Southern Circuit Tanzania Safari: Ruaha & Nyerere
Discover Tanzania's wild southern circuit with an immersive safari in Ruaha and Nyerere National Parks. Remote, untamed, and teeming with wildlife.
Southern Circuit Tanzania Safari: Ruaha & Nyerere
Experience Tanzania's wild side on this Southern Circuit adventure, exploring two of Africa's largest and most remote national parks: Ruaha and Nyerere (formerly Selous). Expect fewer crowds, diverse landscapes, and exceptional wildlife encounters.
Day 1 – Arrival in Dar es Salaam
- Arrive at Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR).
- Meet & greet, transfer to your hotel for overnight.
Accommodation: Dar es Salaam Serena / Hyatt Regency / equivalent.
Day 2 – Dar es Salaam → Ruaha National Park
- Morning flight to Ruaha National Park.
- Afternoon game drive in Ruaha's baobab-dotted savannah.
Wildlife: elephants, lions, leopards, wild dogs, kudu. Accommodation: Ruaha River Lodge / Jabali Ridge / equivalent.
Day 3–4 – Ruaha National Park
- Full days of game drives and walking safaris.
- Explore the Great Ruaha River and rocky escarpments.
Highlights: large elephant herds, rare antelope, big cats, birdlife. Accommodation: same as previous night.
Day 5 – Ruaha → Nyerere National Park
- Morning flight to Nyerere National Park (Selous).
- Afternoon boat safari on the Rufiji River.
Wildlife: hippos, crocodiles, elephants, buffalo, waterbirds. Accommodation: Rufiji River Camp / Siwandu Camp / equivalent.
Day 6–7 – Nyerere National Park
- Game drives, walking safaris, and boat excursions.
- Discover Nyerere's lakes, woodlands, and river systems.
Highlights: wild dogs, giraffes, lions, abundant birdlife. Accommodation: same as previous night.
Day 8 – Nyerere → Dar es Salaam → Departure
- Morning game drive or boat safari.
- Fly back to Dar es Salaam for onward travel.
Key Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 8 days / 7 nights |
| Best Season | June – October (dry season) |
| Parks Visited | Ruaha, Nyerere (Selous) |
| Transport | Light aircraft, 4x4 safari vehicle, boat |
| Extensions | Zanzibar, Mafia Island, Mikumi NP |
| Starting Price | USD 3,200–4,800 pp sharing (mid-range–luxury) |
What’s Included
- Accommodation (lodges, tented camps, or hotels)
- Transport in a 4×4 safari vehicle with a professional driver/guide
- Fuel for the vehicle during game drives
- Park and conservation fees / national park entry permits
- Guided game drives (morning, afternoon, or full-day depending on itinerary)
- Bottled or drinking water during game drives
- Meals during safari days, incl. fresh picnic lunches
- Airport pick-up / drop-off
- Binoculars
- Local taxes and government levies
- Some itineraries cover meals, cultural visits, or walking safaris
What’s Not Included
- International flights
- Visa fees for entry into the safari country
- Travel insurance / medical evacuation
- Tips for guides, drivers, camp staff, and porters
- Alcoholic drinks, soft drinks, and premium beverages
- Optional activities not listed in the itinerary (e.g. hot air balloon rides, walking safaris, night drives)
- Laundry, phone calls, and personal expenditures
- Vaccinations or malaria prophylaxis / medication
- Emergency medical evacuation / AMREF coverage
- Domestic flights (unless stated in the package)