6 Days / 5 Nights Southern Circuit Safari (Selous & Ruaha)
Description
Experience the Untamed Wilderness of Tanzania’s Southern Parks
Escape the crowds and immerse yourself in the raw beauty of Tanzania’s southern wilderness. The Southern Circuit Safari takes you deep into the heart of Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park) and Ruaha National Park, two of Africa’s most pristine and untouched safari destinations.
Witness vast landscapes dotted with ancient baobab trees, traverse riverine forests, and explore savannahs where wildlife roams freely. Encounter large herds of elephants, elusive predators like lions and leopards, and the rare African wild dog. Enjoy thrilling game drives, serene boat safaris, and guided walking safaris that bring you closer than ever to nature.
This safari is perfect for travelers seeking authentic, off-the-beaten-path experiences, spectacular wildlife encounters, and the chance to discover Tanzania beyond the popular northern circuit.
Highlights:
Explore Tanzania’s largest and least crowded national parks.
Spot the Big Five and rare wildlife like African wild dogs.
Cruise along the Rufiji River and watch hippos and crocodiles up close.
Enjoy authentic bush experiences with walking safaris and sundowners by the river.
Perfect for wildlife photographers, nature lovers, and adventurers seeking tranquility.
Day 1: Dar es Salaam – Selous Game Reserve
Description & Activities
Depart Dar es Salaam early morning and drive (or fly) to Selous Game Reserve (approx. 5–6 hours by road).
Afternoon boat safari along the Rufiji River. Expect to see hippos, crocodiles, birdlife, and elephants coming to drink.
Accommodation: Selous Safari Camp / Rufiji River Camp.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner.
Day 2: Full Day in Selous Game Reserve
Description & Activities
Early morning walking safari with an armed ranger to experience the wilderness up close.
After breakfast, proceed for a full-day game drive in the Selous.
Wildlife: elephants, wild dogs (Selous is famous for them), giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, buffalo, lions, and abundant bird species.
Accommodation: Selous Safari Camp.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 3: Selous – Ruaha National Park
Description & Activities
After breakfast, transfer to the airstrip and take a flight to Ruaha National Park (or drive if preferred, 8–9 hrs).
Afternoon at leisure or short evening game drive.
Accommodation: Ruaha River Lodge / Mdonya Old River Camp.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 4: Full Day in Ruaha National Park
Description & Activities
Early morning game drive in Ruaha, Tanzania’s largest national park.
Expect vast landscapes, baobab-studded plains, and large concentrations of elephants.
Other sightings: lions, leopards, cheetahs, kudu, roan, sable antelopes, wild dogs, and over 500 bird species.
Picnic lunch in the bush, followed by an afternoon game drive.
Accommodation: Ruaha River Lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 5: Another Full Day in Ruaha
Description & Activities
Optional morning walking safari or continue with a full-day game drive.
Ruaha is known for predator action – lions hunting buffalo, leopards in trees, and cheetahs on the open plains.
Sundowner drinks by the Great Ruaha River.
Accommodation: Ruaha River Lodge.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Day 6: Ruaha – Dar es Salaam
Description & Activities
Morning game drive en route to the airstrip.
Fly back to Dar es Salaam (or continue to Zanzibar for beach relaxation).
Meals: Breakfast.
✅ Included
Park entry fees (Selous & Ruaha).
Game drives in 4×4 safari vehicle.
Professional driver-guide.
Accommodation as per itinerary.
Meals as indicated.
Domestic flights (if included in package).
Bottled mineral water on safari.
❌ Excluded
International flights.
Tanzania visa.
Travel insurance.
Tips to guides & lodge staff.
Alcoholic & soft drinks.
Personal expenses (laundry, souvenirs).