Southern Tanzania circuit safari 2026
Michael kalamu
SOUTHERN TANZANIA AFRICA OFFERS
Southern Tanzania offers an authentic, off-the-beaten-path safari experience, featuring vast, uncrowded wilderness areas, the massive Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous) known for boat safaris and wild dogs, and Ruaha National Park, renowned for large elephant herds. Key attractions include diverse wildlife, scenic landscapes, and coastal gems like Mafia Island for marine life.
Audley Travel
Audley Travel
Key National Parks & Wildlife
Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous): One of Africa's largest, known for boat safaris on the Rufiji River, high populations of hippos, crocodiles, wild dogs, and lions.
Ruaha National Park: Tanzania’s largest park, famous for immense elephant herds, baobab trees, and high predator density (lions, leopards, cheetahs).
Mikumi National Park: Known as a "mini-Serengeti" and easily accessible from Dar es Salaam, offering diverse savannah wildlife.
Udzungwa Mountains National Park: A hiker's paradise with scenic waterfalls, endemic monkey species, and diverse birdlife.
Kitulo National Park: Known as the "Garden of God" or "Serengeti of Flowers," featuring unique flora and stunning montane scenery.
Katavi National Park: A remote, untouched park with high concentrations of hippos and crocodiles.
Coastal and Cultural Attractions
Mafia Island Marine Park: Renowned for world-class diving, snorkeling, and swimming with whale sharks (October-March).
Kilwa Ruins (Kilwa Kisiwani): A UNESCO World Heritage site featuring 13th-century Swahili and Arab ruins.
Bagamoyo Town: A historic town known for18th/19th-century coastal history and trade.
Southern Highlands: Features the Livingstone Mountains, Lake Nyasa, and the Isimila Stone Age Site.
Domestic Tourism Safaris
Domestic Tourism Safaris
Top Activities
Boating Safaris: Primarily in Nyerere National Park.
Walking Safaris: Available in most southern parks for an intimate nature experience.
Fly-Camping: Adventurous, remote camping experiences.
Diving & Snorkeling: Especially around Mafia Island.