural beauty and the warmth of its people make it a fantastic place to visit.

Low season (April 1st - May 19th)

$3.938,00 USD *

$3.218,00 USD *

$2.978,00 USD *

Mid season (the rest of the year)

$4.472,00 USD *

$3.545,00 USD *

$3.237,00 USD *

High season (July + August + 20 Dec + 10 Jan)

$4.977,00 USD *

$3.915,00 USD *

$3.562,00 USD *

* Indicative costs per person, excluding international airline tickets

• 24/7 service
• All accommodations
• English speaking guide
• Game drives
• Luxurious private 4×4 Safari Jeep
• Pickup and transfer airport
• Reservation costs
• International flights and visas
• Travel insurance

Make your dream trip come true with Tanzania Specialist

At Tanzania Specialist, you can customize your trip. Our sample itineraries are adjustable to your preferences. Our specialists work together with you to create your dream journey!

Day 1: Arrival in Dar es Salaam

• Day 2: Mikumi National Park
• Day 3: Mikumi National Park
• Day 4: Ruaha National Park
• Day 5: Ruaha National Park

Day 6: Nyerere National Park

Day 7: full day boat safari in nyerere national park, day 8 - 9: flight to dar es salaam and flight home.

Welcome to Tanzania! Upon your arrival at Dar es Salaam Airport, our friendly and knowledgeable guide will be eagerly waiting to warmly welcome you. He will be readily available to assist you and ensure a smooth transfer to your hotel. Sit back, relax, and let us take care of all your travel needs, providing you with a memorable and unforgettable experience in Tanzania.

Day 2 - 3: Mikumi National Park

Mikumi National Park lies at a six-hour drive from Dar Es Salaam and is Tanzania's fourth largest national park. The open horizons and abundant wildlife draw frequent comparisons to the more famous Serengeti plains, but its location close to Tanzania's largest city makes Mikumi easier accessible. The park has a great variety of animals: elephants, buffalos, zebras and giraffes are relatively easy to spot, as well as lions mating and many hippos in the resident hippo pool!

Day 4 - 5: Ruaha National Park

Ruaha National Park is the third largest national park in Tanzania. It lies along the Great Ruaha River, is known for its large elephant population, and is a true paradise for birdwatchers with over 570 species. Besides, y ou might catch a glimpse of lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, crocodiles, elands, sable antelopes, jackals, or the rare African wild dog. Game drives are special, as you drive through an untouched ecosystem in this relatively quiet but stunning park!

Today you discover the jungle, savannah and river sides of the vast Nyerere National Park (previously the Selous Game Reserve) - an amazing place for game drives. This park in southern Tanzania has fewer visitors than the north ern parks but boasts elephants, hippos, crocodiles , lions, leopards, giraffes, the endangered rhino, the rare African wild dog and more. It's the second largest park in the country after Serengeti National Park, so be prepared to cover some miles!

A boat safari on the Rufiji River in Nyerere National Park is both relaxing and adventurous! The boat takes you over the river and to nearby lakes, allowing you to spot many animals that come to the water’s edge. Very common are giraffes, impalas, waterbucks, kudus and warthogs. Sometimes, also bathing elephants or crocodiles can be seen, and always, the many bird species sound their voices. The trip includes a picnic lunch on the shores of one of the lakes.

This is your last day! Today you fly to Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar Es Salaam, from where you will catch your flight home. Having second thoughts? Then don't hesitate to extend your holiday to one of Tanzania's paradise islands such as Zanzibar, Pemba, or Mafia!

Why Tanzania Specialist?

• Highest service
• Quickest response time
• 100% specialized in Tanzania
• Skilled travel consultants living in Tanzania
• World class safari guides
• Competitive rates
• Top rated private safaris

Let us create your tailor-made trip

Receive a free, no obligation quote, call an expert, our specialists are here to assist you.

Safari Ruaha

Sunblock, Sunhat, Sunglasses, Camera, Camera charger, Binoculars, A powerful Torch, Spare batteries, International plug adapter, Fly swat, Insect repellent, Anti-malaria medication, Long trousers and a light sweater,

Mobile Phone (On silent or flight mode when on game drives and at the Lodge dining area & bar !!)

An open mind.

Don't Bring

PLASTIC BAGS – they have been banned in Tanzania & Kenya  – TAKE NOTE The Rest of the World.

More than 20 kilos luggage, alcohol, any weapons or fire arms, poison.

Frequently asked questions.

From June to November during the dry season is the best time to see the wildlife that is drawn to the Ruaha river and water holes. January and February the Park will be greener with longer grasses but it is also a good time to visit.

Generally the short rains are in November and December and the longer rains in March, April and May. However climate change is making the rains less predictable and recent years more rain has fallen during the short rains than the longer rains.

You do not have to have any but recommended would be:

Tetanus, Hepatitis A &B, Typhoid, Rabies,

Yellow Fever is only controlled if arriving from another African country where the vaccinations are obligatory.

Yes, especially in Dar es Salaam

For our guests visiting Ruaha and Mafia Island for a week or two we recommend ensuring that you use mosquito nets and cover up skin at dawn and dusk as well as using sprays and deterrents.

But to be totally safe it is better to take a prescribed prophylax like doxycycline, and mefloquine.

We ensure that there are mosquito nets in our partner Hotels & Lodges.

Yes, but normally encountered West of the Ruaha River Lodge and during the rains.

Cover up ankles and legs and carry a fly swat on your safaris. The guides will also carry a smoker device that keeps them away in especially bad areas.

IF you stay in your vehicle on safari and follow your guides advice you will be safe.

Do ask your guide where and when it is safe to go to the toilet!

At the Ruaha River Lodge you will be asked to sign a disclaimer form and will be given a safety briefing. Masai guides will accompany you between your banda and the dining/bar areas as elephant, hippo and lion can walk through the Lodge day and night.

Do NOT go jogging or walking unaccompanied by a Masai guide.

The animals are wild and free. We are guests in their habitat and that must be respected.

Strictly 15 Kilos per person !! If more you will either need to pay a surcharge or depending on how full your flight is be requested to leave some luggage behind.

No. The 4WD safari vehicles are open to the wind but with a purpose built sun- shade. The specially converted jeeps and landrovers have No doors or windows to allow for the best viewing of wildlife and experiencing the wilderness that you drive through.

Yes there is a generator that powers lights and sockets from 6am – 10am and 4pm – 10pm.

Yes, all bottled mineral water is safe to drink. Do not drink from any other water source.

Yes, your drinks bill needs to be paid by cash or credit card before departure.

Yes, please do. You can tip individually or leave a collective tip before you leave. The service is always friendly and often excellent.

Yes. Just let the staff know on arrival your dietary requirements and the excellent cooks will prepare accordingly.

Yes, Vodacom and Airtel have masts in the Park…sadly !

No. This is a place to truly disconnect from the Rest of the World.

• Family Safari Escapes: Discovering the Best National Parks in Tanzania

Planning a Family Escapade in Tanzania — A vast country, much like the vastness of its national parks. 

Moreover, it is a top destination for incredible family safaris. Where families can enjoy the thrill of adventure and become one with nature & wildlife, the different regions will offer you as many surprises as each other. 

During your family trip to Tanzania, you have a golden chance to immerse in the beauty of the wild and forge lasting connections with the natural world. How exciting is that?

The Marvels of Tanzania’s National Parks:

Few places can offer such varied and intensely beautiful scenery as Tanzania’s National Parks. Tanzania has 22 national parks managed by TANAPA(Tanzania National Parks Authority), including renowned names like Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, harboring species from African elephants to elusive leopards and giraffes. 

These parks are wildlife sanctuaries that significantly conserve the country’s rich biodiversity, containing more than 20% of Africa’s large mammal population.

Also contributing to Tanzania’s economy through eco-tourism by attracting global visitors to an annual spectacle involving millions of wildebeests, zebras, and other animals migrating journeying across the plains, sustaining a delicate balance of predator-prey life chain and serving as a natural marvel.

Can’t read now? Pin for later!

Navigating Family Safari Planning:

Tarangire national park , serengeti national park, ngorongoro conservation area, ruaha national park, selous game reserve, mount kilimanjaro national park, faqs about tanzania and its national parks.

Ensuring everything goes smoothly for a successful family adventure where everyone has a fantastic time. 

But how do you make it awesome? 

First, consider when you want to go on your safari adventure. You’ll want to aim for the dry seasons, usually between June & October or from December to Feb. During these times, the weather is just right, and the animals are near water sources, making it easier to spot them.

Now, about the weather in the big parks up north, like Serengeti, Tarangire, and Manyara have a warm high-altitude climate about 1,500 meters above sea level. Hence, it’s pretty warm but not too hot. Jan, Feb, and March are the hottest months which could be perfect if you see animals in action during the warmer times. But watch out for April – it’s the rainiest month. On the flip side, August is the driest.

So we’ve got the timing down. Let’s move on to something more important: keeping everyone healthy and comfy. You’ll want to sort out your transportation and make sure you’ve got any needed health precautions covered. This might include vaccinations or medications to stay safe and sound during your adventure.

And speaking of adventure, you’ll want to ensure you’ve got the right tour operator and safari guide to make your experience top-notch. Safari companies are experts at ensuring families like yours have a fantastic time. They know how to plan things just right so that everyone, from the youngest to the oldest, has a blast and creates memories that’ll last a lifetime.

Tanzania’s Best National Parks For Family Safaris

Tarangire is recognizable because it is made up of forests of acacias and giant baobabs, with huge areas of marshland. During the dry season, you can admire beautiful landscapes. The land is red and dusty & the grass is parched and yellow, and the Tarangire River is very narrow. 

On the contrary, the plains are green during the rainy season, with an imposing river and many animals regaining their strength.

This park’s no joke – it’s 2,600 square kilometers of animal-packed adventure, especially between August and January. And here’s the scoop: Tarangire is the place to be if you’re looking for critters that are a bit trickier to find in other northern parks. 

Come June, this place will become the hangout spot for elks, oryxes, elephants, wildebeests, and zebras. They all gather around the river and the marshes to quench their thirst. And you won’t believe your eyes when you see elephants digging for water underground, using their hefty paws! It’s quite a sight to see!

Let’s get one fact straight: Serengeti’s wet season means fewer animals, except in the south, where the real action happens. 

Driving in from Ngorongoro, it’s like stepping into a grassy savannah sprinkled with kopjes – those fancy granite rock formations. Venture a bit, and you’ll hit greener acacia savannah. Head north, and it’s all about hills. On the flip side, the Western Corridor, crisscrossed by rivers, spreads out to Lake Victoria.

May to June is a show-stopping period. That’s when the jaw-dropping wildebeest migration hits the stage. Imagine over a million of these creatures embarking on a great migration over 800 km from Tanzania to Kenya’s Maasai Mara , perfectly in tune with the rain’s rhythm. A staggering 2 million wildebeests and 300,000 zebras gather for a parade, making herds that stretch as far as 40 km. 

Serengeti isn’t just a park; it’s a world-class zoo sprawled over 14,763 km² and home to Big 5 “Lions, leopards, elephants, black rhinos, and buffaloes”. 

Ngorongoro is known for its volcano, gigantic crater, and thriving wildlife scene. The Ngorongoro Crater Protected Area is over 2 million years old and around 20 km in diameter. Also, the historic Olduvai Gorge is just 40km from the crater, where traces of humanity’s earliest days are found.

In Ngorongoro, prepare for a rich and diverse range of creatures. The Big 5, antelopes, cheetahs, and endangered black rhino – we’re talking around 30,000 animals. And also have over 400 bird species, including the elegant pink flamingos. Keep your eyes open for jackals, hyenas, and cheetahs.

And if you plan a family safari around July-August, you’ll enjoy some cool temperatures on the caldera’s edges. But remember, Ngorongoro is not only just a crater; it’s part of the grand Ngorongoro Protected Area, And it’s quite the tourism hub, hosting around 400,000 visitors annually.

The Ruaha River sustains the diverse animal community in Ruaha Park, which flows through its heart. This thriving community includes African elephants, buffaloes, antelopes, lions, hyenas, cheetahs, leopards, and the world’s third-largest population of wild dogs. 

Ruaha is a hidden gem, not famous like other parks, but its reputation is rising. It remains a safari secret. You won’t have to battle huge crowds here, even during the peak/high season. Plus, it’s budget-friendly compared to more popular parks like the Serengeti.

And here you can also go for the walking safaris. But remember minimum age required for a walking safari is 16.

Nyerere National Park, previously called Selous Game Reserve, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Africa’s largest national park. 

You can witness the unusual annual elephant migration as thousands of these majestic elephants cross the river. Also, you can take part in walking safaris, spot African wild dogs, and go on Elephant Migration Boat Safaris for memorable adventures.

Plan your visit between late June and October for prime wildlife viewing or from November to March to enjoy bird watching. Wildlife in the park ranges from elephants, African wild dogs, sables, kudus, &  waterbucks to hippos and crocodiles.

Nyerere National Park is a haven of nature and offers easy access to attractions like Zanzibar and Dar Es Salaam. It’s an excellent destination for an incredible adventure.

Mount Kilimanjaro National Park stands as a remarkable destination for an unforgettable family safari. Encompassing an expansive area of approximately 755 square miles, the park in Northeastern Tanzania shares a border with Kenya. 

The park’s star attraction, Mount Kilimanjaro, is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa. Known as the rooftop of Africa, it is the highest mountain (freestanding) in the world. Families need not be seasoned climbers to experience its splendor. Guided walks along various trails allow all family members to soak in the breathtaking scenery and the stunning views of the surrounding plains.

Besides its majestic mountain, the national park boasts a diverse array of animal species. Families can catch glimpses of elusive leopards, playful colobus monkeys, as well as antelopes, gazelles, lions, rhinos, and elephants. 

Bird enthusiasts will be captivated by the dazzling spectacle of migratory birds, their vibrant colors brightening the park. Non-migratory species, including soaring eagles and graceful flamingos, grace the skies around Kilimanjaro, creating a spectacle that is truly unique.

The park is also home to a variety of activities and attractions. While some trails are designed for more experienced hikers, others are tailored to casual walkers or wheelchair access. Families can explore an array of caves, visit traditional villages, enjoy cultural tours, or just relax in one of the many lodges located within the park.

Tanzania is home to 22 national parks. Each park offers visitors a chance to experience the country’s unique wildlife, landscapes, and culture. The most famous of all the parks is Kilimanjaro National Park – famed for its iconic mountain peak – while others such as Serengeti National Park are renowned for their vast savannah plains and provide one of the best opportunities for game viewing. 

The beauty of Tanzania’s parks is hard to measure. Each park has something unique to offer and is worth exploring. However, many visitors cite Serengeti National Park as the most beautiful. It is renowned for its breathtaking views, abundant wildlife, and wide-open plains.

Visitors can also explore Tarangire National Park for its acacia-filled savannah and incredible bird watching. Another popular destination is Selous Game Reserve, which is home to the world’s largest population of African elephants. Ultimately, visitors should explore each park for themselves to determine what makes it most beautiful. 

The largest national park in Tanzania is Nyerere National Park, previously called Selous Game Reserve. Spanning over 55,000 square kilometers (21,000 sq mi), it is the largest protected wildlife area in Africa and one of the largest unfenced reserves in the world.

The park is known for its abundant African wildlife, including lions, cheetahs, hippos, crocodiles, antelope, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and more. Nyerere National Park offers a unique experience for visitors, where they can immerse themselves in the untouched African bush. 

The least visited national park in Tanzania is Ruaha National Park. Located in south-central Tanzania, Ruaha is a relatively remote and untouched park that offers visitors an opportunity to explore the vast wilderness of East Africa.

The best time to travel to Tanzania is during the dry season, which typically runs from late June through October. During this period, temperatures are mild and the chances of rain are low, making it perfect for safaris and exploring the country’s national parks.

The warmest months are December through February, but these can also be very wet and humid. April and May are also good months to visit, since temperatures are more moderate. 

The best time of year to go on safari in Tanzania is during the dry season, which typically runs from late June through October. This period offers the best combination of ideal weather conditions and prime game viewing opportunities. Days are hot but not too humid, while evenings can be cool.

Wildlife sightings are more frequent during this period due to less vegetation cover and the animals coming to the waterholes more often. Additionally, the dry season coincides with calving season for antelope, which makes it a great time to view baby wildebeests and zebras! 

Tanzania is a very popular and sought-after destination for tourists due to its rich history, diverse culture, stunning landscapes, and unparalleled wildlife. It is home to 22 national parks and numerous game reserves that are filled with an amazing array of animals such as lions, elephants, zebras, giraffes, buffalos, cheetahs,  and more.

The country also boasts some of the world’s highest mountain peaks, including Mount Kilimanjaro – Africa’s tallest peak. Additionally, Tanzania is renowned for its welcoming people and vibrant cultures. From traditional Swahili villages to bustling cities like Dar es Salaam, there is something here for everyone! 

It really depends on what you want to do and see! If you’re just looking for a quick getaway, then three to five days will give you enough time to explore the country’s main attractions. However, if you’d like to go on safari, or dive deep into its history and culture, then seven days or longer is recommended. There’s so much to discover and experience in Tanzania, you won’t want your time there to end! 

Last Thoughts

As you plan your family’s visit to Tanzania, recognize the far-reaching impact of these national parks. By supporting responsible tourism and experiencing the parks firsthand, you create cherished memories and contribute to safeguarding these invaluable ecosystems for generations to come. Make sure you have a joyous and memorable family travel experience in Tanzania!

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How great is Lion Country Safari? Zoo made this USA top 10 list for the seventh time!

The results are in and once again Palm Beach County's Lion Country Safari has been named one of the top 10 Safari Parks in the country.

Taking seventh place on the list (which was released March 13), this is the seventh year in a row that the park has been named to the USA Today's "10Best" Readers' Choice list.

Opened in 1967 and situated on 600 acres, Lion Country Safari is Florida's largest drive-through safari and is home to hundreds of animals roaming wide open, natural habitats in large herds, prides and troops.

The four-mile-long, drive-through safari is divided into seven different habitats.

More: Say hello to Kandoro and Kianga! Lion Country Safari welcomes first baby giraffes in 5 years

What animals are in Lion Country Safari?

Those areas include Las Pampas, Ruaha National Park, Kalahari Bushveldt, Gir Forest, Gorongosa Reserve, Serengeti Plains and Hwange National Park.

Some of the animals that guests see during their trek through the seven zones include aldabra tortoises, alpacas, Brazilian tapirs, greater kudus, impalas, ostriches, gemsbok, wildebeest, Asiatic water buffaloes, blackbucks, African lions, common elands, impalas, giraffes, zebras, southern white rhinoceros and many more.

The park features the largest herd of zebra on record in the western hemisphere, one of the largest herds of giraffe in the United States and a large herd of rhinos with a long history of breeding success.

More: A banner year for wild-animal babies: Lion Country Safari says 31 births show its formula is working

Lion Country Safari not just a drive-thru zoo — best things to do on foot at this Palm Beach County park

Though the drive-through safari is the star of the park, there are many other fun things to do. Some of these include:

Kids can hop on some rides: Who could resist a Flying Elephant Ride? Also check out the Carousel and the Rio Grande Train.

On a hot day, get wet: A waterpark with fun features for cooling off including the Safari Splash Sprayground, Safari Water Slides and Safari Falls.

Feed the giraffe : At the Giraffe Feeding encounter, guests can stand on a platform (the better to get on giraffe level) to hand feed these majestic animals and maybe even get some great pictures.

Feed the birds: Check out the Lorikeet Feeding where participants can give these beautiful, charismatic birds a couple treats.

Get on a boat: A trip on the Safari Queen Pontoon Boat tour on Lake Shannalee and closer view of some of the park's birds and primates.

Get lost? : The park has a Safari Maze.

Play a round: This safari park has a 16-hole miniature golf course.

The nation's other top safari parks:

Taking seventh place on the list, the park was bested by The Wilds in Cumberland, Ohio; Safari West in Santa Rosa, Calif.; San Diego Zoo Safari Park in Escondido, Calif.; Fossil Rim Wildlife Center in Glen Rose, Texas; Turpentine Creek Wildlife Center in Eureka Springs, Ark.; and, coming in at number one, Lee G. Simmons Wildlife Safari Park, in Ashland, Neb.

Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums, Lion Country Safari continuously strives to be a leader in animal care, conservation, and education to inspire people through connections with wildlife in a family-friendly environment.

Lion Country Safari

Where: 2003 Lion Country Safari Road, Loxahatchee

Hours: 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. 365 days a year

Information: lioncountrysafari.com

Eddie Ritz is a journalist at  The Palm Beach Post , part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach him at  [email protected] . Help support our journalism.  Subscribe today .