The Rungwa Game Reserve is a protected area that covers an area of 9,000 square kilometers (3,500 sq. mi). It was established in 1951 to protect the extension of Ruaha National Park, which is undeniably the second-largest Protected Area within the country after Selous Game Reserve. It is situated in Itigi District, Singida Region.
The reserve is composed of hills mixed with patches of forest along the streams and the Mpera River Valley, which provides water in the dry season and becomes the best game viewing area from July to November. It covers a larger part of central and west Tanzania and is primarily covered with miombo woodlands giving access to excellent thickets a unique vegetation type found only in two places in Africa. The reserve is an important habitat for wildlife and has been designated as a Lion Conservation Unit since 2005.
The Rungwa Game Reserve is home to many species including lions, leopards, African buffalo, and eland. Other notable animals include sable, greater kudu, grysbok, klipspringer, and impala. The presence of such a wide range of species makes Rungwa Game Reserve an essential area for conservation and wildlife viewing. The Mpera River Valley within the reserve provides a vital water source during the dry season, attracting animals to its banks.
Animal viewing is best from July to November when the dry season makes wildlife sightings more frequent. During this period, animals tend to gather around water sources, making them easier to observe. The gentle slopes and open landscapes also enhance visibility, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of the wildlife in their natural habitat. Besides the big cats, the reserve is famous for its population of oribi, hartebeest, Liechtenstein, impala, zebras, hippos, crocodiles and bush pigs.
Climate
The climate in Rungwa Game Reserve is mild, with low humidity levels, which contributes to comfortable wildlife viewing. Annual rainfall varies across the reserve. With the eastern part receiving around 750mm and the western part receiving up to 1,300mm. The best time for game viewing is December to February and June to September because, during this time, numerous wildlife species converge around some of the permanent water points in the Reserve.
Attractions in Rungwa Game Reserve
Wildlife
Rungwa Game Reserve is home to an impressive array of wildlife including Cape buffaloes, Elephants, lions, Sable antelopes, leopards, Hippos, warthogs, Klipspringers, Elands, Oribis, bush pigs, Grysbok, leopards, Elands, greater kudus, Zebras, buffaloes, Klipspringer, Dik-dik, lions, Nibbles, Roan antelopes, bush pigs, bushbucks, Oribis, impalas, crocodiles, Sable antelopes, Liechtenstein hartebeests, Zebras, hyenas and bushbucks among others.
Birdlife
The reserve is also famous for its birdlife, hosting over 400 bird species. Some of the birds here include Giant spur-winged goose, Pale-billed hornbills, yellow-collared lovebirds, violet-crested turaco, plovers, Tanzanian red-billed hornbills and Ashy starlings among others.
Scenic beauty
Rungwa Game Reserve is known for its breathtaking views, featuring rolling hills, vast plains, and the meandering Rungwe River. The landscape is covered with Miombo woodlands with acacia, granite kopjes, riverine forests, and Combretum scrubs providing tourists with access to the dense thickets that are undeniably ideal vegetation types found in only two regions in Africa. Visitors can appreciate the stunning landscape both on foot and during the game drives. The expansive savannah grasslands, filled with acacia trees, create a beautiful view and provide shade for the diverse wildlife found in the reserve.
The Great Rift Valley also runs through Rungwa, offering several scenic viewpoints where visitors can gaze upon its beauty. The Mbari River flows through the reserve, creating a lush oasis that attracts various wildlife.
The reserve is also home to rugged hills and mountains, particularly the Udzungwa Mountains. Hiking through these areas rewards visitors with spectacular views of the surrounding landscape. The natural beauty of Rungwa Game Reserve provides an unforgettable experience for anyone seeking to explore Tanzania’s diverse scenery
Activities to do when on a safari in Rungwa Game Reserve
Game drives
Game drives are an excellent way to explore the rich wildlife of Rungwa Game Reserve. Visitors can either book a game drive through a lodge or hire a private guide. Game drives in the reserve are conducted in a comfortable 4×4 vehicle. While on a game drive safari, you will have the chance to spot wildlife such as leopards, warthogs, Klipspringers, Elands, Oribis, bush pigs, Grysbok, leopards, Elands, greater kudus, Zebras, buffaloes, Klipspringer, Dik-dik and lions among others.
Birdwatching
Birdwatching is another fantastic activity to do while on a Tanzania adventure excursion in Rungwa. The reserve is home to over 400 bird species, making it one of the best birding spots in Tanzania. During your biding excursions, you will have the opportunity to spot colorful birds such as Pale-billed hornbills, yellow-collared lovebirds, violet-crested turaco, plovers, Tanzanian red-billed hornbills, and Ashy starlings among others.
Hiking and camping
For those eager to connect with nature, Rungwa Game Reserve offers excellent hiking and camping opportunities. Exploring the reserve on foot allows you to observe its beauty up close. The reserve is home to numerous trails, catering to various skill levels.
Camping is popular in Rungwa Game Reserve, with several campsites providing scenic views and a genuine experience. Visitors can spend the night under the stars in a tented camp or lodge.
Cultural experiences
Rungwa Game Reserve is home to several ethnic groups, including the Sukuma, Nyamwezi, and Fipa. Visitors while on cultural tours have the chance to immerse themselves in local culture by visiting nearby villages. Interacting with residents allows tourists to learn about their traditions, customs, and daily lives.
Traditional dance performance is common in these villages, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the area. Tourist can watch these performances and even participate in the dancing, adding to the fun and cultural connection.
Local markets are another great way to experience the culture, where tourist can buy handicrafts, traditional clothing, and souvenirs while tasting local foods and drinks. Additionally, some villages have traditional healers who use natural remedies, offering insights into the region’s traditional medical practices.
Access to Rungwa Game Reserve
By road, Rungwa Game Reserve can be accessed by road transport where buses from Usangu or Tabora and Mpanda head to Rungwa via Inyonga village.
Contact our trusted tour operators for more information about Rungwa Game Reserve and Book with our tours and travel companies such as; Focus East Africa Tours who offer the best tour packages while on your safaris in Tanzania
