Top 5 Southern Tanzania Safari Tours 2026/2027/2028
Southern Tanzania remains one of Africa’s last frontier safari destinations — a place where large wilderness areas, remote access, minimal crowds, and incredible wildlife converge. If you’re searching for Southern Tanzania safari tours, this region presents a uniquely rewarding alternative to the well-trod northern circuits. With parks such as Ruaha National Park, Selous Game Reserve (now Nyerere National Park), Udzungwa Mountains National Park and the coastal wilderness of Saadani National Park, you’ll encounter expansive miombo woodlands, baobab-dotted plains, riverine forests and beaches where bush meets ocean.
Most safari travellers concentrate on the north (Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire), which means southern Tanzania often benefits from fewer visitors and better wildlife densities in certain seasons. This translates into authentic safari experiences, uninterrupted landscapes, and opportunities for species such as African wild dog, greater numbers of elephants, and more intimate game drives. Whether you’re after a remote 6-day Ruaha safari, a fly-in 5-day Selous journey, or a 10-day bush-to-beach escape via Zanzibar, the five tours featured here deliver outstanding value for travellers planning for 2026/2027/2028.
We have selected the Top 5 Southern Tanzania Safari Tours 2026/2027/2028 to offer spectacular wildlife, remote settings, local guide expertise, eco-friendly lodges and flexible options for all travel styles — from families to small groups to couples. Each itinerary is linked to a full-page on our site for more detail, and can be tailored to your preferred departure year, travel pace and budget.
WHY CHOOSE SOUTHERN TANZANIA?
Exceptional Wildlife Density
Large protected zones like Ruaha & Selous together cover over 60,000 km² of wilderness. The region supports one of the largest elephant populations in Tanzania, plus African wild dogs, big herds of buffalo, leopards, lions, and seasonal herds of sable antelope and lesser-known species.
Fewer Visitors & More Wilderness
Unlike the busier northern circuit, southern parks are less crowded, giving you more freedom, fewer vehicles on drives, and a stronger sense of solitude.
Diverse Habitats
From baobab-dotted savannah to riverine miombo woodlands, from sand-river drives in Selous to chimp-trek forests in Udzungwa and finally to coastal safari in Saadani — you’ll experience incredible habitat variety.
Bush-Meets-Beach Options
Several itineraries include beach extensions — ideal for those wanting both wildlife and coastline. Imagine morning game drives, afternoon on white sand, sunset over the Indian Ocean.
Eco-Tourism & Conservation Focus
Many lodges in the south operate on solar power, support conservation projects and engage local communities. Choosing southern Tanzania can support less-developed tourism regions in meaningful ways.
TOP 5 SOUTHERN TANZANIA SAFARI TOURS
(1) 6-Day Southern Tanzania Safari – Ruaha & Late-Departure
Explore remote Ruaha National Park on a 6-day safari with elephant concentrations, wild dogs, baobabs and tented eco-camps in southern Tanzania (2026-28 departures).
Begin in Arusha or Dar-es-Salaam, fly into Ruaha (or drive depending on your budget). You will spend 3-4 days exploring Ruaha’s rich plains, Rungwa River, baobab corridors and massive elephant herds. Late afternoon and early morning game drives maximize sightings. Then relax at a comfortable camp, followed by a scenic drive or fly-out.
Key Wildlife Highlights: African wild dogs, large elephants, sable antelope, buffalo herds, lions in remote country.
Why this tour stands out: Remote location, fewer vehicles, strong photography conditions, authentic safari.
Ideal for: Photographers, wilderness seekers, couples.
2) 8-Day Southern Tanzania Safari – Selous Game Reserve & Mikumi
Discover Selous Game Reserve’s boat safaris, hippos, crocodiles and remote wilderness; combined with Mikumi for big cats and lions. All inclusive 2026–28.
Depart Dar-es-Salaam to Selous, then boat safaris up Rufiji River with hippos, crocodiles, elephants and birds. Land-based drives follow. Later visit Mikumi National Park for open plain predator action. The combination gives you varied water & land safari experiences.
Highlights: Boat safari, Rufiji Delta, Mikumi lion prides, fewer tourists.
Ideal for: Adventure travellers, wildlife photographers, couples.
3) 10-Day Southern Tanzania Complete Safari – Ruaha, Selous & Zanzibar
Combine Ruaha + Selous + Zanzibar on this 10-day southern safari and beach combo. Remote game drives then Indian Ocean relaxation in 2026-28.
After exploring Ruaha and/or Selous, fly to Zanzibar for 3-4 days of sun, beach, spice tour, snorkelling and cultural history. This combination satisfies both bush adventurers and beach lovers.
Highlights: Baobab corridors, wild dogs, boat safaris, Zanzibar beaches, Stone Town.
Ideal for: Honeymooners, families, luxury travellers.
4) 5-Day Fly-In Southern Tanzania Safari – Selous Remote Camp
A luxury fly-in 5-day safari to remote Selous Game Reserve Stay in exclusive camp; charter flight from Dar-es-Salaam. Ideal for 2027-28.
Short-duration, high-impact safari using charter flight to reach remote Selous camps. Minimal transfer time, luxury tents, private drives, and often exclusive wildlife zones.
Highlights: Remote camp, private charters, wild dogs, huge hippo populations, almost no crowds.
Ideal for: Luxury travellers, photographers, short on time.
5) 7-Day Southern Tanzania Family Wilderness Safari – Udzungwa, Mikumi & Saadani
Family-friendly 7-day southern Tanzania wilderness safari from Udzungwa forest chimp trek to Mikumi plains and Saadani beach. 2026–28.
Mix of wildlife drives, forest trekking (see chimps/colobus monkeys in Udzungwa Mountains), open plains at Mikumi, and beach time at Saadani (where bush meets ocean). Family-friendly game drives, relaxed pace, educational experiences.
Highlights: Forest treks, monkeys, hippos, beach days, wildlife variety.
Ideal for: Families, educational trips, multigenerational travel.
How to Choose Your Tour (H2)
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Short on time? → 5-day or 6-day options
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Want variety? → 8- or 10-day itineraries
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Families? → 7-day family wilderness
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Luxury vs budget? → Fly-in or self-drive / mid-range lodge
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Bush + beach? → The 10-day safari + Zanzibar
Eco-Tourism & Responsible Travel
Your visit to southern Tanzania supports important conservation efforts in remote ecosystems. Many lodges engage local communities, support anti-poaching teams, operate on solar power, and give you volunteer-friendly options like tree planting or cultural visits.
Tips for eco-savvy travel:
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Use reusable water bottles
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Choose lodges with green credentials
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Respect wildlife – keep safe distances
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Buy local handicrafts
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Opt for group drives to reduce vehicle footprint
By choosing remote parks like Ruaha, Selous, Udzungwa and Saadani, you help spread tourism income outside the crowded northern circuit — enabling conservation and local livelihood growth.
Frequently Asked Questions – Top 5 Southern Tanzania Safari Tours
1) What is the best time to visit Southern Tanzania for safari?
The best time is during the dry season from June to October, when wildlife gathers around rivers and waterholes. This period offers great visibility, fewer mosquitoes, and comfortable weather. Safaris run year-round, but rainy months (March–May) are greener with fewer visitors.
2) Which parks are included in Southern Tanzania safari tours?
The most visited parks include:
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Ruaha National Park
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Selous Game Reserve / Nyerere National Park
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Udzungwa Mountains
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Mikumi National Park
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Saadani National Park
Many itineraries combine two or three parks for the best wildlife variety.
3) Are Southern Tanzania safaris suitable for families?
Yes. Family-friendly itineraries offer relaxed game drives, lighter travel days, and unique experiences such as forest walks, boat safaris, and beach time in Saadani or Zanzibar. Private guides and child-friendly accommodations make it ideal for family travel.
4) Can I combine a Southern Tanzania safari with Zanzibar Beach?
Absolutely — one major advantage of the southern circuit is proximity to Tanzania’s coast. Many itineraries conclude in Zanzibar, offering easy connections for beach relaxation, snorkeling, and cultural tours.
5) Is Southern Tanzania more expensive than Northern Tanzania?
Generally, southern Tanzania is slightly more affordable, with fewer crowds and excellent value. However, fly-in luxury camps may increase costs. There are budget, mid-range, and luxury options for 2026/2027/2028.
6) What wildlife can I expect to see?
You can expect:
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African elephants
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Lions
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Leopards
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Wild dogs (most commonly seen in southern Tanzania)
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Buffalo & giraffes
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Hippos & crocodiles
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Rare antelope species
Birdlife is diverse, especially along river systems.
7) How many days are recommended for Southern Tanzania safaris?
We recommend 6–10 days to fully appreciate Ruaha, Selous, or Mikumi. Shorter fly-in 5-day safaris are ideal for those with limited time, while 10-day itineraries allow time for Zanzibar.
8) Is a Southern Tanzania safari safe?
Yes. Guided trips are safe, and all camps follow strict safety guidelines. A professional guide will accompany you throughout.
9) What accommodation types are available?
Options include:
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Luxury tented camps
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Mid-range lodges
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Fly-in lodge experiences
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Bush camps
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Eco-friendly safari camps
10) Can Southern Tanzania safaris be customised?
Yes. You can tailor:
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Budget level
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Comfort style
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Length of stay
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Family preferences
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Zanzibar add-ons
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Photography-focused trips
We personalise every safari to your needs.
Ready to explore Southern Tanzania?
Let us help craft your 2026/2027/2028 adventure — from pristine wilderness to warm Indian Ocean shores.
WhatsApp +254 728 567 308
Email info@paradiseafricasafari.com
Free personalised quote
Flexible dates, group sizes
Local expert guides
Affordable pricing + luxury upgrades
Request your quote now — Your southern Tanzania safari awaits!
Previous Traveller Reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review 1 — “Wild dogs, elephants & total wilderness”
– Rachel & Tom, UK • August 2025
“Our 8-day southern Tanzania safari through Ruaha National Park and Selous Game Reserve was absolutely incredible. We saw wild dogs chasing, elephant herds larger than we expected, baobabs as far as the eye could see. The tents at the eco-camp were stylish yet comfortable, and the guide was superb. We enjoyed a beach day in Zanzibar as well. Best value safari we’ve done.”
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review 2 — “Family adventure beyond the north circuit”
– Martinez Family, Canada • June 2024
“Travelling with three children, we chose the 7-day southern wilderness tour. It was perfect — shorter drives, big game, forest walks among monkeys, and a finale at beach-camp in Saadani where bush meets ocean. The kids still talk about hippos, crocs and the chimp trek in the forest of Udzungwa Mountains National Park.”
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review 3 — “A remote safari experience like no other”
– Johan & Ingrid, Netherlands • February 2025
“We picked the 5-day fly-in safari to a remote camp in Selous — luxury tents, few other vehicles, and a sense of true wilderness. Hippos, crocodiles, elephants on sandbanks, and we even did a night-drive (rare in northern parks). Then we stretched our legs on Zanzibar beach. Flawless.”
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Review 4 — “Photographers’ paradise”
– Priya & Kunal, India • May 2025
“Our photographer-friend recommended Southern Tanzania and he was right. In six days we captured wild dogs, leopard in open plains, massive elephant herds in Ruaha, and reflections at dawn in Selous. The fewer vehicles meant we weren’t vying for photo spots. The eco-camp was solar-powered and had delicious local cuisine.”
