THE IMPORTANCE OF A WALKING SAFARI IN THE SOUTHERN TANZANIA.

Sunday, 31.Mar 2024

Southern Tanzania is known for its incredible wildlife and natural beauty. You will be able to witness the animals up close in their natural habitat.

In southern Tanzania, you can experience an amazing walking safari. It’s a unique way to explore the stunning landscapes and get up close to the incredible wildlife, you’ll have expert guides who will lead you on thrilling adventures, sharing their knowledge about the local flora and fauna making it an educational and immersive experience. Also, you’ll get to enjoy the sights, sounds, and smells of the African bush as you walk through the picturesque landscape.

What kind of safety measure, are taken during the walking safari.

Safety is a top priority during walking safari. The guides are highly trained and knowledgeable about the wildlife and their behavior. They will keep a safe distance from any potentially dangerous animals and know how t read their body language, they also carry safety equipment, like radios or whistles, to communicate with each other and to alert any nearby wildlife. Remember it is important to listen to your guides and follow their instructions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

The difference between Southern and Northern Experience

Cross all northern and southern Tanzania, the dry months are marked as high season, and with good reason. The northern Serengeti turns into a show ground as thousands of tourists descend upon the Mara River area hoping to witness the spectacles of a river crossing by the migrating herds. Tarangire national park, one of the most underrated and overlooked parks in northern Tanzania, offers the area’s only permanent water source throughout the dry season, attracting incredible numbers of mammals from all the surrounding areas into the park, creating phenomenal game viewing opportunities. However, on the topic of overlooked and underrated, there is little that compares to the limited attention that southern Tanzania receives. The vast landscape of Nyerere and Ruaha national parks offer a wild and wildlife rich safari experience with a level of exclusivity unheard of in northern Tanzania. And as, per the rest of Africa, the dry season has a profound impact on the experience offered.

 Why Southern Tanzania is the perfect place for Walking Safari.

The southern Tanzania is an ideal location for a walking safari because it offers vast and untouched wilderness. The region is known for its incredible biodiversity and abundance of wildlife. The landscapes are diverse, ranging from open plains to dense forest, providing a variety of habitats for different animals, walking safari in southern Tanzania allows you to fully immerse yourself in thrill of being in close proximity to wildlife. The waling safari offers a unique departure from the comfort and elevation of a vehicle, allowing for a closer connection to the environment and heightened awareness of your place within it.

Exploring on foot in southern Tanzania is arguably one of the very best safari experience attainable in East Africa. Whether you are a seasoned walking safari enthusiast, or eager to experience this thrill for the first time, southern Tanzania in October should rank high on your bucket list.

What is the best time to do a walking Safari 

The best time to do a walking safari in southern Tanzania is during the dry season, which typically runs from June to October. During this time, the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to sport wildlife. There are several popular destinations for a walking safari which is Ruaha national park, Selous game reserve, and the Mountains national park. These areas offer incredible opportunities to explore the wilderness on foot and witness a wide range of wildlife in there, natural habitats. Each destination has its own unique charm and attractions. So, where you’re looking for vast savannahs, dense forests, or stunning mountain landscapes, there’s something for everyone.

Why is the dry season the best for Walking Safari

The dry season is the best for walking safari because the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot wildlife. However not all walking safari created equal, as those who have experienced more than one walking safari will be able to attest. The condition of the bush is a crucial factor that needs to be carefully considered. During, or shortly after the rainy season, the bush is thick and lush resulting in poor visibility and a potentially dangerous situation as predators cannot be seen from a distance. Apart from the safety elements, the vegetation also limits what you can see from an interest perspective, limiting your experience to the immediate path ahead. Grasses are often high and carry ticks or any other variety of other insects after the rains, again creating an uncomfortable walking environment. After three months of a progressively developing dry season, October brings about the ultimate playgrounds for the walking safari enthusiast. The grass is dry and very low -  tick and insect free.  Trees and bushes have generally lost most of their leaves and all surrounding vegetation is considered less dense. The improved visibility allows for a wider field of vision, a safer walking experience, and the ability to actively track game from a safe distance.

Is it possible to do a walking safari on Northern Tanzania 

Northern Tanzania is also a fantastic place for a walking Safari. You’ll have a great time exploring the stunning landscapes and getting up close to the wildlife. Some popular walking destinations in northern Tanzania include Serengeti national park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, and Tarangire National Park. These places offer incredible opportunities to explore the wildlife on foot.

Its more intimate way to connect with nature and observe the animals in their natural habitat. Just remember to follow the safety guidelines and instructions given to ensure safety. In the Serengeti you can witness the great wildebeest migration where millions of wildebeest and other animals move across the plains. Ngorongoro Conservation is the place where you will witness the volcanic caldera that shelters a diverse range of wildlife, including lions, elephants, and rhinos. Tarangire National Park is known for its large elephants herds and baobab trees. Each destination offers its own unique sights and experiences, making walking safari in northern Tanzania truly unforgettable.