Tanzania's wild frontier — vast, uncrowded parks with exceptional wildlife, walking safaris, and a fraction of the northern circuit's visitor numbers.
June to October for dry season game viewing. Roads can be impassable in the wet season (March-May). Many camps close from March to May.
Generally more affordable than the northern circuit. Mid-range camps $300-600/night. Luxury camps $600-1,500/night. Fewer budget options as the circuit is more remote.
Fly from Dar es Salaam to Nyerere or Ruaha (1-2hrs by bush flight). Road access is possible but long and rough. Mikumi is accessible by road from Dar (4-5hrs).