R7 is the Unpaved Road Through Ruaha National Park

Situated in central Tanzania, Ruaha National Park is the largest national park in the country. The road through the park is totally unpaved.

Ruaha National Park

What’s Ruaha National Park?

Located in the heart of Tanzania, it is the largest national park in the country, covering an area of about 20,226 square kilometers (7,809 sq miles). The park is known for its rugged and diverse terrain, featuring undulating plateaus, rocky hills (kopjes), vast open grasslands, and iconic groves of ancient baobab trees. Despite its size and superb wildlife, Ruaha is one of Tanzania's least crowded parks, offering a highly exclusive and pristine safari experience.

Is the road through Ruaha National Park unpaved?

The road through the park is gravel and comprises many straight parts. It's called R7. This route is not suitable for normal cars, and a 4x4 vehicle is required.

When is the best time to drive the R7, the unpaved road through Ruaha National Park?

The road into the park is passable throughout the year. In dry weather, the road is extremely bumpy and sandy. In wet weather, it can be impassable even for a 4x4 car. The short rainfall season runs from November to February, while the long season is between March and April.
Pic: Diego Stellino