RUAHA NATIONAL PARK

Ruaha National Park is a Tanzania’s second largest National Park. This makes it about the size of New Jersey in the United States, or of the whole country of Wales in the UK! In fact, Ruaha is part of a much larger ecosystem Nature reigns supreme across this enormous area.

The Park also contain Rivers, mountains, plains, rock kopjes, swamps, dense woodlands, open savannas spread out across an immense landscape that has barely been touched by man. Wooded hillsides, many with rounded granite outcrops and scatterings of huge baobabs, are dissected by sandy, rock-strewn seasonal rivers and streams running down to meet flood plains and seasonal swamps, many of which end up in the Great Ruaha River.

Seasonal rivers are lined by scattered groves of palms, thorn trees, fig trees and sausage trees providing midday shade for all sorts of wild animals. They are key features to enjoy during game drives, especially during the dry season when only pools remain or the elephants have to dig in the sand

Wildlife is especially varied because of the overlap of eastern and southern African wildlife zones, so besides regular big game such as elephant, buffalo, and plains animals, the more unusual species such as the antelope species which are sable, roan, greater and lesser kudu are quite common. Cape hunting dog are also often encountered. Ruaha is also a great place for the big cats including lion, leopard and cheetah.

Birdlife is also understandably rich. In fact, outstandingly so with over 550 species having been recorded, and an enormous variety of birds of prey.

Perhaps the most abiding joy of Ruaha is the wild character of the land within which so many animals roam. It is a land of starry nights, cool mornings and baking mid-day heat. A land of monumental storms in the rainy season, and desiccating winds in the dry. This is an Africa that sets it mark on you and from which it is tough to turn away; and one that you never forget.

Activities

• Game Drive,
• Walking safari
• Night game driving