Selous / Ruaha
Boat past hippos on the Rufiji, then fly west to Ruaha’s baobab valleys—southern Tanzania rewards those who go the extra mile.
Adventures in Southern
Nyerere National Park (the greater part of the former Selous Game Reserve) protects vast miombo woodlands, the Rufiji River system, and classic boating and walking safaris. Ruaha National Park is Tanzania’s largest national park by area, centred on the Great Ruaha River and known for lions, wild dog, and huge elephant herds in the dry season.
Together they represent a quieter, more remote circuit than the north—ideal for second-time visitors or longer itineraries.
Quick facts
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
Highlights
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.
Activities
- Boat safariRufiji River and lakes (Nyerere)
- Walking safariArmed ranger-led bush walks
- Fly-in circuitLight aircraft links Dar, Nyerere, Ruaha, Mahale
