Best Southern Circuit Safaris in Tanzania – Untamed Wilderness Adventures
Tanzania’s Southern Circuit safaris are the country’s best-kept wildlife secret. While the Northern Circuit — home to Serengeti and Ngorongoro — attracts the most attention, the south offers vast landscapes, fewer crowds, and equally breathtaking wildlife encounters. This is the place for travelers seeking raw, untamed Africa.
The Southern Circuit includes Ruaha National Park, Nyerere (formerly Selous Game Reserve), Mikumi National Park, Udzungwa Mountains, and Kitulo Plateau. These destinations combine spectacular game viewing with cultural immersion and remote wilderness experiences.
-
Ruaha National Park – Tanzania’s Hidden Safari Gem
Ruaha is Tanzania’s largest national park and a paradise for big cats and elephants. Its remote location keeps visitor numbers low, creating an exclusive safari atmosphere.
Here you can witness:
- Huge prides of lions, some numbering over 20 individuals
- The largest elephant population in East Africa
- Rare predators like African wild dogs and leopards
Game drives, walking safaris, and night drives offer multiple ways to explore. The park’s mix of open savannah and baobab-dotted landscapes make it one of Africa’s most photogenic wildernesses.
Best For: Serious wildlife photographers and travelers seeking an authentic bush experience.
-
Nyerere National Park (Selous Game Reserve) – Africa’s Largest Protected Area
Covering over 30,000 square kilometers, Nyerere is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Africa’s last great wildernesses. Its vast landscapes of rivers, lakes, and open plains provide a habitat for an incredible variety of wildlife.
Highlights include:
- Boat safaris on the Rufiji River for close encounters with hippos and crocodiles
- Large herds of buffalo, elephants, and giraffes
- Exceptional birdwatching with over 400 recorded species
The park is also one of the best places in Tanzania to see African wild dogs.
Best For: Adventurous travelers who want both land and water-based safaris.
-
Mikumi National Park – Easy Southern Safari Access
Mikumi is the most accessible park in the Southern Circuit, located just a few hours’ drive from Dar es Salaam. Its open grasslands resemble the Serengeti, making it ideal for first-time safari-goers.
Visitors often spot:
- Lions lounging on termite mounds
- Large herds of zebra and wildebeest
- Hippos in Mkata Floodplain pools
Mikumi is perfect for short safaris or as a starting point before heading deeper into the Southern Circuit.
Best For: Quick, affordable safari trips with reliable wildlife sightings.
-
Udzungwa Mountains – The African Galápagos
Udzungwa is not about big game but rare species and unique hiking experiences. Known as the “African Galápagos,” it is home to several endemic primates, rare birds, and lush waterfalls.
Treks through the rainforest lead to Sanje Waterfalls and panoramic views over the Kilombero Valley.
Best For: Nature lovers, hikers, and birdwatchers seeking something different from traditional game drives.
-
Kitulo Plateau – Tanzania’s Garden of God
Kitulo Plateau is a seasonal wonder, bursting into bloom between November and April. During this time, it becomes a carpet of orchids, lilies, and wildflowers. While large wildlife is scarce, the birdlife and scenery are spectacular.
Best For: Photographers, botanists, and travelers looking for a peaceful wilderness escape.
Planning a Southern Circuit Safari
Southern Circuit safaris are best between June and October, during the dry season when wildlife congregates around water sources. However, certain parks like Kitulo are most beautiful during the rainy season.
To get the most from your trip:
- Combine two or more parks for variety
- Use experienced safari operators familiar with the region
- Consider fly-in safaris for remote destinations like Ruaha and Nyerere
Conclusion
The Southern Circuit offers a more intimate, off-the-beaten-path safari experience compared to Tanzania’s northern parks. From the predator-rich savannahs of Ruaha to the waterways of Nyerere and the floral wonders of Kitulo, this region delivers unforgettable adventures without the crowds.
By exploring the Southern Circuit, you not only enjoy an exceptional safari but also support conservation efforts in lesser-visited areas — ensuring these wild places remain protected for generations to come.
