Ruaha National Park

A Wild, Untamed Wilderness and Tanzania’s Largest National Park

Ruaha National Park is a spectacular and truly wild safari destination located in central Tanzania. As the country’s largest national park, Ruaha covers over 20,000 square kilometers of untouched wilderness, making it one of Africa’s last great wildlife frontiers. Its dramatic landscapes feature vast savannahs, sweeping hills, rocky escarpments, and the life-giving Great Ruaha River, which attracts an impressive concentration of animals during the dry season. This remote and expansive ecosystem offers an authentically wild safari experience found nowhere else in Tanzania.

The park is especially famous for its large populations of elephants, buffalo, lions, cheetahs, leopards, and endangered African wild dogs. Ruaha holds one of the largest lion populations in Africa, making it a top destination for predator viewing. The mix of East African and Southern African wildlife species creates a uniquely diverse ecosystem, where you can spot both greater and lesser kudu, sable antelope, roan antelope, and rare bird species that thrive only in the Miombo woodlands.

What sets Ruaha National Park apart is its remoteness and low visitor numbers. Safaris here are peaceful, intimate, and immersive, giving travelers the feeling of exploring a vast wilderness untouched by time. Whether you’re a first-time safari guest or a seasoned wildlife enthusiast seeking exclusivity and adventure, Ruaha offers a raw, powerful, and unforgettable safari experience deep in the heart of Tanzania.

Ruaha National Park Highlights

  • Tanzania’s Largest National Park with over 20,000 km² of wilderness.
  • One of Africa’s Highest Lion Concentrations, offering world-class predator sightings.
  • Exceptional Elephant and Buffalo Populations gathering in dramatic numbers.
  • Rare and Unique Antelope Species including sable, roan, kudu, and more.
  • Superb Birdwatching with over 570 species, mixing East and Southern African birds.
  • Remote, Quiet, and Untouched — perfect for exclusive and crowd-free safaris.

Explore Favorite Ruaha Itineraries

Ruaha National Park fits seamlessly into southern Tanzania safari circuits or can be combined with northern parks for a complete countrywide adventure. Many travelers pair Ruaha with Selous/Nyerere National Park, Mikumi, or Udzungwa Mountains for a diverse safari experience. Whether you want a short wildlife-focused itinerary or a multi-park exploration, Ruaha offers incredible flexibility and unmatched wilderness appeal.

What Else Should I Add To My Ruaha National Park Itinerary?