Southern Zone

Southern Zone

The National Parks of Southern Tanzania have earned a reputation as the best-kept secret on the African safari circuit. Located in the remote southern zone, these parks boast limited bed space and vast bushlands, ensuring an authentic and unadulterated safari experience. From the majestic elephants of Ruaha National Park to the elusive predators of Selous Game Reserve, and the diverse ecosystems of Mikumi and Udzungwa, every moment exploring these pristine parks is filled with wonder and excitement. Away from the crowds, visitors can immerse themselves in the raw beauty of the untamed landscape, encountering wildlife in its natural habitat without distraction. In Southern Tanzania’s national parks, including Ruaha, Selous, Mikumi, and Udzungwa, the true essence of safari is preserved, offering adventurers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature and witness the untamed splendor of Africa’s wilderness.

Experience the enchanting allure of Mikumi National Park, a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Tanzania’s wilderness. Despite its compact size, Mikumi’s 3,230 square kilometers boast an abundance of natural wonders, framed by the majestic Uruguru mountains to the east and the rugged Rift Valley escarpments to the southwest. Proximity to Dar-es-Salaam makes it an accessible escape into the wild, where the park’s unique position within the Selous ecosystem ensures the highest density of game, offering thrilling encounters with elephants, lions, and more. Beyond wildlife, Mikumi promises an immersive safari experience, where golden savannahs and acacia-dotted plains create a mesmerizing backdrop for unforgettable moments. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a first-time explorer, Mikumi invites you to reconnect with nature’s untamed beauty and embark on a journey of discovery where every sight and sound fills your soul with wonder.

Explore the unparalleled wilderness of Selous Game Reserve, now known as Nyerere National Park, a sprawling expanse spanning 54,600 square kilometers and proudly holding the title of Africa’s largest wildlife reserve. As Tanzania’s most extensive protected area, Selous is a sanctuary of unparalleled biodiversity and natural beauty. Within its vast boundaries, a spectacular array of wildlife thrives, including majestic elephants, formidable buffaloes, and the continent’s most robust populations of hippos and crocodiles. From the iconic big cats – lions and leopards – to the elusive wild dogs and the charming antics of wart pigs and zebras, Selous is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Moreover, its avian diversity is equally captivating, with over 350 species of birds gracing the skies above. Selous Game Reserve, now Nyerere National Park, is not just a destination; it’s a living, breathing testament to the awe-inspiring wonders of nature, inviting you to immerse yourself in its grandeur and witness the untamed beauty of the African wilderness firsthand.

Explore the breathtaking wonderland of Udzungwa Mountains National Park, a pristine and unparalleled wilderness nestled in Tanzania’s heartland. Spanning 1,990 square kilometers, Udzungwa is renowned for its majestic mountainous terrain, boasting the greatest latitudinal range of forest in Tanzania. As the first terrestrial national park in the country, Udzungwa is a treasure trove of biodiversity, with its lush forests harboring a staggering 20-30% of animal and plant species found nowhere else on Earth. From rare primates to endemic flora, every corner of this enchanting park is teeming with life, offering a glimpse into the wonders of evolution. For those with an adventurous spirit, Udzungwa is a hiker’s paradise, with its network of trails leading to cascading waterfalls, hidden pools, and panoramic viewpoints that showcase the park’s natural splendor in all its glory. Discover the magic of Udzungwa Mountains National Park, where every step reveals a new and unforgettable encounter with the wild.

Experience the awe-inspiring beauty of Ruaha National Park, a vast wilderness spanning 10,300 square kilometers in central Tanzania. This astonishing park captivates with its diverse landscapes and untouched nature, offering a fascinating array of habitats for wildlife to thrive. From undulating terrain to meandering rivers and majestic trees, Ruaha presents one of Africa’s most captivating landscapes, providing a haven for nature enthusiasts and seasoned travelers alike. As the second largest park in Tanzania, Ruaha promises endless opportunities for exploration and discovery, where every corner reveals a new and exhilarating encounter with the wild. Dive into the heart of Ruaha National Park and immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of Africa’s wilderness.

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Kitulo Plateau National Park, recently designated as a fully protected sanctuary nestled in Tanzania’s southern highlands. Known locally as the “Garden of God,” this pristine area is a haven for biodiversity, boasting over 350 species of wildflowers, including balsams, bellflowers, honey-peas, irises, lilies, and orchids. The plateau is also a vital habitat for endangered bird species such as the blue swallow, Denham’s bustard, mountain marsh widow, Njombe cisticola, and Kiperenge seedeater. Moreover, Kitulo Plateau is home to some of the world’s rarest butterflies, as well as chameleons, lizards, frogs, and a few hardy antelope species like the reedbuck and eland. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of this pristine wilderness and witness the wonders of nature unfold in Kitulo Plateau National Park.