Southern Circuit
Tanzania's wild frontier — vast, uncrowded parks with exceptional wildlife, walking safaris, and a fraction of the northern circuit's visitor numbers.
Region
Type
3
Sub-areas
Jun-Oct
Best Time
About Southern Circuit
Tanzania's Southern Circuit offers a fundamentally different safari experience from the busy northern parks — vast wilderness areas where you can drive for hours without seeing another vehicle, where walking safaris and boat trips are the norm rather than the exception, and where Africa's wild spaces feel genuinely untamed.
The circuit centres on two enormous reserves: Nyerere National Park (formerly the Selous Game Reserve), covering over 50,000 square kilometres, and Ruaha National Park, Tanzania's largest national park. Together they protect an area larger than Switzerland, supporting some of Africa's most important populations of elephants, wild dogs, lions, and hippos.
The trade-off for this exclusivity is accessibility — reaching the southern circuit requires bush flights from Dar es Salaam or long, rough road journeys. But for safari purists seeking authentic wilderness without the crowds, the southern circuit is Tanzania's best-kept secret.
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Why Visit Southern Circuit
The top experiences that make Southern Circuit worth the journey.
Plan Your Visit to Southern Circuit
Everything you need to know before booking your Southern Circuit safari — from the ideal season to budget expectations and logistics.
Best Time to Visit Southern Circuit
June to October for dry season game viewing. Roads can be impassable in the wet season (March-May). Many camps close from March to May.
What It Costs
Generally more affordable than the northern circuit. Mid-range camps $300-600/night. Luxury camps $600-1,500/night. Fewer budget options as the circuit is more remote.
Getting There
Fly from Dar es Salaam to Nyerere or Ruaha (1-2hrs by bush flight). Road access is possible but long and rough. Mikumi is accessible by road from Dar (4-5hrs).
Destinations Near Southern Circuit
Combine Southern Circuit with these nearby destinations for a multi-stop safari itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions About Southern Circuit
What is the best time to visit Southern Circuit?
June to October for dry season game viewing. Roads can be impassable in the wet season (March-May). Many camps close from March to May.
How do I get to Southern Circuit?
Fly from Dar es Salaam to Nyerere or Ruaha (1-2hrs by bush flight). Road access is possible but long and rough. Mikumi is accessible by road from Dar (4-5hrs).
What wildlife can I see in Southern Circuit?
Southern Circuit is known for incredible wildlife viewing. Top experiences include: Nyerere (Selous) — Africa's largest game reserve, Ruaha — Tanzania's largest national park, Walking safaris and boat trips, Excellent wild dog populations, Remote wilderness with very few tourists. The specific species you'll encounter depend on the season and exact location within Southern Circuit.
How much does a Southern Circuit safari cost?
Generally more affordable than the northern circuit. Mid-range camps $300-600/night. Luxury camps $600-1,500/night. Fewer budget options as the circuit is more remote.
