Catching Safari Fever: A Two-Week Journey Through Tanzania’s Southern Circuit

Exploring Tanzania’s Southern Circuit with Asilia Africa was nothing short of transformative. This region, encompassing Ruaha National Park and Nyerere National Park (Selous Game Reserve), offers a safari experience unlike anywhere else in Africa. It’s ideal for travelers who crave something more intimate, raw and untouched — a stark contrast to the busier Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. My two-week journey was not just about spotting incredible wildlife. It was about connecting deeply with the land, its people and its conservation story.

What truly set this trip apart were the camps by Asilia Africa, which were as much a part of the experience as the parks themselves. Each property offered something distinct: Usangu Expedition Camp in Ruaha’s remote southern wetlands was a dream for conservationists. Activities like camera trapping and night drives offer rare and intimate encounters with wildlife. Meanwhile, Jabali Ridge, perched high in Ruaha’s northern savannahs, provided a luxurious yet immersive retreat with breathtaking views and exceptional predator sightings. The open-plan rooms at Jabali felt as if the bush was right at your doorstep — perfect for those seeking to blend luxury with adventure. In Nyerere, staying at Roho ya Selous brought a balance of land and water-based safaris. Boat trips along the Rufiji River offer a unique perspective on the region’s thriving ecosystems. The cooling systems under the beds at Roho were an unexpected but much-appreciated touch, especially in the afternoon heat.

For clients, the Southern Circuit is best suited for seasoned safari-goers or those looking for a quieter, more exclusive experience. It’s perfect for travelers who want to escape the crowds and dive into a safari that feels deeply personal. This trip isn’t just about ticking off the Big Five — it’s about feeling the pulse of Africa in its most authentic form. If you’re passionate about wildlife, conservation and meaningful travel, the Southern Circuit offers the ultimate combination of adventure and connection. And with Asilia Africa, whose name means “genuine” in Swahili, every detail — from the design of the camps to the warmth of the staff — lives up to that promise.

The Southern Circuit is perfect for seasoned Safari-goers: If you've already experienced the Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater, this region offers a more exclusive, quieter safari that feels deeply personal. The lack of crowds makes it ideal for travelers seeking raw wilderness and intimate wildlife encounters.

Conservation and connection take center stage:

Camps like Usangu Expedition Camp immerse you in conservation efforts through activities like camera trapping. This gives you a unique behind-the-scenes look at protecting Tanzania’s wildlife and ecosystems.

Diverse landscapes require visiting multiple camps:

Ruaha’s Usangu Wetlands in the south and Jabali Ridge in the north feel like completely different parks, showcasing dramatic contrasts in landscapes and wildlife. Experiencing both areas is essential for fully appreciating the park’s incredible diversity.

Unique Safari Activities:

Nyerere offers boat safaris along the Rufiji River, which are a serene yet exhilarating way to spot wildlife like hippos, crocodiles and colorful birdlife. Night drives in Ruaha’s Usangu are a rare treat in Tanzania and reveal the park’s nocturnal side.

Seasonal camp closures:

Be aware of the seasonal closures. Jabali Ridge and Roho ya Selous are closed from mid-March to May, and Usangu Expedition Camp is closed from December to May. Timing your trip accordingly is key to accessing these incredible camps.

Comfort and luxury meet the wild:

Despite their remote locations, the camps offer spacious tents with en-suite bathrooms, hot water and thoughtful touches like cooling systems at Roho ya Selous and open mesh walls at Usangu for breezy comfort.

When to visit:

For peak wildlife viewing, the dry season (June to October) is ideal. However, the green season (November to March) brings lush landscapes, fewer crowds and vibrant birdlife, making it a great option for photographers and birding enthusiasts.

Tanzania’s Southern Circuit is not just a safari. It’s a deeply immersive experience where every moment feels genuine, thanks to Asilia Africa’s impeccable service and thoughtful design. It’s perfect for travelers who value conservation, exclusivity and meaningful connections to nature.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Tanzania page.