Ruaha National Park gets its name from the Ruaha River, which runs along its southeastern boundary. In the park, the river offers year-round water, and during the dry season, the animal population along its banks is amazing. Iringa, a well-known town on the road connecting Dar es Salaam and Zambia, is about a two- to three-hour journey from Ruaha National Park. Ruaha is Tanzania’s largest national park, with a total area of 20,226 square kilometers. In order to safeguard the biodiversity of the Great Ruaha River catchment area and the Ihefu wetlands, its boundaries were expanded in 2008 to encompass Usangu Game Reserve.

The vegetation in Ruaha National Park differs drastically between flat treeless savannahs, Miombo woodlands, dry bushlands, swamps, and riverine forests. Almost 1650 different plant species can be found in the park, creating a one-of-a-kind botanical paradise.

During the dry season, the majestic Ruaha River becomes nothing more than a few precious waterholes that predators take complete advantage of. Laying silently in wait, knowing that thirst will drive herds of impalas, gazelles, and other antelopes to come to drink. The riverine vegetation on the shores around the river helps provide enough cover for lions, leopards, cheetahs, wild dogs, and hyenas making it the best hunting ground in the park.
The best time for game viewing is during the dry season, from May to December. During the wet months from January to April some tracks become impassable.