Walking Safaris in Ruaha and Nyerere National Parks

Ruaha is the country’s largest national park and is one of Tanzania’s best-kept secrets. Remote and rugged, it’s home to an impressive concentration of predators, including lion, leopard, and wild dog. On a walking safari here, you’ll traverse dry riverbeds, rocky kopjes, and baobab-studded hills in search of anything from tiny dung beetles to towering giraffes. The park’s isolation means sightings are often exclusive, and the feeling of wilderness is profound.

Walks in Ruaha are offered from select camps and lodges, typically early in the morning when the bush is at its most active and the temperatures are cooler. Our favourite walking safari in the park is from Kichaka Expeditions. It’s overseen by Andrew ‘Moli’ Molinaro, one of the best safari guides in Tanzania, who has an exhaustive knowledge of the plants and wildlife of Ruaha. This is a truly unique opportunity to explore a vast, little-experienced wilderness led by the very best in the business.

Another preferred lodges for walking safaris in Ruaha is Ikuka Safari Camp. Hands-on owners, Mark and Chloe Sheridan Johnson, live at the lodge and offer an exceptional team. The camp is located high on the Ikuka escarpment, boasting sweeping views of the park. Walks start directly from the camp and provide stunning scenery as well as the chance to learn about the medicinal uses of plants, the intricacies of animal tracks, and the complex behaviours of the park’s diverse wildlife.

Formerly part of the vast Selous Game Reserve, Nyerere is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Its landscapes of riverine forests, sprawling plains, and palm-fringed lakes are ideal for walking safaris. The Rufiji River, with its network of channels and oxbow lakes, adds a water-rich dynamic to the experience. Walking safaris here offer the chance to approach wildlife such as zebra, impala, and buffalo on foot, always at a safe distance. Birdlife is prolific, and the varied ecosystems provide endless fascination for keen naturalists. Walks are typically guided by highly experienced walking guides, ensuring both safety and insightful interpretation of the bush.

Sand Rivers Camp was founded by legendary guide Richard Bonham, who is renowned for pioneering walking safaris in the park. Operated by Nomad Tanzania, it offers a wide range of walking safaris, which can begin from either the camp or the game drive vehicle. Longer walks start from the camp early in the morning to beat the heat of the day, while shorter walks take place late afternoon from the vehicle.

Another one of our experts’ picks for walking safaris in Nyerere is Beho Beho. The emphasis at this luxury camp is on the exceptional quality of its guiding team. The team offers a depth of knowledge and guiding experience that’s very hard to match. Longer walks start in the morning and can last between 5 to 6 hours, while those seeking something a bit shorter will enjoy the late afternoon walks.

At Yellow Zebra Safaris, we believe walking safaris are an essential part of any serious safari itinerary in southern Tanzania. We work closely with lodges and camps that offer expertly guided walks in both Ruaha and Nyerere, ensuring your safety and comfort, and the highest-quality guiding. Whether you’re a seasoned safari-goer or a first-time visitor, these walks offer a chance to deepen your connection to Africa’s landscapes and wildlife in an unforgettable way.