Top 4 Reasons You Should Visit Southern Tanzania

Top 4 Reasons You Should Visit Southern Tanzania

Most guests coming to Tanzania are fascinated by the northern part of the country. Is it fascinating? It truly is. This part is home to top destinations, including Serengeti National Park, Mount Kilimanjaro, and the Ngorongoro Crater, which are travelers’ magnets. As many visitors remain in this region, the southern part remains untouched. And it’s our secret sauce that we can add to your Tanzania safari experience. In this article, we’ve crafted 4 reasons why you should visit this hidden gem.

Unique safari activities.

The southern safari circuit offers more than a traditional game drive. It goes beyond a normal 4×4 drive, which is common in the popular northern parks. Here, you can embark on a myriad of adventures, each offering a unique experience for you.

For example, Ruaha and Nyerere National Parks offer a boat cruise. The Ruaha River is navigable and brings an astounding experience of seeing wildlife from a boat. Also, the Rufiji River, which traverses the Nyerere, is the best spot for boat cruising.

Ruaha and Nyerere also offer a fly camping experience. Offered by many luxurious camps and lodges, this experience allows you to set fly tent in a certain location (often near a river) and sleep under the African stars. You hear, smell, and dream nature’s sounds.

In addition, night drives and guided walking safaris are also available. These activities may not be available in all protected areas. For example, Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater do not permit night drives. Walking is also illegal in the crater.

The flowers of Kitulo also make Southern Tanzania ideal for floral exploration. This is an off-the-beaten-path experience – something not common in the North. You will explore over 350 species of vascular plants, including over 45 species of orchids.

Abundant wildlife

A baby elephant surrounded by several giant tuskers is a common sighting in Ruaha National Park. This park holds the highest concentration of elephants in Tanzania. As you drive through the giant baobabs, you might spot even bigger herds heading to the Ruaha River to quench their thirst.

Ruaha also holds 10% of Africa’s lions. Maned lions command the baobab-dotted plains with a confident roar, which signifies dominance over the plains. You can spot many lions like in the Serengeti, only that you won’t be sharing a sighting with other vehicles because it’s quiet.

Ruaha and Nyerere also boast a huge population of wild dogs. These successful predators are very rare in most northern parks. However, there’s a high concentration in the Nyerere-Ruaha ecosystem.

Less crowded.

Southern Tanzania is overshadowed by the northern safari circuit. This makes it a perfect spot for watching wildlife with fewer crowds. A few guests make the prices in lodges and camps affordable because camps want to attract more guests.

This remote part is the best honeymoon escape. You can explore Ruaha or Nyerere without meeting other visitors. Why? Because these parks are so big. The Nyerere is only 30,393 sq km while Ruaha is 20,226 sq km.

Best accommodations at the best price.

Unlike in Northern Tanzania, where it costs an arm and a leg to stay in a luxurious accommodation, Southern Tanzania offers the best places to stay at the best price. The camps receive a few guests, allowing intimacy and privacy while enjoying the facilities. Here are some luxurious camps to stay in Southern Tanzania:

Jabali Ridge – Ruaha National Park.

This classic camp displays an African-inspired décor, which perfectly blends with the surroundings. It has everything needed for a luxurious stay, from indulgent spa rituals to plunge pools. Its spacious, well-decorated 8 tents welcome everyone from solo travelers, honeymooners, to families. The camp offers private guided drives, walking safaris, and a balloon flight (at an extra charge).

Kokoko Camp – Ruaha National Park

Here, luxury meets exclusivity. The camp accommodates just six guests, allowing privacy and intimacy. It boasts just three double tents. Its services are one-of-a-kind since top guides host it, allowing you to explore the untamed beauty of Ruaha on a safari jeep or a foot.

Roho ya Selous – Nyerere National Park

Sitting on a small peninsula, this camp boasts 8 romantic camps with unique designs that blend into the surroundings. Roho ya Selous offers unique views of the wild dog, hippo, and many other wildlife. The camp facilities include a swimming pool, complimentary laundry service, en suite bathrooms, and Wi-Fi. Families are welcome.

Siwandu Camp – Nyerere National Park

Nested on the banks of Lake Nzerakera, this camp brings luxury in the middle of the pristine forests of the Nyerere. With excellent staff service, this camp offers personalized service, not to mention the delicious meals.

The bottom line.

If you want privacy, luxury, and adventure, all rolled into one, we highly recommend southern Tanzania. Either way, we are here you help you discover Tanzania at your own pace. Our expert safari planners are waiting for your message to start the planning.