1. Untamed pure wilderness
In the South of Tanzania it is still possible to experience authentic travel in Africa as it once was. The parks and reserves are nearly unchanged as well as untouched by tourism.
2. Lack of crowds
If you prefer to see wildlife without the crowds, go south. These roads are less travelled in Tanzania and offer a more private and ‘wild’ experience, off the beaten track. No elbowing with other travellers for great game sightings, since you have the parks and views almost all for yourself.
3. Intimate lodges and camps
The lodges and camps within the southern reserves are far smaller and much more personal and intimate. It is hard to find lodges or camps with over 15 to 20 tents. Most are located close to rivers and lakes which attracts animals and beautiful views. If you really want to be out in the wilderness, in the heart of nature, this is the place to be.
4. Shorter driving distances
Most parks in the Southern Circuit are not easy accessible by car, so fly-in safaris are more popular. Mikumi, Selous and Ruaha are all fly-in vacation, which shortens the driving distances and your travel time.
5. Open safari vehicles
Whereas safaris in northern Tanzania are mainly in enclosed vehicles, due to the long drives between parks, safaris in southern Tanzania are in open-sided safari vehicles. This offers a real safari feeling and makes game viewing and photography easier. Virtually there is nothing between the wilderness and you. It heightens your senses since you not only see, but also smell and hear everything around you better.
6. Variety of activities
In Southern Tanzania you have more freedom to explore the bush anyway you want. Apart from the classic morning and afternoon game drives, you can go on a walking-, hiking-, or boat safari. Night game drives are more common here as well. Most of the properties in the South also offer fly camping – adventurous bush camping. This is a great way to experience the African wilderness, under starry skies, with only the sounds of the bush around you.
7. Best place to spot wild dogs
The southern parks and reserves offer great game viewing. One of the few destinations in Africa where you can see the rare wild dog are in Selous and Ruaha National Park (Southern Tanzania). These painted dogs are now one of the most endangered species on the planet.
Check our travel blog:
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