safari southern tanzania

This website uses cookies that help the website function and to help us understand how users interact with it. We use these cookies to provide you with an improved customised user-experience. Please confirm if you consent to the use of non-essential cookies on this website. Please note that performance cookies will be set only if you accept all cookies. Learn about the cookies we use on our website.

Necessary cookies enable core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility. You may disable these by changing your browser settings, but this may affect how the website functions.

We'd like to set performance cookies to help us to improve our website by collecting and reporting information on how you use it. The cookies collect information in a way that does not directly identify anyone. For more information on how these cookies work, please see our Cookie Policy .

Southern Tanzania

Adventure unlocked, wilderness awaits, a safari in the south is all about experience – the game rich plains of ruaha national park and the endless wilderness of nyerere national park is pretty hard to beat..

By 4x4, by boat, on foot or in a fly-camp, it is freedom like no where else in Tanzania.

Start your journey

Sand rivers, ruaha is an extraordinary start to your southern sojourn, about the area, ruaha is wild, expedition country – it is home to huge herds of elephants and abundance of predators; leopard, lion, wild dog and hyena. ruaha is a vast landscape. you get a tremendous feeling of anticipation when you’ve grabbed cameras and shades, and left camp with your nomad guide in an open vehicle. who knows what will be encountered, but for sure there’ll be moments of excitement, fascination and peace amongst the great beasts and herds of ruaha., kigelia is our bush camp at the heart of the action.

This understated little bush-camp has been in the beating eastern heart of the park for years, where the wildlife is most concentrated. Sorties from it, encountering the great mammals of Africa, can be thrilling and hard to tear yourself away from. So, in this camp retreat, with Nature up very close, you will find a quiet, canvas refuge, only disturbed by our elephant visitors.

Recommended stay: 3 nights

Expect to pay: $675 - $720 per person per night

Explore and leave the 4x4 behind in Nyerere

Nyerere national park (formerly selous game reserve) holds a special place in nomad’s heart, ever since richard bonham, together with lizzie and bimb theobald created what is now the most iconic camp in the park, sand rivers. nyerere is only a few hundred feet above sea level, and this is very much revealed in the climate and landscape. it is typical of nyerere to encounter a varied terrain with woodland, flood plains, sand rivers, lakes and the remarkable rufiji river., on the banks of the rufiji sits sand rivers.

Some safaris can be predictable, game drive after game drive. This is simply not the case when you stay at Sand Rivers. The camp location combined with our mission to keep hold of our adventurous spirit gives many ways to enjoy the bush. Whether its lying on a sandbar watching eagles or creeping up on grunting hippos – every day will be different.

Life changing experiences

Fly-camping from Sand Rivers

Recommended stay: 4 nights

Expect to pay: $750 - $1,120 per person per night

Southern Tanzania camps

Your very own private hideaway in the heart of Nyerere.

A handsome light-filled lodge with wide-screen views across the Rufiji River.

Our light-touch bush camp in Ruaha’s landscape of giants.

Expeditionary Walking Camp

Our wild and mobile camp that gets your off-grid in the remote parts of Tanzania.

Explore safari itineraries

We tailor all our safaris to your particular requirements, but we understand that it's useful to have an idea of what works best, what’s available and a ballpark cost. Have a flick through our safari itineraries and get in touch to get the ball rolling.

Review for kigelia

Exceeded All Expectations

The Nomad company has provided us with an experience that exceeded all of our expectations.

Camps visited:

Review for serengeti-safari-camp

Great Serengeti Experience

Great experience in the Serengeti. Camp was close to animals, staff was wonderful and fun at night with a campfire.

#earthday take a minute to appreciate the natural world and the wonder it brings. We’re so lucky this is our playground....

Entamanu is positioned on the north-west edge of the Ngorongoro Crater rim, it’s our cosy highland retreat that allows g...

We love a birthday celebration so we wanted to give a big shout out to our medical outreach partner, Kafika House, on th...

Got a spare half hour this weekend? Completed Netflix? Make sure you head over to our friends @jits.into.the.sunset YouT...

Newsletter sign up

All the news, delivered straight to your inbox...

A World-Class Safari in Undiscovered National Parks

Southern tanzania: off the beaten path.

From $11,995

Easy to Moderate

Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

Tanzania's true wild side is in its southern reaches, where legendary wildlife reserves like Ruaha National Park and the great Selous (now Nyerere National Park) stretch for thousands of square miles relatively undisturbed by human activity. Selous and Ruaha have been protected for more than a hundred years and they shelter globally important populations of wildlife: massive prides of lions (10 percent of Africa's lions reside here), plenty of crocodile, lion, leopard, cheetah, hippo, elephant, black rhino, buffalo, and more than 400 bird species. And southern Tanzania is absolutely the best place in Africa to watch packs of African wild dogs on the hunt. Yet these remote reserves see a fraction of the tourists that visit the northern parks! With our long-time Tanzania safari leader Goodluck Urassa, we'll set off for exciting game drives, off-road tracking, bush walks, river safaris, and even a rainforest hike. Urassa is known for his keen spotter's eye and extensive knowledge of African wildlife, and he'll be joined by local guides at all our camps. We'll explore Nyerere National Park, Tanzania's second largest wildlife sanctuary, watered by the photogenic Rufiji River, Mikumi National Park, with its plains game and African hunting dogs, and the immaculate rainforest of the Udzungwa Mountains National Park, home to a wide array of endemic birds and plants—and even two endemic species of primates! Our grand finale finds us in immense Ruaha National Park, Tanzania's best kept secret, with 7,800 square miles of wildlife-rich wilderness spanning both the eastern and southern African biomes. There are but a handful of safari camps in this vast region, and we've chosen the most comfortable and best located ones, where we'll enjoy a warm welcome. Join us for an unforgettable off-the-beaten-path safari!

Arrive: Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Depart: Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

• Safari in the less-traveled wildlife reserves of southern Tanzania, with fantastic elephant herds, plenty of lion prides, leopard, hyena, hippo and huge Nile crocs
• Discover Ruaha National Park, Tanzania's best-kept secret, a kingdom of predators and home to 12,000 elephants
• Explore Nyerere National Park (“the Selous”), an oasis for wildlife and the best place in Africa to spot endangered African wild dogs
• Hike in the Udzungwa Mountains, a biodiversity hotspot of virgin forest full of primates and birdlife
• Enjoy 4WD exploration, walking safaris, river safaris, and a rainforest hike
• Stay in remote safari camps where you'll see abundant game and few other safari-goers

Dates & Pricing

Pricing below is per person and based on double occupancy. The earlier you book, the more choice you’ll have. WT also has the most generous cancellation and transfer policies in the industry, we make it easy if you change your mind. Have a small group of your own? Take over an existing date or choose your own. You’ll have your own private guide–and the adventure–all to yourselves!

Payment & Cancel Schedule

At time of reservation: $600 90 days prior to departure: Balance

Cancellation & Transfer Schedule

Up to 91 days prior to departure: No Charge! 61-90 days prior to departure: 25% of trip cost 46-60 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost 45 days or less: 100% of trip cost

• Expert leadership of a Wilderness Travel Trip Leader and local guides
• Accommodations in safari camps and hotel
• All meals included except 1 lunch and 1 dinner as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
• A glass of wine or beer with dinner
• All ground transportation and baggage handling from meeting until departure
• All activities as indicated in Detailed Itinerary

Not Included

• Travel to and from the arrival and departure location as indicated in Detailed Itinerary
• Additional hotel nights outside the trip's scheduled dates
• Optional gratuities to Trip Leaders or staff
• Optional travel insurance
• Other expenses of a personal nature (some alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc.)

Accommodations

Scroll through our signature accommodations for this trip below. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.

Salaam Serena Hotel

Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Day 1 (1 night)

Roho ya Selous

Nyerere National Park, Tanzania

Days 2-4 (3 nights)

Vuma Hills Tented Camp

Mikumi National Park, Tanzania

Days 5-6 (2 nights)

Hondo Hondo Camp

Udzungwa Mountains National Park, Tanzania

Days 7-8 (2 nights)

Jabali Ridge

Ruaha National Park, Tanzania

Days 9-11 (3 nights)

Trip Leaders

Wilderness Travel Trip Leaders have a passion and a joy for creating an unforgettable journey. We are extremely proud of them and the incredible travel experiences they make possible. For more information, including client comments about them and which specific trips they will be leading, please click on their profiles below.

Goodluck Urassa

What the Trip is Like

The game-tracking walks are accompanied by a professional tracker and are conducted at a pace that allows an intimate exploration of the African bush.

The longer optional mountain hike on Day 8 follows a track through montane forest, but our group will likely leave the trail for periods of time to track the mangabey monkeys. This hike can be steep, slippery, and have loose footing at times, and therefore it is only recommended for travelers in good physical conditioning and with confidence in their stability on rough trails. The shorter option follows a more established trail and can be taken at a slower pace.

Extend Your Trip

Masai Mara National Reserve Extension

From $5,695

Gorilla Tracking in Rwanda’s Parc National des Volcans Extension

From $3,395

Other Trips You Might Like

Small Group Adventure

• Climb Kilimanjaro!

From $6,895

Namibia Expedition

From $9,195

Private Journey

Tanzania Private Safari

From $8,995

Tanzania: The Great Migration Safari

From $10,195

Book your trip today

Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

Submit the form below to download itinerary

Trip Download Itin

Trip Levels

With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult—see descriptions below for explanations of each number. A plus (+) sign means the trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of that level. The detailed explanation of each trip—below the bar with the number rating—is perhaps more important, specifying activities, altitudes, hiking, and travel conditions. The Detailed Itinerary, available by download or mail, gives further information. Our Area Managers can also answer questions and guide you to the trip that best suits your interests.

Level 1 – Easiest

Non-camping journeys, optional walks, little elevation gain or loss.

• Royal Rajasthan and Villages of India
• Small ship cruises

Level 2 – Easy to Moderate

Hotel nights and/or safari-style camping, hikes of two to four hours on some days. Other physical activities are sometimes included, such as optional sea kayaking.

• Our African safaris
• Costa Rica Wildlife

Level 3 – Moderate

Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our snorkeling adventures.

• Tuscany & the Cinque Terre
• Argentina: Hikes and Estancias of Patagonia
• Palau Snorkeling & Sea Kayaking
• Some trips with minimal hiking but rugged travel conditions or long drives, such as  Tribal Ghana, Togo & Benin,  are Trip Level 3.

Level 4 – Moderate to Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-6 hours), mountainous terrain, significant elevation gains and losses (hiking up or down as much as 3,000 feet) on many days. Altitudes no greater than about 10,000 feet.

• Ultimate Patagonia
• Hiking the Spanish Pyrenees

Level 5 – Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 12,000 feet are in this category.

• Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
• Everest Lodge to Lodge

Level 6 – Very Strenuous

Full-day hikes (5-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Most hikes take place at altitudes above 10,000 feet, with some days ascending as high as 18,000 feet.

• Everest Base Camp

TOP DESTINATIONS

• Kruger Park
• Okavango Delta
• Serengeti National Park
• Victoria Falls

TOP COUNTRIES

• South Africa

TRAVEL DEALS

View All Travel Deals

SOUTHERN AFRICA

East africa, indian ocean islands, top experiences.

• Beach Holidays
• Family Safaris
• Honeymoon Safaris
• Desert Safaris
• Luxury Rail Safaris
• Multi-Generational Safaris
• Positive Impact Safaris
• Photographic Safaris
• Walking Safaris

WILDLIFE SAFARI

• Big Five Safaris
• Birding Safaris
• Gorilla Trekking Safaris
• Migration Safaris
• Mobile Camping Safaris
• Horseback Safaris

FEATURED EXPERIENCES

Comfort levels, property types.

• Tented Camps
• Boutique Hotels

Featured Safari Collections

• Ker & Downey Botswana
• Extraordinary
• African Anthology
• Natural Selection
• Time & Tide

GET TO KNOW US

• Meet The Team
• Pricing Explained
• Traveller Reviews
• Traveller Stories
• Why Book With Us?
• HerdTracker
• Safari Cost Calculator
• South Africa In 360
• Trusted Safari Partners

What are you looking for?

• Safaris & Tours
• Destinations
• Experiences
• Accommodations
• Why book with us?

Hello traveller!

It's in Cape Town now.

We're sorry. Our safari planners aren't available now. Our office hours are 08:00 - 19:00 (GMT+2).

Call us to speak to an experienced safari planner.

Alternatively, we recommend...

Schedule a phone or Zoom call with one of our safari planners

Complete our travel enquiry form to connect with a safari planner

• Southern Safari Circuit in Tanzania

Africa's best authentic tailor-made safaris

By Diane Du Plessis

Safari Travel Planner

The southern safari circuit sprawls across southern Tanzania. From the gigantic Selous Game Reserve in the east to Mahale Mountains and Gombe Stream national parks on the shore of Lake Tanganyika in the west, this is wildest Africa and the domain of adventurers and explorers. Between Africa’s deepest lake and the Selous World Heritage Site lie the diminutive Mikumi and Udzungwa Mountains national parks, as well as the impressive Ruaha-Rungwa ecosystem and the beguiling Katavi-Rukwa landscape. For those intrepid travellers who opt for the road less travelled, the alluring southern safari circuit beckons with the promise of genuine wilderness and real adventure.

Bisected by the crocodile-infested Rufiji River and home to the world-renowned Stiegler’s Gorge, the 50,000 square kilometre Selous Game Reserve remains an iconic safari destination and long-standing safari highlight of southern Tanzania despite its on-going poaching and hydro-development challenges. Although poaching has ravaged the enormous elephant herds of years gone by, the Selous still supports around 16,000 of these grey giants as well as a thriving population of wild dogs.

One of the largest national parks in East Africa, the 20,226 square kilometre Ruaha National Park is almost unknown outside of Tanzania, yet with an estimated 10 percent of the surviving wild lion population in Africa, it is definitely a highlight on any trip to explore the wild south of the country. Beautiful landscapes peppered with giant baobabs, elephants, abundant plains game and one of the only places you will see greater kudu in Tanzania are further good reasons to make sure Ruaha is on the itinerary of every intrepid safari connoisseur. It is best explored during the long dry season from June to October when the animals congregate near the perennial Great Ruaha River, which – along with the Mwagusi, Jongomero and Mzombe rivers – provide the lifeblood of the park. The banks of the Ruaha are a permanent hunting ground for lion, leopard, cheetah, hyena and even the endangered African wild dog, which prey on the impala, gazelle and waterbuck that come to drink at the river. Whether exploring this large tract of African wilderness by vehicle or foot, Ruaha is a special place to visit.

Wild and remote Katavi National Park is one of the country’s most unspoiled and untouched bush settings with amazing landscapes and rich wildlife. The 4,471 square kilometre park is difficult to access and consequently can be relatively costly to visit. As a result, few people make the effort to come here. While the Serengeti might see 125,000 visitors in a year, the remote Katavi sees no more than a few hundred brave adventurers by comparison. This is wild Africa at its very best and, provided you have the time and budget, it’s a park that’s absolutely worth exploring. With only a couple of small, rustic safari camps, you often come across more prides of lion than fellow safari aficionados on a game drive in Tanzania’s third largest national park. Surrounded by woodlands, two gigantic sprawling grassy plains – Chada and Katasunga – dominate the park and provide a dramatic setting for watching lion-buffalo interactions. During the dry season, the Katuma and Kapapa rivers are the only permanent water in the area and act as a magnet for thirsty wildlife. Hundreds of hippos congregate in the shrinking waterholes and enormous crocodiles sit out the heat inside mud-holes excavated into the riverbanks.

Nestled on the Lake Tanganyika shoreline with its forested mountains rising up from the lakeshore, mesmerising Mahale Mountains National Park boasts stunning scenery and close-encounters with habituated chimpanzees. The mist-covered peak of Mount Nkungwe stands sentinel in the background and the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tanganyika lap against white-sand beaches. Without road access, many safari stalwarts regard Mahale as Tanzania’s most remote park, but also one of its most enthralling. The star attractions are the 1,700 chimpanzees that reside within the 1,613 square kilometre protected area, but the holy grail for most visitors is the 60-strong Mimikere or ‘M’ group, which has been studied by researchers for more than four decades. While the M group of chimps are well habituated, finding our closest relatives can be a challenge. Be prepared for some sweaty, steep climbing through dense vegetation, but the trials and tribulations are well worth the end result.

Practical Advice

The southern safari circuit is definitely best attempted during the dry season. Infrastructure is far more limited and basic than you’ll encounter up north. There are also considerably fewer safari camps and accommodation options than the more popular northern circuit, but this is precisely the reason for the southern park’s off-the-beaten-track appeal. It’s also worth noting that there are no roads into Mahale Mountains National Park with visitors having a choice between travelling in by air or by boat.

While most visits to Tanzania’s southern safari circuit are trouble-free, travel advisories are increasingly citing a rise in armed crime. That said, you stand considerably more chance of being injured in a road accident, or getting ill with malaria, or even perishing from a capsized ferry on Lake Tanganyika, so take some sensible safety precautions and you should be fine.

How it Works

View our recommended safaris for inspiration and get ready to plan your dream safari

Contact us or fill out an enquiry form and one of our travel experts will help you tailor make your perfect safari

Enjoy an authentic African experience, with peace of mind

Travel with Confidence

With over 20 years of experience, our team will help you tailor your itinerary to your perfect adventure., 24/7 support, personalized, popular tanzania safaris, these recommended tours for tanzania can be tailor-made to match your budget..

Herdtracker Migration in Central and North Sere...

East Africa Tanzania Serengeti

From $ 8390 /USD

Tanzania Luxury Fly-in Safari in Tanzania

East Africa Tanzania Tarangire Serengeti Ngorongoro Crater

From $ 11150 /USD

Honeymoon Safari in the Serengeti National Park

East Africa Tanzania Ngorongoro Crater Serengeti

From $ 6240 /USD

Walking Safari Experiences in Tanzania

East Africa Tanzania Lake Manyara Ngorongoro Crater Serengeti

From $ 7750 /USD

Affordable Migration Safari from June to Octobe...

East Africa Tanzania Arusha Tarangire Lake Manyara Ngorongoro Crater

From $ 6800 /USD

Luxury Safari with migration in Grumeti

Tanzania Arusha Tarangire Lake Manyara Ngorongoro Crater Serengeti

From $ 18300 /USD

47 Tanzania Safaris to choose from

Stay for 4 - 17 days

Experience our Tailor-made Tours in Tanzania

Our recommended tours in tanzania.

Kilimanjaro Climb with the Machame Route

East Africa Tanzania Arusha Kilimanjaro

From $ 4490 /USD

Best of Africa Safari

Botswana Okavango Delta South Africa Johannesburg Kenya Nairobi

From $ 19690 /USD

Why travel with us?

Recent reviews from travellers who planned and booked their africa trips with discover africa safaris, excellent in all facets.

23 Day South Africa, Victoria Falls & Botswana Safari Review

Rodney, Australia 17 May 2023

Megan warrington was as personable as she was helpful and efficient..

Cape to Kruger to Botswana Review

David Mather, United States 18 Aug 2022

Super helpful, great recommendations, very prompt on organizing and responding to questions..

Simbavati Hilltop Lodge Review

Felix, United States 12 Feb 2022

Friendly, efficient and very helpful in all aspects of organising our safari....

A Safari in Botswana Review

Heather, United Kingdom 21 Feb 2020

Absolutely fantastic trip..

Review of African Safari Tour

Jackie, United States 14 Mar 2019

Exceptional service for our last minute family holiday.

Maldives Family Holiday Review

Lexi, South Africa 10 Aug 2017

Ready to plan your tailor-made safari.

Alice Lombard, Destination Expert

Free safari planning advice from destination experts

• Why Tanzania
• Tanzania in January
• Tanzania in February
• Tanzania in March
• Tanzania in April
• Tanzania in May
• Tanzania in June
• Tanzania in July
• Tanzania in August
• Tanzania in September
• Tanzania in October
• Tanzania in November
• Tanzania in December
• Beaches of mainland Tanzania
• Northern Safari Circuit in Tanzania
• Serengeti to Ngorongoro Crater
• Zanzibar and the Indian Ocean Islands
• Hot air ballooning
• A Relaxing Safari in Tanzania
• Adventure Safari in Tanzania
• An Active Tanzania Adventure
• Big Five Safaris in Tanzania
• Birding Safari in Tanzania
• Photographic Safari in Tanzania
• Walking Safaris in Tanzania
• A Couple Safari in Tanzania
• Family Safaris in Tanzania
• Honeymoon in Tanzania
• LGBT Safaris in Tanzania
• Solo Travel in Tanzania
• A Budget Safari in Tanzania
• Affordable Safaris in Tanzania
• Luxury Safaris in Tanzania
• Culture in Tanzania
• Dining in Tanzania
• Emergencies in Tanzania
• Health Care in Tanzania
• Languages Spoken in Tanzania
• Lodges in Tanzania
• Money Tips in Tanzania
• Packing List for Tanzania
• Safety in Tanzania
• Shopping in Tanzania
• Tanzania Health Insurance
• Tanzania Visa Requirements
• Tanzania vs Kenya
• Tanzania vs Rwanda
• Travel Advice for Tanzania
• Travelling to Tanzania
• Vaccinations for Tanzania
• Welcome to Tanzania
• Where to go in Tanzania
• Why go to Tanzania
• Wildlife in Tanzania
• Tanzania Safari

Registered Members of these Organizations

USEFUL LINKS

• Safari Tours
• Accommodation
• Why Book with us?
• Content Collaborations
• Safari Cost Estimator Tool
• Wildebeest Migration
• Privacy Policy
• Website Terms of Use

POPULAR COUNTRIES

• View All Countries

POPULAR DESTINATIONS

• View All Destinations
• Cape Town Holidays
• Kruger National Park
• Etosha National Park
• Chobe National Park

TRAVEL BLOGS

• Travel News Digest, 26 April: Namibia Adds Visa-on-Arrival in Walvis Bay, Uganda Deforestation Concerns
• The Best of Kenyan Cuisine: 10 Dishes to Savour on your next Safari
• Norse Atlantic Adds New Direct Flight to Cape Town
• Travel News Digest, 19 April: SA Airports Celebrated, Rhino Poaching Concerns, Cape Town ‘Big Six’ Appeal
• FastJet Adds Surcharge to Vic Falls Route

OUR LOCATION

2nd floor, Tygervalley Chambers One, 27 Willie van Schoor Avenue, Bellville, Cape Town , 7530

• All Tailor Made Safaris
• Kruger National Park
• Okavango Delta
• Gorilla Trekking
• Safaris with Frank
• Republic of the Congo
• South Africa
• All Set Departures
• All Set Departures by Date
• Horse Safaris
• Photographic Safaris
• Unique Safaris
• Year-round Safaris
• Botswana Mobile Safaris
• Volunteering
• View all Destinations: Interactive Map
• Mobile Safaris
• Gorillas & Chimps
• Walking Safaris
• Horse Back Safaris
• All Training Courses
• All Training Courses by Date
• Professional Courses
• Short Courses
• Special Courses
• Training Camps
• Field Guide Training FAQ’s
• Accommodation
• When to Travel
• Frank’s Top 5

Who is Travelling

• First Time to Africa
• Specials & Promotions
• Cost of a Safari
• Travel Info
• Why Book with Us
• Sustainability
• Our Partners
• Give Power to Ride 4 Woman
• Guest Reviews
• Price Guarantee

Tailor Made Safaris

Popular safaris, east & central africa, southern africa, set departures, top destinations, indian ocean islands, southern tanzania, "wild and remote with fewer travellers than northern tanzania and an equally impressive experience".

Why we like it

• The wild side of Tanzania where tourists are few but wildlife is plentiful.
• A last stronghold to a populations of African painted wolf, an iconic African predator.
• World-class biodiversity is protected in southern Tanzania’s Parks and Game Reserve.
• Offers incredible walking safaris and fly-camping for authentic experiences.

The southern part of Tanzania is ideal for those seeking to experience the wilderness away from the tourist crowds of the north. Not to be dismissed the south offers totally different landscapes, great wildlife viewing and a host of other fantastic attractions- a safari here is of world-class standard!

Southern Tanzania encompasses the Ruaha, Mikumi and Udzungwa Mountain National parks and the Selous Game Reserve. Each of these wilderness areas contains large amounts of biodiversity and has vastly different attractions from one another.

Ruaha National Park

The largest National Park in all of East Africa, Ruaha is the hidden gem of Tanzania and has many fewer visitors than the parks in the north. Ruaha offers incredible game viewing and an untouched wilderness waiting to be explored. In the dry season, the wildlife is forced to drink from the Ruaha river making for high-density, action-packed game viewing. Ruaha is one of the best places to view lions in Africa with exceptionally large lion prides found here, prides often exceed 20 members. A multi-day walking safari along the Ruaha River is not for the faint-hearted but is also an incredible experience not to be missed by the adventurous!

Selous Game Reserve

The Selous is Africa’s largest and oldest Game Reserve and is famous for being one of the last strongholds for the endangered African painted wolf (African wild dog). The reserve is utterly stunning and offers one of the most diverse safari experiences of any park in Tanzania with a variety of different activities on offer. You may find yourself exploring the Selous on walking safaris, boating, game drives or by fly-camping, a popular activity where you get in touch with nature and stay in intimate temporary camps in the bush. Best of all is that the Selous’ 54,600 km2 square kilometres of protected land are graced with very few tourists. Visitors enjoy vast tracts of pure wilderness where wildlife thrives and humans are few and far between.

Mikumi National Park

Mikumi is the most accessible National Park from the major city of Dar-Es-Salaam. It is a popular destination for those seeking short weekend trips to see wildlife. Small and scenic Mikumi borders the Selous Game Reserve and thus is the most accessible part of a huge 54,600 km2 tract of wilderness which wildlife can freely move across.

Udzungwa Mountain National Park

This park holds the second largest biodiversity of any National Park in Africa with many endemic species including two primates which occur only here; the Iringa red colobus and the Sanje crested mangabey. Tourism here revolves around hiking as the park has no roads so it is only accessible on foot, partake in a guided hike.

7-Day Honeymooner’s Rendezvous

7-Night Chimps Forever Safari in Tanzania

8-Night Immersive Tanzania: Serengeti to Ruaha

Kenya & Tanzania Combined Safari

High-end Southern Tanzania Safari

Affordable Southern Tanzania Safari

Experience Ruaha Safari

Predators & Paradise Safari

Places to stay

Related accommodation.

Usangu Expedition Camp

Jabali Ridge

Jabali Private House

Roho ya Selous

Kwihala Camp

Siwandu Camp

Hotel Slipway

Selous Impala Camp

Lake Manze Camp

Mwagusi Camp

Kichaka Expeditions

Sand Rivers Selous

Kigelia Ruaha

Ikuka Safari Camp

Adventures in southern tanzania.

Mobile Camping & Walking in Ruaha NP, Tanzania

Fly Camping in Katavi & Selous

Ready for an adventure lets talk.

Contact SAFARI FRANK to get started on your safari of a lifetime!

Our partners in Africa will make your dream trip, a trip to never forget

[email protected] +61 (2) 6685 6868

Developed by Viewport / WordPress Guys

Quick Links

• COVID SAFE Safaris
• How much does a safari cost?
• Specials and Promotions
• GivePower to Ride 4 a Woman
• The Wildebeest Migration
• The Okavango Delta
• Safari Frank UK
• Safari Frank AU

Our Safaris

• All Safaris
• Set Departure Safaris
• Safari Trip Ideas
• Horseback Safaris
• Selfdrive Safaris
• Couples and Honeymooners
• Family Safari
• Group of Friends
• Solo Travellers

Destinations

Newsletter signup, enquire now.

" * " indicates required fields

Privacy Overview

• Client Reviews
• Safari Blog
• Send an Inquiry
• Map of Africa
• Contact Details
• African Safari Cost
• Travel Insurance
• You are here 
• The Budget Safari Blog
• Why South Tanzania Safaris…

Why South Tanzania Safaris are Some of the Best in Africa

Posted by Landia Davies on October 20 2023 in OLD East African Safaris Enquire Now!

Are South Tanzania Safaris really some of the best safaris in Africa? We say yes! From Ruaha to Nyerere and beyond, the less-visited south of Tanzania offers unique and truly wild African safari experiences. Below we unpack why we rate a southern Tanzania safari as one of the best in Africa.

Before we dive in, here's a quick explanation of Tanzania's safari regions (known as circuits). This will give you a broad idea of where you can go on safari in Tanzania.

Tanzania Safari Circuits - North & South 

Tanzania's safari destinations are split into the Northern and Southern safari circuits. Both the northern and southern parks are incredible places to experience the African wilderness and its rich wildlife.

Two of East Africa's most famous safari destinations - the Serengeti National Park and Ngorongoro Crater - form part of Tanzania's Northern Safari Circuit . The Northern Safari Circuit is hugely popular and world-renowned for the Great Migration which takes place annually between Serengeti Park and Masai Mara, just across the border in southern Kenya. In addition to Serengeti Park and Ngorongoro Conservation Area, the Northern Safari Circuit includes Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara National Park and Mount Kilimanjaro.

The Southern Safari Circuit of Tanzania, on the other hand, features more off-the-beaten-track safari destinations. These are the wilder, less-explored parks of Tanzania. Ruaha National Park and Nyerere Game Reserve  (Selous) are two of the most sought-after gems in south Tanzania. The 'best-kept safari secrets' of Tanzania, these parks are on the bucket lists of many seasoned safari-goers. The Southern Tanzania Safari Circuit includes Mikumi National Park, Udzungwa Mountains National Park, Mahale National Park, and Katavi National Park, as well as Ruaha National Park and Selous Game Reserve. And, we say, this region (south Tanzania) offers some of the best safaris in Africa.

7 Reasons Why South Tanzania Safaris are Among the Best in Africa

Here's why South Tanzania Safaris are among the best safaris in Africa. Especially for travellers in search of a truly wild African safari adventure.

1) South Tanzania is Uncrowded

Southern Tanzania is far less crowded than the Northern Safari Circuit. There are considerably fewer tourists than in the famous northern parks, especially Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. So, you won't encounter as many other vehicles and visitors out in the bush on your game drives and walks. Unlike more famous African safari destinations in Southern and East Africa, in Southern Tanzania, you get to escape the crowds.

On South Tanzania Safaris, you won't be jostling for space at wildlife sightings or getting stuck in traffic jams.

In the south, you'll enjoy a more exclusive safari adventure. Not only are there fewer people and vehicles in the parks but also at the lodges and safari camps. The further west you go in south Tanzania the more isolated the wilderness areas become. You can look forward to undisturbed wild landscapes with a deserted feel in the more remote southern parks.

2) South Tanzania is Wilder than the North

The parks in southern Tanzania are known for their undisturbed wilderness and raw beauty. This part of Tanzania is ideal for intrepid explorers and nature lovers wanting to experience pure, untamed Africa.

Most of the camps are small and intimate offering a rustic getaway 'in the middle of nowhere'. If you're looking for a real African bush adventure in untrammelled lands then south Tanzania is perfect for you.

3) HUGE Wildlife Areas in South Tanzania

South Tanzania features some of the largest protected areas in Africa. Selous, renamed Nyere National Park, is the largest game reserve on the continent - four times the size of Serengeti National Park and larger than Switzerland. Ruaha is another awe-inspiringly vast southern Tanzania park covering 20 226 km². It is not only the largest national park in Tanzania but the whole of East Africa. 

4) Cheaper Parks and Lodges in Southern Tanzania

Southern Tanzania's national parks have lower entry fees than the northern parks, except Mahale. Entry fees for the southern parks are currently half that of the northern parks.

At present, entry fees for the southern parks of Katavi, Mikumi, Ruaha, Kitulo, and Udzungwa are $30 per adult and $10 per child (per day) compared with the $60 per adult and $20 per child for Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

South Tanzania also boasts excellent value-for-money camps and lodges that offer a similar safari experience to northern Tanzania for less.

5) Diverse Wildlife on South Tanzania Safaris

Southern Tanzania's parks host an impressive variety of wildlife. This is where East African and Southern African eco-regions meet so there's an unusual and interesting mix of species. South Tanzania safaris also offer excellent predator sightings and some of the parks are primate hotspots.

6) The Exciting Variety of Activities

South Tanzania Safaris offers a wider range of activities than safaris to the north. The national parks of the south are not as regulated and the private game reserves can offer safari activities that national parks are unable to. Hence, in Southern Tanzania you can do night game drives, walking safaris, and game-viewing boat trips.

You can also embark on game drives and hot air balloon trips as in the northern parks. Plus, in the south of Tanzania, you'll be able to sleep out under the stars on bush camping trips. 

7) South Tanzania's Primates & Forest Habitats

In the mountainous Mahale and Udzungwa parks of southern Tanzania, you'll find primates (including endemics) and all kinds of forest species. You can even go chimpanzee trekking in the Mahale Mountains.

Now that you have the pros let's cover the cons of heading south on safari in Tanzania.

5 Drawbacks of South Tanzania Safaris

1. The main drawback of South Tanzania Safaris is the lower concentrations of wildlife you'll encounter. Although there are huge wildlife populations in the southern parks of Tanzania, these areas are so vast that you will see fewer animals on safari.

2. A second major downside of South Tanzania Safaris  is that some of the parks are very remote. Visiting the secluded southern safari destinations will entail either long drives on often bumpy roads or bush flights in light aircraft which add to the cost of your safari. The western parks are not accessible by road, like Mahale National Park which can only be reached by boat or small plane.

3. Seasonality is an issue. During the wet season, many of the safari lodges and camps shut shop. Many roads become inaccessible and conditions wet and unpleasant.

4. The south of Tanzania is not Big 5 animal country. You are likely to see buffalos, lions, elephants, and even leopards on a safari but not rhinos. 

5. Poaching is a serious problem in southern Tanzania, especially in Selous which is also under major threat by the large-scale hydroelectric dam project currently being implemented in the heart of the reserve. 

South Tanzania's Best Safari Destinations

If you're thinking of doing a South Tanzania Safari there are several incredible national parks and game reserves to choose from: 

• Nyerere Game Reserve
• Ruaha National Park
• Mikumi National Park
• Udzungwa Mountains National Park
• Mahale National Park  
• Katavi National Park

1) Selous Game Reserve now Nyerere National Park

The largest game reserve in Africa, Nyerere National Park covers over 51 000 km². That makes Nyerere more than three times the size of the Serengeti National Park and larger than Switzerland which has an area of 41 285 km². Most of the reserve is unfortunately set aside for trophy hunting, but the northern section which is open to the public is purely used for photographic and wildlife viewing safaris. (Please note that African Budget Safaris only offers game viewing safaris to the northern area of Nyerere as we do not endorse or support hunting).

Nyerere National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site designated in 1982 for its outstanding diversity and vast unspoiled wilderness. UNESCO recognizes the outstanding value of Nyerere as "one of the largest remaining wilderness areas in Africa, with relatively undisturbed ecological and biological processes, including a diverse range of wildlife with significant predator/prey relationships". 

The Rufiji River and the lakes of Selous/Nyerere are the focal points of life in the reserve, supporting a diversity of animals, birds, and plants. Commonly sighted animals include crocodiles and large mammals such as elephants, buffalos, hippos, and Masai giraffes.

You may also see lions, packs of African wild dogs, cheetahs, and even leopards on Selous/Nyerere safaris. The reserve also hosts various antelopes, including bushbuck, duikers, eland, hartebeest, klipspringer, oryx, and impalas.

Selous Game Reserve / Nyerere National Park  offers diverse activities, allowing you to experience the bush and wildlife in exciting ways. Walking safaris are permitted in Nyerere National Park, lending itself to a unique safari experience. You can also take boat trips and stay at mobile bush camps in Selous due to its status as a game reserve.  

African Budget Safaris has some great Fly-in safaris, private departure safaris, and scheduled group safaris.

Nyerere Fly-in Safaris 

• 8-Day Private Fly-in Tanzania Safari to Nyerere & Ruaha National Park

Scheduled Departure Group Nyerere Safari 

• 6-Day Tanzania Safari to Mikumi & Nyerere National Park

9-Day Tanzania Safari to Nyerere, Mikumi & Ruaha National Park

Private Departure Nyerere Safari

• 3-Day Private Tanzania Safari in Nyerere National Park

9-Day Tanzania Private Safari to Southern National Parks

10-Day Tanzania Private Safari to Nyerere, Mikumi, Ruaha National Parks

You can view all our Budget Tanzania Safaris to Nyerere / Selous here.

2) Ruaha National Park

Ruaha Park is renowned for its predator populations. It's also a stronghold for elephants and the largest national park in Tanzania. The national park hosts a high diversity of animals and birds which gather along the Ruaha River after which the park is named.

Ruaha is home to more than 10% of the African lions remaining in the wild. Its cheetah population is one of only four sizeable populations, with over 200 adults, left in East Africa. The world's third-largest population of endangered African wild dogs is also found in Ruaha, making it one of the best places on the continent to see these rare carnivores. Leopards are regularly spotted in Ruaha which hosts healthy populations of this shy big cat. The national park also hosts large populations of spotted and striped hyenas.

Ruaha National Park  is also home to Tanzania's largest elephant population estimated at about 12 000 elephants. Despite a massive decline in elephant populations due to poaching, the Rungwa-Ruaha ecosystem still hosts the largest elephant population in East Africa. Ruaha is also known for its large buffalo herds.

Ruaha is located in a transitional zone where southern and east African biomes meet. It features open savannahs dotted with baobabs, palms, and acacias along with the Miombo woodlands typical of southern Africa. Due to its unique position, there are an unusually high variety of plant, bird, and animal species found here. Ruaha incorporates the southernmost range of Grant's gazelles and lesser kudus, as well as greater kudu and both sable and roan antelopes.

Ruaha National Park Fly-in Safaris 

Scheduled departure group ruaha safari , private departure ruaha safari.

7-Day Tanzania Private Safari to Mikumi & Ruaha National

See our  Budget Tanzania Safaris to Ruaha

3) Mikumi National Park

One of the most accessible parks on Tanzania's Southern Safari Circuit. Mikumi is about a six-and-a-half hour's drive from Dar es Salaam and is open year-round. The park is a popular stopover en route to Ruaha from Dar es Salaam and many of the longer Africa overland tours passing through Tanzania visit Mikumi National Park.

Tanzania’s fourth-largest national park, Mikumi borders Selous Game Reserve to the south forming part of the massive Selous Ecosystem. Mikumi is home to an abundance of wildlife with the Mkata Floodplains attracting a variety of herbivores and predators. The Mkata Plains are often likened to the Serengeti Plains with their acacia and baobab-studded savannah grasslands.

On safaris in Mikumi elephants, buffalos, wildebeest, zebras, giraffes, and various antelopes are commonly sighted. Mikumi's predators include lions, African wild dogs, jackals, hyenas, and leopards. Mikumi Park is also an important birding area, with over 400 bird species recorded. In Mikumi, walking safaris are allowed, along with game drives in open-sided vehicles.

Scheduled Departure Mikumi Group Safari 

Private Departure Mikumi Safari

• 3-Day Private Tanzania Safari in Mikumi National Park

4-Day Private Tanzania Safari to Mikumi & Udzungwas

View our  Southern Tanzania Safaris for tours that visit Mikumi.

4) Udzungwa Mountains National Park

A World Biodiversity Hotspot dubbed as the 'Galapagos of Africa'. Udzungwa Park is very different from the classical safari destinations of Tanzania, with their archetypal African savannahs and wildlife. In Udzungwa you'll experience lush forests and mountains as well as arid savannahs. As a top hiking destination, you'll get to see the diverse plants, animals, and birds up close on forest hikes.

The Udzungwas Mountains, part of the Eastern Arc Mountains, serve as an important haven for primate species. There are about 10 primate species found in Udzungwa, three of which are endemic to these mountains - the Iringa red colobus, the Matunda galago, and the Sanje crested mangabey. 

The Udzungwa Mountains National Park is only 1990 km² in size, yet incorporates incredibly diverse habitats and outstanding biodiversity. Over 2,500 plant species have also been recorded here, a quarter of which are endemic. Some 400 bird species including several endemics are found in Udzungwa which is one of Africa's Important Bird Areas (IBA). Baboons, monkeys, butterflies, other insects, amphibians, small mammals, and reptiles inhabit this exceptional park. Hikes to Sanje Waterfalls, the highest waterfall in the Udzungwa Mountains, are a popular activity.

Private Departure Udzungwas Safari

5) Mahale National Park  

Mahale is the best place in Africa to go chimpanzee trekking. It also happens to be incredibly scenic. Forest-covered mountains line the shores of Lake Tanganyika in Mahale National Park with Mount Nkungwe rising up in the distance.

Home to 1700 habituated chimpanzees Mahale is the ultimate place to get up close to these primates in the wild. In addition to chimpanzees, the tropical forests of the Mahale Mountains host the densest population of primates in Tanzania including baboons and various monkeys. Other animals found here range from often-spotted warthogs and antelopes such as roan and sable, to rarely-seen elephants and lions.

Activities include kayaking and sunset boat cruises on Lake Tanganyika, as well as hiking and camping with armed rangers. Mahale can only be accessed by small plane or boat which makes getting to the park expensive. There are only a small handful of lodges in this very remote part of western Tanzania.

6) Katavi National Park

Katavi is a truly remote and untouched wilderness area. Only a small handful of intrepid travellers make it to this wild southern Tanzanian park. Due to its inaccessible location flights to Katavi Park are expensive and accommodation options are not cheap. The third-largest national park in Tanzania, Katavi covers 4471km² yet only features a few small safari camps.

Out on the expansive plains of Katavi, you are likely to see plenty of game, including three of the Big Five (lions, buffalos, and elephants) and possibly the fourth (leopards).

Large hippo pods and giant crocodiles are other wildlife highlights in Katavi. What really makes Katavi special is how secluded and unspoiled its wilderness remains.

Best Africa Budget Safari Tours to Southern Tanzania

• Private Tanzania Safari to Southern Game Parks
• South Tanzania Safari to Nyerere, Ruaha, Mikumi & Udzungwas
• Southern Tanzania Fly-in Safari to Selous and Ruaha
• Southern Tanzania Private Safari to Mikumi & Ruaha Parks
• Southern Tanzania Safari to Mikumi & Udzungwas

North vs. South Tanzania Safaris

+ On Tanzania's Northern Safari Circuit , you'll see more animals, but you'll also see a lot more people. In the south, you'll encounter far fewer other vehicles on your game drives and enjoy a more exclusive African safari experience at intimate safari camps with fewer guests.

- The downside is that you won't see the high concentrations of wildlife that you would in the northern Tanzanian parks. You may see herds of wildebeest but you won't witness the Great Migration on safari in southern Tanzania.

+ On South Tanzania Safaris open-sided safari vehicles are used, whereas closed vehicles are used for safaris in the northern parks. Game drives in open-sided vehicles offer a more immersive bush experience with unobstructed views for wildlife photography. 

- The south of Tanzania is not a Big Five hotspot whilst the north is a Big Five haven. You won't see rhinos in southern Tanzania as none are remaining in Ruaha or the part of Selous that is open to photographic safaris. If you have your heart set on seeing all five of Africa's most iconic animals then a safari to Ngorongoro Crater or Serengeti in the north is best.

+ On South Tanzania Safaris you can enjoy a wider range of activities than in the northern parks. In the south options include guided walking safaris which enable you to get up close to the bush and its wild inhabitants. In the north, walking safaris are less common and only permitted in certain parts of Serengeti and Tarangire.

On Tanzania's Southern Safari Circuit, you can also embark on night game drives and wildlife-viewing boat trips on the lakes and rivers of the parks. In Ruaha and Selous bush camping (fly camping) is also allowed at mobile tented campsites inside the reserves.

North vs. South Tanzania Safari Costs

How do southern Tanzania safari prices compare with northern Tanzania safari prices? 

In the past, northern Tanzania safari packages  typically cost less than Southern Tanzania Safaris given the greater travel distances involved in flying to the less accessible southern parks. However, several of the southern parks can be reached by road and there are more and more guided overland (driving) safaris available at competitive prices. Also, the entry fees for the southern parks are lower and several lodges in the south offer similar levels of comfort at lower prices than the northern options. 

More Tanzania budget safari operators are now offering well-priced, private small-group safaris in southern Tanzania. These budget South Tanzania Safaris make the south an affordable option. To find out more about the cost of Tanzania Safaris see:  How much does it cost to go on safari in Tanzania?  

Or, talk to an African Budget Safaris pro  to find the best value-for-money safaris in Tanzania.

Best Time to Safari in Tanzania

The best time for wildlife safaris in Tanzania (both north and south) is from June to October.

Most visitors flock to the Great Wildebeest Migration  to catch the herds of wildebeest, gazelles, zebras and other herbivores taking their annual journey in search of greener pastures. The most popular time to see the Great Migration in northern Tanzania is in June and July, especially for the Grumeti and Mara River crossings. You can, however, view the Great Migration at other times in different parts of the Serengeti because the herds migrate in a large circular route from November to July.

• Browse our budget Tanzania Safaris to the Northern Safari Circuit  to compare prices and options.

Travel Tip: Aim for the shoulder seasons to avoid the crowds up north or head south during the high season.

Best Time for South Tanzania Safaris

For the best wildlife viewing go between june and october. to dodge the crowds: any time except april and may when it's too wet. .

The best time to go on safari in southern Tanzania is during the winter months. This is the dry season when temperatures are cooler and rainfall is minimal. This is the best time to visit southern Tanzania's parks because wildlife viewing is at its best. In the dry season, the animals congregate along the rivers and the bush thins out which makes it easier to see the animals.

The dry season is also the peak tourist season in Tanzania and in the high season, the safari and lodge prices go up and the famous parks get very crowded. Thus the real reward of traveling to southern Tanzania in the dry season is escaping the crowds of people visiting the northern parks at this time. 

Note: During the wet season, many of the roads become muddy and impassable in southern Tanzania. As a result, many of the safari camps and lodges close during the wet months of the low season, especially during the long rains (March to May). If you decide to travel during the low season be prepared for wet conditions. Although it's hot and humid, January to March is a great time for bird-watching down south.

Getting to Southern Tanzania's Parks

The best place to start a Southern Tanzania Safari is to fly to Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR), servicing Dar es Salaam. From there you can either drive or fly to the Southern Safari Circuit.

The easiest way to get to Selous and Ruaha is to fly from Dar es Salaam. There are daily flights to both parks from Dar es Salaam and other travel hubs like Arusha in northern Tanzania. Most safari packages include flights to the southern parks and/or in between wildlife destinations.

Selous is the easiest southern park to drive to from Dar es Salaam with the completion of the new road between the reserve and the city. The drive from Dar to Selous now only takes four hours. 

Mikumi Park is a full day's drive from Dar es Salaam, taking about six-and-a-half hours. Although Mikumi is one of the closest parks to the city the drive takes a long time because the road is a busy single lane (not a dual carriage-way) for most of the way. The road also passes through numerous villages with strict speeding limits which adds to your travel time. Mikumi is often visited en route to Ruaha as a mid-way stopover to break the long journey. From Mikumi, Ruaha is about another five-hour drive.

If you plan on starting your safari from Dar es Salaam, see our upcoming tours departing from Dar es Salaam . These safaris starting and ending in Arusha enable you to catch a flight to the Southern Safari Circuit, after visiting the Northern Safari Circuit.

Getting to the westernmost parks of Katavi and Mahale entails catching one of the bi-weekly flights from Dar es Salaam or Arusha. The flights are expensive because these are the most remote parks. 

A Recent African Budget Safaris Review of a South Tanzania Safari 

African Budget Safaris recently received this 5-star review from a very happy client who booked one of our South Tanzania Safaris .

For more details about the fly-in safari reviewed above  contact African Budget Safaris .

Ready for a South Tanzania Safari Adventure?

In a nutshell, that's why African Budget Safaris ranks  South Tanzania Safaris  amongst the best safaris in Africa. It is also why we highly recommend safaris to the lesser-known wilderness areas in Southern Tanzania.

And, we're not the only ones. Safari-goer Harrison Jacobs shared our sentiments on Business Insider  after taking a Tanzania Safari with African Budget Safaris.

The uncrowded and more remote destinations of the south offer adventurous travellers the best safari in Tanzania, whether it's your first African safari or you're a seasoned safari-goer. That said, for the ultimate African safari, you can easily combine northern and southern Tanzania if time and budget allow.

Talk to one of our safari experts to find the best safaris in Africa (for your needs) or to have us tailor-make a private safari just for you.

If you're searching for an affordable safari in Tanzania that delivers value for money and excellent quality you'll find some of the  best safari deals in Tanzania here .

If you liked this post, these trips cover similar ground…

• 9 Day Tanzania Private Safari to Southern National Parks
• 10 Day Tanzania Private Safari to Nyerere, Mikumi, Ruaha & Udzungwa
• 8 Day Private Tanzania Safari to Nyerere & Ruaha (Fly-in Tour)
• 7 Day Tanzania Private Safari to Mikumi & Ruaha National Park
• 4 Day Private Tanzania Safari to Mikumi & Udzungwas

About the Author

Landia davies content manager & sculptor.

Places Mentioned in this Post

1. Ruaha National Park, Iringa, Tanzania

2. Tanzania

3. Udzungwa Mountains National Park, Kidayi, Tanzania

4. Mikumi National Park, A7, Tanzania

Similar & Related Blog Posts

Below you’ll find further reading and articles related or similar to this post.

How much does a Tanzania Safari cost? (the costs explained and top budget-saving tips)

Landia Davies | August 14 2019

When is the best time to take a budget Serengeti Safari in Tanzania?

Landia Davies | December 18 2020

Is the best African country for safaris Kenya or Tanzania?

Andrew Hofmeyr | May 22 2019

What makes a Great Migration Safari in Tanzania so remarkable?

Claire Monson | July 02 2019

6 Best Tanzania Safari Parks to See the Big 5 of Africa

Landia Davies | October 19 2021

Southern Africa vs East Africa Safaris - how to choose?

Lizzie Williams | June 27 2019

A Tanzania Safari and Zanzibar Holiday - one of the best African trips!

Daniel De Lapelin Dumont | October 08 2015

East African Safari Bucket List: Best Things to Do in East Africa

Briony Chisholm | May 07 2015

How to See the Best of the Great Migration in Africa: All you need to know

Briony Chisholm | July 25 2018

The perks of doing an East African safari in the Green or Low Season?

Landia Davies | September 04 2018

11 Best Places to See Elephants in Africa (in the wild)

Landia Davies | January 30 2020

Where to Experience the Best Tanzania Safari Tours and Packages

Landia Davies | January 15 2021

Private Group?

A private, tailor-made safari is within your reach. Experience all of your bucket-list safari related items on a budget now.

Lets View Tanzania

Safari in Tanzania and kilimanjaro Trekking.

Southern Tanzania Safari

Southern Tanzania Safari  offers the most authentic wildlife safaris in Tanzania, while presenting the best chance for the rare safari extras that one may miss in the Northern Tanzania Circuit.

Our Southern Tanzania safari  involves visits to the  Southern Tanzania parks and reserves ; including  Selous  (now known as  Nyerere National Park ),  Mikumi , and  Ruaha National Parks .  These parks and reserves in Southern Tanzania offers the quintessential traveller amazing wildlife expeditions in un spoilt vast stretches of savannah grasslands land and woodlands. Together this makes up thousands of acres of natural habitat ideal home for large and small wild game.

Southern Tanzania  boasts of rivers and lakes that not only keep the wildlife alive but, but the water bodies are home to thousands of aquatic birds, fish (common and rare) as well as animals like hippos and crocodiles. These rivers and lakes are center stages for the best boat safari experiences in Tanzania and East Africa at large.

Another less travelled is the beautiful, lush green  Udzungwa Mountains National Park , often referred as the galapagos of Africa. The park offers the best hiking that is rewarded by the sights of rare animals and birds some endemic to these forests , as well as beautiful water falls.

We at  Safari Desire  plan and execute the best authentic Tanzania safari tours from our Arusha and Dar es Salaam offices. Our best strength is attention to detail and flexibility. Give us the opportunity to serve you and we promise an unforgettable African safari adventure!

How to get around on a Southern Circuit Safari?

Selous Game Reserve  and  Ruaha National Park  in the south are accessible by daily scheduled light aircraft flights from Dar es Salaam, which makes it very easy to arrange safaris of any duration in these parks and also to combine them with a beach element on either the mainland coast or  Zanzibar .

The west of Tanzania is more remote, both geographically and logistically – there are flights only twice a week from Ruaha and Arusha in the north, and these flights are expensive!  Reaching the far west can cost over $1,000 per person.  Parks here include  Katavi  and  Mahale

BEST NATIONAL PARKS IN SOUTHERN TANZANIA

Selous (nyerere national park.

The most famous of the southern Tanzania safari destinations has to be the Selous Game Reserve that whose largest area has been recently gazetted to form Nyerere National Park . Before the gazettement Selous has always been the largest game reserve in Africa with an area larger than the size of Switzerland.

Nyerere National Park as it is known now, offers pristine wilderness; a combination of wide plains, forests and woodlands that is home to thousands of large and small animals as well as over 4400 birds species.

Lakes like Tagalala, Mzizima, Siwandu, Manze, and Nzelekela and other small lakes are perfect spots to do sport fishing, as well as boat safaris.

Mikumi National Park

Not the largest of parks, but  Mikumi National Park  is the most visited park in the Southern Tanzania Safari Circuit, by tourists that start their safari from Dar es Salaam but also from Zanzibar Island.  Mikumi National Park  is located 280 Km southwest of Dar es Salaam city; a 6 hours drive from the commercial city.

The park is located in the middle of the  Uluguru Mountains  and the Lumango range that gives the park some beautiful sights of the scenery around, as you comb the wilderness in search of the thousands of wild animals that call this park home.

In Mikumi you expect to see most of the big and small game including, elephants, lions, buffaloes, zebras, impalas, gazelles, warthogs and many more.

Ruaha National Park

The largest national park in surface area,  the Ruaha National Park  is located some 320 Km (approx. 200 Miles) away from Dar es Salaam; the commercial capital of Tanzania. Most safari tours from Dar es Salaam to Ruaha National Parks have stops at Mikumi National Park or Udzungwa National Park; a park that is also located in  the Southern Tanzania Safari Circuit .

Ruaha National Park can still be toured individually but that is best done as a fly in / fly out  Tanzania safari . The park is probably the most remote park and with the long distances from Dar es Salaam and few flights that operate from Arusha; Ruaha is the one of the least visited among Tanzania’s wildlife parks

3 Days Mikumi safari starting from Zanzibar Island

6 days Nyerere National Park sport fishing

1 Day mikumi national park tour

3 Days Ruaha National Park

Southern Serengeti scenic flight

8-day Fly in safari in Southern Tanzania visiting Selous & Ruaha

6 Days Ruaha, Mikumi and Udzungwa Safari

3 Days fly-in Ruaha safari from Zanzibar or Dar es Salaam

3 Days Mahale National Park Safari

2 Days Ruaha National Park

3 Day Safari Nyerere National Park Tanzania

Hot air Balloon Safari Ruaha National Park

Kilimanjaro Climbing and Tanzanian Safaris with Lets View Tanzania

Any questions related to Southern Tanzania Safari?

How can we help you?

🟢 Online | Privacy policy

• You are here:

Best Southern Circuit Safaris In Tanzania

Sue is an award-winning writer who specializes in African travel and conservation. She writes for national newspapers, magazines, Rough Guides and Lonely Planet.

Discovering Southern Circuit Safaris in Tanzania: Ruaha National Park and Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous). Tanzania has just about everything you could wish for in an African safari holiday. Safaribookings, the largest online safari marketplace for safari tours, has declared it Africa’s best safari destination following a thorough analysis of reviews from travellers and experts alike.

Most visitors travel to what is known as the Northern Circuit. This includes the dramatic Ngorongoro Crater , home to around 30,000 animals. Another popular destination is the vast Serengeti with its world-renowned Great Wildebeest Migration. Also high on the list are the exceptionally pretty Lake Manyara and Tarangire National Parks.

As wonderful as these popular places are, Tanzania has much more to offer than these well-known hotspots. If you want to escape the crowds, head to the country’s little-visited yet stunning and wildlife-rich Southern Circuit.

Southern Circuit Tours

A Tanzania Safari in the Southern Circuit

Safaris in Tanzania’s Southern Circuit focus on two main destinations: Ruaha National Park and Nyerere National Park . Although both are quite remote, they are easily accessed by bush flights from Dar es Salaam to airstrips within the two reserves.

Competing against Serengeti’s wildebeest migration and Ngorongoro’s throngs of animals, the Southern Circuit may lack some of the kudos of its Northern counterpart, but it lacks none of the beauty. And the wildlife, although not always as easy to spot, is even more diverse and rewarding.

Ruaha and Nyerere are not yet on the mainstream tourist radar, having only a handful of lodges between them. What they have in abundance, however, is a true sense of wilderness, of raw and untamed Africa. The Southern Circuit offers a very different - but equally as fascinating - Tanzania safari.

Ruaha National Park

Spanning over 20,000 square kilometres, Ruaha is Tanzania’s second-largest national park. This vast tract of bush, about the size of New Jersey, is home to ten percent of Africa’s lions and East Africa’s highest population of elephants.

They’ve chosen a beautiful home. Skinny palm trees and bulbous baobabs dot the landscape bordered by distant hills and granite outcrops or kopjes. The Ruaha River is the heart of the park. Tumbling across rocky boulders in the wet season and transforming into a broad sand river when it’s dry, it’s a magnet for the wildlife.

Ruaha’s Wildlife

Ruaha is located on something of a transition zone where East Africa meets the south. As a result, the wildlife here is particularly varied – on game drives and walking safaris, you’ll see greater kudu with their vast spiralling horns, or perhaps roan and sable, all handsome antelopes. The birdlife too is immensely diverse with over 580 species recorded.

Despite its scale, Ruaha National Park is one of the best places in Africa to see rare and elusive packs of wild dog, quirky carnivores with strange saucer-shaped ears and distinctively patterned coats of brown, black and white. Leopards are regularly spotted, either resting in the trees during the day or prowling the plains at night. Look out for large prides of lions too, particularly around the Mwagusi and Mdonya Rivers.

54 Ruaha National Park Tours 54 Ruaha Tours

Nyerere National Park

Nyerere National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is Tanzania’s largest national park: spanning some 30,000 km 2 . However, only a fraction is accessible to photographic safaris.

But don’t let this put you off. The Selous is a magical place of lush landscapes dominated by the river and a chain of lakes that make for excellent wildlife watching. As a reserve rather than a national park, it allows walking safaris, boat trips and fly-camping, all contributing to that special sense of discovery and a true wilderness experience.

Discovering Nyerere's Wildlife

One of the best areas for wildlife is around Lakes Manze and Nzerakera to the east of the reserve. On boat trips, make sure you don’t dip your hand in the water – these lakes are home to hundreds of crocodiles which make for fascinating viewing as you sip your sundowner cocktails. Lions wait for prey to come to drink, hippos harrumph and hide underwater and all kinds of aquatic birds gather on the lake shore.

Walks around the reserve reveal the smaller creatures of the bush, such as the bugs and birds that you never really get to see in a vehicle. And on game drives, you’ll see plenty of larger creatures too. As with Ruaha, it’s one of the places where you might just spot the rare and elusive wild dogs, often in packs of over 20. Elephants were once prolific until poaching intervened, but look out for babies among the herds, a sure sign that the pachyderms are feeling more settled now. And giraffes are abundant here – they seem to be browsing around every corner.

218 Selous Game Reserve Tours

Ready to Book Your Southern Circuit Safari Tour?

One thing you won’t encounter in Ruaha National Park or Selous Game Reserve is crowds of fellow travellers. Both destinations have just a few lodges and camps scattered around the parks, ranging from contemporary luxury to simply rustic. They are all relatively small and intimate, enhancing that wild off-the-beaten-track vibe that Tanzania’s Southern Circuit is all about.

Find a fascinating safari tour to Ruaha and Selous in Tanzania’s Southern Circuit on Safaribookings.com.

About SafariBookings

SafariBookings is the largest online marketplace for African safari tours. Easily compare offers from top-rated tour operators. Make decisions like a pro by using our 103,621 reviews and 223 destination guides. More About Us

• Country Overview
• Parks & Reserves
• Popular Routes
• Tour Operators

Tanzania Safaris

6-Day Majestic Tanzania - Mid-Range

$2,650 to $3,340 pp (USD)

12-Day Amazing Mid-Range Safari and Beach Holiday

$3,354 pp (USD)

11-Day Serengeti and Zanzibar Safari

$3,905 pp (USD)

Tanzania Safaris by Type

• Chimp Tours
• Budget Safaris
• Luxury Safaris
• Family Safaris
• Camping Safaris
• Private Safaris
• Group Safaris
• Fly-in Safaris
• 7-Day Safaris
• 10-Day Safaris
• 14-Day Safaris

Best Time To Visit Tanzania

Parks & reserves tanzania.

Ngorongoro Crater

Serengeti National Park

Gombe National Park

Photo gallery tanzania.

Map of Tanzania

Most Popular Blog Posts

• Best Time for African Safari
• Best Safari in South Africa
• Family Safari in South Africa
• African Safari Tips
• Game Reserves Near Cape Town
• What to Pack for a Safari
• Best African Safari Parks
• Top 5 Best African Honeymoon Safaris
• Top 5 Best Tanzania Family Safaris
• Best Places to See Cheetahs in Africa
• How Much Does an African Safari Cost?
• Best Places To Visit In Africa in 2024

Blog Categories

Safari tours to tanzania.

Tanzania: Private tour Mid-range Lodge & Tented Camp

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Tarangire NP, Lake Manyara NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Arusha (End)

Unlimited Expeditions: The Soul of Tanzania   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

4.9 /5  –  439 Reviews

You Visit: Moshi (Start) , Arusha (City) , Tarangire NP, Lake Manyara NP, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Stone Town (Zanzibar) , Nungwi (Zanzibar) , Zanzibar (End)

Serengeti Smile   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

5.0 /5  –  209 Reviews

You Visit: Arusha (Start) , Foothills of Mt Kilimanjaro, Tarangire NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti NP, Zanzibar (End)

Safari Soles   Tour operator has an office in Tanzania

5.0 /5  –  246 Reviews

• destinations
• experiences

• Ngorongoro Crater
• Lake Manyara
• Great Migration
• Kilimanjaro
• Mainland Coast

Southern Tanzania Safari

• South and West Tanzania

Map of South and West Tanzania

Why go on a Southern Tanzania Safari? 

How to get around on a southern circuit safari, we don't just know tanzania , where to stay, some of our favourites, talk to one of our experts, map of tanzania.

• Mt. Kilimanjaro

south & west

BEACHES / ISLES

THREE WAYS TO PLAN AND BOOK YOUR SAFARI WITH AFRICANMECCA

TRAVEL & OPERATIONS OFFICES

• United States
• United Kingdom

• Best South Tour

Learn More On AfricanMecca Safari Tier Ratings & Experiences

1. Tier 1 Premier - Best Of Southern Tanzania Safari From Dar es Salaam Or Zanzibar 2. Tier 2 Deluxe - Best Of Southern Tanzania Safari From Dar es Salaam Or Zanzibar 3. Tier 3 Value - Best Of Southern Tanzania Safari From Dar es Salaam Or Zanzibar

1. Tier 1 Premier - Best Of Southern Tanzania Safari From Serengeti 2. Tier 2 Deluxe - Best Of Southern Tanzania Safari From Serengeti 3. Tier 3 Value - Best Of Southern Tanzania Safari From Serengeti

View Itinerary +

Premier tier 1 - best of southern tanzania safari from dar es salaam or zanzibar.

• Nyerere National Park (Selous) - 3 nights at Roho Ya Selous
• Ruaha National Park - 3 nights at Jabali Ridge

DELUXE TIER 2 - BEST OF SOUTHERN TANZANIA SAFARI FROM DAR ES SALAAM OR ZANZIBAR

• Nyerere National Park (Selous) - 3 nights at Serena Mivumo River Lodge
• Ruaha National Park - 3 nights at Kigelia Camp

VALUE TIER 3 - BEST OF SOUTHERN TANZANIA SAFARI FROM DAR ES SALAAM OR ZANZIBAR

• Nyerere National Park (Selous) - 3 nights at Lake Manze Tented Camp
• Ruaha National Park - 3 nights at Mdonya Old River Camp

TIER 1 - BEST OF SOUTHERN TANZANIA SAFARI FROM SERENGETI

TIER 2 - BEST OF SOUTHERN TANZANIA SAFARI FROM SERENGETI

TIER 3 - BEST OF SOUTHERN TANZANIA SAFARI FROM SERENGETI

2 destination experiences for best of southern tanzania safari.

• Nyerere (Selous) - Experience one of Africa's largest park, offbeat wilderness and UNESCO World Heritage Site with beautiful lakes and rivers. View big cats, wild dogs, large herbivore mammals on boating safaris, day game drives and bush walks
• Ruaha - The park hosts 10% of the world’s lion population, contrasting scenery, big cats, engaging predator-prey interactions, isolated wilderness - away from mass tourism, 570 bird species, superb biodiversity for bush walks, day and night game drives

Tour Experiences For Best Of Southern Tanzania Safari

• Expert Tour Guide & 4x4 Vehicle: Seat-in game viewing services will be provided by an expert and experienced safari guide in a shared 4x4 vehicle for the full duration of your tour
• Logistical Transfers : You will be transferred in scheduled charter flight. A total of 3 scenic safari flights are included to save time for fast and convenient access to or from the wilderness e.g. the one-way scheduled charter flight from the remote Serengeti airstrip to Ruaha will save you two days of driving time
• Trip Theme: Wildlife & Nature, Active Adventure, Culture & History
• Trip Suitability: Couple, Family Friendly, Honeymooners, Solo
• Start Date Flexibility: You can start this tour on any day you prefer
• Customization Options: You can tailor-make this tour to add additional destinations in Africa, extra nights stays, make logistical changes, accommodation swaps, add-on activities etc.
• Traveler Impact & "SEARCH For Africa" Benefit: 3 Options - Excellent (Premier Tier 1), Very Good (Deluxe Tier 2) & Good (Value Tier 3). Read More

CONTACT AND TALK TO OUR SAFARI EXPERTS TODAY TO KICK-START YOUR TOUR PLANNING PROCESS

Request Tanzania Custom Or Tailor-Made Safari Pricing Based On Your Specific Travel Dates At Your Preferred Safari Tier Camp Or Lodge

Read More +

Safari prices for tanzania.

Review Tanzania detailed itineraries and prices of our recommended safaris with the option of customizing your Africa tour based on your preferences and needs.

AFRICA TRIP IDEAS FOR TANZANIA

Review experiences available in Tanzania from photo wildlife safari, chimpanzee tour, bush walk, family to honeymoon beach vacation, snorkeling, diving etc.

PARKS & RESERVES IN TANZANIA

Review information on wildlife parks and reserves in Tanzania i.e. Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, Ruaha, Manyara, Selous, Katavi Gombe, Mahale and more.

ACCOMMODATIONS IN TANZANIA

Review information on safari camps, lodges, city hotels, beachfront resorts in Tanzania's pristine wilderness, cities, Swahili coastal shores and idyllic islands.

BEST TIME TO VISIT TANZANIA

Review details on the best time to go to Tanzania to visit its various wildlife outback, lakes, rivers, beaches, islands, mountains, forests and other wildernesses.

BEACHES & ISLANDS OF TANZANIA

Review Tanzania's unspoiled white, sandy coastal beaches and idyllic islands backed by tropical forests that are lapped by the azure waters of the Indian Ocean.

TANZANIA COUNTRY PROFILE

Review country information and travel tips on Tanzania i.e. climate, history, geography, culture, entry requirements, what to pack and wear, tipping guide and more.

CITY DAY TOURS FOR TANZANIA

Review city tour recommendations on full or half day options in Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Zanzibar. Experiences can be customized around your vacation travels.

AFRICAN SAFARI PRICES

Check out safari prices and itineraries for parks and reserves in other African countries e.g. Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Botswana, South Africa, Zambia etc. Namibia, Mozambique, Malawi and Zimbabwe are available on request.

AFRICANMECCA REVIEWS

AfricanMecca's professionalism and care understands that what distinguishes Africa is its authenticity, the land, people and wildlife who do not share our world of fashion and fanfare that distinguish so many travel companies today.

Cyril Christo & Marie Wilkinson, Conservation Photographers, Authors & Wildlife Documentary Producers - USA

Jambo Raza, We all had a fantastic time on our Tanzania safari. Accommodations were excellent and we loved our guide - Rodgers. We will definitely recommend this safari to others. Thanks for all your help making the arrangements.

Dr Thomas Davis, Methodist Hospital, Minnesota, United States

AfricanMecca Safaris created a remarkable honeymoon tailored to our interests and desires. The quality of service and delivery of experience was unsurpassed. I highly recommend AfricanMecca Safaris to honeymooners, families, or any traveler.

Noorin & Jason Nelson - Maryland, United States

Thanks again to you for arranging a wonderful trip for us. Everything was great from the fantastic wildlife, the scenery, the people, the accommodations and the food. The safari was everything we had hoped for.

Liz and Gunnar Kristiansen - Ontario, Canada

I booked my safari holiday through AfricanMecca. They were the most helpful company I have ever dealt with and I work within the travel industry. I had the most amazing time. The holiday went as clockwork with no hitches anywhere.

Shelley Roberts - Hemel Hempstead, United Kingdom

We have returned from our African adventure and would like to thank you very much for your part in making this such a wonderful experience. We were lucky enough to time the Great Migration from the Serengeti, which was amazing.

Denise Paterson - Belmont, Australia

We had an absolutely amazing trip in Arusha, Serengeti and Gombe - everything went smooth as silk. Thank you so much Raza for making this trip, the trip of a lifetime. We had an absolutely brilliant time.

Tiffany Heitz & Lesley Smith - California, United States

East africa safari booking & tour holiday idea tanzania.

When visiting Tanzania, we recommend combining your safari to Serengeti , Ngorongoro Crater , Tarangire and Lake Manyara . You can also day trek or climb the highest mountain in Africa - Kilimanjaro . You may optionally extend out to Southern or Western parks like Nyerere (Selous) , Ruaha , Katavi or Mahale - Gombe ending with a beach vacation and Swahili cultural tour in the exotic spice island of Zanzibar , Pemba , Mafia or Fanjove .

Kickstart Your Safari Planning

SAFARI PRICES

Find Tanzania Safaris & Costs By Safari Tier Experiences

Safari Room Rate & Hotel Price Guide For Tanzania

Tanzania Reviews For Camps, Lodges, Beach & City Hotels

Park, Cities, Beach & Island Map Locations In Tanzania

PHOTO GALLERY

Images & Pictures For Travel Destinations In Tanzania

VIDEO GALLERY

Tanzania Accommodation & Tour Destination Videos

ARE YOU PLANNING TO BOOK AN AFRICAN SAFARI TO TANZANIA?

Do You Need Knowledgeable, Experienced & Specialist Guidance For Your Travels In Tanzania? Let Us Help Plan Your Trip Itinerary Correctly

EXPLORE MORE ON NATIONAL PARKS, CAMPS, LODGES, BEACHES & RESORTS IN TANZANIA

Safari tier ratings.

Understand Beach Tier Ratings & Experiences

TANZANIA PARKS & RESERVES

Tanzania Beach & Island Planning Guide

TANZANIA LODGES & CAMPS

Beachfront Hotels & Resorts In Tanzania

Top 10 Trip Reasons For Tanzania Vacations & Holidays

HAVE YOU VISITED EASTERN AFRICA FOR A SAFARI IN TANZANIA?

Write A Travel Or Tourist Trip Review To Share Your Experiences

TANZANIA TRIP IDEAS

Safari Trip Ideas For Tanzania

AFRICA SAFARI PRICES

Check Our Africa Travel Guide

Baggage Guidance & Restrictions On Flying Safaris In Africa

Masai Mara Horseback Riding Safari In Kenya With AfricanMecca

Times Square New York Hosts Kenya Tourism Board & Wilderness Safaris Meet Up

• Company Profile
• Why Travel With Us
• Our Safari & Tour Team
• Tier Ratings
• Awards & Press
• Customer Reviews
• SEARCH For Africa - Sustain & Conserve
• Travel Agent Support
• Jobs & Careers At AMS
• Newsletter Signup
• Contact Details
• Tanzania Travel Guide
• Kenya Travel Guide
• Uganda Travel Guide
• Rwanda Travel Guide
• Botswana Travel Guide
• South Africa Travel Guide
• Zambia Travel Guide
• Zanzibar Travel Guide
• Safari Trip Ideas
• Beach Trip Ideas
• Mountain Climb Trip Ideas
• Itinerary Trip Ideas
• Explore Park & Reserves
• Accommodations In Africa
• Read Trip Reviews
• View Photo Gallery
• View Video Gallery
• Read Our Blog
• Safari Prices & Itineraries
• Beach Prices & Itineraries
• Trek Prices & Itineraries
• City & Day Tours Prices
• Room Rate Guide

HOW TO CONTACT US

5 Day Southern Tanzania Safari to Nyerere National Park (Selous) & Mikumi

• Includes/Excludes
• Southern Tanzania

This is a 5 day Southern Tanzania safari adventure that takes you on a mesmerizing journey through some of Tanzania’s most remarkable and diverse wildlife havens. This carefully curated 5-day safari will immerse you in the wonders of Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve) and Mikumi National Park, offering a perfect blend of thrilling game drives, tranquil boat safaris, and the chance to witness Africa’s iconic Big Five and an array of fascinating wildlife species.

Your safari begins in the bustling city of Dar Es Salaam, where you will be warmly greeted and whisked away to the captivating wilderness of Nyerere National Park. Formerly known as Selous Game Reserve, Nyerere is an expansive UNESCO World Heritage Site, covering an area larger than Switzerland. As you traverse through this pristine wilderness, you’ll encounter a symphony of wildlife, from majestic lions and elusive leopards to graceful giraffes, imposing elephants, and playful hippos.

Embark on game drives that will bring you face to face with the incredible biodiversity of Nyerere National Park, where over 350 bird species fill the air with their melodious songs. Enjoy boat safaris along the Rufiji River, observing the fascinating behavior of crocodiles and the immense gatherings of hippos along the riverbanks. Experience the adrenaline rush as you set out on a walking safari, guided by an armed ranger, taking you even closer to the heart of this untamed African wilderness.

Leaving Nyerere behind, your safari continues to the picturesque Mikumi National Park, renowned for its stunning savannah landscapes adorned with acacia, baobab, and tamarind trees. Despite its lesser-developed infrastructure, Mikumi’s untamed charm provides a unique safari experience, offering encounters with a distinct subspecies of giraffe and a plethora of other wildlife, including lions, zebras, and wildebeests.

Amidst the natural splendor of Mikumi, relish the opportunity to embark on optional walking safaris with an armed ranger, heightening your connection to the wildlife and the land. Capture the essence of Africa’s untamed beauty as you venture out on exhilarating game drives, framed by golden sunsets and starlit nights.

As your safari draws to a close, you’ll carry unforgettable memories of encountering nature’s wonders in their most authentic form. With a heart full of awe and appreciation, you’ll return to Dar Es Salaam, forever transformed by this extraordinary safari experience. Embark on this adventure of a lifetime, where the wild secrets of Nyerere National Park and Mikumi National Park await your discovery.

Day-to-Day Itinerary: 5 days safari to Nyerere & Mikumi

Day 1: Depart Dar Es Salaam to Nyerere National Park (Selous Game Reserve). Check-in at Selous Mapumziko Lodge. Afternoon boat safari.

Day 2 – 3: Full-day game drives, boat safari, and walking safari in Nyerere National Park. Explore the diverse wildlife and over 350 bird species.

Day 4: Drive to Mikumi National Park. Afternoon game drive in Mikumi. Overnight at Camp Bastian or similar.

Day 5: Morning game drives in Mikumi. Optional walking safari. Return to Dar Es Salaam in the afternoon.

Highlights of the 5-day Southern Tanzania safari:

• Exploring Nyerere National Park (Selous Game Reserve), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with diverse wildlife and over 350 bird species.
• Boat safari on the Rufiji River, witnessing crocodiles, hippos, and various birdlife.
• Full-day game drives in Nyerere National Park, spotting lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes, impalas, and more.
• Guided walking safari with an armed ranger, offering a unique perspective on the African wilderness.
• Transfer to Mikumi National Park, experiencing the savannah landscape with acacia, baobab, and rare palm trees.
• Game drives in Mikumi, observing unique subspecies of giraffes and the park’s natural and untouched state.
• Optional walking safari in Mikumi, accompanied by an armed ranger for a more immersive wildlife encounter.
• A relaxed and accommodating coastal town visit to Kilwa, with historical sites and beautiful beaches.

Dar Es Salaam to Selous Game Reserve

Embark on a thrilling safari adventure as you depart Dar Es Salaam for the renowned Selous Game Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a picnic lunch en route and arrive in Selous in the late afternoon. Proceed with an evening game drive towards your lodge/tented camp. Overnight at Selous Mapumziko Lodge.

Full Day Selous Game Reserve Drives & Boat Safari

Experience two impressive days of game drives and a boat safari along the Rufiji River, observing crocodiles, hippos, and a diverse array of wildlife. Discover the vast Selous Game Reserve, Africa’s largest, teeming with wild animals and a rich variety of bird species. Spot lions, leopards, giraffes, elephants, and more in their natural habitat. If you’re lucky, you might even encounter the rare and elusive wild dogs. Enjoy the thrill of observing lively and agile animals, a contrast to the calmer behavior often seen in the northern safari zones. Marvel at the reserve’s incredible biodiversity, boasting over 350 bird species. Engage in a walking safari guided by an armed ranger, providing a unique and immersive wildlife experience. Overnight at Selous Mapumziko Lodge.

Selous to Mikumi

After breakfast, check out and head north of Selous towards Mikumi National Park. Explore Mikumi’s unique ecosystem, which, together with Selous, forms an exceptional wildlife haven. Enjoy a game drive upon arrival, witnessing the park’s diverse landscape featuring savannah, acacia, baobab, tamarind, and rare palm trees. Encounter the distinct subspecies of giraffe that serves as a link between the Masai giraffe and the Somali giraffe. Mikumi’s less developed infrastructure contributes to its untouched and natural state, preserving its wilderness charm. Optionally, partake in a walking safari guided by an armed ranger (additional charge). Overnight at Camp Bastian or similar. All meals included.

Mikumi to Dar Es Salaam

Engage in further game drives or a walking safari (optional) in Mikumi National Park, savoring the breathtaking landscape resembling that of the Serengeti. Relish your last moments in the wilderness before driving back to Dar Es Salaam, concluding your unforgettable safari experience.

The cost for the whole 6 days Southern Tanzania safari includes and excludes the following items

Tanzania Safari Price includes

Game drives and activities

All accommodation

A professional driver/ safari guide

All transportation

All Taxes/VAT

Roundtrip airport transfer

Water / Coffee / Tea or Soft Drinks

Price Excludes

International flights

Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour

Tanzania Visa

Personal Expenses (e.g. laundry, telephone, beverages, etc.)

Meals not listed above

Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees

You May Also Like

7 Days Masai Mara & Serengeti Wildebeest Crossing Safari

8 Days Kenya Safari

4 Days Tanzania Safari from Zanzibar

Please enable javascript in your browser to visit this site..

A Walking Safari in Southern Tanzania

By John Baumann | 01 September 2023

On foot in the vast wilderness, exposed, all senses on high alert. The gentle breeze rustles through the dry leaves, a twig snaps underfoot. One eye on your guide watching for his reactions, whilst also trying to scan the surrounding wilderness, all while ensuring each footstep is carefully placed. There is little that compares to the excitement of a walking safari in the wild expanse of southern Tanzania in October.

Walking conditions in southern Tanzania consistently improve throughout the dry season, peaking in October.

Choosing the right season

By early June, the season of the long rains in East Africa has usually come to an end, leaving the landscape in many of the parks green and lush with thick vegetation and tall grasses. Rivers are flowing, lakes and watering holes are full, and wildlife is typically spread out enjoying the abundance of nutritious grazing and easy access to water. However, as the dry season begins to take hold, the vegetation thins and water sources dwindle, setting the stage for perfect game viewing conditions.

Perfect walking conditions across Ruaha National Park in October. 

Across all northern and southern Tanzania , the dry months are marked as high season, and with good reason. The northern Serengeti turns into a show ground as thousands of tourists descend upon the Mara River area hoping to witness the spectacle of a river crossing by the migrating herds. Tarangire National Park, one of the most underrated and overlooked parks in northern Tanzania, offers the area’s only permanent water source throughout the dry season, attracting incredible numbers of mammals from all the surrounding areas into the park, creating phenomenal game viewing opportunities. However, on the topic of overlooked and underrated, there is little that compares to the limited attention that southern Tanzania receives. The vast landscapes of Nyerere and Ruaha national parks offer a wild and wildlife rich safari experience with a level of exclusivity unheard of in northern Tanzania. And, as per the rest of East Africa, the dry season has a profound impact on the experience offered.

“Nyerere has a very wild feel to it. Here, the wilderness factor is really incredible.” – Bruce Arnott, Asilia walking guide

Nyerere National Park offers a diverse walking experience.

Walking in October

October is usually the last full calendar month of the dry season in Tanzania. In November, the humidity starts to build, and the afternoons increasingly see the threat of a rain shower. Eventually, the clouds burst, and the first rains fall, their moisture swallowed by the parched earth and dry vegetation within seconds. As the afternoon showers settle into a regular cadence, so the landscape once again transforms, turning green and lush as the vegetation regrows and thickens. Arriving in southern Tanzania ahead of the short rains is crucial if you are here for the incredible walking this region offers. By October, the effects of dry season are approaching their most severe, arguably creating the best walking safari conditions in Africa.

A walking safari follows the course of the dry Mwagusi River in Ruaha National Park.

Any guided walk through the bush can be called a walking safari. However, not all walking safaris are created equal, as those who have experienced more than one walking safari will be able to attest. The condition of the bush is a crucial factor that needs to be carefully considered. During, or shortly after the rainy seasons, the bush is thick and lush resulting in poor visibility and a potentially dangerous situation as predators cannot be seen from a distance. Apart from the safety element, the vegetation also limits what you can see from an interest perspective, limiting your experience to the immediate path ahead. Grasses are often high and carry ticks or a variety of other insects after the rains, again creating an uncomfortable walking environment. After three months of a progressively developing dry season, October brings about the ultimate playground for the walking safari enthusiast. The grass is dry and very low – tick and insect free. Trees and bushes have generally lost most of their leaves and all surrounding vegetation is considerably less dense. The improved visibility allows for a wider field of vision, a safer walking experience, and the ability to actively track big game from a safe distance.

Short grass and thin vegetation across the Ruaha landscape in October.

Most importantly, an experienced and knowledgeable guide is an absolute prerequisite. If you’re walking with an Asilia guide , you’re in good hands. All our walking guides have at least 100 hours of field-based guided walking safari experience, a certificate in advanced rifle handling, and a certificate of competency in the handling of dangerous game. These are our most experienced guides, and their passion for a walking safari is what makes them great. Their love of the wilderness is what drives them, and they are excited to share it with you.

The experience

After a light breakfast in camp and a pre-walk safety briefing, strike out on foot into the surrounding wilderness. Following behind your Asilia walking guide in single file, the sanctuary of camp quickly disappears from view and the enormity of your surroundings comes into focus. The brain seems to recognise this shift away from the ordinary, as senses are suddenly primed and dialled up to “sensitive”. Without the din of a heavy diesel engine running in the background, almost every sound is now audible, from Fish Eagles overhead to the grasshoppers hiding in the short grass. The warm breeze carries the constantly changing notes of the surrounding vegetation, and sometimes the decay of a kill before it even comes into sight. Occasionally, the opportunity arises to track large mammals as they meander towards watering holes or devour the remnants of last night’s kill, but much of the walking safari experience is in the observation of the smaller ecosystems that all play a crucial role in the health of the environment. There are animal tracks to examine and identify, scent markings, termite mounds, insects, burrows and nests – all of which is frequently unseen or ignored from the height of a vehicle.

“Early mornings at the end of the dry season are the very best time for a rewarding walking safari.” – Bruce Arnott, Asilia walking guide

A walking safari stops to discuss a point of interest in the morning light.

Ruaha and Nyerere national parks offer a diverse and varied safari experience between not only each other, but also when compared to the parks of northern Tanzania. At the height of dry season in southern Tanzania, the landscape, wildlife, and access to water align to create perfect walking safari conditions. Nyerere National Park offers a superb diversity of habitat across river systems and forested areas thick with riverine trees. The landscape feels genuinely wild and unexplored, creating an incredible wilderness experience. Walking along the banks of the waterways and lake systems in the vicinity of Roho ya Selous make for exciting opportunities to view hippo arguing over territory in the dwindling waters, and the interactions between crocodile as they bask in the sun. In Ruaha National Park , the sandy bed of the dry Mwagusi River is patterned with animal prints. Elephant use their tusks and trunks to dig beneath the sandy surface to the cool water below, opening a temporary well point which other wildlife look to utilise after the elephant have moved on. Prides of lion lazily lounge under the trees on the banks, half an eye open in case an easy meal appears within range. To simply sit in the cool of the shade, absorbing the sounds and smells of the bush, whilst overlooking the sights of a watering hole below you. These are the memories that last a lifetime.

“Southern Tanzania is incredible for walking. Really, really something special in the world of walking in Africa. Very wild, very diverse, just epic.” – Bruce Arnott, Asilia walking guide

The lakes and waterways of Nyerere National Park offer a unique walking experience.

A walking safari offers a unique departure from the comfort and elevation of a vehicle, allowing for a closer connection to the environment and a heightened awareness of your place within it. Exploring on foot in southern Tanzania is arguably one of the very best safari experiences attainable in East Africa. Whether you are a seasoned walking safari enthusiast, or eager to experience this thrill for the first time, southern Tanzania in October should rank high on your bucket list .

Take your first step today

More destinations articles.

What’s the difference? National Parks, Game Reserves, and Conservancies in East Africa

To most of us, a national park, game reserve, or conservancy are all the same...

7 Of Our Favourite Things About Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park is located in Tanzania's Arusha and Manyara region...

Naboisho: Home To The Mara’s Newest Pool

Naboisho is now home to the Mara Naboisho Conservancy’s newest pool. During t...

Guest Gallery: The Serengeti At Its Best

We recently had the pleasure of welcoming guests, Chris and Monique Fallows t...

• Camps & Lodges
• Destinations arrow_right
• Special Offers
• Partner Properties
• Positive Impact
• Join our newsletter
• All Asilia Offer: Free Inter-Camp Travel
• Enquire Now arrow_right
• Asilia giving
• Popular Destinations

As featured in

Southern Tanzania Safaris

Welcome to to Southern Tanzania Safari! Although the national parks in the northern part of Tanzania are more popular and frequently visited by tourists on Safari in Tanzania , the southern parks offer very impressive adventure safari experiences especially for anyone interested in exploring the off-the-beaten-track. because of their nature, the southern destinations bring holidaymakers closers to Mother Nature giving them an opportunity to immerse into the beauty of the amazing landscapes and vast wilderness with utmost privacy considering the fact that the number of tourist here is very small compared to those in the Northern parks.

Why Travel with Safari Desire Tanzania?

It’s no wonder why many holidaymakers have chosen us over other tor companies while organizing a Southern Tanzania Safari. Well below we bring you the best four reasons why you should safari with us.

• We are based in Tanzania: unlike a number of other Tanzania tour operators, we have our head office in Dar es Salaam, which gives us quick and easy access to all tourist destinations not only in Tanzania but the East African region as a whole.

• Authentic Team of Experts: we pride in a team of well trained and highly experienced staff with a vast spectrum of knowledge about the country who will guide you and help you plan your dream holiday come true here in Southern Tanzania, as well as lead you as you explore the country.

• Exclusive Safari Lodging: We own and run a beautiful safari lodge in Southern Tanzania – the Selous Mapumziko Lodge strategically located on the banks of River Rufiji, so you can definitely enjoy a full Tanzania Safari Supremacy experience as you sleep with us.

Where do Safaris to Southern Tanzania Begin?

Majority of the Safaris to the southern Safari destination in Tanzania begin / depart from Dar es Salaam. Our professional safari guides will pick you from either your hotel in Dar es Salaam or from the Julius Nyerere Airport in Dar. While in Dar es Salaam normally on the last day of your safari we can organize a city tour to the different beautiful places of interest at a very affordable fee.

Popular Southern Tanzania Safari Packages

8-day Fly in safari in Southern Tanzania visiting Selous & Ruaha

10 Days Selous safari (Nyerere National Park) & Zanzibar

10 days Southern Tanzania Safari Circuit

3 Days fly-in Ruaha safari from Zanzibar or Dar es Salaam

5-day safari in Tanzania

7 Days Southern Tanzania Safari - Mikumi & Ruaha Parks

4 days Tanzania Safari | 4-day lodge safari in Tanzania

3-Days Safari Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park)

3 Days Mikumi safari starting from Zanzibar Island

3 Days Tanzania Safari | 3-day lodge safari in Tanzania

4 Days Southern Tanzania Safari, Mikumi & Udzungwa

3 Days Safari from Dar es Salaam to Saadani National Park

2 Days safari from Zanzibar to Mikumi National Park

01 Day Safari from Zanzibar | Fly-in safari to Nyerere National Park

3 days Safari to Mikumi National Park from Dar es Salaam

15 Days Fly-in Southern & Western Tanzania Safari

What is the best time to visit south tanzania safari destinations.

We advise all our gets planning to explore this part of the country during their Tanzania safari holiday to do so in the dry season from the month of June up to October. During these months, there is literally no rain, the vegetation is thinning and because of the limited water sources, the animals gather around the few remaining waterholes. Always refrain from traveling from March to May as these are the peak months of the rainy season. The vegetation is thick which makes game viewing challenging although the bird watching at the time is extremely remarkable.

Is the South safe for Overnight Tanzania Safari?

Yes, in fact all our safaris in the south are tailored for a night or more in the parks or reserves. This gives holidaymakers enough time to explore these wide safari sanctuaries.

Where to stay on your Southern Tanzania Safari?

Safari Desire Tanzania handles different classes of clients, with different budgets and preferences. So depending on what you want there is accommodation offered in private campsites where you will stay under canvas to offer you a wilder safari experience closer to Mother Nature, or stay in lodges, hotels as well as the luxury tented camps.

6 Top Reasons to visit Southern Tanzania Safari

1. beautiful safari destinations:.

The southern part of Tanzania offers a number of the best safari destinations on the African continent including the Selous game reserve which offer vast unspoiled wildernesses with a great variety of wildlife to be explored.

2. Remarkable Game View:

It is pretty impressive if you get to think about the large number of wild animals that live in the southern wildlife sanctuaries, for instance the rare wild dogs living in the Selous. Although the animals may not be concentrated in one area because of the large size of these habitats, game viewing and bird watching opportunities here are also very rewarding.

3. Uncrowded and Exclusive Safari Experience:

Unlike the national parks in northern Tanzania, it is very possible to complete your safari in the southern parks without encountering any other tourists, an experience that gives holidaymakers the utmost privacy and an escape from the big crowds in the popular northern parks. Once you encounter the wildlife, you will not have to scramble for space for photography but rather have the moment to yourselves.

4. The Selous Mapumziko Lodge:

Get an opportunity to live in this beautiful safari jewel located close to Mloka village with river Rufiji located just a few meters from your doorsteps. You will enjoy uninterrupted views of different wild animals that gather around the river banks to drink water, yet in a very private setting.

5. Value for money Accommodation:

The accommodation facilities found in this part of the country are among the very few in Africa which will give you value for every penny you have paid. The staff is amazing and the service outstandingly good. Unique about the south is that there a several discounts offered on accommodation throughout the year, and us having our own lodge, we can organize for you special tailored accommodation prices to ensure that you have an amazing stay.

6. Proximity to the Zanzibar Islands

When you talk about combining your wildlife safari in Southern Tanzania with a beach holiday, well, you shouldn’t worry how possible that will be. The good news is, you can simply jump onto a ferry to the islands, or take a short flight from Dar es Salaam to the beautiful exotic islands with stunning white sand beaches.

Southern Tanzania Safari Special Offers

Where to go on your southern tanzania safari.

There are several safari destinations you can explore on your Southern Tanzania Safari that will reward you with an amazing true wilderness holiday experience irrespective of whether you are traveling alone, as a family or a group of friends / students. Below we have highlighted some of the national parks and game reserves you can visit.

• Selous Game Park
• Ruaha National Park
• Saadani National Park
• Udzungwa Mountains National Park
• Kitulo National Park
• Kilwa Ruins
• Safari destinations in Southern Tanzania explained

SELOUS GAME RESERVE

Named a World Heritage Site in 1982 by United Nations, Selous Game Reserve (now Nyerere National Park)  is the biggest wilderness area in the world and one of the most virgin wildernesses on the African continent. The game reserve covers an area of 54,000 sq mile making it bigger than Switzerland. It covers six percent (6%) of the total land surface of Tanzania. it can easily be accessed from Dar es Salaam.

River Rufiji together with a number of its streams run through the Game Reserve, and these in addition to other habitats such as swamps, lakes, forests, open grasslands, Miombo woodlands and acacia offer a safe refuge to different wildlife including large predators, grazers and birds.

Selous Game Reserve is mainly now being used for photographic safaris with a purpose of protecting and conserving wildlife despite the fact that it was originally established for hunting adventures. But something to note is that hunting is still allowed in a number of sections within the reserve.

According to the last census, approximately 60,000 elephants were recorded to be living within the reserve which is more than half of all the elephants living in Tanzania. They usually move in smaller groups led by Queens so it is very rare seeing them in large groups. During your visit to the Selous Game Reserve one can enjoy game drives or boat safaris on River Rufiji which is a habitat to very many hippos, crocodiles and elephants normally seen on the river’s banks.

The Birdlife is very impressive here with more than 430 bird types recorded here. Our guides usually have bird books with them though very serious birders are advised to carry their own birding book. The Game Reserve also has the biggest number of endangered African wild dogs in the country despite the fact that they are very hard to see. Whatsoever your interest is, a visit to Selous Game Reserve will allow you to see different wildlife in their natural homes with very few tourists around you.

RUAHA NATIONAL PARK

Ruaha National Park is Tanzania’s second biggest National Park. It is accessible by a small plane from Dar Es Salaam, Serengeti, Mbeya Arusha as well as Iringa but you can also opt for a ten hours’ drive from Dar Es Salaam passing through Mikumi National Park. Flying in to Ruaha NP is an experience itself as you can see much wildlife from the runway; and grazing herds of zebras and giraffes like to run as the planes land.

Game viewing is best during the dry months of the year as remnant water pools of River Ruaha which normally floods in the wet season attracts all kinds of wildlife like different types of antelopes, other grazing animals and several predators that trail to them hunt down. This rough semi-arid bush land is also home to about 10,000 elephants. Ruaha is very well known for the resident kudus which are a large antelope specie having long strong horns. The male larger kudu are mostly seen in June during their breeding period. Visiting Ruaha will also offer you a chance to see prides of lions that stalk the savannah as well as leopards and cheetahs normally on the lookout for their next hunt.

As you explore the park, you will definitely enjoy hearing and viewing a wide range of multi-colored birds each having their own different call.

If wild flowers, bird watching and scenery are your thing, the wet season starting from January through April is the best time to visit but for the rest of Tanzania, the excellent time to visit and see big mammals as well as predators is during the dry season which runs from mid-May to the month of December.

You can join walking safaris or longer day treks and also visit the Isimila stone-age ruins which are among the most significant historical sites on the African continent. There is a remarkable variety of lodging which includes tented camps, designated campsites, self-catering bandas, and a lodge by the riverside.

MIKUMI NATIONAL PARK

Tourists who have never taken a safari to southern Tanzania yet have limited time but want to see wildlife within its natural habitat; we recommend that you take a day’s safari to Mikumi National Park. During this, you can view antelopes, elephants, wildebeest, giraffes, elands and zebras as well as the killer hunters for example wild dogs, lions, black-backed jackals and leopards. Mikumi National Park is also a perfect safari destination for bird lovers as it is a habitat to over 400 birds.

SAADANI NATIONAL PARK

Saadani National Park is the only wildlife safari destination in the whole of East Africa where you can view wild animals on or close to the beach. It combines good opportunities of seeing wildlife with the beautiful coastal vista and pristine beaches on the Indian Ocean.

Saadani can be visited on a day trip but we also encourage you to spend a night at the Saadani River Lodge so that you combine a boat safari into your trip to enjoy all the opportunities of seeing most of the wildlife.

UDZUNGWA MOUNTAINS

Udzungwa Mountains is a home to a wide range of animals and plants and biodiversity is the ring word when it comes to it. The park supports different wildlife for example big cats, elands, African wild dogs, bushbucks, elephants and buffalos as well as 6 types of primates including 2 species which are exclusive to this part. The mountainous landscape is covered in a lush rainforest that has up to 40% of the plant life of Tanzania and animals many of which are exclusive to this area. The park has many historical and cultural sites and also holds an abundant natural beauty and biodiversity. The World Wildlife Fund is working on this site to preserve the biological and cultural heritage. When it comes to accommodation, Tourists can stay at either a private campsite, the waterfall lodge or in a lavish tented camp.

KILWA RUINS

Kilwa Heritage site is among the archeological sites in Tanzania that includes the amazing remains of what previously was a very big city. It was a major trading place for the Swahili people on the coast in the 11th Century trading beads, ivory, textiles, precious metals and spices on the coast and inside the country. Our professional guide will bring the varied and rich history of Kilwa Heritage site to life as he details you about it all. It also holds a great history for the colonialism and slave trade.

KITULO NATIONAL PARK

Kitulo National Park is a botanists’ heaven having rich volcanic-soils popular for its stunning floral life which includes protea, beautiful orchids as well as lilies among others. Tourists visit mainly because of the birds, flowers and butterflies though a few mountain elands and reedbucks wander its grasslands. Kitulo NP is an earthly paradise locally referred to as ‘God’s Garden’. You can get here by road if you are prepared for an adventure and have very much time though the best option is to fly here. We can set up a camp for you at one of the campsites inside the park or you can stay in a luxury tented camp when visiting. There are basic hotels at Mpanda and a rest house in Sitalike.

Are There Day Trips from Dar Es Salaam?

Yes. There are 2 distinctive and very unalike National Parks that are very easy to access and are possible to be explored in just one day starting from Dar Es Salaam. These are the Mikumi National Park and the Saadani National Park.

Neighboring the Indian Ocean, Saadani National Park is the only wildlife reserve in the whole of East Africa where the beach and bush meet. With several miles of white sand beaches running along its coastline, you are more likely to see lions or elephants on the beach than any people sunbathing.

Saadani National Park is usually visited for a game drive, walking or boat ride safaris with grazing animals normally viewed including warthog, elephants, buffalos, waterbuck, velvet monkeys, giraffes and so many others.

The shores of the Park are some of the last big green turtle breeding sites on Tanzania’s mainland though they are hardly seen during day time. Near to River Wami or on a boat trip there is a good gamble of seeing crocodiles, hippos and various water birds like flamingoes and kingfishers.

ZANZIBAR ISLAND DAY TOUR

Taking a day trip / tour to Zanzibar offers a very diverse safari experience allowing holidaymakers to learn more about the remarkable history and culture of this spice island and also experience the tasty Swahili cuisine. The tour will comprise of a city tour in stone town to see the historic architecture, the vibrant bazaars and colorful market. After enjoying a pleasant traditional lunch, we shall visit a spice plantation to sample and learn about the various spices.

Short Rwanda Gorilla Safaris

4 days Gorilla Trekking and Lake Mburo Safari

4 Days Gorilla Safari And Kampala City Tour

5 Days Gorilla Safari and Water Rafting

5 Days Gorilla Trekking And Wildlife Safari

6 Days Gorilla & Chimpanzee Safari in Rwanda

7 Days Gorilla Trek Safari Tour Primates & Wildlife Safari

8 Days Gorilla Safari Tour

8 Days Uganda Rhino Wildlife Primates & Gorilla Tour

10 Days Gorilla Safari Tour

12 Days Gorilla Safari Tour

15 days Bird watching Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking safari

15 Days Gorilla Tracking & wildlife safari tour

Best Uganda Birding Safaris

2 Days Birding Tour in Mabamba

3 Days Lake Mburo Birding Safari

4 Days Bird Watching in Murchison Falls National Park

5 Days Uganda Birding Safari

7 Days Bird Murchison Falls National Park

12 Days Albertine Rift Endemics Birding Safari

14 Days best Birding and gorilla trip

15 Days Rwanda Uganda Birding trip

18 Days Uganda Birding Safari

22 Days Uganda Rwanda Birding Safari

8-Day Safari in Southern Tanzania from Dar es Salaam

Our 8-Day Safari in Southern Tanzania from Dar es Salaam has been designed to suit your package and interests, and it is ideal for visitors who are interested in exploring the best wildlife areas found in the southern circuit of Tanzania, especially if you don’t like the crowded places of the northern park, which attracts a lot of visitors, especially during the peak season. It is the ideal package for someone who wants to experience Southern Tanzania’s unexplored African safari destinations for the first time but doesn’t want to visit the more well-known parks in the north, which can get a little crowded, especially if they travel during the busiest time of the year for safaris. The safari can be taken as a standalone vacation from and to Dar es Salaam or as an add-on tour from a trip to Northern Tanzania . The safari is also easily accessible, beginning on the island of Zanzibar.

The ideal times to experience this 8-day safari in Tanzania’s southern parks are typically during the drier seasons, so try to avoid the wet months of April and May if at all possible. The drier months of January through March and again from July through September would be the best times to travel. However, other cooler months, such as June and between October and December, are also suitable, and with Tanzania’s breathtaking scenery, you’re guaranteed to enjoy an unforgettable safari experience.

What do you see in this great safari package?

This 8-day safari to the South Tanzanian parks includes stops in the Selous Game Reserve, where you may go on boat safaris and walking safaris in Tanzania in addition to going on safari in a 4×4 safari car. Other parks include Mikumi National Park and the less popular Ruaha National Park, allowing you to claim that you have visited Tanzania’s less-traveled areas. The creatures you anticipate seeing in these parks include sizable herds of elephants, zebras, impalas, topis, wildebeests, and uncommon species like the Kudus. With any luck, you may also spot African wild dogs. You anticipate going on a walking safari in Ruaha National Park as well. If you want to experience both a Southern Tanzanian safari and a Zanzibar beach, we can easily combine the safari tour with a beach extension in Zanzibar.

Day 1: Depart for the Selous Game Reserve from Dar es Salaam.

Following breakfast, you will be picked up from your hotel for your trip to the Selous Game Reserve (dive time 5-7 hours). (Flights are also accessible from Zanzibar or Dar es Salaam.) You arrive at your opulent tent camp in the afternoon, which is situated just along the banks of the Rufiji River. Your activities begin with a boat excursion to Selous’ fabled Rufiji River for a sunset boat safari after lunch and check-in. You anticipate taking in the beautiful environment, seeing animals like hippos and crocodiles, as well as both aquatic and non-aquatic birds flying by. Spend the night at the charming mid-range Selous Mapumziko Lodge on the banks of the Rufiji River. Included are all meals.

Enjoy game drives at the Selous Game Reserve

Day 2. Full Day exploration of Selous Game Reserve

This entire day will be spent on game drives at the Selous Game Reserve, which bears the name of British explorer and former military officer Frederick Selous. The largest protected wildlife reserve is the Selous Game Reserve, which is part of the southern Tanzania safari circuit. The game reserve is a pristine, uninhabited area with wide grasslands and woodlands that is larger than the entire country of Switzerland. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage site. The park’s stunning geography includes rocky outcrops, grassy plains, and rolling savannah woodlands that were carved out by the fabled Rufiji River and its many tributaries. The highest population of big game, including elephants, buffalo, and the elusive black rhino, may be found in Selous, Africa. Wildebeest, eland, giraffe, waterbuck, zebra, impala, hippo, leopards, and lions are also found in the Selous, but it is the only place in Tanzania where it is possible to witness wild dogs in their natural habitat. There are around 350 different types of birds. At Selous Mapumziko Lodge, spend the night. Included are all meals.

Day 3. From Selous Game Reserve to Mikumi Township.

You will be taken on a walking safari after breakfast at the resort. This may involve a village tour with a local guide and your driver, followed by a wildlife drive as you make your way to Mikumi Township through the Selous Game Reserve. You will check-in for relaxation, dinner, and sleep at your camp outside of Mikumi National Park when you arrive in the late afternoon. Sleep at Camp Bastian tonight. Included are all meals.

Day 4. From Mikumu Township, you will travel to Ruaha National Park.

After breakfast, travel through Iringa to Ruaha National Park. The afternoon game drive continues until later, at 6 o’clock, when you will be taken to your lodge nearby the park for dinner and the night. We arrive in time for a picnic lunch. Similar to the Selous, visitors can anticipate seeing a lot of big games in the Ruaha National Park. However, unlike the northern parks, the wildlife in the Ruaha is still “really wild,” and as a result, is rather cautious. It requires patience and great anticipation, and when you finally see the animals, it’s just the two of you on a “true African safari.” Spend the night at Tungamalenga Lodge or Ruaha Hilltop Lodge. Included are all meals.

Day 5. A full-day Ruaha National Park wildlife game drive.

For a full day of wildlife drives at Ruaha National Park with a picnic lunch, you enter the park once more after breakfast. The Usangu Game Reserve and other significant wetlands that surrounded the park before they were gazetted as a part of the Great Ruaha have been added, giving the park a total area of 20,226 sq. km, making it the largest park in Tanzania at the moment. The second-largest elephant sanctuary in Tanzania is notably located near Ruaha. Hippos and crocodiles can be found in vast numbers along the great Ruaha River, which forms stunning gorges and scenery along its whole eastern border. Among the diverse range of species are Greater and Lesser Kudu, roan and sable antelope, as well as many more uncommon creatures that can only be found in this “true wilderness.” Ruaha has a diverse bird population with approximately 370 species identified. Spend the night at Tungamalenga Lodge or Ruaha Hilltop Lodge. Included are all meals.

Day 6. Drive from Ruaha National Park to Mikumi National Park

You will begin your drive to Mikumi National Park through Iringa Town after being picked up by your safari driver in Ruaha. The park is ideally positioned between the Great Rift Valley Escarpment to the park’s southwest and the Uluguru Mountains of the Ancient Eastern Arc Mountains to its east. The trip from Ruaha to Mikumi takes roughly 4–4.5 hours and is a short drive on decent roads. When you get there at about noon, you’ll immediately go on game drives through the park while packing a picnic lunch. Later in the afternoon, we travel to camp or the lodge for dinner and the night. Sleep at Camp Bastian tonight. Included are all meals.

Encounter wildebeests in Mikumu national park

Day 7. A full day of wildlife viewing in Mikumi National Park.

Get a packed lunch on a full-day game drive through the Mikumi National Park , or take morning and afternoon drives with lunch breaks at the lodge or tented camp. Together with the Selous Game Reserve, Mikumi National Park makes up the greater Selous Ecosystem and is home to a staggering variety of bird and animal species. Giraffes, elephants, buffaloes, hippos, impalas, warthogs, zebras, wildebeests, elands, and numerous more antelopes are among the wildlife that can be seen at Mikumi. You can embark on a guided walking safari in addition to game drives in the park, which are led by armed rangers (at an extra cost). Sleep at Camp Bastian tonight. Included are all meals.

Day 8. After breakfast, drive back to Dar es Salaam.

If you’d like, we can continue our game drive after breakfast until it’s time to leave. After lunch, depart the park and continue your journey back to Dar es Salaam, where the safari comes to a close. Depending on your intentions, you will either be dropped off at the airport or on the ferry. If you would prefer to stay in more opulent accommodations, we can simply alter this 8-day Southern Tanzania safari itinerary to include some mid-range lodges, tented camps, or standard luxury accommodation. This marks the end of our 8-day safari in Southern Tanzania from Dar es Salaam.

The 8-Day Safari in Southern Tanzania from Dar es Salaam price includes

• A private safari 8 days safari from Dar es Salaam.
• Pickup and drop off at Dar es Salaam
• Transportation and game drive in a spotless, well-kept 4WD Land Cruiser with a camera roof hatch.
• All wildlife reserve entry fees
• Walking tours at Selous and Ruaha National Park
• Meals per itinerary
• A competent English-speaking safari guide’s services
• All game drives mentioned in the itinerary
• As per your schedule, 7 nights accommodation facilities at safari lodges or tented camps
• While on game drives, each person receives one bottle of mineral water per day.
• Tourist development levy
• 18% VAT by  Government of Tanzania
• Concession fees where applicable
• Where applicable, Wildlife Management Area Fees
• The Tanzania Revenue Authority’s value-added tax

The price of 8-Day Safari in Southern Tanzania from Dar es Salaam doesn’t include

• International airshow
• Airport shuttles in a private vehicle (if needed).
• Everything of a personal nature
• Laundry services at the Lodge
• Gratuities for the safari guide
• Visit of Masai village (extra 30USD)
• Safari guide tips and gratuities are due to the lodge and camp workers.
• Travel insurance
• Domestic flights if needed
• Services for doing laundry when on safari
• Drinks and foods that are both alcoholic and non-alcoholic

6 Days Tanzania luxury safari

8-day flying safari in tanzania luxury safari.

RELATED POSTS

8-Day safari in Tanzania and beach vacation in Zanzibar

2 Day safari from Dar es Salaam to Makumi National Park

3-Day Selous Game Reserve Safari from Zanzibar Island

• Share full article

Flooding Inundates Kenya, Killing at Least 32 and Displacing Thousands

Heavy rains also pounded other nations in East Africa, including Tanzania, where at least 155 people were killed, according to the country’s prime minister.

Residents in Nairobi were stranded on Tuesday after a night of heavy rainfall. Credit... Daniel Irungu/EPA, via Shutterstock

Supported by

By Abdi Latif Dahir and Jesus Jiménez

Abdi Latif Dahir reported from Nairobi, Kenya, and Jesus Jiménez from New York.

• April 24, 2024

Days of torrential rains have pummeled parts of Kenya, leaving at least 32 dead, 15 injured and more than 40,000 people displaced, according to officials. The flooding has killed nearly 1,000 farm animals and destroyed thousands of acres of crops, with more rain expected across the country in the coming days.

The rains began in March during what is known in the country as the “long rains,” but intensified over the past week, according to the Kenya Meteorological Department .

Heavy rains have also pounded other nations across East Africa. In Tanzania, at least 155 people were killed and 236 others injured from the relentless rain that has swept several parts of the country in recent days, Prime Minister Kassim Majaliwa said on Thursday.

The rains affected some 200,000 people, Mr. Majaliwa added, and caused damage to farms, bridges, roads, schools and places of worship. The Tanzania Meteorological Authority warned that heavy rains and strong winds would continue to pummel several towns and cities, including the port city of Dar es Salaam.

In Kenya’s capital, Nairobi, where some of the country’s heaviest rain has fallen, more than 30,000 people have been displaced, according to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs . On Tuesday, 18 people there were stranded and later rescued, including seven children, the Kenya Red Cross Society said.

Edwin Sifuna, the Nairobi County senator, said on social media that the local government there was “clearly overwhelmed,” and he called on the federal government for help.

“The situation in Nairobi has escalated to extreme levels,” he wrote in a post that included a video of people stranded on rooftops surrounded by floodwaters.

Kithure Kindiki, cabinet secretary for the Interior Ministry, said in a social media post on Thursday that several government agencies were beginning a joint operation to assist the victims, conduct rescues and evacuate those who remain at risk.

The heavy rains on Wednesday forced Kenya Railways to suspend commuter train services. The Kenya Urban Roads Authority also partially closed four major roads in Nairobi and warned of heavy flooding along several major highways in the capital and in the coastal city of Mombasa.

The rains were not expected to subside over the next few days, according to the Kenya Meteorological Department, which had rain in the forecast for parts of the country, including Nairobi, through Monday. The agency also warned of a high likelihood of breakouts of diseases such as malaria and diarrhea in some areas.

The latest downpours come just months after torrential rains and floods killed dozens of people and displaced thousands more nationwide.

Here are photographs of the flooding in Kenya:

A flooded river in Mathare, a sprawling shantytown in Nairobi where many live in tin shacks.

Swimming through floodwaters to try to rescue people stranded in their homes in Mathare. Most of those displaced in Nairobi live in informal settlements, according to the United Nations.

Residents of Mathare tried to salvage goods from their homes. Many people in Nairobi live in high-density areas that lack proper roads, water or power infrastructure.

Residents in Mathare trying to clear muddy water from their homes. Missing or blocked drainage systems have been blamed for exacerbating the floods.

Clinging to buses and trucks to avoid flooded roads in Nairobi.

Homes in several neighborhoods across the capital were submerged, leading to evacuations.

The torrential rains affected almost half of Kenya’s 47 counties, according to the United Nations.

Using a boat to traverse floodwaters in the Githurai area of Nairobi.

Flooding inundated entire roadways in Machakos County, about 35 miles southeast of Nairobi.

The swollen Athi River. The river burst its banks and flooded homes in Machakos County, officials said.

Abdi Latif Dahir is the East Africa correspondent for The Times, based in Nairobi, Kenya. He covers a broad range of issues including geopolitics, business, society and arts. More about Abdi Latif Dahir

Jesus Jiménez covers breaking news, online trends and other subjects. He is based in New York City. More about Jesus Jiménez

Advertisement