Why Choose Southern Circuit Safari
Southern Circuit is Tanzania’s best-kept secret for those who crave raw wilderness, fewer crowds, and off-the-beaten-path adventures. If you’ve already seen the famous parks up north, or simply want a quieter, deeper experience, the Southern Circuit is where you’ll find it.
A typical Southern Circuit Safari will offer:
- Untamed landscapes and remote wilderness
- Intimate wildlife encounters without the crowds
- Unique activities like boat safaris and walking safaris
- Authentic cultural and ecological experiences
In this guide, we’ll walk you through why a Southern Circuit Safari might just be the wildest and most rewarding adventure you’ll ever take.
What is the Southern Circuit Safari?
A Southern Circuit Safari is a safari to any of the parks in the Southern Circuit which refers to a group of the less traveled but equally stunning parks in southern Tanzania. Unlike the popular Northern Circuit, the South offers a more secluded experience perfect for those who want to get away from the mainstream tourist path.
The main parks include:
- Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve)
- Ruaha National Park
- Mikumi National Park
- Udzungwa Mountains National Park
Each of these parks offers something special from river safaris to rugged escarpments giving you a completely different feel from the Northern parks.

Why Choose the Southern Circuit Safari?
Why Choose the Southern Circuit Safari?
Wild and Untouched
This is where the true wilderness lives. Vast, remote landscapes where wildlife still roams freely with minimal human interference.
Far from the Crowds
Unlike Serengeti or Ngorongoro, the south has very few safari vehicles. You might go hours without seeing another tourist – it’s just you, nature, and your guide.
Unique Safari Activities
Southern parks allow experiences you can’t always do up north:
- Boat safaris along the Rufiji River
- Walking safaris with armed guides
Exceptional Wildlife
- Home to one of Africa’s largest populations of wild dogs
- Massive herds of elephants and buffalo
- Predators like lions, leopards, hyenas
- Unique antelope species like the greater kudu and sable antelope
More for Your Money
Since the south is less touristy, accommodation and park fees are often better value. You get luxury experiences at more affordable rates.

Southern Circuit Safari: Park Overviews
Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve)
If there’s one park that truly captures the wild spirit of Southern Tanzania, it’s Nyerere. This massive park – one of Africa’s largest – is where nature still calls the shots. Picture wide rivers, palm-lined lakes, open plains, and woodlands filled with life.
What makes it special?
Boat safaris on the Rufiji River – Watch elephants drink, hippos yawn, and crocodiles slide into the water as you cruise through nature.
Uncrowded game drives – Unlike the North, you might go hours without seeing another vehicle.
Diverse landscapes and animals – From lions and leopards to wild dogs, giraffes, and huge elephant herds.
This is a park for real adventurers – and with good guiding, it offers a raw, unforgettable safari experience.
Ruaha National Park
Ruaha is the largest national park in Tanzania – but you wouldn’t know it from the number of tourists. This is where wild Africa still feels truly untouched. The great Ruaha River is the lifeblood of the park, and it draws animals from all directions.
Why is it amazing?
Massive elephant herds – Some of the largest in East Africa.
Big predators – Lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, and endangered African wild dogs.
Baobab valleys and river scenes – The landscape is dramatic and photogenic.
Game drives here feel like a true adventure. You stop when you see vultures circling or a rustle in the grass. And the rewards? Incredible.
Mikumi National Park
Mikumi is the most accessible of the southern parks, just a few hours’ drive from Dar es Salaam. It’s often called a “mini-Serengeti” because of its open plains and rich wildlife.
What to expect:
Lions, zebras, giraffes, wildebeest, and buffalo – Often all in the same view.
Great for short safaris – 2 or 3 days is enough for a satisfying wildlife experience.
Close to town – You can even do a quick visit if you’re short on time.
If you’re starting or ending your trip in Dar, Mikumi is a fantastic stop.
Udzungwa Mountains National Park – Tanzania’s Rainforest Heaven
This is a totally different kind of park. No jeeps. No lions. But wow – it’s full of magic. Udzungwa is where waterfalls tumble down forested cliffs, monkeys swing through the trees, and birds call from every branch.
Highlights:
Hiking paradise – Trek to Sanje Waterfalls or take longer forest hikes.
Primates galore – Including endemic species you won’t see anywhere else.
Birdwatcher’s dream – Over 400 species recorded.
If you love nature, walking, and seeing a different side of Tanzania, Udzungwa is a gem.
Kitulo Plateau – Tanzania’s Garden of God
Often called the “Serengeti of Flowers,” Kitulo is a peaceful plateau filled with wildflowers, alpine meadows, and rolling hills.
Why visit?
Seasonal flower bloom – Best from November to April.
Great for botanists and birders – Unique plant and bird species.
Tranquil beauty – A quiet escape with mountain views and cool air.
This is not a big game destination – it’s for those who want serenity, walking trails, and something off the beaten path.

Best Time to Visit Southern Tanzania
You can visit year-round, but different seasons offer different experiences.
Season | Months | Highlights |
---|---|---|
Dry Season | June – October | Best for game viewing and river safaris |
Green Season | November – March | Lush landscapes, birds, baby animals |
Rainy Season | April – May | Many lodges closed; adventurous travelers only |
How Do You Do a Southern Circuit Safari?
You have two options:
- Private Safari
You get your own guide (like me!) and vehicle. We go at your pace, stop when you want, and make it all about you.
- Group Safari
Lower cost, shared vehicle. Great for solo travelers or those on a budget.
You can stay in:
- Luxury lodges
- Tented camps
- Mid-range hotels
- Budget camping
Whatever your style, we at Camp Seluu will find something perfect for you.

Cultural Experiences Along the Way
Here are some meaningful cultural experiences you can include on your Southern Circuit Safari:
The Hehe People
In the Iringa region, you’ll find the Hehe, known historically for their fierce resistance against German colonial rule. You can visit local villages to learn about their warrior past, hear traditional songs, and experience their customs and crafts.
The Bena and Kinga Tribes
These lesser-known groups live around Njombe and the Southern Highlands. A visit to their communities reveals beautiful wooden architecture, peaceful farming life, and a strong connection to nature and family. You’ll often be welcomed with local tea and fresh produce from the garden.
The Mwera and Makonde People
If your route dips toward the coast (near Lindi or Mtwara), the Mwera and Makonde cultures await. The Makonde are famous for their intricate wood carvings, masks, statues, and symbolic figures. Watching a master carver at work is something you won’t forget.
Traditional Markets & Everyday Life
From the vibrant streets of Iringa to rural weekend markets in Morogoro, you’ll see how Tanzanians live day to day. Join your guide to walk through open-air stalls, taste local fruits, and perhaps even try your hand at bargaining (it’s fun, we promise!).
Community Visits in Udzungwa and Mikumi
Near the parks, many villages are open to respectful, small-group visits. You can learn about traditional farming, how to make local dishes like ugali and mchicha, or watch a performance of ngoma (traditional drumming and dance). These are real people, living their real lives and they’re happy to share their stories.
How to get there
Fly from Dar es Salaam to airstrips in Ruaha or Nyerere
Drive from Dar to Mikumi and Udzungwa (approx. 5 hours)
Fly from Zanzibar to Southern parks for a beach-to-bush adventure

Our Final Word on Southern Circuit Safari
Skip the crowds. Go deeper. Choose a Southern Tanzania safari that’s as raw and real as the land itself.
Inquire Now to start planning your private adventure.