Ruwana Plains 

Karibu! Welcome to the Ruwana Plains, one of the Serengeti's least visited areas yet the most wildlife-rich ecosystems. The plains form part of the western corridor in West Serengeti and offer a rare opportunity to explore the Serengeti without the crowds. We take you on an unforgettable journey through the geography and wildlife to discover what makes this hidden gem an off-the-beaten-path experience.

At a Glance

Must-See Tourist Attractions

• Two resident lion prides

• The best predator viewing spot

• Large clans of spotted hyenas

• Sundowner Hill and its spectacular views

Size

±120 square miles (±311 km²) 

Landscape

Flood plains, open grasslands, water holes, and riverine areas

Main Species

Lions, cheetahs, spotted hyenas, wildebeest, zebra, gazelles, elephants, warthogs, baboons

The Wonder of the Wild & Surrounds

Tucked away at the point of the western corridor, the Ruwana Plains lie just north of the Grumeti River.

The areas closer to the Kenyan borders receive the most rain during the year, creating a lush oasis that attracts migratory and resident animals. 

During the rainy season, the marshlands and green open grasslands create the perfect stage for the arrival of millions of migratory animals as they move through the corridor and rest before moving northward towards the Mara River.

Ruwana Plains was added to the West Serengeti as a refuge for animals during the migration due to the abundance of water and nutrient-rich grasslands that provide the necessary fuel for the next migration stage.

Sundown Hill, aptly named, is a popular spot for many tourists to enjoy a relaxing sundowner drink with breathtaking panoramic views of the plains. The views here are spectacular, and the sunsets make for picture-perfect honeymoon memories.

It’s a visual spectacle paired with nature's melodic chorus, drenching the plains in visual colors and the raw sound of the wild.

The Diverse Geography

The geography of the remote Ruwana plains is both dramatic and serene, defined by the mosaic grasslands that shimmer under the African sun, scattered flat-topped, broad-leaved acacia trees, and occasional flood plains that burst with life after the rainy season.

The western area has the highest rainfall compared to the rest of the Serengeti National Park, creating a refuge for animals with its life-giving waters for migratory animals.

Granite formations called kopjes, caused by volcanic activities, litter the open plains and create a shelter for many animals, from predators to birds and reptiles.

This ecologically diverse region creates a haven for wildlife and a dreamscape for safari goers seeking to explore the solitude and raw beauty of the wild.

The Majestic Wildlife

In the topmost corner of the West Serengeti, tucked up just north of the Grumeti River, Ruwana Plains is a remote region that supports a thriving ecosystem. Our expert guides offer authentic and unspoiled animal encounters.

This diverse oasis is home to grazers and predators that thrive in abundance. However serene the surroundings may seem, the location is a mix of habitats that support a thriving ecosystem that captivates visitors with dramas of the wild unfolding in real time.

One of the most striking aspects of the plains is the presence of the two lion prides, each ruling over its own territory. The lions can often be seen lounging under the acacia trees, stalking prey in the long grass, or feasting on a successful kill.

Being residents of the area means sightings are frequent, and travelers will often catch a glimpse of the cubs playing under the watchful eye of the lionesses.

High concentrations of predators are also common in the area, where safari goers can view cheetahs and leopards, along with the migratory predators that wander into the area as they follow the migration on its yearly cycle.

Apart from the apex predators, Ruwana Plains' dominant predator is the spotted hyena, also known as the laughing hyena, the largest of the three species. Shoulder height males can reach 27.6-36 inches (70-91.5cm) and weigh up to 121 pounds (55kg).

Although these carnivores are not classified as dogs, they are very social animals with resident packs reaching up to 80 members. Spotted hyenas are highly intelligent and have impressive problem-solving skills, while their haunting cackles can be heard up to 3 miles (5km) away, alerting other members of food.

To support the high concentrations of predators, the prey side of the plains is alive with resident wildebeest, zebra, impala, gazelles, and topi, not counting the millions of migratory animals that pass through on their travels to the Maasai Mara ecosystem.

The increased availability of water from the rainy season draws in larger animals like buffalo and elephants and varied species of birds, from elegant crowned cranes, herons, vibrant bee-eaters, and secretary birds.

Herbivores 

Elephant

Giraffe

Buffalo

Topi

Hartebeest

Wildebeest

Zebra

Impala

Gazelles

Warthogs

Baboons 

Predators

Lions

Cheetahs

Leopard

Spotted hyena

Birds

Crowned crane

Heron

Saddle-billed stork

Secretary bird

Vultures

Bee eaters

Rollers

Cultures and History

For visitors looking to enhance their experience, the Ruwana plains are surrounded by cultural richness. Here, nature, traditions, and community blend into an unforgettable way. 

The human stories are woven into the region's cultural fabric, adding depth to the total experience. Not far from the plains lie several traditional communities, including the Masai, Kuria, and Ikoma tribes.

Tribes

Located near the western corridor are the Kuria tride. Their strong warrior heritage and elaborate ceremonies featuring traditional spears, shields, and rhythmic dances passed down through generations are still upheld today.

The Ikoma people live along the borders of the Serengeti. Once hunters and gatherers, these tribes now maintain a semi-agricultural lifestyle. They have deep knowledge of the lands and herbal medicines. They are known for the intricate craftwork, especially in the bead and woodwork items.

Best Time To Visit 

Depending on your preferences, the Ruwana Plains are a welcoming sight any time of year, whether it's the wildlife, the sunsets, or the birdlife, each season offers its own show. We can help you plan your trip and plan the perfect getaway.

Getting There

If you enjoy open space and some peace and quiet, Tanzania Safaris has the perfect tour for you. The Ruwana plains offer one of the most secluded areas in the Serengeti, so getting there requires some planning.

By Air:

The most popular choice for a fast, scenic, and convenient way to reach Ruwana Plains is by chartered bush plane. Local airlines operate scheduled flights from major airports like Arusha and Kilimanjaro airports.

This form of transport cuts down travel time significantly, plus is the ideal way to have an aerial view of the majestic landscape. It's also ideal for luxury safaris that require limited time.

By Road:

The drive to Ruwana Plains is long but can be rewarding with a multi-day safari that includes Ngorongoro crater or the Central Serengeti. The journey from Arusha to Ruwana Plains typically takes 10 hours, depending on the road conditions and stops along the way.

A 4x4 safari vehicle is essential to navigate the terrain safely, but we offer transfers with our experienced guides who are accustomed to the area to give you a stress-free journey and time to take in the majestic wild scenery of beautiful Tanzania.

But who says you can't have your cake and eat it? Why not do both if you can't decide on flying or driving? Tanzania Safaris offers a fly-in, drive-out, or vice versa transfer, allowing tourists to enjoy sights from the air and an immersive journey through the wilderness.

Lodging Near North Serengeti 

To Be Added

Attractions Near North Serengeti

• Serengeti National Park

• North Serengeti

• West Serengeti

• Lower Grumeti Woodlands

• Mbalageti River Valley

• Musabi Plains