Exploring the Best of Southern Tanzania: The 20 Must-Visit Attractions

Southern Tanzania is blessed abundantly with landscapes, unique wildlife, and rich cultural experiences. If you’re planning a trip to this region, here’s a comprehensive guide to the top attractions across ten regions. Each region offers a variety of experiences, from thrilling safaris to serene beaches and historical experiences. Dive into the diverse beauty of Southern Tanzania and discover what makes each destination special.

1. Iringa Region

a. Ruaha National Park
Uniqueness Rating: ★★★★★
Ruaha National Park is Tanzania’s largest national park and offers a truly immersive safari experience. Known for its dramatic landscapes and high concentration of predators, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs, it’s a paradise for wildlife game drive enthusiasts and photographers.
Accessibility: Easily accessible via flights from Dar es Salaam to Iringa and a drive from Iringa town OR Chartered flights from Dar es Salaam to Ruaha National Park (126 Km from Iringa)
Best For: Wildlife enthusiasts and adventurous travellers seeking a less crowded safari and game drive lovers.

b. Isimila Stone Age Site
Uniqueness Rating: ★★★★☆
The Isimila Stone Age Site is an archaeological marvel, showcasing ancient stone tools and unique eroded rock formations. It provides a fascinating glimpse into early human history and the geological processes that shaped the landscape.
Accessibility: Located about 22 km from Iringa town, accessible by road.
Best For: History buffs and travellers interested in prehistoric cultures.

Other Attractions in Iringa:

1. Iringa Boma Museum: This museum offers insights into the local history and culture of the Iringa region with artifacts and exhibits from the area. (town centre)
2. Kisolanza Farm: Experience rural Tanzanian life at this working farm, known for its traditional agriculture and beautiful surroundings. (58 Km from Iringa Town)
3. Mufindi Highland Tea Estates: Visit these picturesque tea estates for a tour and a chance to explore the lush highland landscapes. (112 Km from Iringa)

2. Morogoro Region

a. Mikumi National Park
Uniqueness Rating: ★★★★☆
Mikumi National Park, part of the Selous Game Reserve ecosystem, is known for its diverse wildlife and beautiful landscapes. The park features elephants, giraffes, zebras, and a variety of bird species, making it a great destination for safari enthusiasts.
Accessibility: Easily reachable by road from Dar es Salaam or Morogoro town. (34 Km from Moro Town)
Best For: Families and first-time safari-goers looking for a rich wildlife experience.

b. Uluguru Mountains

Uniqueness Rating: ★★★★☆
The Uluguru Mountains are renowned for their lush forests, rich biodiversity, and fantastic hiking trails. This region is home to several endemic bird species and offers stunning views and peaceful nature walks.
Accessibility: Accessible from Morogoro town by road.
Best For: Hikers, bird watchers, and nature enthusiasts.

Other Attractions in Morogoro:

1. Morogoro Town: Experience local culture and markets in this vibrant town, known for its friendly atmosphere.
2. Mgeta Village: Visit this local village to experience traditional life and beautiful landscapes.
3. Morogoro Market: A bustling market where you can sample local foods and shop for crafts.
4. Chilunga CTE: Experience local village life and traditional customs. (Town Centre; 1.6 Km)

3. Pwani (Coast) Region

a. Saadani National Park
Uniqueness Rating: ★★★★★
Saadani National Park is unique for its combination of wildlife and coastal beauty. It’s the only park in Tanzania with a coastline, allowing visitors to see wildlife like elephants and lions against the backdrop of beautiful beaches.
Accessibility: Located about 100 km from Bagamoyo, accessible by road from Dar es Salaam.
Best For: Those seeking a blend of safari and beach experiences.

b. Bagamoyo Historical Town
Uniqueness Rating: ★★★★☆
Bagamoyo is a historic town that once served as a major port for the slave trade and a key trading hub in the 19th century. The town is filled with historical ruins, old buildings, and museums that offer a deep dive into Tanzania’s history.  Some are Bagamoyo Museum, Kaole Ruins
Accessibility: A short drive from Dar es Salaam.
Best For: History enthusiasts, cultural explorers and yes, water lovers. There is a beautiful beach here.

Other Attractions in Pwani:

1. Mafia Island: A pristine island known for its marine life and excellent diving opportunities at the Islands waters
2. Mafia Marine Park; is the best marine park in the country offering experiences beyond. Tourist attractions in Mafia Island Marine Park include snorkelling and diving with its famous offshore resident whale shark population.

4. Mbeya Region

a. Mount Rungwe
Rating: ★★★★☆
Mount Rungwe is the second-highest peak in Tanzania’s southern highlands. It offers stunning views, diverse flora and fauna, and is ideal for trekking. The area is also home to the endemic Rungwe Cebus
Accessibility: Accessible via road from Mbeya town; the hike requires moderate fitness levels.
Best For: Adventure seekers, nature lovers, and hikers.

b. Lake Ngozi: A beautiful crater lake surrounded by lush greenery, perfect for picnics and hiking.

Other Attractions in Mbeya:

1. Tukuyu Village: Experience traditional local life and enjoy cultural interactions.
2. Loleza Mountain: Offers hiking trails with panoramic views of Mbeya town and the surrounding areas.
3. Matema Beach: A serene spot on the shores of Lake Nyasa, ideal for relaxation, swimming, and cultural tours.
4. Kaporogwe Waterfalls: Scenic waterfalls located near Tukuyu, a great spot for nature photography and picnics.

5. Songwe Region

Mbozi Meteorite
Rating: ★★★★☆
The Mbozi Meteorite is one of the largest meteorites in the world, weighing about 25 metric tons. It’s a significant geological site, offering a unique glimpse into the Earth’s extraterrestrial history.
Accessibility: Located near Mbozi District, accessible by road.
Best For: Geology enthusiasts, and cultural tourists.

Lukwati & Piti GR
Rating: ★★★★☆
Lukwati and Piti Game Reserves lie from the North Eastern shores of Lake Rukwa, it climbs eastwards over the escarpment into the vast Miombo woodlands and is renowned for its excellent success rate on heavy-maned Lions, big Buffalo, Sable and plentiful Leopard. The area is set aside for tourist hunting with five (05) hunting blocks namely Lukwati South, Lukwati North, Piti West, Chunya Msami and Chunya Lukwati.

Accessibility: Mbeya via Chunya and Mkwajuni for about six (6) to eight (8) hours drive. The Reserve is also accessible by air charter flight from Dar es Salaam or Arusha to the seasonal airstrips available in the Game Reserve.
Best For: Hunting tourism

Other Attractions in Songwe

• Historic locations including the Galula Catholic Church
• Sceneic mountains found in Songwe Region include; Kwimba Mountain, Kipala Mountain, Linzitwa Cave, Mount Ilomwa, Kisumbuzi Mountain Kasitu Mountain, Chingambo Mountain, Mount Mwenekawenga, Mount Pungwe, Mount Chingambo, Mount Mlomba, Mount Ng’ongo, Mount Malinga.
• Forest reserves in the Songwe Region are Kaisumbe Forest, Tiru Forest, Msawe Forest, Mengo Forest, Nonda Chambo Forest, Champande Forest And Chingambo Forest.
• Rivers include the Momba River and Songwe River.

6. Lindi Region

a. Ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani
Uniqueness Rating: ★★★★☆
The ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani, a UNESCO World Heritage site, showcase the historical significance of this ancient Swahili trading city. The site features impressive ruins of mosques, palaces, and fortresses, reflecting Kilwa’s rich past.
Accessibility: Accessible by boat from Kilwa Masoko.
Best For: History enthusiasts and archaeology lovers.

b. Mnazi Bay-Ruvuma Estuary Marine Park
Uniqueness Rating: ★★★★☆
The Mnazi Bay-Ruvuma Estuary Marine Park is known for its vibrant marine life and beautiful coral reefs. It offers excellent opportunities for snorkelling, diving, and observing marine wildlife in a pristine environment.
Accessibility: Accessible by road and boat from Lindi.
Best For: Marine life enthusiasts, divers, and those looking for serene natural beauty.

Other Attractions in Lindi:

1. Songo Songo Islands: Visit these remote islands for stunning beaches and snorkelling opportunities.
2. Lindi Town Market: Explore the lively market for local crafts and foods.
3. Kilwa Masoko: Explore this bustling town and its vibrant local markets.
4. Mchinga Beach: Relax on this serene beach with stunning views and clear waters.
5. Lindi Marine Park: Discover marine biodiversity through snorkelling and diving in this protected area at the Mnazi Bay-Ruvuma Estuary Marine Park (MBREMP).
6. Rondo Plateau: Enjoy hiking and panoramic views from this scenic plateau.
7. Lindi Old Fort: Visit this historic fort and learn about the region’s colonial history.

7. Mtwara Region

a. Mtwara Beach
Uniqueness Rating: ★★★☆☆
Mtwara Beach is known for its peaceful ambience, golden sands, and clear waters. It’s an ideal destination for beach lovers looking to relax and enjoy the coastal environment.
Accessibility: Located in Mtwara town, easily accessible by road or air from Dar es Salaam.
Best For: Beachgoers and those seeking a relaxing coastal getaway.

Other Attractions in Mtwara:

1. Mtwara Town Market: Experience local life and shop for traditional crafts and goods.
2. Rondo Plateau: Enjoy hiking and panoramic views from this scenic plateau.
3. Ndanda Abbey: Exhibits include a collection of traditional artefacts, historical photographs, and informative displays that provide insight into the local way of life. While around, you can walk around and visit different attractions and activities conducted by the church. When around religious, and historical attractions like churches, and cathedrals, try to find the hidden gems. There are usually some workshops, guest houses, bakeries, bookshops, printing houses and food processing shops. Interesting, delicious and at a fair price.
4. Mchinga Beach: Relax on this lesser-known beach with beautiful surroundings.
5. Mtwara Heritage Museum: Discover the local heritage and history through various exhibits.

8. Ruvuma Region

a. Selous Game Reserve (Ruvuma Gate)
Uniqueness Rating: ★★★★★
The Ruvuma sector of Selous Game Reserve is renowned for its remote and pristine safari experience. It’s home to a wide variety of wildlife, including large herds of elephants and the elusive African wild dog.
Accessibility: Accessible by charter flights or long road trips from nearby towns i.e., Songea
Best For: Wildlife enthusiasts seeking a secluded safari adventure.

b. Ruvuma River
Uniqueness Rating: ★★★★☆
The Ruvuma River forms a natural border between Tanzania and Mozambique, offering stunning views and opportunities for river cruises and fishing. It’s a peaceful spot ideal for nature lovers.
Accessibility: Accessible by road and river from nearby towns.
Best For: Nature lovers.

Other Attractions in Ruvuma:

1. LIPARAMBA GR: offering scenery, waterfalls, wildlife, hills, birds – 43km from Mbinga town
2. Ruvuma Abbeys: Explore the beginning of the Church in Southern Tanzania i.e., Peramiho Abbey (1898- 27 km from Songea Town), Songea Cathedral (Centre), St. Kilian Cathedral (600m from Mbinga Town)
3. Songea Town: Explore local culture and history in this bustling town.
4. Lake Nyasa Beaches

9. Katavi Region

a. Katavi National Park
Uniqueness Rating: ★★★★★
Katavi National Park is one of Tanzania’s most remote and least visited parks, offering a true wilderness experience. Known for its large concentrations of hippos, crocodiles, and diverse wildlife, it’s a haven for adventurous travellers.
Accessibility: Accessible by charter flights from Dar es Salaam or a long drive from nearby cities. (106 Km from Katavi Region Centre)
Best For: Adventurous travellers and wildlife enthusiasts seeking solitude.

b. Lake Katavi (Inside Katavi National Park)
Uniqueness Rating: ★★★★☆
Lake Katavi is known for its seasonal flooding, which attracts large numbers of wildlife and offers spectacular viewing opportunities. It’s a key attraction within Katavi National Park, providing a unique aspect of the park’s ecosystem.
Accessibility: Accessible within Katavi National Park.
Best For: Wildlife photographers and nature enthusiasts.

Other Attractions in Katavi:

1. Rukwa Valley: Explore the scenic valley with opportunities for hiking and wildlife spotting.
2. Lake Chada, 
3. Katuma River 

10. Njombe Region

a. Mpanga Kipengere Game Reserve (2Hrs from Makambako)

Uniqueness Rating: ★★★★★
Mpanga Kipengere Game Reserve offers lush, green landscapes and a diverse range of flora and fauna.
The reserve, covering a total area of 1,574.25 Km2 is located between the altitudinal range of 1,080 metres and 2,858 metres above sea level falling within three Districts of Wanging’ombe to the East, Makete to the South in Njombe region and Mbarali District to the north and northwest in Mbeya region. The Reserve consists of 4 mountain ranges and over 15 waterfalls.
The highlands form a great Arc of high ground 1300-3000m, where the Kipengere Ranges border the Kitulo Plateau to the west.
Accessibility: Accessible by road from Njombe town.
Best For:  It’s a great spot for nature walks, hiking, swimming, history lovers, and experiencing the tranquillity of the forest and waterfalls and biodiversity enthusiasts due to its fair share of endemic species.

b.Kitulo National Park
Uniqueness Rating: ★★★★★
Locals refer to the Kitulo Plateau as “Bustani ya Mungu” (“The Garden of God”), while botanists have referred to it as the “Serengeti of Flowers”. Kitulo is home to the world with 350 species of Vascular plants. Including 45 varieties of terrestrial orchid and the Highland Mangabey, famously known as Kipunji is the first new monkey species discovered in Africa in 20 years.
Accessibility: Accessible by road from Njombe town (168 Km).
Best For: botanists, hikers, bird watchers ( Denham’s Bustard is a resident, alongside blue swallow and such range-restricted species as mountain marsh widow, Njombe Cisticola and Kipengere seedeater).

Other Attractions in Njombe:

Historical attractions: Njombe is one of those regions where colonialism, freedom fighting by the Southern tribes and the introduction of religion can be traced throughout the region.

1. Historical Building: Utengule historical monument- remarkable place of war between Bena and Germany; Bulongwa historical building; Makangalawe German tower
2. Churches: Yakobi historical church; Lupembe old Lutheran church; Kidugala Lutheran missionary centre
3. Caves: Ihalula historical cave; Lyamgendela, Nyumbanitu Cave; Utengule historical forest and caves; Mayiviyivi historical cave and forest; 
4. Mountain Ranges: Livingstone mountain ranges
5. Natural Forests: Nundu, Makowo, Njilikwa, Nyumbanitu, Kilimahewa, Mdandu and Milo, Ndumbi forest, Livingstone forest
6. Njombe Town: Explore local markets, restaurants, and cultural experiences in this charming town.
7. Njombe Tea Estates: Tour these estates to learn about tea cultivation and enjoy the scenic surroundings.

Conclusion

Southern Tanzania is an extraordinary region filled with diverse attractions, from the remote wilderness of Katavi to the rich historical sites of Kilwa Kisiwani. Each region offers unique experiences that cater to different interests, whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, history buff, or beach lover.

Stay Updated on Southern Tanzania’s Hidden Gems!

Don’t miss out on the latest travel insights, destination guides, and hidden gems around Tanzania. Subscribe to my newsletter for personalized updates and stay informed about your next adventure in Southern Tanzania and beyond!

Subscribe Now!

Enter your email address below to receive curated travel tips and exclusive content straight to your inbox. Let’s explore the world together and uncover new travel experiences!

NB: Unless specified otherwise, all images are by the Tanzania Tourism site and socials