Experiences in Ruaha | Timbuktu Travel

What to do in Ruaha

Ruaha’s dramatic terrain is famous for predators and home to good numbers of lion, leopard and wild dog. Large herds of elephant and buffalo are common and there are plenty of antelope around too. The best way to see them all is on a game drive, and 4x4 safaris depart in the early morning and afternoon. You’ll cover vast swathes of land to find the best sightings – and there are few other vehicles to disturb you. In some places, night drives can be done and offer a thrilling chance to spot nocturnal predators and night-time escapades. Ruaha is one of the best destinations in Tanzania for a walking safari. Guides here are exceptionally well-trained and will lead you on gentle strolls to sniff out smaller flora and fauna, and longer, big-game expeditions. Walking safaris take place in the cooler morning temperatures, although afternoon walks may be possible. And if you’ve got any time left, hot air balloon safaris can be found at a select few lodges – just be prepared for the early morning wake-up!

Track the wild dogs in Ruaha

African wild dog are a favourite amongst many safari enthusiasts across the globe. This highly endangered and rarely-seen carnivore can be difficult to find at the best of times. June is characterised by hot, still days, low humidity, low rainfall and more importantly; the perfect opportunity to encounter these animals. Head to the Ruaha National Park of Tanzania for the African wild dog denning season and dramatically increase your chances of meeting this charismatic animal.

Track Ruaha's wildlife on a game drive

With all the crowds hanging around the Masai Mara and Serengeti, it might be an idea to look for somewhere that's a little less known on the safari circuit, but also has an incredible wildlife on offer. Look no further than Ruaha in Tanzania in October, when the dry season ends and the wildlife in concentrated around the rivers, making excellent sightings practically to yourself. It can be hot and dry, so prepare yourself.

Track wildlife on a guided walking safari in Ruaha

Ruaha in southern Tanzania is “a big place where big things happen”. As such it attracts some of Africa’s best guides. Only recently Ruaha has become known as the place where lions routinely take down elephants as prey (although you'd rather not witness). One of the least known of Africa’s big game parks, Ruaha retains a sense of the road less travelled and the difference which it makes. In fact, most of the park has no roads so it is the trail less taken. The landscape and vegetation are diverse and through it all runs the Great Ruaha River.

See ancient baobab trees in Ruaha National Park

Ruaha’s dramatic landscape is dominated by hills thick with towering baobab trees, some of them hundreds of years old. The call it the “upside tree” as it wiry top reaches for the sky looking much like its roots. Baobab’s produce a delicious fruit who’s spongy seeds are rich with vitamins that boast an array of health benefits. The powder extracted from these seeds is expensive over the counter, but free in Ruaha. It’s also excellent for munching on during long bush walks if you need an energy boost!

Ruaha

What to do in Ruaha

Track the wild dogs in Ruaha

Track Ruaha's wildlife on a game drive

Track wildlife on a guided walking safari in Ruaha

See ancient baobab trees in Ruaha National Park

More experiences

See wildlife on a night game drive in Ruaha

Still not sure what to do?