Ruaha National Park, Tanzania

Rugged, rough, and wildly romantic, Ruaha National Park is unparalleled in terms of unbridled wildness and austere beauty.  This park is still accessible, however, and perfect for those adventurous safari-goers who long for a taste of the real African wild.

The life-blood of Ruaha National Park is the Great Ruaha River on the eastern boundary, swelling and flooding during the wet season, and shrivelling to scarce pools during the dry.  Aside from the resident crocodile, hippo, turtle and fish, myriad creatures rely on the Great Ruaha and its snaking, seasonal tributaries – from the 10,000 elephants that roam the plains over huge distances, to the clans of hyena, wild dog packs, 20-strong lion prides, as well as gazelle, giraffe, zebra, greater kudu and even leopard.  Ruaha is also a great place to spot the rare and impressive sable and roan antelopes.  

There is also a huge array of bird species to be found here, such as fish eagle, superb starling, yellow barbet, various lovebird and more than 400 others.

There is more than just one way to enjoy this fabulous place.  Aside from the usual game drives, there are photographic blinds dotted around the park, in strategic locations to spot animal congregations.  Boating safaris are also gaining popularity – surely the best way to take in swooping, calling fish eagle and lazy, grunting hippos?

Photos of Ruaha National Park