10 Days Best of Southern Tanzania Safari

The 10-day Southern Tanzania safari, a captivating journey that delves into the best of the untouched wilderness of this remarkable region in the Southern Circuit. This safari encompasses some of Tanzania’s most iconic national parks and reserves, where abundant wildlife and diverse landscapes await your exploration. From the vast and remote Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve) to the rugged wilderness of Ruaha National Park and the scenic Udzungwa Mountains, each day promises awe-inspiring encounters with nature’s most magnificent creatures. Prepare to be captivated by the wealth of wildlife, stunning landscapes, and the profound beauty of Southern Tanzania on this unforgettable safari expedition.

Explore the diverse landscapes and wildlife of Southern Tanzania in this 10-day safari adventure. From the vast plains of Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve) to the rugged wilderness of Ruaha National Park and the lush Udzungwa Mountains, each day offers a unique safari experience. Encounter Africa’s Big Five, spot diverse bird species and witness the beauty of Sanje Waterfalls. This journey promises unforgettable wildlife encounters and stunning natural wonders.

Day-to-Day Itinerary: 10 days safari to Nyerere, Ruaha, Udzungwa Mountains, Mikumi National Park

Day 1: Transfer from Dar es Salaam to Selous Game Reserve. A boat safari on River Rufiji.

Day 2: Full-day game drives in Nyerere National Park (Selous Game Reserve).

Day 3: Morning walking safari in Nyerere National Park. Transfer to Morogoro.

Day 4: Drive to Ruaha National Park, afternoon game drives.

Day 5 & 6: Explore Ruaha National Park, wildlife viewing and photography.

Day 7: Transfer to the Udzungwa Mountains National Park, for leisure time.

Day 8: Hike to Sanje Waterfalls in the Udzungwa Mountains, transfer to Mikumi.

Day 9: Full-day game drives in Mikumi National Park.

Day 10: Transfer back to Dar es Salaam, safari ends.

Highlights of the 10-day Southern Tanzania safari:

Selous Game Reserve (now Nyerere National Park): Explore this vast and pristine wilderness, abundant in wildlife, including Africa’s Big Five animals, and enjoy a tranquil boat safari along the River Rufiji.
Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve): Discover the untouched beauty of one of Africa’s largest wilderness areas, renowned for its diverse habitats, thriving wildlife, and exceptional birdwatching opportunities.
Walking Safari: Experience the thrill of a walking safari in Nyerere National Park, accompanied by an armed ranger and trained naturalist, offering close encounters with wildlife in their natural habitat.
Ruaha National Park: Encounter Tanzania’s largest national park, featuring a rich array of wildlife, such as elephants, lions, cheetahs, leopards, and African wild dogs, as well as over 570 bird species.
Udzungwa Mountains National Park: Embark on a hiking adventure to Sanje Waterfalls, surrounded by lush forests and housing an array of primate species, including the endemic Sanje Crested Mangabey.
Mikumi National Park: Enjoy thrilling game drives through this vast wilderness, witnessing a diverse range of animals, including elephants, giraffes, lions, and numerous bird species.
Private Safari Experience: Encounter the beauty of Southern Tanzania with fewer crowds, allowing for a more intimate and immersive wildlife experience.
Scenic Landscapes: Journey through picturesque valleys, hills, and diverse ecosystems, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for sightseeing.
Cultural Stop: Optionally visit Chief Mkwawa Museum, providing insights into the region’s history and heritage.
Relaxed Ending: Conclude the safari with a leisurely road transfer back to Dar es Salaam, reflecting on the remarkable experiences and memories gained throughout the journey.

Transfer from Dar es Salaam to Selous Game Reserve

Embark on an exciting journey as we pick you up from your hotel in Dar es Salaam or directly from the airport. Our destination is Nyerere National Park, formerly known as Selous Game Reserve, a sprawling wilderness teeming with wildlife. Upon arrival, settle into your lodge or camp and savor a delicious hot lunch. In the afternoon, let’s embark on a serene boat safari along the River Rufiji, where hippos, crocodiles, and a plethora of birdlife await. Keep an eye out for elephants quenching their thirst at the river’s edge. As the day winds down, enjoy dinner by the campfire and retire to your comfortable rooms at your Lodge.

Explore Nyerere National Park (Selous Game Reserve)

Today, we venture deep into the expansive Nyerere National Park on thrilling 4×4 game drives. Covering an area nearly twice the size of Serengeti National Park, this UNESCO World Heritage Site boasts untouched wilderness, from vast plains to lush forests and meandering rivers. Discover Africa’s Big Five and other captivating wildlife, including lions, zebras, elephants, buffalos, giraffes, and more. Bird enthusiasts will be enchanted by the variety of bird species dwelling in this pristine habitat. Return to the lodge for a refreshing swim in the pool and enjoy the tranquility of the surroundings at your Lodge.

Walking Safari in Selous - Transfer to Morogoro

Begin the day with an early breakfast before embarking on an exhilarating walking safari in Nyerere National Park. Accompanied by an armed ranger and expert naturalist, get up close to the fascinating wildlife, creating unforgettable encounters. After the morning adventure, hop back into our 4×4 safari jeep and drive towards Matambwe Gate, where we exit the park. Our scenic journey takes us through picturesque valleys and hills until we reach a charming lodge in Morogoro. Settle in and indulge in a hearty dinner and overnight stay at Mbuyuni Farm Lodge.

Transfer from Morogoro to Ruaha National Park

Fuel up with a delicious breakfast at your lodge in Morogoro, and then set off westwards on the Tanzam Highway toward the remote gem of Southern Tanzania safari circuit, Ruaha National Park. En route, enjoy a picnic or hot lunch in Iringa town, depending on your preference. Arriving at Ruaha in the afternoon, begin your first game drive in this vast wilderness, a habitat that supports a rich diversity of wildlife, including elephants and lions. Retreat to your lodge or camp within the park for dinner and a restful overnight at Ruaha Hilltop Lodge.

5&6

Explore Ruaha National Park – Tanzania

The next two days are dedicated to exploring the wonders of Ruaha National Park. Choose between full-day game drives with a picnic lunch amidst nature’s beauty or half-day game drives with breaks for a hot lunch back at the accommodation. Marvel at the abundance of animals, including buffalo, elephants, cheetahs, leopards, and wild dogs—the latter being particularly well represented in this park. Birdwatchers will be enthralled by the variety of avian species that call Ruaha their home. Spend these days immersing yourself in the untouched wilderness and capturing unforgettable moments with your camera. Overnight at Ruaha Hilltop Lodge.

Ruaha - Transfer to Udzungwa Mountains

After an enriching experience in Ruaha, our journey continues back through the same route, taking us toward Udzungwa Mountains National Park, with optional stops for sightseeing. For history enthusiasts, a visit to Chief Mkwawa Museum near Iringa provides insights into the region’s heritage and struggle for freedom. We enjoy lunch en route and arrive at Udzungwa in the afternoon. Check into your lodge and unwind amidst the park’s diverse landscapes. Udzungwa Falls Lodge offers a serene haven to relax and prepare for tomorrow’s adventure.

Udzungwa Mountains National Park

Early morning, relish a hearty breakfast, preparing for an exhilarating hike in this enchanting park, often referred to as the “Galapagos of Africa.” Udzungwa Mountains National Park hosts a remarkable biodiversity, with various habitats supporting numerous bird species, primates, and plants. Today’s hike leads you to the awe-inspiring Sanje Waterfalls, a three-tiered wonder cascading from different heights. Traverse the verdant forest, home to over 400 bird species, butterflies, and several primate species. Baboons, vervet monkeys, and the endemic Sanje Crested Mangabey await your discovery. After an invigorating day, return to your lodge for lunch or enjoy a picnic on the hiking trails. Later, we transfer to Mikumi, where you’ll spend a comfortable night at Camp Bastian or similar.

Explore Mikumi National Park

A delightful breakfast sets the tone for a full-day game drive through Mikumi National Park’s untouched wilderness, encompassing 3,230 square kilometers of captivating landscapes. Witness a variety of wildlife, from elephants, hartebeests, and buffalos to hyenas, lions, and giraffes. Bird enthusiasts can spot over 300 bird species, including Boehm’s bee-eaters and African fish eagles. Explore the park’s diverse habitats, including seasonal floodplains, grasslands adorned with baobab trees, Miombo woodlands, swamps, and riverine forests. After a thrilling day, return to Camp Bastian for dinner and a restful overnight.

Mikumi - Transfer back to Dar es Salaam

On our final day, enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the camp before bidding farewell to Mikumi. We embark on a scenic road transfer back to Dar es Salaam, where your unforgettable adventure concludes. Along the way, we savor a picnic lunch or indulge in a hot meal at a local restaurant (extra cost). If time permits, you may opt for one last safari game drive in Mikumi before we reach the final destination. This marks the end of your remarkable 10-day Southern Tanzania safari, encompassing the region’s most remarkable national parks and reserves.

The cost for the whole 10 days Southern Tanzania safari includes and excludes the following items