Ruaha sits in a transition zone between East and Southern African ecosystems, which is why it holds species from both — it is one of the only places to see greater and lesser kudu in the same park, alongside sable and roan antelope. Game viewing centres on the Great Ruaha River, where dry-season concentrations of elephant, buffalo and antelope draw large lion prides and one of Tanzania's better wild-dog populations. Over 570 bird species have been recorded.
It is reached by scheduled flight from Dar es Salaam, Iringa or the Serengeti, and sees only a few tens of thousands of visitors a year, so game drives are often solitary. Best from June to October, when the wildlife concentrates on the river.
Scheduled flight to the Msembe airstrip. Transfer to camp and an afternoon game drive along the Great Ruaha River.
A full day of game viewing, with a picnic lunch, following the river and its sand rivers — the best areas for big cats, elephant herds and wild dog.
Morning and afternoon game drives, with the option of a guided bush walk. Sundowners on a rocky outcrop over the river.
A short morning drive, then the flight back to Dar es Salaam, Iringa or on to the Serengeti.