Rungwa River Game Controlled Area

Rungwa River Game Controlled Area is a protected area in Tanzania.

Rungwa River Game Controlled Area at a Glance

Location
Central Tanzania's Hidden Gems, Tanzania, East Africa
Coordinates
-7.015736, 32.483006
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
High
Best Time to Visit
June to October (dry season) for best game viewing. January to March for wildebeest calving in the Serengeti.

Getting to Rungwa River Game Controlled Area

Nearest airport: Unknown Airport, 53 km away.

Big Five in Rungwa River Game Controlled Area

2 of the Big Five can be found here: African Buffalo, Lion.

Weather & Climate in Rungwa River Game Controlled Area

The warmest temperatures in Rungwa River Game Controlled Area occur in October, averaging 26.7°C (up to 33.1°C). The coolest conditions are in January at 21.7°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in June with average rainfall of 0.2mm. Average humidity: 48.6%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 21.7°C (rainfall: 197.5mm)
  • February: 22.0°C (rainfall: 137.1mm)
  • March: 22.1°C (rainfall: 169.1mm)
  • April: 21.8°C (rainfall: 142.8mm)
  • May: 22.1°C (rainfall: 11.5mm)
  • June: 21.9°C (rainfall: 0.2mm)
  • July: 21.8°C (rainfall: 0.3mm)
  • August: 23.6°C (rainfall: 0.3mm)
  • September: 25.5°C (rainfall: 0.5mm)
  • October: 26.7°C (rainfall: 12.9mm)
  • November: 24.7°C (rainfall: 117.0mm)
  • December: 22.5°C (rainfall: 214.6mm)

Best Time to Visit Rungwa River Game Controlled Area

The best months to visit Rungwa River Game Controlled Area are June, July, August, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 21.72°C, rainfall 197.5mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 81.2%
  • February: Good, temperature 21.99°C, rainfall 137.1mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 81.6%
  • March: Good, temperature 22.1°C, rainfall 169.1mm, sunshine 10 hrs, humidity 80.1%
  • April: Good, temperature 21.83°C, rainfall 142.8mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 78.8%
  • May: Great, temperature 22.11°C, rainfall 11.5mm, sunshine 11.3 hrs, humidity 63.1%
  • June: Great, temperature 21.88°C, rainfall 0.2mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 48.6%
  • July: Great, temperature 21.8°C, rainfall 0.3mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 41.2%
  • August: Great, temperature 23.65°C, rainfall 0.3mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 38.5%
  • September: Great, temperature 25.48°C, rainfall 0.5mm, sunshine 11.4 hrs, humidity 36.8%
  • October: Great, temperature 26.73°C, rainfall 12.9mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 38.1%
  • November: Great, temperature 24.74°C, rainfall 117mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 57.2%
  • December: Good, temperature 22.54°C, rainfall 214.6mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 74.4%

Wildlife in Rungwa River Game Controlled Area

Home to 4 recorded species including 2 big five, 1 big herbivores, 1 antelope & gazelle.

Recommended Packing List for Rungwa River Game Controlled Area

Based on average temperature of 23.0°C, typical conditions, humidity 60%.

  • Light layers - comfortable for 23°C weather
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Safari Lodges in Rungwa River Game Controlled Area

1 safari lodges available.

mid-range

Similar Parks in Central Tanzania's Hidden Gems

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Tanzania

Travel advisory for Tanzania

Rungwa River Game Controlled Area FAQs

When is the optimal time to visit Rungwa River Game Controlled Area for wildlife viewing?

The best time to visit Rungwa River Game Controlled Area is during the dry season, from June to October. During these months, animals congregate around the Rungwa River and other permanent water sources, making them easier to spot amidst sparser vegetation.

What kind of safari experience can I expect at Rungwa River Game Controlled Area, given its low crowding?

Rungwa offers an exceptionally wild and exclusive safari experience, far removed from tourist crowds. You can anticipate long periods of uninterrupted wilderness, providing a truly immersive and authentic bush adventure with minimal other vehicles.

What unique wildlife can I hope to encounter in the Rungwa River Game Controlled Area?

Rungwa is particularly renowned for its significant populations of sable antelope and roan antelope, which are less common in other Tanzanian parks. It also boasts a healthy number of lions, leopards, and a diverse array of plains game, offering excellent photographic opportunities.

What are the typical costs and logistical considerations for a safari to Rungwa River Game Controlled Area?

Due to its remote location and limited infrastructure, safaris to Rungwa often involve higher costs for specialized guiding, fly-in access, and mobile tented camps. Budget for park fees, conservation levies, and transport, as self-drive options are generally not feasible or recommended.

Are there any specific safety considerations or unique activities offered in Rungwa River Game Controlled Area due to its 'Game Controlled Area' status?

While primarily a photographic safari destination, Rungwa's status as a Game Controlled Area means it also permits licensed hunting in designated zones, separate from photographic areas. Visitors should always adhere to guide instructions and be aware of the wild nature of the environment, especially regarding large predators.

Recommended Books

  • Stuarts' Field Guide to National Parks & Game Reserves of East Africa by Chris & Mathilde Stuart - Park-by-park guide with maps, species lists, and practical information. Perfect for planning which parks to visit and what to expect.
  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Bradt Guide: Northern Tanzania by Philip Briggs - The best single-country safari guide - covers Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara in extraordinary detail with expert local knowledge.
  • Birds of East Africa by Terry Stevenson & John Fanshawe - Covers Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi - 1,388 species illustrated with range maps. The essential birding companion for East African safaris.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Lonely Planet East Africa by Lonely Planet - Comprehensive travel guide covering Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and beyond. Practical information on visas, transport, accommodation, and detailed park guides.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • Lonely Planet Tanzania by Lonely Planet - Comprehensive guide covering Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar, and beyond. Practical transport, accommodation, and itinerary advice for independent and guided safari travellers.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • A Field Guide to the Reptiles of East Africa by Stephen Spawls, Kim Howell, Harald Hinkel & Michele Menegon - Comprehensive coverage of snakes, lizards, turtles, and crocodilians found across East Africa. A niche but appreciated guide for the thorough naturalist.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Wildlife of East Africa (Princeton Pocket Guide) by Martin B. Withers & David Hosking - Compact pocket guide covering mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects of Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda. 500+ colour photographs. The best quick-reference guide to carry on game drives.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.