Southern Tanzania vs. Northern Circuit: Which Safari is Right for You?

Tassia de Cock
May 15
2 min read

Planning a safari in Tanzania often leads to a big question: Should you explore the well-known northern circuit or venture into the more secluded southern circuit? While both offer unique experiences, Kasaka Tours specializes in the southern circuit, where you’ll discover an authentic and uncrowded side of Tanzania.

Let’s dive into the differences to help you decide if the southern circuit is your perfect safari destination.

The Northern Circuit: What You’ve Heard About

The northern circuit is home to iconic parks like Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire. These destinations are famous for the Great Migration, stunning landscapes, and concentrated wildlife. However, the popularity of this circuit comes with significant crowds, high prices, and a more tourist-heavy atmosphere.

If you’re looking for a quieter, more intimate safari, the southern circuit offers a refreshing alternative.

The Southern Circuit: A World of Untamed Adventure

The southern circuit, which includes Mikumi, Nyerere (formerly Selous), Ruaha, and Udzungwa Mountains, provides a more adventurous and off-the-beaten-path experience. Here’s what makes it special:

Fewer Crowds
- Unlike the northern parks, southern parks are vast and less visited. This means you can enjoy a game drive without competing for the best views or sharing sightings with dozens of vehicles.
Unique Wildlife Experiences
- The southern circuit offers a diversity of activities, including boat safaris in Nyerere, walking safaris in Ruaha, and birdwatching in Udzungwa. Mikumi’s open plains, often compared to the Serengeti, provide ample opportunities for wildlife encounters without the crowds.
Authentic and Affordable
- Southern Tanzania’s safari lodges and camps cater to travelers seeking comfort without the hefty price tag of the northern circuit. Plus, your visit directly supports conservation efforts in these less-visited areas.
Combine Safari with Adventure
- In addition to incredible wildlife, the southern circuit is surrounded by destinations like the Uluguru Mountains, Iringa and Kilwa Kisiwani. Combine your safari with hiking, historical tours, or even a trip to Zanzibar’s beaches.

Why Kasaka Tours Focuses on the Southern Circuit

At Kasaka Tours, we believe the southern circuit offers the truest essence of Tanzania’s wilderness. Here, you’ll find raw beauty, genuine connections with nature, and the chance to explore regions that remain untouched by mass tourism.

By focusing on this region, we ensure that your safari experience is both unique and sustainable, supporting local communities and preserving Tanzania’s lesser-known treasures.

Is the Southern Circuit Right for You?

If you’re someone who values:

Peace and tranquility over busy tourist hotspots,
Exclusive wildlife encounters rather than crowded game drives,
Immersive experiences blending nature, culture, and history,Then the southern circuit is your perfect match.

Plan Your Southern Tanzania Safari with Kasaka Tours

Skip the crowds and discover the beauty of Tanzania’s southern circuit with Kasaka Tours. From the vast savannahs of Mikumi to the untamed wilderness of Ruaha, we’ll craft an itinerary tailored to your preferences.