Ruaha National Park
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Ruaha National Park is a second largest and most beautiful national parks in Tanzania. Located in the heart of the country, Ruaha is home to a vast array of wildlife and stunning landscapes. Here, visitors can experience the true African wilderness, away from the hustle and bustle of the modern world. In this article, we will explore the wonders of Ruaha National Park and why it should be on your bucket list of travel destinations.
Ruaha National Park covers an area of approximately 20,000 square kilometers, making it one of the largest parks in Tanzania. The park is named after the Ruaha River, which flows through the park and provides water for the park’s abundant wildlife. Ruaha is part of the larger Rungwa-Kizigo-Muhesi ecosystem, which is home to over 10,000 elephants and a variety of other wildlife species.
The park is located in the southern part of Tanzania and is accessible by both road and air. The nearest airport is the Ruaha Airstrip, which is serviced by several airlines, including Coastal Aviation and Safari Airlink. The park can also be accessed by road, although this can be a long and bumpy journey.
Wildlife
Ruaha National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. Some of the animals that can be spotted in the park include lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffalos, hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of antelopes. The park is also home to over 570 species of birds, making it a popular destination for bird watchers.
One of the highlights of visiting Ruaha is the chance to see large herds of elephants. The park is home to the largest population of elephants in Tanzania, and visitors can often see herds of up to 100 elephants at a time. The park is also home to a variety of predators, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs, making it an excellent destination for wildlife photographers.
Things to do
There are many activities to enjoy in Ruaha National Park, making it an excellent destination for both adventure seekers and those looking for a more relaxed safari experience. Some of the popular activities include:
Game drives
Game drives are one of the best ways to experience the park’s abundant wildlife. Visitors can choose between a morning, afternoon, or full-day game drive, and experienced guides will take you through the park in search of the Big Five and other wildlife species.
Walking safaris
Walking safaris are a unique way to experience the park’s wildlife up close. Visitors will be accompanied by an armed ranger and an experienced guide as they walk through the park’s wilderness areas. This is an excellent opportunity to learn about the park’s flora and fauna and experience the African wilderness on foot.
Bird watching
With over 570 species of birds, Ruaha is a paradise for bird watchers. Some of the popular bird species include the African fish eagle, bateleur eagle, lilac-breasted roller, and yellow-billed stork.
Cultural visits: Visitors to Ruaha can also take part in cultural visits to nearby villages, where they can learn about the local culture and way of life. This is an excellent opportunity to interact with the locals and learn about their customs and traditions.