Ruaha National Park
“Explore the Wondering Nature”
Ruaha National Park 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.
Climate
Ruaha National Park enjoys only one rainy season, usually from the end of November to May with annual average rainfall ranging from 500 to 800mm. The park is located at an altitude between 750 and 1868 meters.
Getting there
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
Park Attractions
Not only does Ruaha enjoy abundant wildlife, but the magnificent and constantly changing landscapes add a magical touch to the whole experience. Baobabs dot the rocky hillsides, the cool green shade along the River, the open grassy plains, all make a wonderful and exciting trip
Wild Animals
This is the place where visitors can see both Lesser and Greater Kudu because it is the southernmost limit for Lesser Kudu in the African continent.
It is also possible to see, Sable and Roan antelope, Lichtenstein’s Hartebeest, Topi, and both Southern and Bohor reedbuck, and also 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
Birds
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.
Baobab ”Upside down tree”
The park has baobab trees scattered all over the park. During dry season the baobab trees shed leaves, leaving only bare branches that resemble roots. Therefore people nick named it “roots up tree”
The Great Ruaha River
”The life of Ruaha” and one of the main attractions for many tourists
Cultural and Historical sites
The Mkwawa Museum, Isimila Stone age site and natural pillar. Also Mapenza grave, Nyanywa, Ganga la Mafunyo and Idinda rock painting will add unforgettable story tales on your visit
Tourism activities
Various activities are available in the park. These include day and night game drive, walking safari, cultural tourism. There is bush meal, bird watching, star gazing, balloon safari, and also picnicking
