• 255785468021
ruaha national park
ruaha national park

RUAHA NATIONAL PARK

History and Geography

Ruaha National Park was established in 1964 and covers an area of about 20,000 square kilometers. The park is located in southern Tanzania, bordering the Great Rift Valley to the east and the Rungwa River to the west. The park is named for the Ruaha River, which flows through the park and is the lifeblood of the ecosystem.

The park is divided into two different areas, the East Zone and the West Zone, each with its own unique landscape and ecosystem.

Introduction

Tanzania is a country known for its stunning national parks and game reserves. Ruaha National Park is one of the lesser known but equally impressive parks. Located in the heart of Tanzania, the park is an oasis of wilderness, home to a variety of wildlife and stunning natural landscapes.

History of Ruaha National Park

Ruaha National Park was established in 1964 and covers an area of approximately 22,000 square kilometers. Originally, it was part of the Rungwa Wildlife Sanctuary until it was declared a national park. The park takes its name from the Great Ruaha River, which flows through the park and is an important source of water for the park’s wildlife.

Geography and Wildlife

Ruaha National Park is a unique combination of rugged terrain, rolling hills, and vast plains. The park is located between two biomes, the Eastern Arc Mountains and the Southern African Savannah, making it a biodiversity hotspot. The park is home to more than 570 species of birds, more than 80 species of animals, and more than 1,000 species of plants.

Wildlife

The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, wild dogs, and hyenas. Ruaha is also one of the best places in Tanzania to see the endangered African wild dog, with a population of about 100 in the area. Additionally, the park is home to several species of antelope, including the rare and elusive kudu.

Birdlife

Ruaha National Park is a bird watcher’s paradise, with more than 570 species of birds recorded in the park. The park is home to a wide variety of birds, including species such as African ospreys, bald eagles, southern hornbills, and red-billed hornbills.

Activities in Ruaha National Park

Ruaha National Park offers visitors a range of activities, including game drives, hiking, and bird watching. Visitors can also take guided tours of the park’s historic sites, such as the Great Ruaha River and the park’s rock art sites.

Game Drives

Game drives are the most popular activity in Ruaha National Park. Visitors can take a guided tour of the park’s rugged terrain and observe wildlife, including carnivores and herbivores.

Walking Safaris

Walking Adventures offer visitors the unique opportunity to explore the park’s wilderness on foot with an expert guide. Walking expeditions are a great way to learn about the park’s smaller creatures, such as insects, reptiles, and birds.

Birdwatching

Ruaha National Park is a bird watcher’s paradise, with more than 570 species of birds recorded in the park. Visitors can take a guided tour of various birding hotspots in the park, such as the Ruaha and Mwaguxisha rivers.

Accommodation

Ruaha National Park offers visitors a variety of accommodation options, from luxury cabins to simple campsites. Some of the park’s lodges are located along the Great Ruaha River and offer stunning views of the river and the park’s wildlife.

Conclusion

Ruaha National Park is a hidden gem in Tanzania’s national park system, offering visitors a unique and authentic African wilderness experience. With its diverse wildlife, stunning natural scenery, and array of activities to do, Ruaha is a must for any nature lover.

  1. How do I get to Ruaha National Park?
    • The park can be accessed via road or air, with daily flights from Dar es Salaam and other major Tanzanian cities.
  2. When is the best time to visit Ruaha National Park?

Other Tanzania Destinations

ruaha national park
Arusha National Park
Nestled in the north of Tanzania, Arusha...
ruaha national park
Maasai mara to tanzania migration
The Masai Mara is one of Africa’s most f...
ruaha national park
Mikumi National Park
Are you planning your next vacation? If ...
ruaha national park
MOUNT KILIMANJARO
Mount Kilimanjaro is located in Tanzania...
ruaha national park
MOUNT KILIMANJARO NATIONAL PARK
Kilimanjaro National Park: The Natural W...
ruaha national park
RUAHA NATIONAL PARK
History and GeographyRuaha National Park...