When you think of a safari in Tanzania, the vast plains of the Serengeti often come to mind. Yet, the southern part of the country hides even wilder and more authentic treasures. Far from the crowds, Ruaha and Katavi National Parks offer a unique safari experience, a total immersion in nature in its purest form. It’s the perfect adventure for those seeking tranquility and intimate encounters with wildlife.
Ruaha National Park: Vast Landscapes and the Great River
Ruaha is the largest national park in Tanzania. Its name comes from the Great Ruaha River, which flows through the park and sustains abundant wildlife. You’ll find massive populations of elephants, as well as lions, leopards, and rare wild dogs. The beauty of Ruaha lies in its diverse landscapes, from savannahs to rocky hills, dotted with majestic baobabs.
- Highlights: One of the largest parks in Africa, high concentration of predators, elephants, and wild dogs.
- Best time to visit: During the dry season (June to October), when animals gather around the river.
Katavi National Park: Nature in Its Purest Form
Katavi is one of the most remote parks in Africa. Difficult to access, it offers a wild safari experience with almost no other jeeps in sight. Katavi is famous for its enormous populations of hippos and crocodiles, which gather in muddy waterholes at the end of the dry season. It’s a fascinating spectacle to witness.
- Highlights: Privacy, full immersion, large herds of hippos and crocodiles.
- Best time to visit: End of the dry season (August to October) for the most spectacular scenes.
Why Choose Southern Tanzania?
While the northern circuit is fantastic, choosing the South is a must if you’re looking for:
- Privacy: Parks are less crowded, making the experience more personal.
- Wildlife: The South hosts species rarely seen in the North, such as wild dogs.
- Adventure: Access is more challenging, but the feeling of exploring near-virgin territory is unmatched.
A safari in the South often requires a local safari agency with expertise in the region.
