When we think of Tanzania, iconic images of the Serengeti’s Great Migration and the majestic Kilimanjaro often spring to mind. But Tanzania is more than just its famous landmarks; it’s also home to remote, untamed wildernesses and hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. For those seeking an off-the-beaten-track safari experience, Tanzania’s lesser-known parks and reserves offer unparalleled beauty, rich wildlife, an assortment of activities and intimate encounters far from the crowds.
Ruaha National Park: The Hidden Gem
Tucked away in southern Tanzania, Ruaha National Park is a true gem for those seeking an off-the-grid safari experience. As Tanzania’s largest national park, spanning over 20,000 square kilometres, Ruaha boasts a diversity of landscapes that is breathtaking to behold. From the dramatic escarpments and ancient baobab trees to rolling savannahs and river systems, this park is a photographer’s dream.
Despite its size, Ruaha remains delightfully under-visited, offering unparalleled exclusivity and the opportunity to explore vast expanses of wilderness without another vehicle in sight. Its remoteness has helped preserve its rich biodiversity, and visitors are rewarded with exceptional wildlife sightings. Ruaha is home to one of the largest lion populations in Africa, with prides of up to 20 individuals often spotted roaming the savannah. Cheetahs, leopards, and elusive African wild dogs add to the predator action. Meanwhile, herds of elephants and buffalo move through the park, often congregating along the Great Ruaha River during the dry season.
Bird enthusiasts will also delight in Ruaha, which boasts over 570 species, including rare and endemic species such as the ashy starling and yellow-collared lovebird. Activities in Ruaha include game drives, night drives, and walking safaris led by expert guides who bring the park’s rich ecosystem to life. Luxurious eco-lodges and intimate bush camps, nestled into the landscape, provide a perfect balance of comfort and adventure. Whether you’re a seasoned safari-goer or a first-time explorer, Ruaha offers a wild, unfiltered African safari experience.
For more information on Ruaha National Park and the different camps available, please contact Lucinda.
Nyerere National Park: Africa’s Largest Wildlife Sanctuary
Sprawling across more than 30,000 square kilometres, Nyerere National Park (formerly part of the famous Selous Game Reserve) is a wonderland for nature lovers and adventure seekers. As one of Africa’s largest protected areas, it is a vast, untamed wilderness characterised by its rich diversity of habitats. From dense woodlands and open plains to riverine forests and the intricate network of waterways created by the mighty Rufiji River, Nyerere’s landscapes are as varied as they are breathtaking.
The Rufiji River is the beating heart of the park, providing a lifeline for countless species. Boat safaris along its waters are a standout experience, offering a unique perspective on wildlife. Watch as hippos jostle for space in the shallows, crocodiles bask on the riverbanks, and elephants cross gracefully through the water. Waterbirds such as African fish eagles, Goliath herons, and malachite kingfishers can be seen in abundance.
On land, Nyerere’s wildlife is equally impressive. The park is home to significant populations of African wild dogs, often spotted hunting in packs, as well as lions, leopards, and hyenas. Herds of giraffes, zebras, and antelopes roam the plains, while the forested areas shelter shy species like sable antelope and bushbuck. Visitors can explore the park on game drives or bush walks, guided by experienced rangers who share their knowledge of the ecosystem. Nyerere’s remote location and limited visitor numbers make it an ideal destination for travellers seeking tranquillity and a deep connection with nature.
There are a number of excellent camps in Nyerere National Park. For more information please contact Lucinda.
Katavi National Park: A Wilderness Untamed
If you’re looking for a safari destination that feels like stepping back in time, Katavi National Park is the place to be. Situated in Tanzania’s remote western region, Katavi is one of the country’s least-visited parks, making it a true hidden treasure. Covering approximately 4,500 square kilometres, the park’s vast, unspoiled landscapes offer a glimpse of Africa as it once was—wild, raw, and untouched by mass tourism.
Katavi is renowned for its dramatic wildlife gatherings, particularly during the dry season (July to October) when water sources dwindle. Hundreds of hippos crowd into the remaining pools, engaging in fierce territorial battles, while crocodiles retreat to mud caves along the riverbanks. The park is also home to enormous herds of buffalo and elephants, often accompanied by predators such as lions, hyenas, and wild dogs. The sheer scale of these wildlife spectacles, set against Katavi’s remote and rugged backdrop, is nothing short of awe-inspiring.
Activities in Katavi include game drives and walking safaris, allowing visitors to explore the park’s diverse habitats, from open floodplains and riverine forests to woodlands and rocky outcrops. The limited number of lodges and camps ensures an intimate and exclusive experience, where you’ll often feel like you have the entire park to yourself.
For the ultimate off-the-grid experience, Katavi National Park is the place to be. Located in western Tanzania, Katavi is one of the country’s most remote parks and sees only a handful of visitors each year. This sense of isolation amplifies its untouched beauty and raw appeal. The sheer remoteness of Katavi guarantees a truly wild safari experience that few others can rival.
For more information about a safari in Katavi National Park please contact Lucinda.
Mahale Mountains National Park: Chimpanzee Heaven
Perched on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, Mahale Mountains National Park is a place of extraordinary beauty and unique wildlife encounters. The park offers a completely different kind of adventure : trekking to see wild chimpanzees, offering one of the best opportunities in the world to observe these fascinating primates in their natural habitat. Home to one of the largest populations of these primates, Mahale is a dream destination for those looking to connect with our closest relatives in the animal kingdom.
Trekking through Mahale’s lush tropical forests, accompanied by expert guides, is a thrilling adventure. As you follow the calls of the chimps, the dense foliage gives way to magical encounters with these intelligent creatures. Watching them interact—grooming, playing, or foraging—is an unforgettable experience that leaves a lasting impression.
Beyond the chimpanzees, Mahale’s setting is equally remarkable. Towering peaks covered in emerald green forests cascade down to the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tanganyika, the world’s longest freshwater lake. After a morning of trekking, relax on the sandy beaches, go kayaking, or take a dhow (traditional fishing boat) to see crocodiles and the birdlife along the shores. The remote lodges and camps in Mahale offer a blend of rustic charm and luxury, providing an ideal base for exploring this unspoiled paradise.
For more information on staying in Mahale National Park please contact Lucinda.
Rubondo Island National Park: A Remote Island Escape
For a safari with a twist, Rubondo Island National Park offers an experience like no other. Located in Lake Victoria, Rubondo is one of Africa’s hidden gems, combining wildlife, water-based activities, and island tranquillity.
The island is a haven for a variety of wildlife, including chimpanzees, elephants, giraffes, and sitatunga antelopes, which roam freely across its forests and open spaces. Birdlife is also abundant, with over 300 species recorded, including fish eagles, kingfishers, and colourful bee-eaters.
Rubondo’s unique appeal lies in its ability to combine traditional safari activities, such as guided nature walks and game viewing, with aquatic adventures like canoeing, fishing, and boat safaris. The island’s remote location and low visitor numbers ensure a peaceful and intimate experience, where you can truly disconnect from the outside world. Stay in eco-friendly lodges that blend seamlessly into the natural surroundings and enjoy the sense of exclusivity that Rubondo offers.
For more information on Rubondo Island stays please contact Lucinda.
Why Go Off the Beaten Track?
While Tanzania’s iconic parks like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater are undoubtedly spectacular, exploring its lesser-known destinations offers a deeper connection with nature. These remote parks and reserves provide exclusivity, unspoiled beauty, and a sense of adventure that’s hard to find in more popular areas.
While Tanzania’s iconic parks and landmarks are undoubtedly incredible, its lesser-known destinations offer a different kind of magic. These remote, unspoiled wilderness areas provide a sense of exclusivity, tranquillity, and authenticity that’s hard to find in more popular locations. Whether you’re tracking chimpanzees in Mahale, exploring the vast landscapes of Ruaha, or witnessing Katavi’s untamed wildlife spectacles, Tanzania’s off-the-beaten-track destinations promise unforgettable adventures.
In 2025, take the road less travelled and discover the hidden gems of Tanzania. Beyond the Serengeti and Kilimanjaro, a world of untamed beauty and unparalleled experiences awaits.
If you would like to start planning your holiday to Tanzania, any other country in Africa or the Indian Ocean in 2025 or beyond, please do get in touch with Lucinda and she would be delighted to help.
