What is the Best Time to Visit Ruaha National Park? Ruaha National Park experiences a bimodal pattern of the rain forest, the short rainfall season which begins November to February while the long-wet season is between March and April. The park experiences its archetypal dry season between June and October. During the dry season from May to October, the park experiences hot and dry weather with little to no rainfall. Temperatures can reach 35 °C (95 °F) during the day. Night temperatures drop to around 20 °C (68 °F). The vegetation in the park becomes dry, and rivers and water sources dwindle.
However, the ideal time to visit Ruaha National Park can be determined based on these two climatic seasons received in the National Park. The dry season, from June to October is the most rewarding time to visit Ruaha National Park. This period offers great wildlife viewing as animals gather around the water sources. The weather is pleasantly warm, making it easier to explore the park and enjoy its stunning landscape and diverse wildlife, thus creates high chances for easy viewing Game in these particular places.
Ruaha National Park is home to a network of rivers, including the Ruaha River, which dries up during very dry season of June to October. This leaves behind a few sandy pools of water that often remains clean and drinkable. These water sources attracts many animals, making it easier to see them, so the dry season is considered a great time to visit the park.
Also, as the park dries up, the bushes and thick vegetation becomes less dense thus easier to spot quite a number of animals. However, it is not to say that the short rainy season starting from November to March can also be a wonderful time to go on a safari in Ruaha National Park. During this season the park receives migratory birds from Europe and other parts of Africa and also there are high breeding rates of several bird species. More so, during this time, the vegetation comes back to life, with lush green bushes and vibrant scenery that makes for a lovely experience, making its ideal for birdwatching.
About Ruaha National Park
Ruaha National Park is the second largest protected area in Tanzania, located about 130 kilometers south of Serengeti national park and west of Iringa and Selous game reserve. it was first designated as Saba game reserve in 1910 and was later renamed Rungwa game reserve in 1946. Eventually, the southern part become as Ruaha National Park. The park covers an area of approximately 20,226 square kilometers, expanding from its easier of 13,000 sq Kms.
However, in 2008, the Usangu game reserve was added to the park which led to an increase in the park’s size. Ruaha National Park is part of the larger Rungwa-Kizigo-Muhesi ecosystem, which includes the Rungwa Game Reserve, the Kizigo and Muhesi Game Reserves, and the Mbomipa Wildlife Management Area. In 2005, this park was recognized as a lion conservation Unit with the Usangu basin being one of the Important Bird areas (IBA) recognised by Birdlife International. The park was named after river Ruaha that flows through the south-eastern part of Ruaha national park. The river attracts a number of wildlife including the migratory birds.
Amazing things to do and see while on a Tanzania safari in Ruaha National Park
Game drives
One of the most enjoyable things to do in Ruaha National Park is going on game drives. These are usually done in open 4×4 vehicles, allowing you to see the park’s wide variety of animals in their natural surroundings. You can choose from morning, afternoon, or night game drives. During your game drives safari, you’ll have the chance to spot different wildlife species such as African cheetah, African lion, African leopards, wild dogs, hyenas, giraffes, hippos, African buffalos and several antelopes species as well as different bird species including the hornbills.
Birding excursions
Ruaha National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise thanks to its diverse habitats, which include savannahs and wetlands. The park is home to more than 570 different bird species, including some that travel long distances to visit from Europe and other regions of Africa. While on your birding excursion, you might see unique birds like the Ruaha red-billed hornbill, yellow-collared lovebird, white-bellied go-away-bird, southern ground hornbill, sooty falcon, Meyer’s parrot, long-crested eagle, goliath heron, emerald-spotted wood dove, Eleonora’s falcon, buff-crested bustard, black-bellied bustard, ashy starling , African fish eagle, Ruaha chat, red-backed shrike, plain martin, gray kestrel, lilac-breasted roller, gray-headed kingfishers and Nubian woodpecker among others.
Guided nature walks
Explore the beauty of Ruaha National Park with a guided nature walk. Join an armed ranger and local guides as you stroll along well-marked paths that wind through various environments like bushes, swamps, and forests while spotting different animals and plants. These walks are designed for small groups of up to six people, allowing for a more personal experience. You’ll also get to learn about the wildlife in the area and visit a nearby village. Connect with the Maasai people and discover their music, traditions, and ways of living sustainably.
A hot air balloon safari
A hot air balloon safari is an exciting adventure to try while visiting Tanzania’s Ruaha National Park. You’ll get to see amazing wildlife from high in the sky, like elephants, antelopes, giant kudus and giraffes drinking at the river. As you soar above, you’ll also enjoy the sounds of hundreds of birds singing around you.
Night drives
A night drive will give you the opportunity to see Ruaha like never before with a chance of seeing nocturnal wildlife and predators when they’re more active. You’ll head out with your guide and a spotlight either at the end of your afternoon game drive, or after an early dinner. Are available on request, but a ranger has to be obtained from Park HQ and booked in advance.
Contact our trusted tour operators for more information and inquire about the Best Time to Visit Ruaha National Park and then book with our tours and travel companies such as; Achieve Global safaris who offer the best tour packages while on your safari in Tanzania.
