When is the best time to visit Ruaha?

June to October, in the dry season, is best for wildlife, when animals concentrate around the Great Ruaha River; November to April is greener and excellent for birding and scenery but some tracks become harder to travel.

How big is Ruaha National Park?

After its 2008 expansion, Ruaha covers roughly 20,226 square kilometres, making it the largest national park in Tanzania and one of the biggest in Africa.

How do I reach Iringa and Ruaha?

Iringa is reached by road or bus from Dar es Salaam (via Mikumi) or by flights to Nduli Airport (IRI); Ruaha is usually accessed by light aircraft to its airstrips or by 4x4 transfer from Iringa town.

Who was Chief Mkwawa?

Mkwawa was the Hehe leader who fiercely resisted German colonial rule in the 1890s from his capital at Kalenga near Iringa; his returned skull is displayed at the Kalenga museum today.

Destination guide

Iringa & Ruaha

A breezy highland town and gateway to Ruaha, Tanzania's largest national park, land of baobabs, big cats and huge elephant herds.

Who runs the region

Local & official

Administration

Regional capital: Iringa (regional capital and gateway to Ruaha)
Districts: Iringa Municipal, Iringa Rural, Kilolo, Mufindi, Mafinga Town
Regional Commissioner: Office of the Regional Commissioner, Iringa
Chief Park Warden: Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA), Ruaha National Park

Useful contacts

National emergency: 112
Ambulance: 114/115
TANAPA (Ruaha): Tanzania National Parks office