Itinerary

1. Arrival and Exploration

   Morning:

   • Arrival at Ruaha National Park: Start early by flying into the park's nearby airstrip or arriving by road from Iringa. Upon arrival, you will be greeted by your guide or lodge staff.
   • Check-in: Depending on your lodge, you will settle in and enjoy a welcome drink while getting briefed about the park and activities.
   • Breakfast (if arriving early): Enjoy a hearty breakfast before the morning game drive.

   Late Morning:

   • Morning Game Drive (3-4 hours): Start your adventure with a guided game drive across the park. Your guide will take you to prime wildlife viewing areas, such as the Great Ruaha River, where you can spot animals coming to drink and bathe. This is also an ideal time to see predators like lions and leopards as they are more active.

   Afternoon:

   • Lunch at Lodge or Picnic: After your game drive, return to your lodge for lunch. If you're staying in a more remote area, a packed picnic lunch may be provided for an outdoor dining experience amidst nature.
   • Relaxation Time: After lunch, relax at the lodge, enjoy the facilities, and soak in the surroundings. Most lodges offer a pool or an outdoor deck where you can unwind.

   Late Afternoon:

   • Evening Game Drive (2-3 hours): Embark on another game drive, where you have a chance to spot the nocturnal wildlife emerging as the sun sets. This is often a great time for predator sightings like leopards and hyenas.

   Evening:

   • Dinner and Campfire Experience: After your game drive, enjoy a dinner at the lodge. Some lodges also offer a traditional bush dinner, with a campfire and the sounds of the African night to accompany your meal.

   Overnight: Stay at one of the lodges inside or near the park.

2. Day 2- Sunrise and Final Game Drive

   Early Morning:

   • Sunrise Game Drive (2-3 hours): For early risers, a pre-dawn game drive offers a chance to witness the park in the soft light of dawn. This is when the animals are most active, and you may catch a glimpse of predators hunting or large herds grazing. The atmosphere is serene and magical.
   • Breakfast in the Bush: Some lodges arrange for breakfast to be served in the bush, providing a unique experience to enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.

   Mid-Morning:

   • Return to Lodge and Check-out: Head back to the lodge for a quick shower and check-out. Before you leave, you'll have time to reflect on your experiences and perhaps purchase a few souvenirs from the lodge shop.

   Late Morning to Early Afternoon:

   • Optional Final Game Drive or Walking Safari: Depending on your departure time, you can choose to embark on one final game drive or a walking safari led by a professional guide, providing a deeper understanding of the park’s wildlife and ecology.
   • Departure: After the game drive, head to the airstrip or road exit for your onward journey.