Southern Tanzania Safari

Quick Facts

Days

13

Takes you to

Dar es Salaam, Nyerere National Park, Mikumi National Park, Ruaha National Park, and Udzungwa Mountains National Park.

SAFARI OVERVIEW OF

Southern Tanzania Safari

This 13-day Southern Tanzania Safari Adventure explores Ruaha National Park, Mikumi National Park, and Nyerere National Park.

Ruaha National Park: Spot elephants, lions, leopards, and wild dogs while enjoying scenic views of plains, hills, and the Ruaha River. Birdwatching enthusiasts will love the 500+ species, including African fish eagles. Experience game drives and walking safaris for close encounters with wildlife.

Nyerere National Park (Selous): Enjoy boat safaris on the Rufiji River, where you can spot hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species. The park is home to elephants, lions, and wild dogs, with walking safaris offering a unique perspective. Visit nearby villages to learn about local culture.

Mikumi National Park: See zebras, giraffes, elephants, and lions, along with over 400 bird species. Surrounded by the Uluguru Mountains, it’s perfect for wildlife viewing and offers the chance to see rare species like kudu and sable antelope.

SAFARI HIGHLIGHTS

Incredible Wildlife Encounters

Explore remote parks teeming with elephants, lions, leopards, and rare species like sable antelope and greater kudu, far from the crowds of the north.

Breathtaking Scenery

Journey through rugged hills, open plains, and the lifeblood of the region—the Ruaha and Rufiji Rivers, offering stunning backdrops for every adventure.

World-Class Birdwatching

Spot over 500 bird species, from colorful bee-eaters to majestic African fish eagles, making this region a birding paradise.

Authentic Walking Safaris

Step off the vehicle and into the wild on guided walking safaris, where every footprint tells a story and every sighting is earned.

Scenic Boat Safaris

Cruise along the Rufiji River in Selous (Nyerere National Park), and watch hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds from a unique riverine perspective.

Cultural Connections

Visit nearby local villages, gain insight into daily life, and experience the deep-rooted traditions of southern Tanzania’s communities.

Rare and Unique Species

Southern Tanzania is one of the few places to see elusive species like the roan antelope, lesser kudu, and wild dogs in their natural habitat.

Eco-Conscious Stays

Relax in eco-friendly lodges and camps that blend luxury with sustainability, supporting wildlife conservation and community development.

DETAILED ITINERARY

Day 1: Arrival in Dar es Salaam

Upon arrival at Dar es Salaam International Airport, your safari guide will warmly welcome you. You'll then be transferred to your hotel at the start of your Southern Tanzania Safari Adventure.

Meal Plan: Lunch, Dinner | Luxury Option: Dar es Salaam Serena Hotel | Mid-range Option: Southern Sun Dar Es Salaam

Day 2: Dar es-Salaam – Nyerere National Park ( Selous Reserve)

After breakfast, embark on a scenic 6-hour drive to Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve), Africa's largest game reserve. This vast wilderness offers an incredible array of wildlife, including elephants, hippos, lions, leopards, wild dogs, and a variety of antelope species. The Rufiji River, which flows through the park, is a magnet for wildlife, especially during the dry season, when animals gather at its banks to drink, often under the watchful eye of lurking crocodiles. With over 370 species of birds, the park is a haven for birdwatchers as well. As you journey through this untamed landscape, you'll have the chance to encounter rare and diverse species in their natural habitat.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Luxury Option: Rufiji River Camp | Mid-range Option: Lake Manze Tented Camp

Day 3 & 4: Game Safaris, Walking Safari, Boat Safari, and Community Visits

Wake up to the sounds of the African wilderness and set off on an early morning game drive, when wildlife is most active. Led by highly knowledgeable guides, explore the park’s vast plains and woodlands on these days in search of elephants, giraffes, buffalo, and the elusive African wild dogs. Look out for thrilling predator action as lions and leopards prowl the savannah in search of prey.

Explore the Miombo Woodlands on a Bushwalk Safari for an up-close encounter and good chances of seeing giraffes, zebras, elephants, and bird species.

Board a boat in the afternoon for a scenic river safari along the Rufiji River, the lifeline of Nyerere National Park. Drift past pods of hippos, basking crocodiles, and an array of bird species, including African fish eagles and malachite kingfishers. The golden hues of sunset cast a magical glow over the water as you sip on sundowners and take in the tranquility of the river before returning to the camp for relaxation.

Community Interactions with the Maasai, Chaga, or Sukuma tribes are also available. Learn about their traditions and gain insights into their harmonious coexistence with the natural environment. Participate in traditional dances, visit local markets, and contribute to community development initiatives.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Luxury Option: Rufiji River Camp | Mid-range Option: Lake Manze Tented Camp

Day 5: Nyerere National Park - Mikumi National Park

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to the lesser-known Mikumi National Park on a 6-hour drive. Along the way, enjoy your packed lunch as you journey through the picturesque Uluguru Mountains via Morogoro. Arriving late in the day, you’ll be welcomed by the park’s vast green plains, centered around the Mkata River and framed by the stunning Uluguru Mountains.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Luxury Option: Stanley's Kopje Camp | Mid-range Option: Vuma Hills Tented Camp

Day 6: Game Safari and Walking Safari in Mikumi National Park

After breakfast, head to the Mkata Floodplain, one of Tanzania’s most rewarding wildlife-viewing areas, offering some of the most reliable sightings of the mighty eland—the world’s largest antelope. The floodplain is also home to giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, wildebeest, and a remarkable array of antelope species, including the elegant greater kudu, sable, roan, and Liechtenstein’s hartebeest.

As the landscape transitions into the miombo-covered foothills, the terrain becomes the domain of elusive species like the sable antelope and greater kudu, while rare bat-eared foxes can be spotted in the early evening, using their acute hearing to detect insects more than a foot underground.

Mikumi is also known for its thriving elephant population and an impressive range of predators, including tree-climbing lions, leopards, wild hunting dogs, spotted hyenas, and black-backed jackals.

After lunch, you will have an Immersive Walking Safari Experience in the African wilderness. Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, explore scenic trails such as the Vuma Trail and Kikogoba Trail, where you’ll have the chance to observe wildlife up close, track animal footprints, and discover the hidden wonders of the bush. Return to the camp for relaxation.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Luxury Option: Stanley's Kopje Camp | Mid-range Option: Vuma Hills Tented Camp

Day 7: Mikumi - Ruaha National Park

After an early breakfast, depart Mikumi National Park for Ruaha National Park (274 km) with lunch boxes, passing through scenic valleys, mountains, and rural countryside. En route, stop in Iringa town to visit the Kalenga Museum, home to the skull of Chief Mkwawa, who resisted German colonial rule. Continue to Ruaha, arriving in the later afternoon for relaxation.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Luxury Option: Kigelia Camp | Mid-range Option: Mdonya Old River Camp

Day 8 & 9: Game Safari and Walking Safari in Ruaha National Park

You will spend two unforgettable days in Ruaha Wilderness, where vast landscapes, rugged terrain, and abundant wildlife create the perfect safari experience. Your adventure includes exhilarating daytime game drives, offering the chance to spot iconic species such as elephants, lions, and leopards in their natural habitat. Birdwatchers will be captivated by the park’s incredible variety of birdlife, from vibrant lilac-breasted rollers to majestic raptors. For a more intimate connection with nature, guided bush walks provide a unique opportunity to track wildlife on foot, learn about the smaller wonders of the ecosystem, and experience the sights and sounds of the African bush up close.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Luxury Option: Kigelia Camp | Mid-range Option: Mdonya Old River Camp

Day 10: Ruaha - Udzungwa Mountains National Park

After an early breakfast, set off on an eight-hour journey to Udzungwa Mountains National Park, part of the Eastern Arc Mountains in Tanzania’s Iringa Region, south of the capital, Dodoma. Often referred to as the “Galapagos of Africa,” this 770-square-mile park boasts an incredible diversity of tropical flora and fauna. Along the way, stop in Iringa town for lunch before arriving in the evening to unwind and prepare for the next day's adventure.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Udzungwa Falls lodge | Comfort Level: Midrange

Day 11: Hiking in Udzungwa

After breakfast, head to the starting point of your trek and begin exploring the breathtaking Udzungwa Mountains. This pristine wilderness is home to diverse flora and fauna, offering a truly immersive hiking experience. As you ascend, enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the park, encountering a variety of monkey species, including the endemic Sanje Crested Mangabey and the endangered Iringa Red Colobus Monkey.

Look out for other primates like the Vervet Monkey, Sykes Monkey, Black and White Colobus, Yellow Baboon, Grant’s Galago, Small-eared Galago, greater Galago, Highland Mangeby in the Ndundulu Forest, Matundu Dwarf Galago, Mountain Dwarf Galago.

After picnic lunch, head to the spectacular Sanje Waterfall, plunging an impressive 170 meters. Take in the panoramic views and, if you wish, cool off with a refreshing swim in one of the waterfall’s plunge pools. Later, head back to the camp for relaxation.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner | Accommodation: Udzungwa Falls lodge | Comfort Level: Midrange

Day 12: Transfer to Dar es Salaam

After breakfast, set off for a thrilling journey to Serengeti South, specifically the Ndutu area, renowned for its spectacular wildebeest migration. Spend the day immersed in this unforgettable wildlife spectacle, with vast herds of wildebeest grazing on the lush short-grass plains.

From December to April, the Ndutu area becomes the epicenter of the Great Migration, where you’ll witness nature’s raw power as thousands of wildebeest traverse the plains in search of fresh grazing. Be captivated by the dramatic calving season, a time when newborns take their first steps and predators silently wait in the shadows.

Meal Plan: Breakfast | Luxury Option: Dar Es Salaam Serena Hotel | Midrange Option: Southern Sun Dar Es Salaam

Day 13: Departure

After breakfast, head to the airport for your onward flight back home.

Meal Plan: Breakfast

Included in the Southern Tanzania Safari Adventure

Ground transportation in a safari customized 4WD Toyota Land Cruiser with gasoline/fuel
English-speaking Guide
Accommodation and Meals
All Activities Mentioned
Conservation Fees
Drinking water / refillable water bottle
All Park Entrance Fees.

Excluded from the Southern Tanzania Safari Adventure

International Airfares;
Visa Fees;
Drinks and Beverages
Tips and Gratuities for your Driver/guide and hotel staff
Optional activities unless specified as included
Any other services not expressly shown in the itinerary or indicated as included.

Unforgettable Tanzania

Tanzania beckons to the adventurer in you, offering a vibrant canvas of breathtaking landscapes, incredible wildlife, and cultural treasures waiting to be uncovered. This captivating land promises to immerse you in nature’s raw beauty, from the iconic wildlife of the Serengeti to the grandeur of the Great Migration. With Tanzania Safari Adventures, your safari dreams come to life.

Venture across vast savannas alive with wildlife, explore diverse landscapes, and immerse yourself in the heart of Africa’s wilderness. Connect with Tanzania’s rich cultural heritage and experience the warmth of the Tanzanian people, whose hospitality will make you feel at home in this enchanting land. Whether you’re a seasoned safari enthusiast or new to African adventures, Tanzania offers an unforgettable journey of discovery and transformation.

Entry Requirements:

To enter Tanzania, ensure that your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your arrival and has at least one blank page. If you plan to visit other East African countries, it’s recommended to have multiple blank pages available.

Tanzania requires a tourist or business visa for entry, which can be applied for online at the Tanzania Visa Portal. The visa fee is typically USD 50 for most nationalities, with U.S. citizens paying USD 100. You can also obtain a single-entry visa on arrival at the main ports of entry, provided you meet all immigration requirements. Please note that multiple-entry visas are not available on arrival.

Required documents for your visa include:

A clear copy of your passport
Yellow fever vaccination certificate
Passport photo

You may also be able to obtain a visa from the Tanzanian High Commission located in your country. Upon arrival, you’ll need to complete an entry form, pass through immigration, and possibly clear customs, being transparent about any goods you’re bringing in.

Visa Exempt Countries:

The following nationalities do not require a visa to enter Tanzania:

East African countries: Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and South Sudan
Southern African Development Community (SADC) countries: Angola, Malawi, Seychelles, Swaziland, Zambia, Zimbabwe.
Other countries: Hong Kong, Macau, the Comoros, and Togo

East Africa Tourist Visa:

If you’re planning to visit Uganda, Rwanda, and/or Kenya as part of an East African adventure, the East Africa Tourist Visa may be your best option. This multiple-entry visa is valid for 90 days and costs USD 100. Apply through the government portal of the first East African country you plan to enter.

Currency & Banking:

Currency: The local currency is Tanzanian Shillings (TZS), but US dollars are widely accepted in tourist areas.
Payment Methods: Credit cards are accepted at many lodges and hotels, though a 5% transaction fee may apply. Always carry cash for small expenses, park entry fees, and tips.

Travel and Transport:

Flights: Domestic flights typically have a baggage allowance of 15 kg in soft bags.

Getting Around: Tanzania’s diverse landscapes are best explored by safari vehicles or flights, offering travelers the chance to view wildlife and stunning vistas.

Health & Medical Information:

Vaccinations: Stay up to date with routine vaccinations, and consider getting vaccines for yellow fever, typhoid, and hepatitis A and B.
Malaria: Tanzania is a malaria zone, so take anti-malarial medication, use insect repellent, and sleep under mosquito nets.
Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is recommended, covering health, cancellations, and any activities you plan.

Best Time to Visit:

Dry season (June to October): Ideal for game viewing as animals gather around waterholes, and the sparse vegetation makes wildlife easier to spot.
Green season (November to May): Lush landscapes and fewer tourists offer great opportunities for birdwatching, though animal sightings can be more challenging.

Travel Insurance:

Although not mandatory, travel insurance is strongly recommended, as healthcare in Tanzania may differ from what you’re accustomed to. It’s best to be covered in case of any unforeseen circumstances.

What to pack

• Comfortable hiking boots and lightweight clothing.

• Rain jacket and a warm sweater for cooler evenings.

• Insect repellent and sunscreen.

• Reusable water bottle.

• Binoculars and a good camera.

• Personal medications and a small first-aid kit.

• Nature-blending clothes