Southern Tanzania is a hidden gem for safari lovers, offering pristine wilderness, fewer crowds, and diverse landscapes. The region’s top national parks—Ruaha, Nyerere (Selous), Mikumi, Udzungwa, and Katavi—offer unique wildlife experiences, complemented by intimate and eco-friendly accommodations.
In this guide, we explore the best camps and lodges in Southern Tanzania, ranging from luxury safari lodges to budget-friendly tented camps. Whether you seek romance, adventure, or an immersive bush experience, these accommodations provide the perfect base for your Tanzanian safari.
✔ For Luxury & Private Safaris → Stay at Ikuka Tented Camp or Siwandu Camp
✔ For Budget & Mid-Range Options → Choose Mikumi’s Camp Bastian or Udzungwa Forest Camp
✔ For Ultimate Wilderness & Remote Safaris → Experience Mwagusi Safari Lodge or Ruaha River Lodge
1. Why Choose Southern Tanzania for a Safari?
✔ Less Crowded & More Exclusive – Unlike the Northern Circuit, Southern Tanzania’s parks see fewer tourists, offering a more intimate safari experience.
✔ Diverse Safari Activities – Enjoy boat safaris, walking safaris, and night game drives, which are not as common in the north.
✔ Affordable Safari Options – More budget-friendly accommodations compared to Serengeti and Ngorongoro.
✔ Untouched Wilderness – Parks like Ruaha and Nyerere are vast and largely undeveloped, making for a raw and authentic safari.
✔ Tip: Southern Tanzania is perfect for safari-goers looking for a quieter, wilder, and more personalized experience.
2. Best Camps and Lodges in Southern Tanzania
🏞️ Nyerere National Park (Selous) – Best for River Safaris & Big Five Encounters
Siwandu Camp (Luxury)
✔ Why Stay Here? Spacious tented suites with stunning lake views.
✔ Must-Do: Boat safaris on the Rufiji River & guided walking safaris.
✔ Best For: Luxury travelers & honeymooners.
Selous River Camp (Mid-Range)
✔ Why Stay Here? Great value-for-money tented camp on the banks of the Rufiji River.
✔ Must-Do: Game drives & boat safaris in Nyerere National Park.
✔ Best For: Budget-conscious travelers who want a comfortable stay.
Selous Lake Manze Camp (Budget-Friendly)
✔ Why Stay Here? Authentic safari experience with basic yet comfortable tents.
✔ Must-Do: Walking safaris & game drives.
✔ Best For: Travelers looking for an affordable, remote safari.
🦁 Ruaha National Park – Best for Predator Sightings & Walking Safaris
Ikuka Tented Camp (Luxury)
✔ Why Stay Here? Cliff-top location with breathtaking panoramic views.
✔ Must-Do: Exclusive game drives & private bush dining.
✔ Best For: Luxury travelers seeking exclusivity & comfort.
Mwagusi Safari Lodge (Mid-Range)
✔ Why Stay Here? A small, family-run lodge offering rustic luxury & incredible wildlife sightings.
✔ Must-Do: Walking safaris with experienced guides.
✔ Best For: Adventure seekers looking for an authentic bush experience.
Ruaha River Lodge (Mid-Range)
✔ Why Stay Here? The only lodge inside Ruaha, offering uninterrupted game viewing.
✔ Must-Do: Enjoy wildlife from your private veranda.
✔ Best For: Travelers who want comfort without breaking the bank.
🐘 Mikumi National Park – Best for Budget & Short Safaris
Camp Bastian (Budget-Friendly)
✔ Why Stay Here? Affordable, locally owned safari camp with a warm, homely feel.
✔ Must-Do: Game drives in Mikumi National Park.
✔ Best For: Budget travelers & families.
Vuma Hill Tented Camp (Mid-Range)
✔ Why Stay Here? Spacious, well-equipped tented accommodations with stunning views.
✔ Must-Do: Night game drives for nocturnal wildlife sightings.
✔ Best For: Mid-range travelers looking for comfort in the bush.
🏔️ Udzungwa Mountains National Park – Best for Hiking & Rainforest Safaris
Udzungwa Forest Camp – Hondo Hondo (Mid-Range)
✔ Why Stay Here? Perfect eco-friendly camp near Sanje Waterfalls.
✔ Must-Do: Hike to the spectacular waterfalls & spot rare monkeys.
✔ Best For: Nature lovers & hiking enthusiasts.
🦓 Katavi National Park – Best for Remote & Wild Safaris
Katavi Wildlife Camp (Luxury)
✔ Why Stay Here? Remote and exclusive, offering amazing predator sightings.
✔ Must-Do: Game drives in one of Tanzania’s least-visited parks.
✔ Best For: Travelers seeking a completely off-the-grid safari.
Otto Safari Guide Private Camp
Specializing in camping safari expeditions in Selous Game Reserve and Ruaha National Park, Otto Safari Guide Private Camp offers an authentic experience. Fully equipped for camping with spacious campsites, skilled excavation teams, and comfortable bed tents, the camp provides affordable and adventurous holidays.
Otto Safari Guide Private Camp
Specializing in camping safari expeditions in Selous Game Reserve and Ruaha National Park, Otto Safari Guide Private Camp offers an authentic experience. Fully equipped for camping with spacious campsites, skilled excavation teams, and comfortable bed tents, the camp provides affordable and adventurous holidays.
3. Best Time to Visit Southern Tanzania for Safari
| Season | Months | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Dry Season | June – October | Best for game viewing & predator sightings. |
| Green Season | November – May | Best for birdwatching & lush landscapes. |
✔ Tip: Visit between June and October for the best wildlife sightings.
Conclusion: Where Will You Stay in Southern Tanzania?
Southern Tanzania offers a wide range of safari accommodations, from luxury lodges with breathtaking views to budget-friendly tented camps that bring you closer to nature. Whether you choose Nyerere, Ruaha, Mikumi, Udzungwa, or Katavi, your safari experience will be authentic, uncrowded, and unforgettable.
🌍 Ready to book your stay? Contact us today for custom safari packages that match your budget and travel style! 🚀
