Itinerary Overview
This 9-day journey unveils the lesser-known wonders of Tanzania’s southern circuit. Begin in Selous (Nyerere National Park), Africa’s largest wildlife reserve, where boat safaris on the Rufiji River offer a unique perspective. Next, continue to Mikumi National Park, famed for its open savannah landscapes and proximity to Dar es Salaam. The expedition then heads to the expansive Ruaha National Park, celebrated for its high density of elephants and predators. Ideal for seasoned safari-goers and travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience, this itinerary highlights Tanzania’s vast wilderness and biodiversity.
Arrival
Tanzania
Departure
Tanzania
Duration
9 Days
Top Highlights
- Selous (Nyerere) Game Reserve with boat safaris, walking safaris, and abundant predators
- Mikumi’s open grasslands offering classic game drives
- Ruaha’s dramatic scenery and impressive populations of elephants and big cats
- Fewer crowds compared to northern parks
- Opportunity for diverse safari activities: game drives, boat rides, and bush walks
Included And Excluded
- Meet and greet in Dar es Salaam
- Transfers to and from accommodations
- Park fees and reserve entry fees
- Full Board accommodations throughout the safari
- Game drives, walking safaris, and boat safaris where indicated
- Professional English-speaking driver/guide
- Emergency Medical Evacuation (Flying Doctor)
- International flights
- Visas and travel insurance
- Tips, drinks, and personal expenses
- Optional excursions not mentioned
Tours Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival in Dar es Salaam
Land at Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam, where you’ll be greeted by our representative and transferred to your city hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you may explore the vibrant city or simply relax at the hotel. A briefing about your upcoming southern circuit safari will be provided in the evening.
Day 2 : Selous (Nyerere) Game Reserve
Depart early from Dar es Salaam and travel to Selous Game Reserve, either by road or a short domestic flight (based on your booking choice). Upon arrival, check into your lodge or tented camp and have lunch. In the afternoon, set out on a breathtaking boat safari along the Rufiji River. Keep an eye out for hippos, crocodiles, and elephant herds gathering at the water’s edge. Return for dinner and an overnight stay under the star-filled African sky.
Day 3 - 4 : Full Days in Selous
Enjoy two full days exploring Selous through a combination of game drives, bush walks, and boat safaris. The reserve’s vast wetlands and woodlands are home to packs of wild dogs, large buffalo herds, giraffes, zebras, and various bird species. Walking safaris offer an intimate look at the flora and smaller fauna, guided by an armed ranger. Evenings will be spent around a campfire or in your comfortable lodge, recounting the day’s adventures.
Day 5 : Transfer to Mikumi National Park
After breakfast, bid farewell to Selous and drive to Mikumi National Park (or take a short flight, depending on arrangements). Upon arrival, you’ll embark on an afternoon game drive in the open savannah that resembles the Serengeti’s plains. Look for lions, zebras, and wildebeests grazing together. After your drive, head to your lodge or camp for dinner and overnight in Mikumi.
Day 6 : Mikumi to Ruaha National Park
Awake early for a short morning game drive in Mikumi, then continue your journey to Ruaha National Park. This can be a lengthy but scenic trip by road, passing through local villages and dramatic landscapes. Upon reaching Ruaha, settle into your lodge or camp nestled among baobab trees. Enjoy dinner and a restful evening in preparation for your next wildlife encounters.
Day 7- 8 : Ruaha National Park
Spend two exciting days exploring Ruaha’s raw and rugged terrain, which offers some of Tanzania’s most spectacular big-game viewing. Morning and afternoon game drives will reveal large herds of elephants, prides of lions, and if you’re fortunate, the elusive leopard. The park’s Great Ruaha River is a lifeline for countless animals, making for high-action predator-prey interactions. Evenings can be spent swapping safari stories over dinner back at your lodge or camp.
Day 9 : Return to Dar es Salaam
On your final day, enjoy a relaxed breakfast and possibly a short morning game drive, depending on flight or departure arrangements. You’ll then transfer back to Dar es Salaam, either by road or via a scheduled flight. Once in Dar es Salaam, connect to your international flight or continue to your next destination, enriched by the unforgettable wilderness experiences from Tanzania’s southern circuit.
Price Table
| 9 Days Southern Tanzania Explorer | Standard Accommodation | Superior Accommodation | Luxury Accommodation |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | - | - |
| February | - | - | - |
| March | - | - | - |
| April | - | - | - |
| May | - | - | - |
| June | - | - | - |
| July | - | - | - |
| August | - | - | - |
| September | - | - | - |
| October | - | - | - |
| November | - | - | - |
| December | - | - | - |
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