Southern Tanzania offers a hidden gem for safari lovers. Less crowded than the northern parks, it provides intimate and authentic wildlife experiences, making every encounter truly special.
Ruaha National Park boasts vast landscapes and is home to lions, leopards, African wild dogs, and diverse antelope species. The Great Ruaha River attracts hippos and crocodiles, creating lively wildlife scenes. To the southeast, Nyerere National Park, carved from the Selous Game Reserve, features the mighty Rufiji River and Africa’s largest population of wild dogs, along with lions, elephants, giraffes, hippos, and more, set against stunning scenery.
Experience these wilderness areas by boat, on foot, or from a hot-air balloon. Southern Tanzania safaris offer raw, untamed beauty, serene landscapes, and thrilling adventures, all easily accessible by light aircraft from Dar es Salaam or Arusha.
Southern Tanzania is home to some of the most remote and scenic landscapes in the region. Ruaha National Park, the second largest in Tanzania, features rolling hills, baobab trees, and the Great Ruaha River, offering exciting river safaris. The park is a sanctuary for elephants, cheetahs, lions, and a variety of bird species. Nearby, Nyerere National Park, fed by the mighty Rufiji River, supports large herds of elephants, hippos, crocodiles, big cats, and an impressive array of birds.
Covering over 20,200 km² (7,800 sq mi), Ruaha National Park boasts diverse landscapes, including savannahs, wetlands, mountains, seasonal riverbeds, and floodplains. Rare species such as wild dogs, cheetahs, and leopards make it ideal for safari enthusiasts seeking untamed Africa. With only a few safari camps, Ruaha offers an exclusive wilderness adventure.
Visitors can enjoy walking safaris, day and night game drives, and hot-air balloon safaris from boutique camps such as Jabali Ridge, Jabali Private House, Usangu Expedition Camp, and Kokoko Camp.
Formerly Selous Game Reserve, Nyerere National Park is one of East Africa’s largest and most remote parks. It is home to giraffes, buffalo, zebra, wildebeest, waterbuck, impala, endangered wild dogs, lions, and other predators, providing thrilling safari experiences.
The Rufiji River hosts hippos and elephants, while birdwatchers can spot over 440 species. Walking safaris, boating trips, and game drives in open-sided vehicles provide unforgettable wildlife encounters. Visitors can experience an intimate and exclusive adventure at Roho ya Selous, located on a tributary of the Rufiji River.
