4 SELOUS & RUFIJI SAFARI

Selous & Rufiji Safari

Explore the Wild Heart of Tanzania’s Southern Circuit

Tour review

4 Days Selous & Rufiji Safari

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Tanzania’s Southern Circuit with this 4-day safari to Selous Game Reserve (now Nyerere National Park). From boat safaris along the scenic Rufiji River to thrilling game drives through the wilderness, this itinerary offers an intimate experience with some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife. Whether you’re spotting elephants, lions, or wild dogs, the Southern Circuit offers a quieter, less crowded alternative to the more well-known parks in the north.

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit the Southern Circuit is during the dry season, from June to October. This is when wildlife congregates around water sources, and the weather is ideal for outdoor activities like game drives and walking safaris.

A powerful lion with a majestic mane stands in the African savannah, showcasing its natural habitat.

Place To Visit

Selous Game Reserve, Rufiji River

Day By Day Iternary

Southern Wildlife Escape

Day 1: Dar es Salaam to Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park)

Begin your adventure with a morning flight or drive (approx. 5-6 hours by road or 45 minutes by air) to Selous Game Reserve (now Nyerere National Park). After checking in to your lodge or tented camp, enjoy a delicious lunch before embarking on a boat safari along the Rufiji River. During the boat ride, you can spot hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of waterbirds like kingfishers and fish eagles. End the day by watching a breathtaking sunset over the river, followed by dinner and an overnight stay at your lodge.

Day 2: Full-Day Game Drive in Selous

After an early breakfast, set off for a full-day game drive in the vast wilderness of Selous Game Reserve. This park is known for its rich wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, and the elusive African wild dogs. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush, surrounded by the natural beauty of the reserve. In the afternoon, continue your game drive, exploring different habitats, from open plains to thick woodlands. Return to camp for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 3: Walking Safari and Evening Game Drive

Start your day with a guided walking safari, a fantastic way to get closer to nature and learn about the smaller details of the ecosystem, such as animal tracks, plants, and insects. After lunch and some relaxation at the camp, embark on an evening game drive in search of nocturnal animals like civets, genets, and leopards as they begin their night hunts. Return to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 4: Selous to Dar es Salaam

After breakfast, enjoy a final morning game drive in Selous, where you may spot animals you missed earlier in the trip. Take in the final views of the pristine landscapes before driving or flying back to Dar es Salaam, marking the end of your safari adventure.

Your Guide to the Southern Tanzania Safari

Everything You Need to Know for an Unforgettable Safari Adventure!

✔ All park entry fees and government taxes.

✔ Transportation (flight or road) to and from Dar es Salaam.

✔ Accommodation in lodge or tented camp.

✔ All meals during the safari.

✔ Boat safari along the Rufiji River.

✔ Full-day game drive in Selous.

✔ Walking safari with a trained guide.

✔ Evening game drive.

✘ International flights.

✘ Personal travel insurance.

✘ Tips and gratuities for guides and lodge staff.

✘ Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks.

✘ Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, etc.).

  1. How do I get to Selous from Dar es Salaam?
    You can fly directly to Selous Game Reserve (45 minutes by air) or drive (approximately 5-6 hours by road).
  2. Is the Southern Circuit safari family-friendly?
    Yes, the safari is suitable for families. However, it is advisable to check with the operator regarding any age restrictions, especially for walking safaris.
  3. Can I see the Big Five in Selous?
    While Selous offers exceptional wildlife experiences, it is not known for sightings of all the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo). You are more likely to see elephants, lions, and wild dogs here.
  4. Is it safe to go on a walking safari?
    Yes, walking safaris are conducted with experienced, armed guides to ensure safety while exploring the bush.
  5. When is the best time to visit Selous?
    The ideal time to visit is during the dry season (June to October), when wildlife congregates around water sources and the weather is perfect for outdoor activities.
  6. What should I pack for the safari?
    Pack lightweight, neutral-colored clothing, a hat, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, and a camera. Don't forget a light jacket for cooler mornings and evenings.

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Southern Circuit Safari

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