10-Day Southern Tanzania Safari Circuit
This 10-day Southern Tanzania Safari Circuit takes you deep into the untouched wilderness of Tanzania’s lesser-explored but extraordinary national parks, offering an exclusive experience of the country’s rich wildlife and stunning landscapes. The journey will take you through Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous), Ruaha National Park, and Mikumi National Park, showcasing diverse ecosystems and an abundance of wildlife, from lions and elephants to rare species like the African wild dog.
Day 1: Arrival in Dar es Salaam
Arrive at Dar es Salaam International Airport and be met by your safari guide. You’ll be transferred to a luxury hotel in Dar es Salaam for a night of rest. Depending on your arrival time, you can enjoy a peaceful evening by the beach or have dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 2: Fly to Nyerere National Park (Selous)
After breakfast, you’ll take a short flight to Nyerere National Park, formerly the Selous Game Reserve. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your camp with an exciting game drive along the way. In the afternoon, embark on a boat safari along the Rufiji River, where you can spot hippos, crocodiles, and vibrant birdlife. Return to camp for a delicious dinner and a peaceful night in the bush.
Day 3: Full Day in Nyerere National Park
Begin your day with an early morning game drive, searching for the big cats, wild dogs, elephants, and other iconic African wildlife. Nyerere is one of the largest wildlife reserves in the world, offering vast landscapes to explore. After lunch at the camp, enjoy a walking safari where you’ll learn about the smaller details of the bush, from tracks to plants. In the late afternoon, you’ll head out for another game drive or a relaxing sundowner.
Day 4: Another Day of Adventure in Nyerere
Today, you’ll experience more of what Nyerere has to offer with an early morning game drive followed by some relaxation at camp. In the afternoon, head out for a boat safari or night game drive for a chance to see nocturnal animals. This is your final night in Nyerere, so enjoy the sounds of the wild and the starry sky as you sit around the campfire.
Day 5: Transfer to Ruaha National Park
After breakfast, you’ll board a flight to Ruaha National Park, Tanzania’s largest park, known for its rugged landscapes and abundant wildlife. Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy a short game drive en route to your lodge. After lunch, take an afternoon game drive in the park, where you can spot lions, leopards, elephants, and a variety of bird species. Overnight at a luxury lodge or tented camp, enjoying a peaceful evening in the heart of the bush.
Day 6: Full Day in Ruaha National Park
Spend the day exploring Ruaha with morning and afternoon game drives. The park is known for its scenic beauty, with baobab trees scattered across the savannah and the Great Ruaha River flowing through it. You’ll have the opportunity to see large herds of elephants, buffalo, and predators like lions and cheetahs. Ruaha’s isolation and vast size make it a hidden gem for safari-goers, offering a more exclusive experience. Return to camp for a relaxing evening and a delicious dinner.
Day 7: Another Day of Exploration in Ruaha
Today, you’ll continue exploring Ruaha’s magnificent landscapes with a morning game drive and an optional walking safari. The park is known for its large lion prides and excellent predator sightings. After lunch, you can relax at camp or embark on another afternoon game drive, continuing your search for the big cats, wild dogs, and countless other species that call Ruaha home.
Day 8: Fly to Mikumi National Park
After breakfast, you’ll take a flight to Mikumi National Park, located between Selous and Ruaha. Known for its stunning views and wildlife-rich plains, Mikumi is a great spot to spot elephants, giraffes, zebras, and buffalo. After checking into your lodge, enjoy a relaxing game drive in the afternoon. This evening, enjoy dinner at your lodge, which is set in the heart of the park.
Day 9: Full Day in Mikumi National Park
Today will be dedicated to exploring Mikumi. The park is home to abundant wildlife, including lions, wildebeest, and large herds of elephants. Mikumi’s open plains make game viewing easy and enjoyable, with plenty of opportunities for photography. After a morning game drive, relax back at the lodge before heading out for another exciting afternoon game drive. Mikumi also offers fantastic birdwatching, with a variety of species, including the lilac-breasted roller and secretary bird.
Day 10: Return to Dar es Salaam
On your final morning, enjoy a last game drive in Mikumi, soaking in the final moments of your safari. Afterward, you’ll be transferred to Dar es Salaam for your return flight or to continue your journey. If time allows, you can explore Dar es Salaam or relax at a beach resort before your international departure.
Inclusions:
All domestic flights and transfers between parks
Full-board accommodation (breakfast, lunch, and dinner)
Game drives, boat safaris, walking safaris, and park entrance fees
Professional guides and trackers
Airport transfers
All park fees
Exclusions:
International flights to/from Dar es Salaam
Visa fees
Tips for guides and camp staff
Personal expenses (souvenirs, phone calls, etc.)
Optional activities (hot air balloon rides, private vehicle upgrades)