Explore Tanzania’s Southern Circuit for Remote Safari Adventures

Explore Tanzania’s Southern Circuit for Remote Safari Adventures .Tanzania is renowned for its world-class safari destinations, with the Northern Circuit attracting most tourists to iconic parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro. However, for travelers seeking a more remote and less crowded safari experience, Tanzania’s Southern Circuit offers an extraordinary adventure into the wild. The Southern Circuit encompasses vast, untouched wilderness areas rich in wildlife, dramatic landscapes, and authentic cultural experiences. This region is ideal for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those who prefer off-the-beaten-path adventures.

Places to Visit in the Southern Circuit

1. Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park)

Selous Game Reserve, now part of Nyerere National Park, is one of the largest protected areas in Africa, covering approximately 30,000 square kilometers. It is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, wild dogs, buffaloes, and diverse bird species. The Rufiji River flows through the reserve, offering excellent boat safaris, which provide a unique way to view hippos, crocodiles, and birds in their natural habitat. Walking safaris and fly camping are also popular activities in Selous.

2. Ruaha National Park

Ruaha is Tanzania’s largest national park, covering about 20,226 square kilometers. Known for its rugged terrain, stunning baobab trees, and diverse wildlife, Ruaha is an excellent destination for those looking to experience a true wilderness safari. It is home to a large population of elephants, lions, cheetahs, leopards, and a significant number of African wild dogs. The Great Ruaha River attracts a variety of animals, making it a perfect spot for game viewing.

3. Mikumi National Park

Often referred to as the “mini Serengeti,” Mikumi National Park is easily accessible from Dar es Salaam and offers excellent game viewing. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, elephants, buffaloes, lions, and leopards. The Mkata Floodplain is a prime area for spotting wildlife, while the Udzungwa Mountains in the background add to the scenic beauty of the park.

4. Udzungwa Mountains National Park

For travelers interested in hiking and biodiversity, Udzungwa Mountains National Park is a must-visit. Unlike traditional safari parks, Udzungwa is known for its lush forests, waterfalls, and rare primates, including the Iringa red colobus monkey. The park offers excellent trekking opportunities, with the Sanje Waterfalls trail being the most popular, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.

5. Katavi National Park

Katavi is one of Tanzania’s most remote and least visited parks, making it an exclusive destination for adventurous travelers. The park is known for its large populations of hippos, crocodiles, buffaloes, and lions. During the dry season, thousands of animals congregate around the Katuma River, offering spectacular game viewing experiences.

Transport Options for the Southern Circuit

Due to the vastness and remoteness of the Southern Circuit, choosing the right mode of transport is crucial for a smooth safari experience.

• Air Travel: The quickest and most convenient way to reach the Southern Circuit is by flying from Dar es Salaam to major parks like Selous, Ruaha, and Katavi. Domestic airlines such as Coastal Aviation, Auric Air, and Safari Airlink operate scheduled and charter flights to these destinations.
• Road Travel: While some parks like Mikumi and Udzungwa are accessible by road from Dar es Salaam, other parks like Ruaha and Katavi require long drives on rough roads. A 4×4 safari vehicle is essential for navigating these areas, especially during the rainy season.
• Train Travel: The TAZARA Railway offers a scenic and adventurous journey from Dar es Salaam to Mbeya, with stops near Selous Game Reserve. While not the fastest option, it provides a unique travel experience through Tanzania’s countryside.

Best Time to Explore the Southern Circuit

The best time to visit the Southern Circuit depends on the type of safari experience you are looking for:

• Dry Season (June to October): This is the peak safari season when wildlife is easier to spot due to the sparse vegetation and animals gathering around water sources. The weather is also cooler and more comfortable for game drives and walking safaris.
• Wet Season (November to May): While some parks become less accessible due to heavy rains, this is the best time for birdwatching and witnessing lush, green landscapes. The wet season is also the calving period for many animals, making it a fascinating time to visit.

Accommodation Options 

Tanzania’s Southern Circuit offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences, from budget campsites to luxury lodges.

Budget Accommodation

• Selous River Camp (Selous/Nyerere National Park): This budget-friendly camp offers comfortable bandas and a great location along the Rufiji River.
• Tan-Swiss Lodge (Mikumi National Park): A budget-friendly lodge with simple but comfortable rooms and a restaurant serving local and international cuisine.
• Public Campsites (Various Parks): For the adventurous, public campsites in Ruaha, Mikumi, and Katavi offer basic facilities for an affordable stay.

Mid-Range Accommodation

• Ruaha River Lodge (Ruaha National Park): This mid-range lodge offers spacious cottages with stunning views of the Great Ruaha River.
• Vuma Hills Tented Camp (Mikumi National Park): A tented camp providing a comfortable bush experience with en-suite tents and great service.
• Foxes Safari Camp (Katavi National Park): A well-located camp offering an authentic safari experience with excellent game viewing opportunities.

Luxury Accommodation

• Siwandu Camp (Selous/Nyerere National Park): A high-end tented camp offering luxury accommodation with private decks and exceptional service.
• Jabali Ridge (Ruaha National Park): A stylish and luxurious lodge with panoramic views and an infinity pool.
• Chada Katavi (Katavi National Park): A luxury tented camp that offers an exclusive and intimate safari experience in one of Tanzania’s most remote parks.

Exploring Tanzania’s Southern Circuit offers a remarkable and less crowded safari experience compared to the popular Northern Circuit. With its vast wilderness, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes, the Southern Circuit is perfect for those seeking adventure and exclusivity. Whether you choose to visit the Selous Game Reserve, Ruaha, Mikumi, Udzungwa, or Katavi, you are guaranteed an unforgettable safari experience. With various transport options and accommodations ranging from budget to luxury, this region caters to different travel preferences, making it a must-visit destination for wildlife lovers and adventure seekers alike.