11-Day Southern Tanzania Self-Drive Safari: Remote Parks & Rainforests
Discover the untamed beauty of Southern Tanzania on this 11-day self-drive safari designed for adventurous, independent travelers. This off-the-beaten-path route takes you deep into lesser-known national parks—Nyerere, Mikumi, Ruaha, and Udzungwa Mountains. It’s the ideal safari for those seeking solitude, raw wilderness, and authentic cultural encounters.
Drive your own 4×4 through remote landscapes, camp under the stars, or stay in cozy lodges. With wildlife-rich plains, tropical rainforests, and ancient archaeological sites, this Southern Tanzania self-drive safari offers a truly unique experience.
Begin your adventure in Nyerere National Park, Africa’s largest protected area, where vast wilderness and low visitor numbers create an authentic safari atmosphere. The Rufiji River winds through the park, offering ideal conditions for boat safaris and close encounters with elephants, lions, crocodiles, and abundant birdlife.
As you head north, Mikumi offers a more relaxed safari experience with open terrain that makes wildlife spotting easy and rewarding. Often compared to the Serengeti for its landscapes, but far less crowded, this park is home to zebras, giraffes, elephants, and lions, making it a great destination for self-drivers and wildlife photographers alike.
Ruaha stands out as one of Tanzania’s wildest and most remote parks. Known for its rugged beauty and high concentration of predators and elephants, it offers a deep immersion into the untamed heart of the country. With its iconic baobab-dotted landscapes and complete sense of isolation, Ruaha promises a raw and unforgettable safari experience.
To round out your journey, the Udzungwa Mountains provide a lush and refreshing contrast to the drier plains. Covered in tropical rainforest, the park is a hotspot of biodiversity, home to rare primates and endemic bird species. It’s an excellent destination for hiking, with scenic trails leading to waterfalls and panoramic viewpoints.
Rates vary based on group size, season, and accommodation choice. Please contact us for a detailed quote tailored to your preferences.
With over two decades of expertise in crafting immersive journeys across East Africa, we ensure every detail is thoughtfully planned — from a seamless vehicle handover to curated accommodations that reflect the authentic character of each destination.
Enquire this 11 days safari in Tanzania to start your journey to these great places.
Fuel (vehicle provided with a full tank, return full)
Meals and drinks for self-catering options
Optional excursions (boat safaris, hikes, etc.)
Personal travel insurance
Tips and gratuities
FAQ
FAQ Expand All
How experienced do I need to be to drive this route?
This itinerary is best suited for confident drivers with prior off-road or overland experience. The southern parks are remote with limited infrastructure, but our GPS system, backup support, and thorough briefing make it manageable for capable self-drivers.
Can I do this itinerary without camping?
Yes. All nights can be upgraded to comfortable mid-range or luxury lodges. We offer both full camping and mixed lodge-camping options depending on your comfort and budget.
What kind of vehicle will I get?
You’ll drive a Toyota Land Cruiser with either a rooftop tent or a pop-up roof for game viewing. Each vehicle is equipped with recovery gear, fridge, dual battery system, and Tracks4Africa navigation.
Is it safe to self-drive in Southern Tanzania?
Yes, with preparation. Roads are often in fair to rough condition, but security is not a concern in the national parks. We provide 24/7 support and route briefings to ensure your safety.
What is the best time to do this trip?
The dry season (June to October) offers the best wildlife viewing and road conditions. The green season (November to March) has fewer tourists, lush scenery, and excellent birding.
Can I extend the trip to Zanzibar?
Absolutely. After returning to Dar es Salaam, we can assist with ferry or flight arrangements to Zanzibar for a relaxing beach extension.
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