Safari Overview

The 10 Day Southern Tanzania Safari (Nyerere & Ruaha Wilderness) is a true off-the-beaten-path adventure designed for travelers seeking untouched wilderness, fewer crowds, and raw safari experiences.

Unlike the Northern Circuit, Southern Tanzania offers vast, remote landscapes, large river systems, and some of the highest concentrations of predators and elephants in East Africa.

This itinerary combines Nyerere National Park (Selous ecosystem) and Ruaha National Park, with optional extensions via Mikumi or Zanzibar depending on travel plans.

Route

Dar es Salaam → Nyerere National Park → Ruaha National Park → Mikumi (optional) → Dar es Salaam / Zanzibar

Safari Highlights

• Boat safari on the Rufiji River (Nyerere National Park)
• Walking safaris with armed rangers
• Large elephant herds in remote wilderness
• Strong lion and predator populations in Ruaha
• Vast untouched landscapes with minimal tourism
• Authentic off-the-grid safari experience
• Birdlife-rich river ecosystems
• Optional extension to Mikumi or Zanzibar

Why Choose This Safari?

True Wilderness Experience

Southern Tanzania is one of Africa’s last great wilderness areas:

• Fewer vehicles in the parks
• Vast, open landscapes
• Highly exclusive safari atmosphere

Unique Safari Activities

Unlike Northern Tanzania, this itinerary includes:

• Boat safaris on the Rufiji River
• Walking safaris with expert rangers
• River-based wildlife viewing

Ideal for Experienced Travelers

This safari is perfect for those who:

• Have already visited Serengeti or Kenya safaris
• Want something more remote and wild
• Prefer exclusive safari experiences

Detailed Safari Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Dar es Salaam

Arrival at Julius Nyerere International Airport and transfer to hotel.

Overnight in Dar es Salaam.

Day 2: Dar es Salaam to Nyerere National Park

Transfer by road or flight to Nyerere National Park.

Afternoon boat safari on the Rufiji River.

Overnight in Nyerere.

Day 3: Full Day Nyerere Safari

Game drives and boat safari exploration.

Wildlife:

• Elephants
• Hippos
• Crocodiles
• Lions

Overnight in Nyerere.

Day 4: Walking Safari Experience

Guided walking safari with armed ranger.

Afternoon game drive.

Overnight in Nyerere.

Day 5: Nyerere Exploration

Full-day safari in remote areas of the park.

Overnight in Nyerere.

Day 6: Nyerere to Ruaha National Park

Flight or road transfer to Ruaha.

Afternoon game drive.

Overnight in Ruaha.

Day 7: Full Day Ruaha Safari

Full-day game drive.

Wildlife:

• Lions
• Leopards
• Wild dogs (rare)
• Elephants

Overnight in Ruaha.

Day 8: Ruaha Exploration

Extended safari in remote wilderness zones.

Overnight in Ruaha.

Day 9: Optional Mikumi or Leisure Day

Transfer to Mikumi or relax at lodge depending on itinerary choice.

Overnight in Mikumi or Ruaha.

Day 10: Return to Dar es Salaam or Fly to Zanzibar

End of safari with transfer to airport or Zanzibar extension.

Wildlife You May Encounter

Big Cats

• Lion
• Leopard
• Wild dog (rare but present in Ruaha)

Large Mammals

• Elephant
• Buffalo
• Hippo
• Crocodile

Plains Wildlife

• Zebra
• Impala
• Giraffe
• Eland

Birdlife

• African fish eagle
• Kingfishers
• Storks
• Hornbills

Best Time to Visit

June to October

• Best wildlife viewing
• Dry season conditions
• Easier road access

November to March

• Green season photography
• Birdwatching peak
• Fewer tourists

Safari Inclusions

Inclusions

• Park entry fees
• Professional safari guide
• Private 4×4 safari vehicle (or flight transfers)
• Accommodation for 9 nights
• All meals during safari
• Boat safari in Nyerere
• Walking safari experience
• Bottled drinking water
• Government taxes
• Airport transfers

Exclusions

• International flights
• Tanzania visa fees
• Travel insurance
• Optional flights between parks (if not included)
• Alcoholic beverages
• Personal expenses
• Tips and gratuities

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Southern Tanzania different from the Serengeti?

It is more remote, less crowded, and offers boat and walking safaris.

Is this safari safe for walking tours?

Yes. Walking safaris are done with trained armed rangers.

Can I fly instead of driving between parks?

Yes. Flights are commonly used to reduce travel time.

Is wildlife viewing as good as Serengeti?

Yes, especially for elephants and predators, but with fewer vehicles around.

Can I end the safari in Zanzibar?

Yes. Zanzibar extensions are available from Dar es Salaam.