Detailed guide to Southern Circuit safari

A majestic African elephant captured in a striking black and white portrait, showcasing wildlife elegance.

Tanzania’s Southern Circuit is one of the country’s best-kept secrets, offering a more off-the-beaten-path safari experience compared to the Northern Circuit. Famed for its pristine landscapes, fewer crowds, and remarkable wildlife, the Southern Circuit is a fantastic choice for travelers seeking a more intimate and authentic safari. Below is a guide to some of the best destinations in the Southern Circuit, along with suggestions on how long to stay and what to expect.

1. Ruaha National Park (3-4 Days)

Ruaha National Park is one of the largest and most remote parks in Tanzania, boasting an incredibly diverse ecosystem. This park is known for its vast open savannahs, rugged mountains, and the Great Ruaha River that runs through the park, attracting a wide array of wildlife.

What to expect:

  • Wildlife: The park is a haven for predators, with lions, leopards, and cheetahs commonly spotted. It’s also a great place to see large populations of elephants, buffalo, and giraffes.
  • Birdwatching: With over 570 bird species, including migratory species, Ruaha is a birdwatcher’s paradise.
  • Activities: Game drives, walking safaris, and river-based safaris are available to give you a well-rounded experience.

How long to stay: Spend 3-4 days exploring the park, which allows time for multiple game drives and leisurely exploration of its varied ecosystems.


2. Selous Game Reserve (3-4 Days)

The Selous Game Reserve is one of the largest protected areas in Africa, offering a combination of wilderness and wildlife that is unrivaled. This UNESCO World Heritage site covers more than 50,000 square kilometers of diverse habitats, including savannahs, riverine forests, and wetlands.

What to expect:

  • Wildlife: Selous is famous for its population of African wild dogs, along with lions, elephants, buffalo, and a variety of antelope species. The Rufiji River attracts a wealth of wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, and elephants.
  • Activities: Enjoy boat safaris along the Rufiji River, walking safaris, and game drives. The boat safaris offer a unique perspective on wildlife, allowing you to see animals from the water.
  • Scenic beauty: The reserve’s remote setting, coupled with its natural beauty, provides an incredible backdrop for your safari.

How long to stay: 3-4 days gives you ample time to experience Selous’s diverse wildlife and landscapes, along with its unique activities.


3. Mikumi National Park (2-3 Days)

Mikumi National Park is located near the town of Morogoro and is one of the most accessible parks in Tanzania’s Southern Circuit. Its proximity to Dar es Salaam makes it an excellent option for those looking to enjoy a shorter safari or a quick wildlife getaway.

What to expect:

  • Wildlife: Mikumi is home to large herds of elephants, buffalo, zebras, and giraffes. The park also offers great opportunities for seeing predators like lions, leopards, and wild dogs.
  • Birdwatching: Mikumi is a great location for birding enthusiasts, with over 400 species of birds, including several species of raptors and waterfowl.
  • Scenic beauty: The park’s mix of woodlands, floodplains, and the striking backdrop of the Uluguru Mountains makes for stunning safari views.

How long to stay: Spend 2-3 days at Mikumi to enjoy the game drives and explore the park’s rich wildlife and landscapes.


4. Ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani and Songo Mnara (1-2 Days)

If you’re interested in culture and history, a visit to Kilwa Kisiwani and Songo Mnara is a must. These ancient Swahili coastal towns were once centers of trade in East Africa and are now UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

What to expect:

  • Historical significance: The ruins date back to the 12th century and provide a fascinating insight into the history of the Swahili coast, including the influence of Arab traders.
  • Exploration: Walk through the remains of ancient mosques, forts, and houses, all set on the picturesque islands of Kilwa Kisiwani and Songo Mnara.

How long to stay: A 1-2 day excursion to these sites will allow you to delve into the rich history of the region.


5. Udzungwa Mountains National Park (2-3 Days)

Located in the southern highlands, Udzungwa Mountains National Park is known for its stunning biodiversity and scenic beauty. This park is a great choice for those who enjoy hiking and exploring unique ecosystems.

What to expect:

  • Hiking and trekking: The park offers various hiking trails that take you through lush rainforests, waterfalls, and highland plateaus. The Sanje Waterfalls, one of the tallest in Tanzania, is a highlight of the park.
  • Wildlife: The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including primates such as the endemic Udzungwa red colobus monkey, as well as elephants, buffalo, and a wealth of birdlife.
  • Ecological variety: From tropical rainforests to alpine meadows, the park offers a diverse range of habitats to explore.

How long to stay: 2-3 days is enough to explore the park’s hiking trails and experience its natural beauty.


6. Selous and Ruaha Multi-Park Safari

For a comprehensive experience of the Southern Circuit, consider combining Selous Game Reserve and Ruaha National Park. This combination allows you to explore two of Tanzania’s largest and most wildlife-rich parks in one trip.

What to expect:

  • Diverse ecosystems: From the wetlands of Selous to the savannahs and woodlands of Ruaha, this combination offers a range of landscapes and ecosystems to explore.
  • Wildlife: Both parks are home to abundant wildlife, including the Big Five, wild dogs, and countless bird species.

How long to stay: Spend 7-8 days visiting both parks for a deeper safari experience that includes game drives, boat safaris, and walking safaris.



Tanzania’s Southern Circuit is an excellent choice for a safari that offers both off-the-beaten-path experiences and spectacular wildlife encounters. Whether you’re exploring the remote wilderness of Ruaha and Selous, enjoying the scenic beauty of Mikumi, or immersing yourself in the cultural history of Kilwa Kisiwani, there’s no shortage of incredible places to explore. With a combination of safari experiences, hiking, and historical tours, a Southern Circuit safari is perfect for those seeking an authentic and less crowded Tanzanian adventure.

Shopping Cart
Scroll to Top