Tanzania's Southern Circuit — The Road Less Traveled

Tanzania's northern circuit (Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire) is famous for good reason. But the southern circuit offers something increasingly rare: vast wilderness with virtually no other vehicles, lower prices, and a completely different character.

The south is miombo woodland, not open plains. It is river safaris and walking, not just game drives. It is wild dogs and sable antelope, not just lions and wildebeest. And it is 30-50% cheaper than the equivalent northern circuit itinerary.

• Ruaha National Park — Tanzania's second-largest park. 10% of Africa's lions, massive elephant herds, and wild dogs. The predator action rivals the Serengeti.
• Nyerere National Park (Selous) — The largest game reserve in Africa. Boat safaris on the Rufiji River, walking safaris, and wild dogs. A completely different experience from any northern park.
• Mikumi National Park — Accessible by road from Dar es Salaam (4 hours). Perfect for a short safari or weekend escape.
• Udzungwa Mountains — Hiking through tropical rainforest to waterfalls. Endemic primates found nowhere else.

8-10 days is ideal:

• Day 1: Fly Dar to Nyerere (Selous)
• Day 2-4: Nyerere — boat safaris, walking, wild dogs
• Day 5: Fly Nyerere to Ruaha
• Day 6-8: Ruaha — lions, elephants, baobabs
• Day 9: Ruaha to Mikumi (road or fly)
• Day 10: Mikumi to Dar by road

June to October is the dry season — wildlife concentrates around rivers, roads are passable, and temperatures are mild. November to May is the green season — lush, beautiful, and discounted, but some camps close and roads become difficult.

If you have been to the Serengeti, or if you want something wilder and more affordable, the southern circuit is the answer. It is Tanzania's best-kept secret — but not for long.

Plan your southern circuit safari with us.