9 Days Southern Tanzania Safari to Mikumi, Ruaha, Nyerere National Park (Selous)

A 9 days safari adventure through the mesmerizing landscapes of Southern Tanzania to the best parks in the Southern Circuit. This safari takes you on a captivating journey, visiting three remarkable national parks – Mikumi, Ruaha, and Nyerere National Park, formerly Selous. Each destination offers a unique and diverse wildlife experience, making this safari a dream come true for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers.

Starting from the bustling city of Dar es Salaam, the safari leads you into the heart of the African wilderness. Encounter the abundant wildlife of Mikumi National Park, where lions, elephants, zebras, and giraffes roam freely in their natural habitat. Continue to the vast and unspoiled Ruaha National Park, known for its rich concentration of wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to engage in a walking safari, getting up close to nature and feeling the thrill of the wild.

Next, venture into the enchanting Nyerere National Park (Selous Game Reserve), Africa’s largest game reserve, and indulge in a boat safari on the Rufiji River. Witness hippos and crocodiles in their element, along with an array of other fascinating species. Prepare for an exhilarating walking safari, guided by experienced rangers, offering you a truly immersive and intimate wildlife encounter.

Throughout the journey, you’ll be surrounded by the beauty of Tanzania’s natural wonders, from vast plains to lush forests and meandering rivers. At night, relax in comfortable lodges and camps, savoring delicious meals and sharing stories of your safari adventures.

This 9-day Southern Tanzania safari promises an unparalleled experience, providing you with an opportunity to witness the untamed splendor of the African wilderness and create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Let this safari unveil the captivating essence of Southern Tanzania, where nature reigns supreme and the spirit of adventure thrives.

Day to Day Itinerary: 9 day safari to Mikumi, Ruaha, Nyerere National Park

Day 1: Dar es Salaam to Mikumi National Park. Game viewing and overnight at the Lodge.

Day 2: Drive to Ruaha National Park. Afternoon game viewing. Overnight at the lodge.

Day 3: Morning walking safari, afternoon game viewing in Ruaha. Overnight at the lodge.

Day 4: Full day game viewing in Ruaha. Overnight at the lodge.

Day 5: Drive to Morogoro via Ismila Stone Age Site. Overnight at a hotel.

Day 6: Continue to Selous Game Reserve. Afternoon boat safari on Rufiji River. Overnight at the lodge.

Day 7: Walking safari and afternoon game viewing in Selous. Overnight at the lodge.

Day 8: Full day game drive in Selous. Overnight at the Lodge.

Day 9: Return to Dar es Salaam with a picnic lunch. Safari ends in the late afternoon.

Highlights of the 9-day Southern Tanzania safari:

Mikumi National Park: Encounter diverse wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and more, in their natural habitat.
Ruaha National Park: Explore one of Africa’s largest and most unspoiled parks, known for its abundant wildlife and stunning landscapes.
Walking Safari: Experience the thrill of a guided walking safari in Ruaha, allowing you to get up close with nature and the wild.
Selous Game Reserve(Nyerere National Park): Discover Africa’s largest game reserve and enjoy a boat safari on the Rufiji River, observing hippos and crocodiles.
Walking Safari in Selous: Engage in an intimate wildlife encounter during a walking safari, led by experienced armed rangers.
Breathtaking Landscapes: Immerse yourself in the beauty of Tanzania’s natural wonders, from vast plains to lush forests.
Comfortable Lodges and Camps: Relax in comfortable accommodations each night, offering a cozy retreat after exhilarating safari experiences.
Rich Wildlife Sightings: Witness an array of animals in their natural environment, from predators to herbivores and numerous bird species.
Untamed Wilderness: Experience the untamed and pristine nature of Southern Tanzania, offering a sense of adventure and wonder.
Memorable Moments: Create cherished memories as you embark on an unforgettable safari journey through Southern Tanzania’s remarkable parks.

Dar es Salaam to Mikumi National Park

The safari adventure begins with a pick-up from your accommodation in Dar es Salaam. We’ll drive to Mikumi National Park, where you’ll arrive at your lodge in time for lunch. In the afternoon, get ready for an exciting game-viewing experience. Mikumi is known for its diverse wildlife, including lions, elands, hartebeests, buffalos, giraffes, zebras, and elephants. If you’re lucky, you might even spot wild dogs in packs. After an eventful day, dinner and overnight stay will be at the lodge.

Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)

Drinks not included

Mikumi to Ruaha National Park

After a hearty breakfast, we continue our journey to Ruaha National Park. Arriving at the lodge, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch. In the afternoon, get ready for more game viewing in this natural and unspoiled park, known as one of Africa’s largest wildlife reserves. Back at the camp or lodge, you’ll have dinner and spend the night surrounded by the sounds of the wilderness.

Exploring Ruaha

Start your day with a breakfast walking safari led by an experienced guide. This unique experience allows you to get up close with nature and experience the thrill of “touching the wild.” After returning for lunch, the afternoon will be dedicated to more game viewing in the park. Ruaha is home to an impressive concentration of wildlife, and you’ll have the chance to encounter various species such as lions, leopards, cheetahs, waterbucks, impalas, giraffes, elephants, and more. Dinner and overnight will be at the lodge.

Full Day Game Drive in Ruaha

Today promises a full day of adventure as we embark on an exhilarating game drive through the vast landscapes of Ruaha National Park. The Great Ruaha River is a highlight, teeming with hippos and crocodiles. Along the plains, you may spot Grant’s gazelles, ostriches, and cheetahs. Lunch and breaks will be enjoyed amidst the natural beauty of the park. Return to the camp or lodge for dinner and a well-deserved rest.

Ruaha to Morogoro

After breakfast, we depart for Morogoro Town with a visit to the intriguing Ismila Stone Age Site along the way. This site has yielded an extraordinary collection of Stone Age tools, making it a fascinating archaeological location. Upon arrival in Morogoro, you’ll check-in at a comfortable hotel for dinner and an overnight stay.

Morogoro to (Nyerere National Park) Selous Game Reserve

Continue your journey to the renowned Selous Game Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After reaching the reserve and settling in at your lodge, enjoy a thrilling boat safari on the Rufiji River. This experience will give you the opportunity to observe hippos and crocodiles in their natural habitat. Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.

Walking Safari and Game Viewing in Selous (Nyerere)

After breakfast, embark on a guided walking safari accompanied by an armed ranger. This walking adventure allows you to experience the wilderness on foot and appreciate the finer details of the natural surroundings. After lunch at the lodge, head out for an afternoon game viewing session in the vast and captivating Selous Game Reserve. Dinner and overnight will be at the camp or lodge.

Full Day Game Drive in Selous (Nyerere)

Today, enjoy a full day of game drives in Nyerere National Park (Selous), exploring the diverse landscapes and encountering the rich wildlife. The Rufiji River remains a focal point, attracting numerous species, including hippos, crocodiles, lions, leopards, hunting dogs, waterbucks, impalas, warthogs, giraffes, zebras, and elephants. You’ll be treated to a delightful day of wildlife encounters and breathtaking scenery. Return to your Lodge for meals and rest.

Nyerere National Park (Selous) to Dar es Salaam

After breakfast, bid farewell to Nyerere National Park, formerly Selous, and commence your journey back to Dar es Salaam with a picnic lunch. The drive will take approximately 5 hours, passing through the awe-inspiring landscapes of Tanzania. Arrive in Dar es Salaam in the late afternoon, concluding your unforgettable safari experience.

Please note that the itinerary can be customized to meet your preferences and interests.

The cost for the whole 15 days Tanzania safari includes and excludes the following items