Explore Uncharted Territory
Discover one of Africa’s best kept secrets
Wild, rugged, and uncrowded, Ruaha National Park offers a classic safari experience in one of Tanzania’s most diverse landscapes. Centered around the Great Ruaha River, this remote reserve is known for its immense elephant herds, rare species, and dramatic scenery—an ideal extension for travelers seeking deeper wildlife immersion beyond the northern parks.
Use the sample itinerary below to inspire your own customized trip.
Sample Itinerary
DAY 1
Arusha to Ruaha
Fly from Arusha to Ruaha National Park and transfer to your camp. Head out for an afternoon wildlife-viewing drive, exploring the park’s rolling savanna and woodlands in search of elephant, greater kudu, and big cats.
OVERNIGHT
Ruaha River Lodge
Ruaha River Lodge offers comfortable, stone-and-thatch bandas set along the river, each with an en-suite bathroom and a private veranda overlooking the water. The rooms are spacious, airy, and designed to blend into the natural surroundings, giving guests a relaxed, immersive safari experience with frequent wildlife sightings right from their deck.
DAY 2
Ruaha National Park
Wildlife Viewing Around Camp
Begin the day with a guided walk around camp, where wildlife is often seen right from your veranda. Continue with wildlife viewing along the Great Ruaha River, a magnet for antelope, hippos, crocodiles, and predators.
Embark on a Night Drive
After dark, set out on a night drive to search for nocturnal species such as serval, leopard, bushbabies, and genet.
OVERNIGHT
Ruaha RIVER LODGE
Ruaha River Lodge offers comfortable, stone-and-thatch bandas set along the river, each with an en-suite bathroom and a private veranda overlooking the water. The rooms are spacious, airy, and designed to blend into the natural surroundings, giving guests a relaxed, immersive safari experience with frequent wildlife sightings right from their deck.
DAy 3
Ruaha National Park
Discover Rare Wildlife
Spend a full day exploring Ruaha, home to Africa’s highest concentration of elephants and a stronghold for the rare African wild dog. Game drives wind through riverine corridors and miombo woodlands, offering opportunities to spot lion, giraffe, jackal, and species that are rare to see in northern Tanzania.
OVERNIGHT
Ruaha RIVER LODGE
Ruaha River Lodge offers comfortable, stone-and-thatch bandas set along the river, each with an en-suite bathroom and a private veranda overlooking the water. The rooms are spacious, airy, and designed to blend into the natural surroundings, giving guests a relaxed, immersive safari experience with frequent wildlife sightings right from their deck.
DAy 4
Depart from Ruaha
Transfer to the airstrip for your flight to Dar es Salaam. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy a day room to rest and prepare for your onward journey before heading to the international airport.
Leave no stone unturned
This extension pairs perfectly with our extension to Nyerere National Park. Make the most of your time in Africa by exploring both of these parks after your safari.