Tour Highlights
- Explore Selous Game Reserve with game drives and boat safari
- Discover Mikumi National Park’s diverse wildlife on open savannah plains
- Hike to the stunning Sanje Waterfalls in Udzungwa Mountains
- Game drives in Ruaha, Tanzania’s largest national park with vast wilderness
- Spot lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes, crocodiles, hippos, and wild dogs
- Birdwatching opportunities with over 500 species recorded
- Authentic southern Tanzania safari experience away from the crowds
Detailed Itinerary – Day by Day
Day 1: Dar es Salaam – Selous Game Reserve
Depart Dar es Salaam for Selous Game Reserve. Arrive for lunch at lodge/camp. Afternoon boat safari on the Rufiji River to see hippos, crocodiles, and birds. Dinner and overnight at Selous.
Day 2: Full Day Game Drive in Selous
Spend a full day exploring Selous on game drives. Look out for elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, and the rare African wild dogs. Picnic lunch included. Overnight at Selous lodge/camp.
Day 3: Selous – Mikumi National Park
After breakfast, drive to Mikumi National Park via Morogoro. Lunch en route. Evening game drive in Mikumi spotting herds of wildebeest, giraffes, and buffalo. Overnight in Mikumi.
Day 4: Full Day Safari in Mikumi
Explore Mikumi National Park on a full-day game drive. Expect sightings of elephants, zebras, lions, and antelopes. Picnic lunch in the bush. Dinner and overnight in Mikumi.
Day 5: Mikumi – Udzungwa Mountains National Park
Short morning game drive in Mikumi before heading to Udzungwa Mountains. Lunch at lodge. Afternoon walking safari in the forest edge. Overnight in Udzungwa lodge/camp.
Day 6: Hiking Sanje Waterfalls – Udzungwa
Guided trek to the famous Sanje Waterfalls (170m). Enjoy breathtaking views, rainforest primates, and unique birdlife. Picnic lunch included. Overnight in Udzungwa.
Day 7: Udzungwa – Ruaha National Park
After breakfast, drive to Ruaha National Park. Lunch on the way. Evening arrival at your lodge/camp in Ruaha. Dinner and overnight stay.
Day 8: Full Day Safari in Ruaha
Enjoy a full-day game drive in Ruaha, Tanzania’s largest park. Spot elephants, lions, cheetahs, leopards, kudu, and bird species. Picnic lunch in the park. Overnight in Ruaha.
Day 9: Full Day in Ruaha National Park
Another day of game drives exploring different areas of Ruaha. This increases your chances of spotting predators and large herds of elephants. Dinner and overnight in Ruaha.
Day 10: Ruaha – Dar es Salaam
Early morning game drive in Ruaha. After breakfast, begin your journey back to Dar es Salaam. Drop-off at hotel/airport. End of safari.
Inclusions
- 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof for game viewing
- Professional English-speaking driver-guide
- Park entry fees for Selous, Mikumi, Udzungwa, and Ruaha
- All scheduled activities (game drives, boat safari, hiking)
- Full-board accommodation at lodges/camps
- Bottled drinking water during safari
Exclusions
- International and domestic flights
- Visa fees
- Travel and medical insurance
- Alcoholic drinks and sodas
- Tips, souvenirs, and personal expenses
Best Time to Book
The best time for this safari is the dry season (June to October), when wildlife congregates around water sources, making it easier to spot. November to April is excellent for birdwatching and lush green landscapes, especially in Udzungwa.
Why Choose This Tour
- Comprehensive Southern Tanzania safari circuit covering four parks
- Blend of game drives, hiking, and boat safari experiences
- Perfect for travelers seeking off-the-beaten-track adventures
- Professional guides with extensive knowledge of southern Tanzania
- Ideal balance of adventure, relaxation, and cultural discovery
FAQs
What makes this safari circuit unique?
This tour combines four of Southern Tanzania’s most iconic destinations, offering diverse landscapes, wildlife, and experiences.
Can I extend the safari to Zanzibar?
Yes, many travelers extend this safari with a Zanzibar beach holiday for a bush-to-beach combination.
Is the Sanje Waterfalls hike difficult?
The hike is moderate and suitable for most travelers with average fitness. Good walking shoes are recommended.
Will I see the Big Five?
Yes, there are high chances to see elephants, lions, and leopards. Rhinos are rare but the rest of the Big Five can be spotted across the parks.