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Southern Circuit Tanzania

The Untouched Wilderness Adventure

What is the Southern Circuit?

The Hidden Gem of Tanzania

The Southern Circuit is Tanzania's most remote and least-visited safari route, offering an exclusive wilderness experience away from the crowds. Unlike the popular Northern Circuit, the Southern Circuit provides a more intimate and authentic Tanzania safari adventure with fewer tourists and more personalized attention from guides.

This circuit encompasses some of Africa's most pristine wilderness areas, including Ruaha National Park (Tanzania's largest national park) and the vast Selous Game Reserve (one of the world's largest protected areas). The Southern Circuit is perfect for travelers seeking a true off-the-beaten-path adventure with exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities.

Key Characteristics:

  • Least crowded safari route in Tanzania
  • Remote and pristine wilderness areas
  • Exceptional wildlife diversity and density
  • Unique boat safari experiences
  • Off-the-beaten-path adventure

Why Choose Southern Circuit

Exclusive Wildlife Experience

Encounter wildlife in a more intimate setting with fewer crowds and better viewing opportunities.

Unique Boat Safaris

Experience wildlife viewing from rivers and waterways, a unique perspective unavailable in Northern Circuit.

Wild Dog Sightings

Higher chances of seeing endangered Tanzania wild dogs in their natural habitat.

Greater Antelope Species

Opportunity to see rare antelope species like sable, roan, and nyala.

Authentic Cultural Encounters

Interact with local communities and experience traditional Tanzania culture.

Tanzania Safari Circuits Comparison

Northern Circuit

  • Most popular and accessible
  • Iconic parks (Serengeti, Ngorongoro)
  • Excellent wildlife viewing
  • Year-round accessibility
  • Best for first-time visitors

Duration: 3-10 days

Starting point: Arusha/Moshi

Southern Circuit

  • Least crowded and remote
  • Ruaha & Selous parks
  • Excellent for boat safaris
  • Wild dog and antelope species
  • Off-the-beaten-path adventure

Duration: 5-14 days

Starting point: Iringa/Dar es Salaam

Western Circuit

  • Challenging & adventurous
  • Mahale & Katavi Parks
  • Chimpanzee trekking
  • Remote wilderness
  • Best for experienced travelers

Duration: 7-21 days

Starting point: Kigoma/Mpanda

Coastal & Islands

  • Zanzibar, Mafia & Pemba
  • Pristine beaches & turquoise waters
  • World-class diving & snorkeling
  • Rich Swahili culture & history
  • Perfect for post-safari relaxation

Duration: 2-7 days

Starting point: Zanzibar/Dar es Salaam

Southern Circuit Parks

Ruaha National Park

Ruaha National Park

Tanzania's largest national park, Ruaha is a remote wilderness paradise known for its rugged beauty and exceptional wildlife diversity.

Ruaha offers excellent opportunities for spotting rare antelope species and predators, with fewer crowds than the Northern Circuit parks.

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Selous Game Reserve

One of the world's largest protected areas, the Selous Game Reserve offers unique boat safaris along the Rufiji River system.

The highlight of Selous is the boat safari experience, allowing visitors to see wildlife from a completely different perspective.

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Selous Game Reserve
Mikumi National Park

Mikumi National Park

Often called the "Serengeti of the South," Mikumi offers excellent wildlife viewing with easier access than other Southern Circuit parks.

The park is easily accessible from Dar es Salaam, perfect for short safaris with reliable wildlife sightings.

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Udzungwa Mountains

Known as the "Galapagos of Africa," Udzungwa is a biodiversity hotspot with endemic species found nowhere else on Earth.

The park offers excellent hiking through pristine montane forests with cascading waterfalls and rare wildlife.

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Udzungwa Mountains

What Our Southern Circuit Luxury Safari Guests Say

Our Commitment to Excellence

Safety & Sustainability

  • Certified mountain guides with first aid training
  • 24/7 emergency support and communication
  • Sustainable tourism practices and eco-friendly operations
  • Support for local communities and conservation efforts

Certifications & Awards

  • Tanzania Association of Tour Operators (TATO) Member
  • Winner: Best Luxury Safari Operator 2022
  • Certified Kilimanjaro Porters Assistance Project (KPAP)
  • Sustainable Tourism Award 2023

Our Southern Circuit Safari Destinations

Interactive Southern Circuit Map

Explore our featured Southern Circuit safari destinations across Tanzania

Ruaha

Elephant Kingdom

Selous

Boat Safaris

Mikumi

Serengeti of the South

Udzungwa

Galapagos of Africa

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time is during the dry season (June–October). However, the parks are beautiful year-round, with lush green landscapes during the wet season (November–May).

Pack light, neutral-colored clothing (khaki, beige), a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable walking shoes, binoculars, and a camera. A light jacket is recommended for early morning and evening game drives. For luxury accommodations, bring elegant evening wear for dining experiences.

Yes, this safari is suitable for children aged 6 and above. Children under 6 may find the long drives and camping experience challenging. Please inform us in advance if traveling with young children so we can make necessary arrangements.

Ngorongoro Crater has excellent chances of seeing the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino). Serengeti, Lake Manyara, and Tarangire also offer good opportunities for seeing most of the Big Five. While wildlife viewing is never guaranteed, our experienced guides maximize your chances.

Accommodation is included in selected luxury lodges/camps in Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Serengeti, and near Ngorongoro. We offer options from budget to luxury lodges. Please specify your preference when booking, and we'll confirm availability and pricing.

Yes, all meals are included from breakfast on day 1 to dinner on day 8. We provide packed lunches during game drives and dinners at your accommodation. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated if notified in advance.

Our safari vehicles accommodate a maximum of 6-7 passengers to ensure everyone has a window seat and optimal viewing experience. Private safaris are available at an additional cost.

Consult your doctor or travel clinic for specific recommendations. Commonly recommended vaccinations include yellow fever, hepatitis A & B, typhoid, and routine immunizations. Malaria prophylaxis is also recommended for Tanzania.

What's Included & Not Included

What's Included

  • Accommodation in selected luxury lodges/camps
  • All park entrance fees and conservation fees
  • Professional safari guide and driver
  • All meals as per itinerary
  • Transportation in luxury safari vehicle
  • Drinking water throughout the safari
  • Bush showers and basic campsite facilities
  • Complimentary laundry service

What's Not Included

  • International flights to/from Tanzania
  • Personal travel insurance
  • Tips and gratuities for guides and staff
  • Tanzania visa fees
  • Alcoholic and soft drinks
  • Personal expenses and souvenirs

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