Ruaha (Tanzania) and Tsavo West (Kenya) are often weighed against each other. This comparison uses seasons, activities and access to help you choose.
| Ruaha | Tsavo West | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Tanzania | Kenya |
| Type | National park | National park |
| Approx. area | 20,226 km² | 9,065 km² |
| Best time | August to October | August to September |
| Suggested stay | 3–4 days | 2–3 days |
| Main gateway airport | Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) | Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) |
| Big Five | Not all five | Present |
| Malaria | Malaria area: see a travel doctor | Malaria area: see a travel doctor |
| Families | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Honeymooners | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Photographers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| First-time visitors | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Budget travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Luxury travellers | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
Month by month
| Month | Ruaha | Tsavo West |
|---|---|---|
| January | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| February | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| March | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ some rain |
| April | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| May | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| June | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| July | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| August | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| September | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| October | ★★★★★ mostly dry | ★★★★★ mostly dry |
| November | ★★★★★ some rain | ★★★★★ rainy season |
| December | ★★★★★ rainy season | ★★★★★ rainy season |
How to choose
Choose Ruaha if
- you are travelling in April and October to November
- you want walking safaris
- you hope to see African wild dogs, kudu and sable antelope
Choose Tsavo West if
- you are travelling in January to March
- you want hiking
- you hope to see black rhino and oryx
Frequently asked questions
Which is better, Ruaha or Tsavo West?
It depends on when you travel and what you want to see. Ruaha is stronger in April and October to November. Tsavo West is stronger in January to March.
When is the best time for each?
Ruaha: August to October. Tsavo West: August to September.
Sources: TANAPA - Ruaha National Park · SafariBookings - Ruaha climate · Climates to Travel - Tanzania (Iringa normals) · Magical Kenya - Tsavo · Kenya Wildlife Service - Tsavo East (Tsavo Conservation Area) · Climates to Travel - Makindu (nearest station)
Figures are approximate averages and vary from year to year.