6 SOURTHERN CIRCUIT JOURNEY

Southern Circuit Journey

Explore the Untamed Beauty of Tanzania’s Southern Circuit.

Tour review

6 Days Southern Circuit Journey

This 6-day Southern Circuit Safari takes you through some of Tanzania’s most incredible wildlife reserves and parks, offering a mix of game drives, boat safaris, walking safaris, and breathtaking hikes. From the stunning Selous Game Reserve to the tranquil beauty of Mikumi National Park and the lush Udzungwa Mountains, this itinerary is perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers looking for a well-rounded safari experience.

Best Time To Visit

The dry season (from June to October) is the best time to visit, as animals are easier to spot around waterholes and the weather is perfect for outdoor activities.

A powerful lion with a majestic mane stands in the African savannah, showcasing its natural habitat.

Place To Visit

Selous Game Reserve, Mikumi National Park, Udzungwa Mountains National Park

Day By Day Iternary

Southern Wildlife Escape

Day 1: Dar es Salaam to Selous Game Reserve

Begin your journey with a drive from Dar es Salaam to Selous Game Reserve (approx. 5-6 hours by road or 45 minutes by air). Upon arrival, check in to your lodge or camp and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, embark on a boat safari along the Rufiji River, where you can spot hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of waterbirds like kingfishers and fish eagles. Watch the sunset over the river before returning to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 2: Full Day Game Drive in Selous

Today, spend the entire day exploring Selous on a game drive, navigating through the reserve's diverse habitats, from open savannahs to wetlands. Look for elephants, lions, zebras, giraffes, and the rare African wild dogs. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush and continue your safari in the afternoon. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.

Day 3: Walking Safari and Transfer to Mikumi National Park

Start the day with a walking safari, an intimate experience that allows you to learn about the smaller details of the ecosystem, including plants, insects, and animal tracks. After breakfast, drive to Mikumi National Park (approx. 6-hour drive). Upon arrival, check in to your lodge or tented camp and relax. Enjoy dinner and overnight in Mikumi.

Day 4: Full Day in Mikumi National Park

Spend the entire day on game drives through Mikumi National Park. Visit the Mkata Floodplain, a prime spot for viewing elephants, zebras, and buffalo in large herds. Watch for predators like lions and leopards lurking in the tall grass. Take a break with a picnic lunch in the park, surrounded by nature. In the afternoon, continue exploring the park's diverse landscapes. Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.

Day 5: Mikumi to Udzungwa Mountains National Park

After breakfast, drive to Udzungwa Mountains National Park (approx. 3 hours). Upon arrival, embark on a guided hike through the park’s tropical rainforest, home to unique plant species and endemic primates like the Sanje Mangabey. Visit the beautiful Sanje Waterfalls, where you can relax and enjoy a picnic lunch amidst stunning natural surroundings. Afterward, return to Mikumi for dinner and overnight.

Day 6: Morning Game Drive and Return to Dar es Salaam

On your final day, start with an early morning game drive in Mikumi, taking advantage of the cooler morning hours to spot wildlife at its most active. After breakfast, drive back to Dar es Salaam, arriving in the late afternoon to conclude your unforgettable safari adventure.

Your Guide to the Southern Tanzania Safari

Everything You Need to Know for an Unforgettable Safari Adventure!

✔ All park entry fees and government taxes.

✔ Accommodation in lodges and camps.

✔ Transportation (by road or air) between the parks and Dar es Salaam.

✔ All meals during the safari.

✔ Boat safari in Selous.

✔ Game drives in Selous, Mikumi, and Udzungwa.

✔ Guided walking safari in Selous.

✔ Picnic lunches during game drives and hikes

✘International flights.

✘Personal travel insurance.

✘ Tips and gratuities for guides and lodge staff.

✘ Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks.

✘ Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, etc.).

  1. How long does it take to drive between the parks?
    The drive between Selous and Mikumi is approximately 6 hours, and from Mikumi to Udzungwa, it takes around 3 hours.
  2. Will I be able to see the Big Five?
    While you will have opportunities to spot some of the Big Five (like lions and elephants), the main focus of this safari is on the incredible diversity of wildlife in these parks, not necessarily completing the Big Five checklist.
  3. Is this itinerary suitable for families with children?
    Yes, this itinerary is family-friendly, though younger children may not be able to fully participate in activities like walking safaris. Be sure to check with your tour operator regarding age restrictions.
  4. What should I bring on this safari?
    For the safari, pack neutral-colored clothing, a hat, sunscreen, comfortable shoes for walking, and a camera for capturing the sights. For the hike in Udzungwa, bring sturdy hiking shoes and a light jacket for the morning chill.
  5. When is the best time to go on this safari?
    The dry season from June to October is the best time for wildlife viewing, as animals gather around waterholes, and the weather is ideal for outdoor activities.

This 6-day Southern Circuit itinerary offers a comprehensive and immersive wildlife adventure, combining boat safaris, game drives, walking safaris, and hiking in some of Tanzania’s most iconic parks. Whether you're exploring the wetlands of Selous, the vast savannahs of Mikumi, or the lush rainforests of Udzungwa, this safari promises an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

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Southern Circuit Safari

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