Ruaha National Park
Welcome to Ruaha National Park
One of the country’s most outstanding wilderness area.
It is the second largest National Park, covering an area of 20,226 sq.km located in south-central Tanzania. During the dry season, when game viewing is at its best, animals are drawn to the Great Ruaha River and other water sources. The name Ruaha was derived from the hehe word called ”Luhava” meaning the great river.
Mahale is most famous for its chimpanzees, which number close to a thousand. One group, in particular, is highly habituated to humans after being studied since the 1960s by Japanese researchers.
Walking safaris to see these fascinating animals and observe them in their natural habitat is a magical experience. These interactions are strictly regulated, to protect both the environment and the chimpanzees but it is almost unheard of for people to visit Mahale and not see them.
Climate
Ruaha National Park enjoys only one rainy season, usually from the end of November to May with annual average rainfall ranging from 500 to 800mm. The park is located at an altitude between 750 and 1868 meters.
Getting there
The park is accessible by road and air.
Road. From Iringa town it is 108km to the main gate (Y-Junction), 625Km from Dar es Salaam and 480Km from Mbeya City.
Air. Daily flights from Dar es Salaam and Arusha is the easiest way to Ruaha. Airstrips are located at Msembe and Jongomero. Coastal Aviation, Auric Air and Safari Link all have scheduled flights to Ruaha.
Attractions
Not only does Ruaha enjoy abundant wildlife, but the magnificent and constantly changing landscapes add a magical touch to the whole experience. Baobabs dot the rocky hillsides, the cool green shade along the River, the open grassy plains, all make a wonderful and exciting trip.
