Tanzania’s Southern Circuit: The Ultimate Guide to Africa’s Best-Kept Secret
What is the Tanzania Southern Circuit?
While the Northern Circuit (Serengeti/Ngorongoro) is the "Greatest Hits" of Africa, the Southern Circuit is the "A-Side" for connoisseurs. Comprising mainly Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous) and Ruaha National Park, this region is defined by its vastness, its incredible biodiversity, and—most importantly—its lack of crowds.
In the south, you don't just see the wild; you feel it. It is one of the few places left in Africa where you can drive for an entire day without seeing another safari vehicle.
1. Nyerere National Park (The Selous): Rivers and Waterways
Nyerere is among the world’s largest wildlife reserves. Its lifeblood is the Rufiji River, which creates a landscape of lagoons, sandbanks, and lakes.
Why it's Unique:
Boat Safaris: This is the primary draw. Drifting past hippos, crocodiles, and thirsty elephants at sunset is an experience you simply cannot get in the Serengeti.
Wild Dog Sanctuary: Nyerere is one of the best places in Africa to see the rare and endangered African Wild Dog (Painted Wolf).
The Vegetation: Expect a lush mix of riverine forests and Miombo woodlands.
2. Ruaha National Park: The Land of Giants
Ruaha is Tanzania’s largest national park, but receives only a fraction of the visitors the Serengeti does. It is a rugged, arid landscape dominated by the Great Ruaha River and ancient, towering Baobab trees.
Why it's Unique:
The Convergence Zone: Ruaha is where the flora and fauna of Southern and Eastern Africa meet. It is the only place you can see both Greater and Lesser Kudu in the same park.
Massive Lion Prides: Ruaha is famous for its "super prides"—lions that have adapted to hunting massive prey, including buffalo and even young elephants.
The "Elephant Capital": Ruaha boasts one of the highest elephant concentrations in East Africa.
3. Experience Comparison: North vs. South Activities
The Southern Circuit offers a more diverse and active safari experience than the vehicle-focused North.
| Activity | Southern Circuit | Northern Circuit |
|---|---|---|
| Walking Safaris | Exceptional. High-quality, multi-hour walks with armed rangers. | Limited to specific zones or private concessions. |
| Boat Safaris | Iconic. Exploring the Rufiji River is a highlight. | Virtually non-existent (except for small Lake Manyara paddles). |
| Night Drives | Available. Permitted in many areas within the Southern Circuit. | Prohibited inside the main National Parks (Serengeti/Ngorongoro). |
| Fly-In Access | Standard. Most guests fly between remote bush airstrips. | Optional; many guests still drive from Arusha. |
4. Best Time to Visit the Southern Circuit
The timing for the South is more critical than the North because some lodges close during the peak rainy season.
Dry Season (June – October): The absolute best time. As water sources dry up, wildlife congregates in massive numbers around the Rufiji River (Nyerere) and the Great Ruaha River.
Shoulder Season (November – March): Excellent for birding and "Green Season" photography.
The "Long Rains" (April – May): Warning: Many lodges in the Southern Circuit close during these months as the dirt roads become impassable and the humidity spikes.
5. Logistics: How to Reach the South
The Southern Circuit is a Fly-In destination.
Gateway: Your international arrival point should be Dar es Salaam (DAR), not Arusha.
Bush Flights: From Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar, you take small 12-seater planes (Cessna Caravans) directly to the park airstrips.
Luggage Rule: Remember the Safari Luggage Restrictions—you must use a soft-sided duffel bag as these small planes have tiny cargo pods.
6. Verdict: Is the Southern Circuit for You?
Choose the South if:
You have been on safari before and want a more "raw" experience.
You value privacy and exclusivity above all else.
You are a keen photographer who wants clear, unobstructed shots without other vehicles in the background.
You want to combine your safari with the beaches of Zanzibar (the flight from Nyerere to Zanzibar is only 30-45 minutes).