Best Places to Stay in Southern Tanzania
Best Places to Stay in Southern Tanzania
While most explorers rush to the north to trek the wildebeest migration in the Serengeti, spot the Big Five in the Ngorongoro Crater, or climb Mount Kilimanjaro, the southern part of Tanzania remains unexplored. This hidden gem boasts pristine destinations, including Ruaha, Nyerere (Selous), Mikumi, and Kitulo, among others—with each offering a wonderful wildlife experience.
Our clients usually ask, “Where do I stay?” because this part sees a small number of tourists per year. Which means a few lodges and camps are available, and they are seasonal, closing in certain months. We are here to address this question. In this article, we discuss safari accommodations in the southern safari circuit.
Beho Beho Camp.
Started in 1972 as a hunting camp in the north of Selous Game Reserve (now Nyerere National Park), this camp is the oldest one. Featuring 9 stone and thatch bandas and a private villa (Baileys Banda), suitable for families. For over 40 years, the Bailey family—the owners—has transformed Beho Beho into a true haven for safari enthusiasts. Price starts at $1,150 pp.
Highlights
- A swimming pool and complimentary laundry service.
- An airstrip (Beho Beho Airstrip) is nearby.
- Accepts children from the age of 12.
- Game drives, bush walks, and boat rides (Lake Tagalala).
Siwandu Camp
This luxury tented camp is one of the top-rated places to stay in Nyerere National Park. Located near a riverbank, Siwandu features ten safari tents, each with a unique design that blends with the surroundings. A private verandah on each tent offers wildlife views and sundowners. Price starts at $1,065 pp.
Highlights
- Game drives, bush walks, boat cruises, and photography.
- Proximal location to Dar es Salaam, a 45-minute flight away, followed by a 1:20 drive from Jongomero.
- Plunge pools to soak in between game drives.
Usangu Expedition Camp.
Set on a remote side of Ruaha near the Usangu wetlands, this boutique run by Asilia features only six tents, each with en-suite bathrooms and a private verandah, and 24/7 charging service. It is open from June to October. And you can get there by a 45-minute flight from Dar es Salaam to Jongomero, followed by a 2-hour drive to the camp. Price starts at $900 pp.
Highlights
- Private guide and drives.
- Children aged 12 years or above are welcome.
- Guided nature walks around the wetlands and rivers.
Jongomero Camp.
Located in the rugged, untamed wilderness of Ruaha, this luxury camp features eight spacious tents. This number promises exclusivity, with each tent featuring an en-suite bathroom and a private verandah. Enjoy alfresco dining and plunge pools. You can easily get there by a 45-minute flight to Jongomero Airstrip. Price starts at $947 pp.
Highlights
- Private game drives: explore wild dogs, large elephant herds, and more.
- Guided nature walks in the vast wilderness of Ruaha.
- Stargazing experience with a high-powered telescope.
The Jabali Ridge.
This simple luxury camp sits on a rocky outcrop in the wilderness of Ruaha, the second largest park in Tanzania. It’s a base for anyone to watch large herds of elephants and large lion prides of Ruaha luxuriously. It’s open from June through mid-March. You can get there by flying to Msembe Airstrip, then driving for 50 minutes to the camp. Price starts at $1,226 pp.
Highlights
- Features 8 suites, a spa, Wi-Fi, an infinity pool, and en suite bathrooms.
- Private game drives: seek elephants, lions, wild dogs, and more.
- Guided nature walks in the bush.
- Accepts children from the age of 5.
Vuma Hills Tented Camp.
Located in the forests of the Vuma Mountains in Mikumi National Park, this camp features six spacious tented houses. In between drives, you can view wildlife in the Mkata Plains from your private verandah or soak in a swimming pool. Price range between $310 and $330 pppn.
Highlights
- Game drives and bush walks.
- Picnic lunch and bush drinks.
Ikuka Safari Camp.
A family-run camp in Ruaha and a haven for everyone seeking luxury and comfort. Featuring seven spacious tents, each with a private verandah, Ikuka Camp allows you to gaze at the beautiful view of Ruaha National Park. The estimated price is $785 pppn.
Highlights
- A private guide and game drives.
- Guide walks in the vast wilderness.
- Fly camping: sleep under the stars.
This list is just a rundown. Many other camps are worth it. We highlight them below:
Kokoko Camp features three double tents in the expanse of Ruaha. It’s ultra-luxury with a price tag of $1,680 per night.
Kichaka Camp—an expedition camp for anyone staying in Ruaha. Price starts at $775 pppn.
Kigelia Ruaha boasts six tents and offers guided drives and walks in the forests of Ruaha.
Roho ya Selous features eight spacious tents overlooking the Nzerakera channel. Perfect for watching wildlife from it. Enjoy private guides and drives as you stay in this finest camp.
Sand River Selous boasts five riverside cottages. Enjoy an en-suite bathroom in each of them and a private verandah.
The bottom line.
Though it’s remote, the southern safari circuit boasts some of the best places, only that some camps close in certain months, especially during the rainy season (March through May). We are here to help you book the best place for you, depending on your budget and timeline. Let’s start planning your next adventure.
