Experience True Wilderness
The Southern Circuit offers a safari experience defined by solitude, diverse ecosystems, and the freedom of remote exploration.
Low Crowds
Enjoy solitude and pristine nature far from the Northern Circuit's crowds—visitor numbers are <10% of Serengeti/Ngorongoro annually.
Diverse Activities
Unique options: Walking safaris (Ruaha), Boat Safaris (Nyerere), Fly-camping, Mountain Treks (Udzungwa), and Wildflower Safaris (Kitulo Plateau).
Predator Power
Home to ~1,500 lions (Ruaha alone has 10% of Africa's remaining lions) and ~1,000 critically endangered African Wild Dogs across Nyerere/Ruaha.
Botanical Wonders
From the rainforests of Udzungwa (endemic plants: 25% of Tanzania's flora) to the wildflowers of Kitulo ("Garden of God," 350+ orchid species), a true haven for birding (500+ species) and botany.
Meet the Southern Stars
African Wild Dog
The South hosts ~8% of the global population (~1,000 individuals), with Nyerere holding the world's densest packs (up to 100+ in core areas). Success rate of hunts: 80%+.
Read about the Wild Dog
Giant Elephant Herds
Ruaha National Park is home to an estimated 20,000+ elephants (34% of Tanzania's total). Dry-season gatherings along the Great Ruaha River exceed 500 individuals.
Explore Ruaha's Wildlife
Udzungwa Endemics
Hike the mountain forests of Udzungwa to find unique species like the Iringa Red Colobus (endemic, ~200 left) and Sanje Crested Mangabey. 4 primate species found nowhere else.
Explore UdzungwaThe Premier Destinations
Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve)
Africa's largest national park (50,000 km², bigger than Denmark). The Rufiji River system supports 60% of Tanzania's elephants outside protected areas. UNESCO World Heritage Site with photographic tourism zones only (no settlements). Home to the rare sable antelope and puku.
- River & Lake Boat Safaris
- ~700 Wild Dogs (global stronghold)
- Multi-day Walking Safaris & Fly-camping
- Best June - October (dry); Nov-Mar (green season birding)
- Tigerfish & Catfish Sport Fishing
- Photographic Hides at Waterholes
Ruaha National Park
Tanzania's largest national park (20,226 km²) and core of the Rungwa-Kizigo-Muhesi ecosystem (45,000 km² total). Baobab-studded hills, sand rivers, and the Great Ruaha River create dramatic scenery. Only place in East Africa with reliable Greater & Lesser Kudu sightings. Lion density: 1 per 2 km² in core areas.
- Baobab Valleys & Escarpments
- 20,000+ Elephants (largest population)
- 1,500+ Lions in prides up to 25
- Night Drives & Off-road Game Viewing
- 580+ Bird Species (endemic ashy starling)
- Guided Bush Walks & Fly-camping
Mikumi National Park
3,230 km² open savanna adjacent to Nyerere, bisected by the A7 highway (Dar to Zambia). Mkata Floodplain hosts year-round game; often called "mini-Serengeti." High density of lions, giraffes, and buffalo. Ideal 1-2 day add-on from Dar es Salaam (4-hour drive).
- 4h Drive from Dar es Salaam
- Open Plains for Easy Game Viewing
- Hippo Pools & Crocodiles
- Year-round Access (tarmac road)
- 400+ Bird Species
- Budget to Mid-range Lodges
Udzungwa Mountains National Park
1,990 km² of Eastern Arc rainforest (1.2 billion years old). No large mammals but richest primate diversity in Tanzania: 11 species, 4 endemic. Sanje Waterfall (170m) is a 3-4 hour hike. 400+ bird species including rufous-winged sunbird. Often called "Galapagos of Africa" for endemism.
- Montane Rainforest (1,000–2,500m)
- Sanje Waterfall (170m drop)
- 4 Endemic Primates
- 1–4 Day Hiking Trails
- 25% of Tanzania's Plant Species
- Best Apr-Jun & Sep-Nov
Kitulo National Park
Nicknamed "Bustani ya Mungu" (God's Garden) and the "Serengeti of Flowers." 412 km² montane grassland at 2,600m. Peak bloom Dec–Apr with 350+ orchid species, giant lobelias, and proteas. Home to rare Kipunji monkey and endangered cranes. Ideal for botanical safaris and hiking.
- 45 Endemic Wildflowers
- 2,600m Plateau
- Multi-day Hiking Circuits
- 350+ Bird Species
- Cool Climate (8–18°C)
- Bloom: Dec–Apr
Plan Your Untamed Safari
Duration
7–10 Days for core circuit (Nyerere + Ruaha); 12+ for full South (incl. Mikumi, Udzungwa, Kitulo).
Best Time
June–October (dry season) for wildlife concentration; Dec–April for Kitulo flowers & green scenery.
Access
Daily flights from Dar es Salaam (DAR) or Zanzibar (ZNZ) to Nyerere, Ruaha, Mikumi airstrips. Charter flights essential for remote camps.