Ruaha National Park

Size

• Covers approximately 20,226 square kilometers

Origin of the Name

• Named after the Great Ruaha River
• The word Ruaha comes from a Hehe word meaning “river”

Landscape and Vegetation

Ruaha has diverse and dramatic scenery, including:

1. Savanna Grasslands
2. Miombo Woodlands
3. Rocky Hills and Escarpments
4. River Valleys and Gorges

The Great Ruaha River is the park’s lifeline, especially during
the dry season.

Wildlife

Mammals

• One of the largest elephant populations in East Africa
• Lions
• Leopards
• Cheetahs
• African wild dogs
• Buffaloes
• Giraffes
• Zebras
• Antelopes (greater kudu, sable, roan)

Birds

• Over 570 bird species, including:
  • Fish eagles
  • Kingfishers
  • Hornbills
  • Ostriches

Climate

• Dry season: May–October (best for wildlife viewing)
• Wet season: November–April

Conservation and History

• Established as a national park in 1964
• Expanded in 2008, making it Tanzania’s largest park
• Protected to conserve river ecosystems and wildlife

Tourism Activities

Visitors can enjoy:

• Game drives
• Walking safaris (with armed guides)
• Bird watching
• Wildlife photography

Importance

Ruaha National Park is important because it:

• Protects the Great Ruaha River system
• Conserves rare and endangered species
• Maintains ecological balance
• Represents true wilderness safari experiences

Fun Facts

• Largest national park in Tanzania
• Known for large lion prides
• Less crowded than northern parks