Nyerere National Park: Africa’s Largest Protected Area

Formerly part of the world-famous Selous Game Reserve, Nyerere National Park is a haven for true safari lovers. Spanning over 30,000 square kilometers, it’s one of Africa’s largest and most untouched ecosystems. Here, game drives take you across open plains, riverine forests, and palm-lined oxbow lakes, where lions, elephants, wild dogs, hippos, and over 400 bird species roam free.

But what makes Nyerere truly unique is its boat safaris on the mighty Rufiji River. Glide past crocodiles basking on sandbanks, watch elephants drink at the water’s edge, and toast the day’s end with a sundowner as the sky turns gold. Walking safaris, led by expert guides, immerse you in the fine details of the bush—tracking prints, smelling wild herbs, and learning to move with the landscape.

Ruaha National Park: The Land of Giants

Continue your journey west and you’ll reach Ruaha National Park, Tanzania’s largest national park. Often described as Tanzania’s best-kept secret, Ruaha boasts dramatic baobab-dotted plains, rugged hills, and the life-giving Great Ruaha River. This remote wilderness is home to one of the largest concentrations of elephants in East Africa, along with lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, sable antelopes, and over 570 species of birds.

The sheer size and remoteness of Ruaha mean you’ll often have the landscape all to yourself—a rare and humbling experience in modern safaris. It’s the kind of place that speaks to the soul and invites you to slow down and listen to the language of the wild.

Udzungwa Mountains & Kitulo Plateau: Hiking Through Biodiversity

For those who seek forested trails and waterfalls rather than game drives, the Udzungwa Mountains National Park offers a completely different flavor of safari. Known as the “Galápagos of Africa,” Udzungwa is a biodiversity hotspot with endemic monkey species, rare birds, and dense tropical forests. A hike to the towering Sanje Waterfalls rewards you with sweeping views and a cool dip in natural pools.

Just south, the Kitulo National Park, often referred to as the “Serengeti of Flowers,” bursts into bloom during the wet season with wild orchids, aloes, and over 350 plant species. This alpine wonderland is a dream for botanists and those who love highland landscapes.

Cultural Encounters: A Heritage to Remember

Southern Tanzania is not just about nature—it’s also rich in cultural and historical treasures. In the coastal towns of Kilwa Kisiwani and Songo Mnara, wander the ruins of ancient Swahili cities once bustling with gold, ivory, and spice traders. These UNESCO World Heritage Sites are living museums of Africa’s maritime past.

Further south, Mikindani whispers tales of exploration and colonial encounters. This 18th-century Swahili-Arab port town, once visited by Dr. David Livingstone, offers beautifully preserved architecture, historic buildings, and opportunities to engage with local communities. Inland, the Majimaji War Memorial Museum in Songea tells the powerful story of Tanzania’s resistance against German colonialism.

In Newala and Lindi, you’ll encounter the renowned Makonde woodcarvers, known across Africa for their intricate ebony sculptures and deeply spiritual art.

Mafia Island: A Marine Safari Paradise

No trip to Southern Tanzania is complete without unwinding on the idyllic shores of Mafia Island. Located off the Rufiji Delta, this quiet archipelago is part of the Mafia Island Marine Park, where snorkeling and diving reveal vibrant coral gardens, sea turtles, reef sharks, and colorful fish in astonishing abundance.

From October to March, visitors can swim with gentle whale sharks, the ocean’s largest fish, just off the coast. With its laid-back atmosphere, traditional dhows, and a strong sense of local culture, Mafia is a perfect beach extension after your southern Tanzania safari.