If you are looking for a quieter, off-the-beaten-track safari experience, away from the crowds in the northern parks, south Tanzania is the place for you!
Generally, the southern circuit is most appreciated by genuine safari enthusiasts who have already visited the popular north and have come back to Tanzania again to discover the more remote areas of the country, where the landscapes and wildlife are equally amazing, with the added advantage of the region being much quieter.
The southern circuit is home to Africa’s largest wildlife reserve – Nyerere National Park (aka Selous Game Reserve). This vast area, along with Ruaha National Park, consists of secluded and pristine wilderness with an abundance of wildlife, where it is possible to drive all day long without seeing a single other safari vehicle. Nyerere is known for its walking and boat safaris as well as its game drives, so there is a wide range of activities to be experienced here. The only downside in Nyerere is that there is an abundance of water available throughout the year, which means that the wildlife is quite dispersed and sometimes a little difficult to find.
Ruaha National Park is perfect for travellers looking for far-flung areas and unforgettable cultural experiences. Much drier than Nyerere, the plentiful wildlife tends to gather along the Ruaha River, making game viewing very rewarding.
Lastly, Mikumi National Park is great for a weekend safari as its proximity to Dar Es Salaam makes it very accessible. Home to a large variety of wildlife including the Big Five, this park is without a doubt an ideal safari destination!