Iringa to Ruaha National Park: The Highland Road Into the Baobab Country

Iringa is a hill town in Tanzania's southern highlands, on the main road between Dar es Salaam and the south-west. For many overland travellers it is the last town with shops, fuel and restaurants before the wilderness.

This guide explains how the final leg works and how to make the most of Iringa itself.

This guide is part of our Uganda road routes and driving guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

Leaving Iringa

The road from Iringa climbs through farmland and open hills before dropping towards the lower country where the park lies. The first section is on good road, and later sections are rougher as you approach the park. Starting after an early breakfast gives you time to reach camp for an afternoon drive.

Fill your tank and stock up on drinking water in Iringa, because supplies are limited further on. If you have a driver-guide, they will manage the route, but it is useful to know the basics. See the Ruaha how to get there page for further access detail.

Things to Do in Iringa

Iringa is worth a visit in its own right. The town has a pleasant market, craft shops and cafes, and the surrounding hills offer views. The Isimila Stone Age site nearby is a popular excursion that shows ancient tools and dramatic eroded pillars.

If you arrive the evening before your safari, a short walk around town makes a nice introduction. For travellers interested in culture, ask about local craft workshops, and respect local etiquette when taking photographs.

The Drive Itself

Expect a changing landscape. At first you pass maize fields, villages and eucalyptus plantations, then the vegetation becomes drier and more open. Baobab trees begin to appear, announcing that you are entering Ruaha country.

The final stretch can be dusty in the dry season and slippery after rain, and travel speeds are slower. Take breaks, sit back and watch for villagers, livestock and birds along the road.

Combining Iringa With Other Stops

Iringa works well as part of a larger overland loop. Travellers coming from Dar es Salaam often stop at Mikumi National Park the day before, and the Dar es Salaam to Mikumi route covers the first leg. The Dar es Salaam to Ruaha route shows how the whole journey fits together.

Some itineraries continue from Ruaha to Nyerere by air, giving a strong contrast between dry bush and river wilderness. See the southern Tanzania safari guide.

Flying Instead

If you do not wish to drive the final leg, a light aircraft can take you from Iringa or other airstrips to Ruaha. This saves time and avoids the rough track, though availability varies by season. Ask your operator whether a flight is available for your dates.

Flying is also useful when your itinerary is tight or when the road is poor after rain. Because the aircraft are small, luggage limits apply and a soft bag is essential.

Season and Road Notes

The dry months, roughly June to October, give the firmest roads and the best wildlife viewing, because animals concentrate around the river. In the wet months the park is green and quiet, but tracks can be slow and some accommodation may close.

Our Ruaha best time to visit guide explains how each season shapes your trip, and the Ruaha itineraries page suggests how long to stay.

Practical Tips

Carry water, snacks, sun protection and a hat for the road. Keep your passport, permits and money in a secure place, and bring a light jacket for cool mornings. Keep an eye on the time of day, because it is best to reach the park gate before dusk.

Once inside, the Ruaha wildlife guide helps you know what to look for, from lions and leopards to roan antelope and kudu.

Planning a Uganda safari? Send us your dates and we will build the route, permits and transport around what you want to see.

Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team