Considered to be one of the great "undiscovered" wilderness areas of East Africa, Ruaha National Park is one of Tanzania's least accessible parks, and as result it is totally untouched and remains one of the most exciting game viewing areas, often called "Tanzania's Best Kept Secret". Located in South-central Tanzania, it is the third largest game conservation area after Selous and Serengeti. The terrain is varied and fascinating with wild fig trees, rare baobab forests and gorges of glowing orange sandstone. A visual treat with wild landscapes of miombo forest and rolling woodlands, hills, rivers and plains, Ruaha is mainly accessed by airplane or with a pre-booked safari.

The Selous Game Reserve, at a massive 50,000 kilometres square, is wilderness on a huge scale - the largest in Africa. Set on a wide curve of the mighty Rufiji River, Sand Rivers Selous was originally built by

The main feature of the park is the Ruaha river, which rises in the swamps to the south and sweeps north and eastward through the park. Its deep pools, gorges and swirling rapids make for excellent fishing. The River features large numbers of hippos and crocodiles as well as the clawless otter.

Other animals include the reedbuck, waterbuck and buffalo, with their predators - the lion, leopard, jackal, spotted hyena, and the distinctive African hunting dog. In the grasslands live animals like the kudu, large herds of elephant, eland, impala, Grant's gazelle, dik dik, zebra, warthog, mongoose, wild cat, porcupine and shy civet. Over 400 species of birdlife have been recorded including kingfisher, plover, hornbill, green wood hoopoe, bee-eater, sunbird and egret as well as birds on their migratory routes.

Ruaha River Lodge occupies a privileged position set around a series of rocky kopjes in a bend of the Great Ruaha River, blending seamlessly into its surroundings affording views up and down the river. Game is drawn to the river from the neighbouring hills and visitors can witness the great wildlife dramas unfold from the comfort and protection of their natural stone and thatch 'banda'. The Lodge is hosted by Peter and Sarah Fox who after a couple of decades living in Ruaha have an unparalleled knowledge of the park.
Its proximity to the Ruaha River provides ample opportunity to hear and see animals coming to drink at night. Game is undisturbed and often seen in between the sprawling accommodation areas, all of which have river views.