Ruaha National Park Map
By the Foot Slopes Tours and Safaris team
Our Arusha-based guides and safari planners know Ruaha National Park first-hand, and write this guide from experience on the ground.
Ruaha National Park lies in south-central Tanzania, west of Iringa. Most game viewing happens in the eastern part of the park along the Great Ruaha River and its seasonal sand rivers, such as the Mwagusi and Mdonya, where water concentrates wildlife in the dry season. Visitors usually arrive by light aircraft at Msembe or Jongomero airstrips, or by road from Iringa.
Ruaha Areas at a Glance
The main areas visitors explore. Numbers on the map match the list.
Access Points
How travellers usually arrive and enter.
| Access point | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Msembe airstrip | Airstrip | Main airstrip for scheduled flights from Dar es Salaam and Arusha |
| Jongomero airstrip | Airstrip | Serves the southwestern part of the park |
| Main park gate | Road | Reached by road from Iringa; the last stretch is unpaved |
| Iringa | Nearest town | Overland gateway, several hours from the park |
Best Ruaha Safari Packages by Season
Hand-picked southern circuit itineraries featuring Ruaha National Park, tailored privately by Foot Slopes Tours and Safaris.
6-Day Tanzania Southern Circuit Safari
A six-day fly-in safari linking Nyerere's Rufiji River boat safaris with Ruaha's vast wilderness.
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11-Day Best Of Southern Tanzania Safari
An eleven-day journey through Nyerere, Mikumi, Udzungwa, and Ruaha's finest southern-circuit wildlife.
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7-Day Southern Tanzania Safari
A seven-day circuit through Nyerere, Mikumi, and the Udzungwa Mountains' rainforest and wildlife.
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7-Day Tanzania off the Beaten Track Safari
A seven-day safari exploring quieter parks away from the crowds.
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8-Day Authentic Tanzania Safari Tours
An authentic eight-day safari experience across classic Tanzania destinations.
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8-Day Remarkable Tanzania Safari
An eight-day journey across Tanzania's most remarkable wildlife areas.
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7-Day Tanzania Budget Camping Safari
A budget-friendly seven-day camping safari without compromising on wildlife.
View Package →11-Day Tanzania Safari for solo travelers
An eleven-day itinerary designed specifically for solo safari travelers.
View Package →Ruaha Safari Planning Guides
Ruaha National Park Map: Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Ruaha National Park?
Ruaha National Park is in south-central Tanzania, west of the town of Iringa. It is part of the southern safari circuit and is often combined with Nyerere National Park, Mikumi or Zanzibar on a private fly-in itinerary.
Which areas of Ruaha are best for game viewing?
The Great Ruaha River and seasonal sand rivers such as the Mwagusi and Mdonya are the most productive areas, especially from June to October when wildlife gathers near water. Our guides plan routes around recent sightings for the best experience.
How do you get to Ruaha?
Most visitors fly into Msembe or Jongomero airstrips on scheduled light aircraft from Dar es Salaam or Arusha. Overland travel via Iringa is possible but takes much longer, so it suits dedicated overland itineraries.
How long should I stay in Ruaha?
Three to four nights is ideal to explore the river and sand-river areas without rushing. Because Ruaha is remote, a longer stay makes the travel time worthwhile and gives you the best chance of seeing wild dogs and rare antelope.
Plan Further: Ruaha National Park Guides & Resources
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