7 SOURTHERN TANZANIA WILD SAFARI

Southern Tanzania Wild Safari

Discover the Untamed Wilderness of Tanzania’s Southern Circuit

Tour review

7 Days Southern Tanzania Wild Safari

This 7-day Southern Circuit Safari offers an extraordinary adventure through Tanzania’s lesser-explored national parks. From the vast expanses of Selous Game Reserve to the rugged beauty of Ruaha National Park, this itinerary includes a variety of safari activities such as boat safaris, walking safaris, game drives, and hiking. It is perfect for nature enthusiasts looking for an authentic and diverse Tanzanian safari experience.

Best Time To Visit

The dry season (from June to October) is the best time for wildlife viewing, as animals tend to gather around water sources, and the weather is ideal 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, Ruaha National Park

Day By Day Iternary

Southern Wildlife Escape

Day 1: Dar es Salaam to Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park)

Start your journey with an early drive (5-6 hours) or flight (45 minutes) to Selous Game Reserve. Upon arrival, settle into your lodge or camp and enjoy lunch. In the afternoon, take a boat safari along the Rufiji River, where you can spot hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species. As the sun sets over the river, relax and take in the beauty of the surroundings. Return to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 2: Full-Day Game Drive in Selous

Spend the entire day on a game drive through the diverse landscapes of Selous, from open plains to dense woodlands. Look for elephants, giraffes, zebras, lions, and the rare African wild dogs. Stop for a picnic lunch in the bush, surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Continue your safari in the afternoon and return to your lodge in the evening for dinner and overnight.

Day 3: Walking Safari and Transfer to Mikumi National Park

Begin the day with a walking safari, guided by an expert who will teach you about the smaller aspects of the bush, including animal tracks, insects, and vegetation. After breakfast, drive to Mikumi National Park (approx. 6-hour drive). Upon arrival in the afternoon, check into your lodge or tented camp and relax. Enjoy dinner and overnight.

Day 4: Full-Day Game Drive in Mikumi National Park

Today, embark on a full-day game drive in Mikumi National Park, known for its open savannahs. Visit the Mkata Floodplain, where you can see large herds of elephants, zebras, giraffes, and buffalo. Keep an eye out for predators like lions and hyenas as they hunt for prey. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park before continuing your exploration in the afternoon. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.

Day 5: Mikumi to Udzungwa Mountains National Park

After breakfast, drive to Udzungwa Mountains National Park (approx. 2 hours). Upon arrival, begin a guided hike through the lush tropical rainforest, home to unique species like the Sanje Mangabey and Iringa Red Colobus monkeys. Visit the beautiful Sanje Waterfalls, where you can take a refreshing dip and enjoy a picnic lunch surrounded by nature. Afterward, return to Mikumi for dinner and overnight.

Day 6: Mikumi to Ruaha National Park

Following an early breakfast, take a scenic drive to Ruaha National Park (approx. 7-8 hours). This park is renowned for its dramatic landscapes and large populations of predators. Upon arrival in the late afternoon, settle into your lodge and relax. Enjoy a peaceful evening before a full day of wildlife exploration.

Day 7: Full-Day Game Drive in Ruaha and Return to Dar es Salaam

On your final day, start with an early morning game drive in Ruaha National Park. Explore the rugged terrain and look for elephants, lions, cheetahs, leopards, and various antelopes. After lunch, take a flight or 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, Ruaha, and Udzungwa.

✔ Walking safari in Selous.

✔ Guided hike in Udzungwa Mountains.

✔ Picnic lunches during safari activities.

✘ 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, from Mikumi to Udzungwa, it takes about 2 hours, and from Mikumi to Ruaha, it’s around 7-8 hours.
  2. Is the 7-day safari suitable for families?
    Yes, this itinerary is family-friendly. However, children may not be able to participate in activities like walking safaris or hikes, depending on age. Check with your tour operator for specific age recommendations.
  3. When is the best time to go on this safari?
    The dry season from June to October is ideal for wildlife viewing, as animals gather around waterholes and the weather is great for outdoor activities.
  4. What should I pack for this safari?
    Bring neutral-colored clothing, a hat, sunscreen, comfortable shoes for walking, a camera, and binoculars for wildlife viewing. For the hike in Udzungwa, pack sturdy hiking shoes and a light jacket for the cooler mornings.
  5. Will I see the Big Five on this safari?
    While the Big Five can sometimes be spotted, the focus of this itinerary is on the diverse wildlife of Tanzania's lesser-explored parks, where you'll encounter a wide range of species in stunning landscapes.

Let's hear from you

Your journey begins here – Explore bespoke tours tailored to your interests through our Tour Inquiry section.

Southern Circuit Safari

Safari Group Departures

Embark on an Unforgettable Journey with Fellow Adventurers!

Scheduled Group Safari

Join our fixed departure treks for a well-organized, cost-effective, and exciting trekking experience with a great team spirit!

JOIN GROUP

Related Tours

Discover more incredible adventures—whether it's thrilling safaris or cultural experiences, there's always something exciting waiting for you!