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The best kept secret of Tanzania: Ruaha National Park

Ruaha National Park is often described as the “huge hidden secret park” due to its wild and unspoiled nature that continues to captivate safari enthusiasts.

Situated in a transition zone where the flora and fauna of southern, eastern, and western Africa intersect, the park boasts an extraordinary diversity of animals and plants.

According to the Ruaha Carnivore Project (2009), the park is home to 10% of Africa’s lion population. It also supports a significant number of wild dogs, leopards, and cheetahs, and is a sanctuary for approximately 15,000 elephants, making it one of East Africa’s key elephant strongholds.

With over 570 bird species identified, Ruaha is teeming with wildlife yet remains blissfully free from large tourist crowds.

There are daily scheduled flights to Ruaha operated by various airlines. Most flights depart in the morning and return early in the afternoon.

The journey from Dar es Salaam to Ruaha can take anywhere from 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes, depending on the number of stops along the way.

Game driving is the most popular activity for spotting wild animals in Ruaha National Park, while walking offers a unique way to explore the bush.

Depending on the accommodation and time of year, visitors can also enjoy night safaris, bird watching, balloon safaris, and village visits.

Additionally, the park is renowned for its top-level guiding and boasts some of the best guides in the country.

Ruaha National Park is home to more than 570 species of birds. Ostriches, ashy starlings, black-masked and yellow-collared lovebirds, and the Ruaha hornbills (Tanzanian red-billed hornbill) are all resident in the area.
November to April is the best time for birding activities as seasonal migrants like the sooty and Eleonora’s falcons move through the area.

Ruaha National Park provides an interesting variety of accommodations, ranging from basic to luxury tented camps.

Each option boasts its unique advantages, whether it’s a prime location, stunning views, family-friendly amenities, or features ideal for photographers.
Many of these camps are owner-run, adding a personal touch to your stay.

Below are some of them:

• Tandala Tented Camp
• Mdonya Old River Camp
• Mwagusi Safari Camp
• Ikuka Safari Camp
• Kigelia
• Kichaka Zumbua
• Jongomero and its Manor

Willing to discover Ruaha National Park? Feel free to contact us!