Region
Southern
Best time to visit
June–October (dry season wildlife along rivers); some lodges close in heavy rains
Key wildlife
Lion, leopard, wild dog, elephant, hippo, crocodile, giraffe, sable antelope
Southern Tanzania’s heavyweight duo: Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous), one of Africa’s largest protected areas with rivers and boating, plus Ruaha’s rugged wilderness and predator-rich bush along the Great Ruaha River.
Boat past hippos on the Rufiji, then fly west to Ruaha’s baobab valleys—southern Tanzania rewards those who go the extra mile.
Why go
Highlights of this destination
Boat safaris (Nyerere)
Quiet water-level viewing of hippos, crocs, and drinking game.
Ruaha predators
Strong lion and wild-dog country along riverine thickets.
Remote scale
Vast landscapes with far fewer vehicles than the northern circuit.
What to do
Activities & experiences
Boat safari
Rufiji River and lakes (Nyerere)
Walking safari
Armed ranger-led bush walks
Fly-in circuit
Light aircraft links Dar, Nyerere, Ruaha, Mahale
