Best TimeJune to October and January to February
Kenya DestinationNational ParkWestern Kenya
Ruma National Park
A little-visited western park and Kenya’s key refuge for roan antelope, with rhino, giraffe and strong birdlife.
High SeasonDecember to March and July to October
Size120 km² / 46 mi²
Altitude1,170-1,638 m / 3,839-5,374 ft
Why visit Ruma National Park?
Ruma is a remote western-Kenya park best known as the country’s principal refuge for roan antelope. It receives few visitors, so travellers who make the journey are rewarded with a quiet safari, unusual wildlife and open landscapes far from the mainstream circuit.
A quick, practical view
Why travellers choose it
Highlights
- ✓Kenya’s signature roan antelope destination
- ✓Very low visitor numbers
- ✓Rhino and Rothschild’s giraffe present
- ✓Strong birding
Good to know
Considerations
- •Remote from standard safari routes
- •Accommodation is basic and limited
- •Some roads can become difficult after rain
01
Wildlife
What you can see
Roan antelope is the flagship species, with rhino, buffalo, Rothschild’s giraffe, zebra and other antelope also present. Lion and elephant are not part of the normal wildlife experience.
02
Scenery & Habitat
The landscape
Open grassland, rolling hills and woodland create a quieter western-Kenya landscape with a strong sense of space.
03
Experiences
Things to do
Game drives, birding and photography are the main activities, with the park particularly rewarding for specialist wildlife travellers.
Plan Around The Seasons
When to visit Ruma National Park
Best Time To Visit
When to go
June to October and January to February generally provide the easiest conditions for game drives and access.
Weather & Climate
What conditions feel like
Ruma is warmer than Kenya’s highland parks and receives seasonal rains that can affect the road network.
How Ruma National Park fits into your route
The park is reached by road in western Kenya and is best built into a dedicated Lake Victoria or western-Kenya itinerary.
Your Safari, Your Way
Plan My SafariReady to include Ruma National Park?
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