Just as the flora and fauna of eastern and southern Africa overlap, so does its wildlife. While Grant gazelles and lesser kudus are common all over the northern parks, roan and sables antelopes as well as greater kudus already belong to the southern part of Africa. Ruaha is home to all of these. In term of antelope density, this park is second to none.

And there is even more to discover: large herds of buffaloes and the highest concentration of elephants in East Africa. Families of more than 200 elephants can often be spotted grazing under giant baobab trees or searching for water in the dried-up river beds. Other animals that populate the park are giraffes, elands, impalas, reedbucks and waterbucks.

Ruaha is also an excellent destination for travelers who are looking for lots of predator interaction. Large prides of lions with up to 25 or even 30 members are common. Leopards and cheetahs are often found hunting in the open plains here and the endangered African wild dog is not an unusual sight either. Spotted hyenas and black-backed jackals are commonly seen predators.

Boasting more than 530 sighted species, ornithologists will love Ruaha. Keen birdwatchers should visit Ruaha from November to May when many migratory birds crowd the park. These include the endemic Ruaha red-billed hornbill, kingfishers, starlings, sunbirds but also water fowl along the rivers including bateleurs, fish eagles and saddle-billed storks.

The Great Ruaha River, of which roughly 160 km flows directly through the park, is Ruaha’s most characteristic feature. Together with its tributaries Jongomero, Mdonya, Mwagusi, Mzombe and various natural springs, they provide the source of life for many animals. Visitors can expect unforgettable wildlife encounters.

During the rainy months the rivers are richly filled. Deep pools of grunting hippos and sand bars featuring sunbathing crocodiles are a common picture. From June to October, the river system seems to dry up completely. Nevertheless, a few waterholes and underground water streams do their part to sustain the local wildlife.

As the river gets drier and drier, the animals will congregate around the remaining waterholes. Predators lay silently in wait, well-covered by the riverine vegetation, and ready to pounce. They know that thirst will drive animals to the waterholes. Spectacular sightings and action-filled encounters await you.

• travelers who like to travel off the beaten track
• travelers who are looking for a quiet, lonely and wild adventure with fewer visitors
• travelers who want to stay in one place for a longer time and explore the park in-depth
• travelers who are looking for outstanding game drives and incredible bush walks