This itinerary stays entirely within Tanzania’s southern circuit — Selous (Nyerere) and Ruaha — for travellers who’ve already done the northern parks or specifically want the quieter, more exclusive experience the south offers, without splitting time across both regions.
Detailed Itinerary
DAY 1
Your driver-guide arranges the scheduled light aircraft flight from Dar es Salaam, roughly one hour, into Selous. Afternoon activity on arrival.
Fly to Selous (Nyerere) Game Reserve
Accommodation Options
Mid-rangeRufiji River Camp
LuxurySand Rivers Selous
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
DAY 2
A morning boat safari along the Rufiji River for hippos and crocodiles basking on the banks, plus an afternoon game drive.
Boat Safari and Game Drive
Accommodation
As above
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 3
Further game viewing plus an optional guided walking safari with an armed ranger, a genuinely different way to experience the bush.
Full Day Game Drives, Walking Safari Option
Accommodation
As above
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 4
A light aircraft transfer to Ruaha, Tanzania’s largest national park, a genuinely different landscape dominated by baobabs and the Great Ruaha River. Afternoon game drive on arrival.
Fly to Ruaha National Park
Accommodation Options
Mid-rangeRuaha River Lodge
LuxuryJongomero Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 5
Exploring Ruaha’s baobab-studded landscape for a substantial elephant and lion population.
Full Day Ruaha Game Drives
Accommodation
As above
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 6
A further day exploring the Great Ruaha River area, strong for predator sightings as animals congregate near water through the dry season.
Second Ruaha Game Drive Day
Accommodation
As above
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 7
Additional time exploring the park’s varied terrain, from riverine forest to open plains.
Third Ruaha Game Drive Day
Accommodation
As above
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 8
A final morning activity before flying back to Dar es Salaam for your onward international flight.
Fly to Dar es Salaam, Departure
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Permits & Costs
| Selous/Nyerere park entry | ~$30 per person per day |
| Ruaha park entry | ~$30 per person per day |
| Light aircraft transfers | Required, quoted separately |
Who This Itinerary Suits
Repeat Tanzania visitors or first-timers specifically prioritising exclusivity over the more famous but busier northern parks.Tour Includes
- Professional English-speaking driver-guide at each park
- All accommodation per itinerary
- Meals as specified
- Park entry & boat safari fees
Tour Excludes
- Light aircraft fares
- International flights
- Visas
- Tips & gratuities
- Travel insurance