Overview
Ruaha National Park is the largest national park in Tanzania and one of the most untouched wildlife destinations in East Africa. It is located in the southern part of the country near Iringa town and forms an important part of Tanzania’s famous Southern Safari Circuit.
This short but rewarding safari gives travelers the opportunity to experience the raw wilderness of Ruaha in just two days. The park is known for its huge population of elephants, large prides of lions, rare African wild dogs, leopards, and more than 500 bird species.
Visitors enjoy scenic landscapes that include the Great Ruaha River, baobab trees, rocky hills, and open savannah plains that attract many animals throughout the year.
This safari is perfect for travelers who have limited time but still want to experience authentic African wildlife, photographers looking for unique landscapes, and nature lovers who prefer less crowded parks compared to the northern circuit.
This short but rewarding safari gives travelers the opportunity to experience the raw wilderness of Ruaha in just two days. The park is known for its huge population of elephants, large prides of lions, rare African wild dogs, leopards, and more than 500 bird species.
Visitors enjoy scenic landscapes that include the Great Ruaha River, baobab trees, rocky hills, and open savannah plains that attract many animals throughout the year.
This safari is perfect for travelers who have limited time but still want to experience authentic African wildlife, photographers looking for unique landscapes, and nature lovers who prefer less crowded parks compared to the northern circuit.
Low season (April 1st – May 19th)
Mid season (May 20th – June 30th)
(October 1st – December 19th)
(January 11th – March 31st)
High season (July 1st – September 30th)
(December 20th – January 10th)
Highlights
Trip highlights
- Explore Tanzania’s largest national park
- Scenic landscapes with ancient baobab trees
- Large elephant and lion populations
- Great Ruaha River wildlife viewing
- Authentic Southern Tanzania safari experience
Inclusions
What's included
- Park entrance fees
- Professional safari guide
- 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
- Accommodation
- All meals during safari
- Game drives
- Drinking water during safari
Days 1
Transfer to Ruaha National Park and Afternoon Game Drive
Ruaha River Lodge was the only safari camp in the national park for two decades, before Tanzania opened to international tourism. As a pioneer of its time this allowed for its prime position along the river and far from any other safari lodges.
Tandala Tented Camp offer luxurious tented accommodation, fine cuisine and a great safari experience. Trained game scouts and trackers are here to share their knowledge and experience of the bush with you. We look forward to making your dreams come true.
Asanja Ndembo Ruaha is a luxurious retreat located off the banks of the majestic Ruaha River in Tanzania. Enjoy unparalleled luxury and breathtaking views in the wilderness heart of Tanzania,
Accommodations:
Your safari begins with an early morning departure from Iringa town followed by a scenic drive to Ruaha National Park. The journey takes approximately 2–3 hours through beautiful countryside landscapes and small villages.
Upon arrival at the park gate, registration is completed before continuing with the first exciting game drive. Ruaha is famous for its large elephant herds, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and predators such as lions and leopards.
During the afternoon game drive, you explore the vast savannah plains and the banks of the Great Ruaha River, where animals often gather to drink water. The river is also home to hippos and crocodiles.
Lunch is served at a picnic site inside the park while enjoying views of the wilderness.
Later in the evening, you proceed to your lodge or tented camp for dinner and overnight stay surrounded by nature.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge or Tented Camp inside or near Ruaha National Park
Upon arrival at the park gate, registration is completed before continuing with the first exciting game drive. Ruaha is famous for its large elephant herds, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and predators such as lions and leopards.
During the afternoon game drive, you explore the vast savannah plains and the banks of the Great Ruaha River, where animals often gather to drink water. The river is also home to hippos and crocodiles.
Lunch is served at a picnic site inside the park while enjoying views of the wilderness.
Later in the evening, you proceed to your lodge or tented camp for dinner and overnight stay surrounded by nature.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Lodge or Tented Camp inside or near Ruaha National Park
Accommodations:
Ruaha River Lodge was the only safari camp in the national park for two decades, before Tanzania opened to international tourism. As a pioneer of its time this allowed for its prime position along the river and far from any other safari lodges.
Tandala Tented Camp offer luxurious tented accommodation, fine cuisine and a great safari experience. Trained game scouts and trackers are here to share their knowledge and experience of the bush with you. We look forward to making your dreams come true.
Asanja Ndembo Ruaha is a luxurious retreat located off the banks of the majestic Ruaha River in Tanzania. Enjoy unparalleled luxury and breathtaking views in the wilderness heart of Tanzania,
Day 2
Morning Game Drive and Return to Iringa
The day starts early with a sunrise game drive when wildlife activity is at its peak. Predators such as lions and leopards are often spotted during these early hours as they return from hunting.
You will explore different sections of the park, passing through baobab forests, open plains, and riverine habitats that attract a variety of animals.
After several hours of wildlife viewing, you return to the lodge for breakfast.
Later in the morning, you begin the journey back to Iringa town, marking the end of your memorable Ruaha safari.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
You will explore different sections of the park, passing through baobab forests, open plains, and riverine habitats that attract a variety of animals.
After several hours of wildlife viewing, you return to the lodge for breakfast.
Later in the morning, you begin the journey back to Iringa town, marking the end of your memorable Ruaha safari.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
FAQs
What our Clients Says
What is the best time to visit Ruaha National Park?
The best wildlife viewing is during the dry season from June to October.
Is Ruaha crowded like Serengeti?
No. Ruaha is one of Tanzania’s least crowded parks, making it perfect for peaceful wildlife experiences.
What animals can be seen in Ruaha?
Visitors often see elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, buffalo, wild dogs, and many bird species.
Is this safari suitable for beginners?
Yes, it is suitable for all travelers including first-time safari visitors.
What should I bring for the safari?
Bring light clothing, sunscreen, hat, binoculars, camera, and comfortable walking shoes.
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