Selous safari from Zanzibar

Safari summary

Selous Day Trip Safari from Zanzibar Overview
The Selous Day Trip Safari from Zanzibar offers an incredible chance to explore one of Africa’s largest and most untouched wilderness areas in just one day. Departing from Zanzibar by early morning flight, this immersive experience takes travelers deep into Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve)—a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its raw beauty, diverse landscapes, and rich wildlife. It’s a perfect one-day escape that combines beach relaxation with authentic safari adventure.

Why Selous Day Trip is Ideal from Zanzibar
The Selous safari day trip from Zanzibar is ideal because of its easy air access and proximity to the island. Daily charter or scheduled flights connect Zanzibar to Mtemere Airstrip, near the eastern gate of Selous, in under an hour. This makes it possible to enjoy a full day of game viewing—including morning and afternoon drives or even a boat safari—before returning to Zanzibar the same evening. It’s an efficient, exciting way to experience Tanzania’s southern safari circuit without a multi-day itinerary.

1 Day Tanzania Safari: Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park)
Selous Game Reserve, now part of Nyerere National Park, is one of Africa’s last remaining true wildernesses. Covering over 30,000 square kilometers, it offers a unique safari experience, with fewer crowds compared to northern parks. Its landscapes range from riverine forests and wetlands to open plains and miombo woodlands. The Rufiji River, a key feature, supports an abundance of life and allows for boat safaris—a rare and thrilling alternative to traditional game drives, making Selous an exceptional destination even for a short visit.

Selous Day Trip: Best Time to Visit
The best time for a Selous day trip safari is during the dry season (June to October), when wildlife gathers around water sources and game viewing is at its peak. During this period, the terrain is easier to navigate and animal sightings are more concentrated. The wet season (November to May) offers lush scenery and fantastic birding, though some areas may become inaccessible. Still, thanks to the year-round presence of big game, Selous remains a worthwhile destination throughout most of the year.

Selous Day Trip Safari Wildlife Encounters
A Selous day safari from Zanzibar promises a rich array of wildlife encounters. Visitors may spot elephants, lions, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, giraffes, and wild dogs—a species rarely seen in other parks. The Rufiji River teems with aquatic life and draws countless animals for drinking, especially during dry months. Bird enthusiasts will enjoy sightings of fish eagles, storks, bee-eaters, and many more. Whether on a game drive or boat safari, Selous offers a wild and authentic African safari experience in just one unforgettable day.

About this tour

	Tour type	Set-date, set-itinerary, group
	Main focus	Game drives
	Activity level	Easy activity
	Best months	All months
	Countries	Tanzania
	Parks	Nyerere (Selous)

Fine details

Safari highlights

• Boat, canoe, dhow, kayak, mokoro safari
• Cultural visits—orphanages, markets, schools
• Sightseeing | shopping | markets

What’s included?

• Airport transfers
• All drinks
• Internal flights
• Meals
• Park fees
• Private vehicle and driver

What’s not included?

• Accommodation
• Alcoholic beverages
• Hot air balloons
• International flights
• Laundry
• Premium alcoholic beverages
• Spa treatments
• Tips and gratuities
• Visas