One Day Safari At Ruaha National Park

Experience a one day safari at Ruaha National Park, an attraction that offers a tranquil alternative among southern Tanzania’s wildlife parks, starting from the town of Iringa. Known as a vital agricultural hub, Iringa serves as the main access point for visitors destined for Ruaha National Park and other parks in the Southern Circuit. The park is located approximately 130 kilometers from Iringa, which translates to about a two-hour drive. By road, Dar es Salaam lies 625 kilometers (388 miles) east of Ruaha. This stunning park is situated in south-central Tanzania, bordered to the east by the Selous Game Reserve and Mikumi.

Day Safari in Ruaha National Park

Ruaha National Park encompasses a vast  ecosystem that includes the Rungwa Game Reserve, Usangu Game Reserve, and other protected areas, making it the largest national park in Tanzania as well as the entire East Africa region. Spanning about 20,226 square kilometers, the park derives its name from the Great Ruaha River that winds through its southeastern section.

Wildlife viewing in Ruaha is concentrated around its well-established watercourses, fostering healthy populations of animals, birds, and vegetation. Set off on a 4×4 game drive to encounter elephants, which represent the most significant concentration of their species in East Africa. Commonly seen wildlife includes lions, African wild dogs, buffalo, and leopards. Ruaha is notably one of the few parks where both greater and lesser kudu can be spotted, along with bat-eared foxes, jackals, waterbuck, and the rare sable and roan antelopes.

Additionally, Ruaha serves as habitat for cheetahs, wildebeest, hyenas, zebras, impalas, giraffes, crocodiles, hippos, various snakes (both venomous and non-venomous), monitor lizards, agama lizards, and frogs. The park is home to over 1,650 plant species.

A true avian paradise, Ruaha boasts more than 570 species of birds, including migratory species arriving from different regions of Africa. Notable residents include the crested barbet—whose familiar call fills the southern bush—and central Tanzanian endemics like the Yellow-collared lovebird and ashy starling. The migratory birds can be observed from November through April.

On this private one-day safari, you will enjoy the largely undisturbed scenery, as encountering other tourist groups will be infrequent. You’ll explore Ruaha’s diverse habitats, which feature Miombo woodlands, expansive savannahs, marshlands, semi-arid bush, and riverine forests.

1. Entrance Fees

• Park Entrance Fee: Visitors are required to pay an entrance fee to access Ruaha National Park. Ensure you have the correct amount in cash (Tanzanian Shillings or US Dollars) or check if card payments are accepted. But if you have booked a safari to Ruaha national park you should not worry about this since the fees will be included on the package.

2. Permits and Documentation

• Booking Confirmation: If you travel along dont forget to keep a copy of your safari booking confirmation handy; it may be requested upon entry. But if you are traveling with us our driver guide will keep all the booking reservation for you.
• ID or Passport: A valid identification document is generally required at the park entrance.

3. Transportation

• Safari Vehicle: At Wilds of Africa we will arrange for a safari vehicle suitable for the terrain.
• Fuel: If you are doing self drive make sure that you have sufficient fuel for the day, as options may be limited within or near the park.

4. Guide or Driver

• Experienced Guide: Wilds of Africa will arrange for you a knowledgeable local guide for the best wildlife spotting chances and insights into the park’s ecosystem.

5. What to Wear

• Appropriate Clothing: Dress in neutral, earth-tone colors to blend in with the surroundings. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are ideal.
• Comfortable Shoes: Wear sturdy footwear or hiking boots to navigate different terrains comfortably.
• Sun Protection: A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses are recommended for sun protection, along with layered clothing that you can adjust throughout the day.

6. Essentials to Pack

• Water and Snacks: Bring plenty of bottled water to stay hydrated, as well as energy-boosting snacks like granola bars or dried fruits.
• Camera and Binoculars: Capture the stunning wildlife and landscapes with a camera, and binoculars can help spot distant animals.
• Field Guide: Having a field guide can enhance your understanding of the wildlife and plant species you might encounter.

7. Health Precautions

• Vaccinations and Medications: Confirm any necessary vaccinations (such as Yellow Fever) and carry any prescribed medications, including antimalarials.
• First Aid Kit: A small personal first aid kit for blisters, cuts, or any common ailments can be useful during your safari.

8. Safety Guidelines

• Stay in the Vehicle: Many animals react strongly to human presence, so remain safely in your vehicle while observing wildlife.
• Follow Wildlife Etiquette: Keep noise levels low and follow your guide’s instructions regarding wildlife interaction.