1. Wildlife: Ruaha is renowned for its high population of elephants, estimated to be around 10,000, making it one of the largest elephant populations in any African national park. The park is also home to large prides of lions, estimated to number over 100, as well as leopards, cheetahs, African wild dogs, and spotted hyenas. Other mammals include giraffes, zebras, buffalos, and antelopes such as the greater kudu, sable, and roan antelope.

2. Birdlife: Ruaha is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 570 species of birds recorded. The park’s varied habitats, including acacia savannahs, baobab forests, and riverine areas, attract a wide range of bird species, from the fish eagles and kingfishers along the rivers to the raptors like martial eagles and bateleurs.

3. Geography and Climate: The park is characterized by its dramatic scenery, including the Great Ruaha River, which is a major feature and lifeline of the park, especially during the dry season. Ruaha’s landscape is dotted with baobab trees, rocky kopjes, and escarpments. The climate is hot and dry, with a distinct wet season from November to April, during which the park transforms, becoming lush and green.

4. Flora: Ruaha’s vegetation is a mix of miombo woodland, savannah grasslands, and riverine forests. The presence of baobab trees is a notable feature, as well as various species of acacia and commiphora.

5. Activities: Visitors to Ruaha can engage in various activities, including game drives, walking safaris, and bird watching. The park offers both day and night game drives, giving visitors the chance to see nocturnal wildlife. Walking safaris are particularly popular, providing a closer and more intimate experience with nature.

6. Conservation and Management: Ruaha National Park is managed by the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA). The park faces challenges such as poaching, especially of elephants and other large mammals. Conservation efforts are ongoing to protect the park’s biodiversity and support sustainable tourism.

7. Accessibility: Ruaha is relatively remote compared to other Tanzanian parks like Serengeti or Ngorongoro. It can be accessed by road from the town of Iringa or by air, with flights from Dar es Salaam and Arusha to the park’s airstrips. This remoteness contributes to its less crowded nature, offering a more exclusive safari experience.