Southern Tanzania has 3 of East Africa’s 4 largest game parks, some of the world’s finest big game viewing and has long been the favoured destination of top zoologists, conservationists and wildlife photographers. Yet the area gets far less press, and far fewer visitors, than both Kenya and the northern Tanzanian circuit. The reason is simple; organising the logistics of a safari to this vast, wild, remote and exquisitely beautiful area is more difficult than to the more easily accessed, better-known northern game parks.
When we decided to team up with a bespoke operator in the south there was only one choice: the Foxes. The family established tea estates in the Mafinga highlands over 50 years ago and since then have acquired an unrivalled knowledge of the Ruaha, Nyerere and Katavi National Parks. In the early eighties they were pioneers in establishing camps and lodges in the region’s prime game-viewing locations and have been polishing and perfecting their safari operation ever since. And the addition of Lazy Lagoon to the Foxes portfolio means that the company are also now able to offer a dreamily hedonistic Indian ocean experience which dovetails perfectly with their safari operation.
Why we chose this partner
- The Foxes own and manage some superb lodges in southern Tanzania’s most spectacular game locations, including Ruaha, Stanleys Kopje and Rufiji.
- They use expert guides and drivers who ensure that you not only see a lot of game but that you learn a lot about it, too
- They have a fleet of specially adapted game vehicles with tiered seating, guaranteeing maximum visibility and comfort
- They own a number of light aircraft and have their own pilots. They can be more flexible in getting you to and from their lodges and adopt schedules to suit prevailing weather conditions and your needs
- We loved the exceptional food - many ingredients are grown on the estates surrounding their lodges
Please be aware
- Please be aware that i-escape can only vouch for those properties which are featured and reviewed on our website. For other areas and accommodations, while we do trust our operator to provide the best options for your needs, you should make sure that you are happy with their suggestions before confirming
Best time to go
The best time for most game viewing is from June to September (dry season), as animals start to congregate around shrinking water sources. It's also a great time for walking safaris, for which Selous in particular is famous. The weather is warm but not too humid, though temperatures increase from October, with heavy concentrations of game around lakes and rivers.
From November to May (rainy season), things get increasingly wet and sticky, with April and May having the heaviest rainfall. This is the 'green season' with lush vegetation, full rivers and lakes, and abundant birdlife and wild flowers, as well as baby animals. From March to early May, some roads become impassable.
From November to May (rainy season), things get increasingly wet and sticky, with April and May having the heaviest rainfall. This is the 'green season' with lush vegetation, full rivers and lakes, and abundant birdlife and wild flowers, as well as baby animals. From March to early May, some roads become impassable.
Our top tips
Location
From the Airport
Your contact person from the tour operator will meet you at the airport, and introduce you to your guide/driver, who will take to your first hotel. He will be your main point of contact for the rest of your trip. You will also have direct access to your contact at the local tour operator office, who can deal with any further requirements you may have.
Detailed directions will be provided as you create your itinerary with the tour operator, and when your booking is confirmed.
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