Ruaha National Park is one of Tanzania’s largest and most diverse national parks, located in the central part of the country. Here’s some key information:

General Overview:

• Size: Approximately 20,226 square kilometers (7,809 square miles), making it Tanzania’s second-largest national park.
• Location: Situated in the central-southern region of Tanzania, it’s about 130 kilometers (80 miles) west of Iringa and 600 kilometers (373 miles) from Dar es Salaam.
• Established: 1910, originally as a game reserve, and later upgraded to national park status in 1964.

Wildlife:

• Diverse Flora and Fauna: The park is home to a wide range of animals, including elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, and various antelope species. It’s also a haven for birdwatchers with over 570 species of birds recorded.
• Rare Species: Known for its large population of wild dogs and the rare sable antelope.
• Rivers: The Ruaha River, the main watercourse in the park, attracts a significant number of animals, especially during the dry season, when water is scarce elsewhere.

Landscape:

• Terrain: Ruaha is a combination of savanna, woodlands, and riverine forests. The terrain is varied, with rolling hills, rocky outcrops, and vast open plains.
• Rivers and Waterholes: Apart from the Ruaha River, there are several seasonal rivers and waterholes, which play a crucial role in supporting wildlife.

Activities:

• Game Drives: The park offers excellent opportunities for game drives. It’s known for fewer tourists compared to other parks like Serengeti or Ngorongoro, which provides a more intimate wildlife experience.
• Walking Safaris: Ruaha is one of the few parks in Tanzania where walking safaris are permitted, allowing visitors to explore the landscape up close.
• Bird Watching: With its rich birdlife, it’s a popular destination for bird watchers.

Accessibility:

• By Road: From Iringa, you can reach the park by road (around 2 hours). The roads can be quite challenging, especially during the rainy season.
• By Air: The park is accessible by air through the Ruaha Airstrip, which receives flights from Dar es Salaam, Arusha, or Selous Game Reserve.

Best Time to Visit:

• Dry Season (June to October): This is the best time to visit for wildlife viewing, as animals congregate around water sources.
• Wet Season (November to May): This period brings lush greenery and a more tranquil atmosphere, although some roads may become impassable due to rains.

Ruaha National Park is ideal for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path safari experience in Tanzania. Its remote and less crowded nature makes it a peaceful and rewarding destination for wildlife enthusiasts.