3 Days Ruaha Safari From Iringa
Embark on the adventure of a lifetime with a Ruaha Safari—an experience that offers breathtaking wildlife encounters and stunning landscapes straight from Iringa.
Fancy a getaway that promises unspoiled landscapes and thrilling wildlife encounters? Look no further than the enchanting Ruaha Safari from the historic town of Iringa. Here, nature paints an exquisite blend of glowing sunsets, vibrant wildlife, and serene landscapes—all waiting for you to explore. Recall the time you yearned for an unforgettable adventure? A Ruaha Safari will etch joyful moments that linger forever in your soul.
Getting to Ruaha National Park
Getting to Ruaha National Park from Iringa involves a captivating journey through some of Tanzania’s stunning landscape. Travelers typically have a few options for modes of transport, including private vehicles, guided tours, or local buses. The journey by road from Iringa generally takes around two to three hours, offering scenic views along the way. Whether opting for a more leisurely drive or a guided tour, travelers will delight in the sheer beauty of the countryside as they approach Ruaha, setting the stage for the adventures that await within the park.
When to Go on a Ruaha Safari
When planning a safari to Ruaha, timing is crucial for capturing memorable wildlife experiences. The best seasons for wildlife viewing generally fall between June and October, during the dry season when animals congregate around limited water sources, making them easier to spot. Conversely, the wet season from November to May brings its own charm, with fewer tourists and lush landscapes adorned with wildflowers. Weather conditions can vary significantly throughout the year, so it’s important for visitors to pack appropriately, ensuring they have suitable gear for all types of conditions—be it warm clothing for cooler evenings or lightweight, breathable wear for the heat of the day.
Wildlife Experiences on a Ruaha Safari
Wildlife experiences at Ruaha are nothing short of extraordinary. The park is home to iconic animals such as elephants, lions, and rare species like the African wild dog, which are harder to find in other parks. Ruaha’s varied ecosystems, including savannah, woodlands, and rivers, contribute to its rich biodiversity, setting it apart from more commercialized areas. Game viewing can be enjoyed through traditional safari drives, and the park is renowned for walking safaris, allowing visitors the unique opportunity to immerse themselves in nature. For photography enthusiasts, capturing the stunning wildlife in their natural habitats is paramount, and tips such as early morning light for softer images and patience for animal encounters can significantly enhance the overall experience.
Accommodation
While on Ruaha safari visitors can stay at Ruaha Tanapa Cottages which offer a unique and immersive experience for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The cottages are nestled within the untamed wilderness of the park, providing a peaceful and serene setting for guests to relax and unwind. Each cottage is beautifully designed with traditional African decor and modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay.
For guest who prefer luxury accommodation yet Ruaha has something to offer. There are number of luxury lodges and tented camps designed to blend in with the natural surroundings and offer a comfortable and peaceful stay.
Budget Ruaha Safari Price
Solo traveler: US $ 1200
2 pax: US $ 850 per person
3 pax” US $ 780 per person
4- 5 pax: US $ 700 per person
Ruaha Safari Cost Includes
- Return transfer from Iringa to Ruaha on 4×4 private safari vehicle
- Game viewing in an open roof safari vehicle.
- Park entrance fees as it is explained on the itinerary
- Full board accommodation in Tanapa Cottages
- Fee for professional driver guide
- A bottle of pure drinking water 1 liter per person daily
Ruaha Safari Cost Excludes
- Accommodation on the arrival and last day in Iringa
- Breakfast and lunch in Iringa
- Tips/Gratuity for the driver guide
- Travellers’ medical insurance
- Items of the personal nature
- Entrance fee to the Maasai Cultural tour ( $ 50 per group)
Detail Ruaha Safari Itinerary
Day 1: Journey to the Untamed Wilderness
Morning: Departure from Iringa
Your Ruaha Safari adventure begins in the charming town of Iringa, nestled in the heart of Tanzania’s southern highlands. After enjoying a hearty breakfast at one of the local guesthouses or hotels, you set out on the road to Ruaha National Park, which is approximately a 2-hour drive away. The journey itself is a scenic delight, with the landscapes transitioning from the rolling hills of the highlands to the vast open savannas that Ruaha is famous for.
Afternoon: Arrival and First Game Drive
Upon arriving at the park in the early afternoon, you are immediately struck by the raw beauty of Ruaha. With over 20,000 square kilometers of diverse ecosystems, it’s Tanzania’s second largest national park and a vital refuge for an impressive array of wildlife. After checking into your chosen budget accommodation, you waste no time in embarking on your Ruaha safari first game drive.
The park’s semi-arid type vegetation, coupled with the Great Ruaha River, provides the perfect backdrop for wildlife viewing. You are likely to spot herds of elephants, as Ruaha is home to one of the largest elephant populations in East Africa. Giraffes, zebras, and impalas are also common sights. As the sun begins to dip lower in the sky, we’re on the lookout for predators like lions and cheetahs that start to become more active in the cooler temperatures.
Ruaha Safari Sundowners and Night Under the Stars
As the day winds down, you find a picturesque spot to enjoy a traditional ‘sundowner’ – a refreshing drink enjoyed while watching the sunset. It’s a perfect time to reflect on the day’s sightings and the serene beauty of the African bush. Dinner is usually served back at the lodge, where we can savor local cuisine under a canopy of stars. The sounds of the night, from the distant roar of lions to the chirping of crickets, lull us into a restful sleep, excited for what the next day will bring.
Day 2: Full Day Ruaha Safari Exploring Rich Biodiversity
Morning: Guided Walking Safari
An early start to the day rewards us with fresh, cool air and the opportunity to witness the savanna waking up. Today, we opt for a guided walking safari, a thrilling chance to experience the African bush on foot. Accompanied by an experienced guide and armed ranger, you will learn about the smaller wonders of the ecosystem – the plants, insects, and birds that are just as integral to the park’s biodiversity as the larger mammals.
The walking safari in Ruaha offers a chance to encounter wildlife in a more intimate setting. While maintaining a safe distance, you may come across antelopes, warthogs, and even elephants. The thrill of being at eye level with these majestic creatures is an unmatched experience.
Afternoon: Extended Game Drive
After lunch and perhaps a short rest at our accommodation, we set out again in a 4×4 vehicle for an extended game drive. The afternoon session provides an opportunity to venture further into the park, exploring different territories and habitats. Ruaha is known for its high concentration of predators, and with luck, we might witness the intense drama of a hunt or catch a glimpse of the elusive leopard lounging in a baobab tree.
Birdwatchers are also in for a treat, as Ruaha boasts over 570 bird species, making it a paradise for ornithologists. From the colorful lilac-breasted roller to the large ground hornbill, the variety is astounding.
Ruaha Safari Cultural Experience and Night Drive
In the evening, we can choose to engage with the local Barabaig and Maasai communities who live around the park. Learning about their traditional ways of life, customs, and coexistence with wildlife adds a rich cultural dimension to the Ruaha safari experience.
For the more adventurous, a night game drive is an option. This unique activity allows us to observe nocturnal animals that are rarely seen during the day. The eerie glow of eyes in the headlights and the sounds of the African night make for an exciting and unforgettable experience.
Day 3: Final Game Drive and Farewell to Ruaha
Last Ruaha Safari Game Drive and Breakfast in the Bush
The final day of our Ruaha safari begins with an early morning game drive, a last chance to catch the animals in their natural habitat. The morning hours are often the best for viewing as the animals are more active and the light is perfect for photography.
Midway through the drive, you may stop for a special treat – breakfast in the bush or drive back to the lodge for the full breakfast. After enjoying the declious breakfast is the time to leave the Ruaha park back to Iringa. farewell to our time in Ruaha.
The drive allows us to reflect on the memories made and the sights witnessed over the past three days. The landscapes once again transform as we ascend into the highlands, marking the end of our 3 day Ruaha safari adventure.
Evening: Reflections and Departure
Back in Iringa, you have the afternoon and evening to relax and perhaps enjoy a final dinner and sharing stories from our safari. If you prefer to depart on the same day back to Dar there are buses which departs Iringa in the evening and arrive Dar es Salaam in the early morning where you can catch a boat to Zanzibar for your beach holiday.
End of the Ruaha Budget Safari.
Frequent Asked Question About Ruaha
Why Visit Ruaha National Park?
Ruaha National Park is celebrated for its pristine landscapes and diverse wildlife, offering a distinct experience compared to more commercialized parks. It acts as a haven for various species, notably large populations of elephants and African wild dogs, and features remarkable birdlife, allowing visitors to observe these animals in their natural settings during unforgettable safaris.
The park is characterized by breathtaking scenery, including the Ruaha River, dramatic plateaus, lush savannahs, and woodlands, enhanced by stunning sunsets that attract photographers. With fewer visitors than popular destinations, Ruaha provides an intimate connection with nature and a peaceful atmosphere.
What is Ruaha Famous for?
Ruaha National Park is particularly famous for its large populations of elephants and its diverse array of big cats, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs. This rich concentration of animals provides visitors with unparalleled opportunities for wildlife viewing, making it a popular destination for safari enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Another key aspect of Ruaha’s fame is its unique landscapes, which range from rolling savannahs and acacia woodlands to rugged mountains and the Great Ruaha River. This diverse terrain not only enhances the park’s aesthetic appeal but also creates different habitats that support various species of flora and fauna. The Great Ruaha River, in particular, is a lifeline for both wildlife and park visitors, attracting numerous animals that come to the river for water and the lush vegetation that thrives along its banks. The park’s natural beauty, combined with its remarkable wildlife density, positions Ruaha as a prime location for both photography and immersive eco-tourism experiences.
Furthermore, Ruaha is relatively less commercialized compared to other national parks in Tanzania like Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater, which makes it an appealing choice for those seeking a more tranquil, off-the-beaten-path adventure. Visitors will find fewer crowds and can enjoy a more intimate encounter with nature, which enhances the overall experience of exploring this magnificent landscape. For travelers looking for an authentic and captivating safari experience, Ruaha National Park stands out as a gem, making it truly famous for its wild beauty and remarkable wildlife encounters.
Which Animals will you see in Ruaha National Park?
During Ruaha Safari you can can expect to encounter a plethora of species, including some of Africa’s most iconic animals, within the park’s vast savannahs and riverine forests.
Among the prominent residents of Ruaha are the majestic elephants that roam its plains. The park is home to one of the largest populations of elephants in Tanzania, making it a remarkable destination for wildlife enthusiasts hoping to witness these gentle giants in their natural habitat. In addition to elephants, Ruaha boasts a healthy population of lions, leopards, and cheetahs, which makes it an exceptional spot for big cat sightings—often seen lounging under the shade of a tree or navigating the tall grass while on the prowl.
Birdwatchers will also find a vibrant avian community in Ruaha National Park, with over 570 bird species recorded, including both migratory and resident birds. The park’s combination of riparian zones, savanna woodlands, and seasonal wetlands provides ideal habitats for everything from colorful bee-eaters and hawks to the endangered African grey parrot. Overall, Ruaha offers a rich tapestry of wildlife that captivates and enthralls visitors, promising memorable encounters in the heart of Tanzania’s wilderness.
When is the Best Time to Visit Ruaha National Park?
The best time to visit Ruaha is during the long dry season which last from June to October. The dry season provides great opportunity for game viewing because most animals tend to gather to the remaining water sources and the grass is too short for them to hide. From December to April is the best time to visit for bird watching since several migratory bird species from Europe are in Ruaha national park?
In long rainy season which from March to May game sighting experience isn’t good due t o tall grass and accessibility to some areas of the park become impossible due to road condition. According to that the numbers of visitors become low which make also some lodges and camps to be closed until the beginning of the long dry season (June).
How to get to Ruaha National Park?
Ruaha national park can be accessed on the following ways .
By Flight
For visitors from abroad can board flights to Dar es Salaam International Airport and connect a domestic flight to Nduli Airport in Iringa town where we will pick you and drive to Ruaha National park. There are also chartered and scheduled light air craft which operates between Ruaha national park and Dar es Salaam and other destinations within the country.
By Road
Visitors who prefer to go to Ruaha Safari by road; there is a paved road from Dar es Salaam to Iringa town which is the nearest town to Ruaha National Park. From Iringa will follow the dirty road for about 2 to 3 hours to Ruaha National park to make the total of 10 hours journey from Dar es Salaam.
To reduce the long driving distance for the Ruaha Safari it can then combined by Mikumi national park which is just along the way where the drive from Dar takes about 5 hours.