Embark on a remarkable journey through Tanzania’s most iconic national parks, blending thrilling wildlife encounters with immersive cultural experiences. This 9-day safari adventure is designed to offer you an unforgettable experience, taking you from the bustling city of Dar es Salaam to the serene landscapes of Nyerere National Park, Ruaha National Park, and Mikumi National Park.
Day 1: Arrival in Dar es Salaam
Your journey begins with your arrival in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s bustling port city. Upon arrival, you will be met by our representative who will assist with your transfer to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, relaxing and preparing for the exciting adventure that lies ahead. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Dar es Salaam, perhaps taking a short city tour or unwinding at your hotel.
Day 2: Dar es Salaam to Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve)
Start your day with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Dar es Salaam. You will embark on a scenic 5-hour drive to Nyerere National Park, a vast and remote wilderness that offers an authentic safari experience. Upon arrival at the park, you will check in at Selous River Camp, where a hot lunch awaits. After some time to relax and soak in the surroundings, prepare for an evening boat trip on the Rufiji River. As the sun sets, you will have the chance to witness hippos wallowing in the water and crocodiles basking on the riverbanks. The serene beauty of the river at sunset, coupled with the wildlife sightings, makes for an unforgettable experience. Dinner will be served back at the camp, where you’ll spend the night.
Day 3: Full-Day Game Drive in Nyerere National Park
Today is dedicated to a full-day game drive in Nyerere National Park. After breakfast, set off with your guide to explore the park’s diverse habitats, from open savannahs to dense woodlands and riverine forests. Nyerere is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, and an array of bird species. The game drive will take you deep into the park, offering numerous opportunities to spot these animals in their natural environment. A picnic lunch will be enjoyed in a scenic spot within the park, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the wild beauty of Nyerere. Return to the camp in the late afternoon for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 4: Transfer from Nyerere National Park to Ruaha National Park
After an early breakfast, you will depart Nyerere National Park for a long but rewarding drive to Ruaha National Park. The journey, which takes approximately 7 hours, will include several stops for breaks and a picnic lunch. As you travel, you will pass through rural villages and scenic landscapes, providing a glimpse of Tanzanian life along the way. Upon arrival in Mikumi, you will check in at your camp before heading out for a cultural experience at a nearby Maasai Boma. Here, you will have the chance to witness traditional Maasai dancing, hear their songs, and learn about their unique clothing and way of life. After the tour, return to the camp for dinner and rest.
Day 5: Full-Day Game Drive in Ruaha National Park
Ruaha National Park, one of Tanzania’s largest and most remote parks, is your destination for today’s adventure. After breakfast, embark on a full-day game drive through the park’s rugged landscapes. Known for its high density of predators, Ruaha offers an excellent chance to see lions, cheetahs, and possibly the elusive leopard. The park is also home to large herds of elephants and a variety of antelope species. Your guide will navigate the different terrains of Ruaha, from its rocky hills to the great Ruaha River, which is a magnet for wildlife. After a day filled with incredible sightings, return to the camp for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 6: Another Full Day of Exploration in Ruaha National Park
Continue your exploration of Ruaha National Park with another full-day game drive. With its vast and unspoiled wilderness, Ruaha provides a true sense of being in the heart of Africa. Today, focus on exploring different areas of the park that you may not have visited on the previous day. The diverse habitats support a wide range of wildlife, and every game drive in Ruaha promises new and exciting encounters. Enjoy a packed lunch in the bush, surrounded by the sounds of the wild, before returning to your camp in the late afternoon for dinner and relaxation.
Day 7: Transfer to Mikumi National Park
After breakfast, it’s time to leave Ruaha and head towards Mikumi National Park. This drive will take you through Iringa Town, where you can stop to take photos of the picturesque villages and bustling markets. The journey provides a deeper insight into the everyday life of Tanzanians in this region. Upon arrival at Mikumi, you will embark on an afternoon game drive. Mikumi is known for its accessibility and the high chance of spotting wildlife, including the iconic Masai giraffe, zebras, and elephants. After the game drive, head to Vuma Hill Camp for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 8: Full-Day Game Drive in Mikumi National Park
Spend your final full day on safari with a full-day game drive in Mikumi National Park. Mikumi’s landscape is reminiscent of the Serengeti, with its open horizons and abundant wildlife. Today, you will explore the park’s varied terrain, from the plains that are home to herds of buffalo and wildebeest to the miombo woodlands where you might spot the rare African wild dog. A picnic lunch in the park allows you to maximize your time in the wild. As the day draws to a close, return to your camp for a final dinner under the African sky.
Day 9: Return to Dar es Salaam and Departure
On your last day, enjoy breakfast at the camp before beginning the drive back to Dar es Salaam. This journey offers a final opportunity to take in the Tanzanian countryside. Upon arrival in Dar es Salaam, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure, marking the end of an incredible 9-day safari adventure in some of Tanzania’s most beautiful and remote national parks.
PRICE INCLUDES:
- All airport and airstrip transfers
- Game drives in a 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof
- All park entrance and concession fees
- Game drives as per the itinerary
- Meals and accommodations as per the itinerary
- Services of an English-speaking driver-guide
- Enough bottled mineral water throughout the safari
- Packed lunch boxes where necessary
- Coffee and tea
PRICE EXCLUDES:
- International flight
- Travel insurance
- Personal effects
- Tips for the driver-guide
- Soft drinks, beer, sodas, etc. at the camp