Southern Circuit and Zanzibar

10-Day Unforgettable Southern Circuit and Bolt into Zanzibar

$5720-6252 USD

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Safari summary

Experience the essence of wild Africa and coastal paradise on this Southern Circuit journey through Tanzania’s most unspoiled destinations. Begin in Nyerere National Park, a vast and diverse sanctuary where the Rufiji River shapes the landscape and wildlife thrives in abundance. The park’s network of channels, lakes, and floodplains attracts an array of animals, including elephants, buffaloes, zebras, and large prides of lions. Boat safaris are a highlight, offering close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and aquatic birdlife in a peaceful, scenic setting. Walking safaris further enhance the experience, allowing a deeper connection to the bush through tracks, plants, and smaller species.

Next, venture into Ruaha National Park, Tanzania’s largest national park and one of Africa’s last true wilderness areas. Its rugged terrain is marked by dramatic escarpments, baobab-studded plains, and the Great Ruaha River, which becomes a vital lifeline during the dry season. Wildlife here is both abundant and diverse—massive elephant populations, large buffalo herds, and a remarkable concentration of predators, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs. Ruaha is also a stronghold for endangered African wild dogs and boasts over 500 bird species, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts.

The final chapter unfolds on the enchanting island of Zanzibar. Renowned for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, Zanzibar offers the perfect contrast to the safari experience. Relax on palm-fringed shores, swim in warm Indian Ocean waters, or explore vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life. Cultural exploration awaits in Stone Town, where carved wooden doors, bustling bazaars, and historic architecture tell stories of centuries-old trade routes. Spice tours reveal the island’s aromatic heritage, while sunset dhow cruises create unforgettable moments.

About this tour

	Tour type	Custom, tailor-made, private
	Main focus	Game drives
	Activity level	Easy activity
	Best months	January, February, March, May, June, July, August, September, October, November, December
	Countries	Tanzania
	Parks	Nyerere (Selous) Ruaha

Fine details

Safari highlights

Beaches
Bird watching—with professional guide
Wildlife sanctuaries

What’s included?

Accommodation
Meals
Park fees
Private vehicle and driver

What’s not included?

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

Itinerary

Dar es Salaam / Nyerere NP

Nyerere (Selous)

Depart Dar es Salaam at 07:00 hrs for Nyerere National Park, formerly Selous Game Reserve, named after Frederick Courtney Selous and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Travel via Kilwa Road through local villages to Mtemere Gate. After lunch and a short rest, enjoy an afternoon game drive spotting elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and buffalo before returning to camp.

Rufiji River Camp

Game Drive & Boat Safari

Nyerere (Selous)

Formerly known as Selous Game Reserve, Nyerere National Park is one of the world’s largest wildlife reserves in southern Tanzania. After breakfast, explore its wild beauty on a private game drive until afternoon, then return to the hotel for lunch and relaxation. Later, enjoy a 2-hour boat safari on the Rufiji River, with scenic views, wildlife, and many bird species until sunset

Rufiji River Camp.

Full Guided Game Drive

Ruaha

Early breakfast then game drive en-route to Airstrip for a Safari Flight at 0745am to Ruaha National Park arrival at 0930am. The park was named after the Great Ruaha River, which flows along its southeastern margin and is the focal point for game-viewing. Morning & afternoon game drive enjoy the wildlife and see what the nature will provide for you, thereafter back to the lodge for evening relaxation.

Ruaha River Lodge.

Full Day Game Drive

Ruaha

After breakfast, enjoy a full-day game drive in Ruaha National Park. This vast, untouched park is known for its unique mix of vegetation zones and rare wildlife, including greater and lesser kudu, sable, and roan antelopes. A birdwatcher’s paradise with over 350 species, it is centered around the Great Ruaha River, where lions, leopards, hyenas, jackals, wild dogs, and plains game thrive.

Ruaha River Lodge.

Full Day Game Drive

Ruaha

Experience a full-day safari in Ruaha National Park, famous for its rugged scenery, rich wildlife, and quiet wilderness. Explore diverse habitats around the Great Ruaha River and look out for lions, leopards, cheetahs, wild dogs, elephants, kudu, zebras, and over 570 bird species.

Ruaha River Lodge.

Ruaha NP–ZNZ Archipelago Island

After an early breakfast, enjoy a final sunrise game drive in Ruaha National Park en route to Msembe Airstrip, passing scenic viewpoints and a hippo pool near the bridge. Spot crocodiles, elephants, zebras, and buffalo before your 10:40 flight to Zanzibar, arriving at 14:20. This marks the end of your safari. Upon arrival, meet and transfer to your resort for relaxation. Spend 4 nights enjoying palm-fringed beaches, fishing villages, and lush plantations.

Sultan Sands Beach Resort