While most travelers head to northern Tanzania for iconic safaris, those in the know are discovering the magic of a Southern Tanzania safari. This less-explored region offers pristine wilderness, abundant wildlife, and tranquil experiences that are hard to find in more popular parks.
The Untamed Beauty of the South
Southern Tanzania is home to some of the country’s largest and wildest national parks, including Ruaha National Park and Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve). These destinations are vast, rugged, and teeming with life, yet they see a fraction of the visitors that northern parks do.
Ruaha, with its dramatic baobab trees and rolling hills, boasts one of the largest populations of elephants in East Africa. Lions, leopards, and wild dogs are also frequently sighted. Nyerere, with its network of rivers and wetlands, allows for boat safaris — a rare treat that adds a new dimension to wildlife viewing.
An Intimate Safari Experience
What sets southern Tanzania apart is the intimacy. You may spend hours on a game drive without encountering another vehicle, giving you a deeper sense of solitude and connection with nature. Walking safaris are also more common here, led by expert guides who help you track animals on foot and learn the subtle rhythms of the bush.
Accommodations in this region tend to be smaller, more eco-friendly lodges and tented camps that blend seamlessly with the environment. The service is personalized, and the pace is unhurried — perfect for travelers seeking meaningful moments rather than tourist crowds.
The Best Time to Go
The dry season from June to October is ideal for wildlife viewing, as animals gather around rivers and waterholes. However, the green season from November to March offers lush scenery and superb birdwatching, with migratory species in full display.
For those who value authenticity, tranquility, and exceptional biodiversity, southern Tanzania offers a safari experience that’s as unforgettable as it is unique.