Ruaha National Park lies in central-southern Tanzania where the ecosystems of East and Southern Africa meet, so you can see species such as sable and roan antelope alongside greater and lesser kudu. The Great Ruaha River is the focus of dry-season game viewing.
Ruaha is known for large lion prides, good leopard and cheetah sightings and some of Tanzania’s biggest elephant populations. Very few visitors make it here, making it ideal for seasoned safari-goers and photographers.
Highlights
- Large lion prides
- Greater and lesser kudu
- Great Ruaha River
- Remote walking safaris
Wildlife & what you'll see
- Lion, leopard and cheetah
- African wild dog
- Elephant
- Sable and roan antelope
Things to do
- Game drives
- Walking safaris
- Night drives (some camps)
Best time to visit
June to October for peak dry-season game viewing.
Getting there
Scheduled light-aircraft flights to Msembe or Jongomero airstrips.
Experiences in Ruaha
FAQs about Ruaha
Can I combine Ruaha with Nyerere?
Yes, the two parks are linked by a short scheduled flight and make a superb southern safari.



