9 Days Nyerere & Ruaha Adventure

Experience the untamed wilderness of Southern Tanzania with our 9 Days Nyerere & Ruaha Adventure Safari. This journey takes you deep into Africa’s largest protected wildlife areas—Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve) and Ruaha National Park. Expect thrilling game drives, boat safaris along the Rufiji River, and intimate encounters with elephants, lions, hippos, and diverse birdlife. Perfect for travelers seeking authentic, less-crowded safari experiences.

Safari Highlights

• Game drives in Nyerere National Park—home to Africa’s largest wild dog population.

• Scenic boat safari on the Rufiji River with hippos and crocodiles.

• Guided walking safari for an up-close bush experience.

• Thrilling game drives in Ruaha National Park, famed for large elephant herds and predators.

• Stunning landscapes of rivers, savannah, and baobab-dotted hills.

• Comfortable lodges and tented camps with full-board meals.

Brief Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrival in Dar es Salaam

• Day 2–4: Nyerere National Park (Game drives & boat safari)

• Day 5: Transfer to Ruaha National Park

• Day 6–8: Ruaha National Park (Game drives & walking safari)

• Day 9: Departure

Day 1: Arrival – Dar es Salaam

Activities:
Arrive at Julius Nyerere International Airport, where you will be greeted by your professional driver-guide. Transfer to your city hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening after your flight. Take a leisurely walk along the waterfront, or simply unwind at the hotel while receiving a briefing on your upcoming safari adventure.

Accommodation: Dar es Salaam Serena Hotel (or similar)
Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast
Highlights:

• Welcome to Tanzania with evening city views.

• Preparation and orientation for the safari ahead.

Day 2: Dar es Salaam – Nyerere National Park

Activities:
After breakfast, take either a short domestic flight or scenic road transfer to Nyerere National Park. Check in at your lodge or camp, then embark on your first afternoon game drive, spotting wildlife along the way. Observe elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and antelopes, and soak in the stunning landscapes.

Accommodation: Selous Serena Camp / Rufiji River Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Highlights:

• Scenic drive through southern Tanzania.

• First chance to encounter wildlife in the wild.

• Sunset over the park with golden light photography opportunities.

Day 3: Nyerere – Full Day Game Drive

Activities:
Spend a full day exploring the park, venturing into open plains, riverine forests, and woodlands. Look out for lions lounging in the shade, leopards prowling quietly, herds of elephants grazing, and giraffes browsing treetops. A picnic lunch in the bush provides a chance to enjoy the African wilderness up close.

Accommodation: Selous Serena Camp / Rufiji River Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Highlights:

• Professional guide sharing knowledge about animal behavior, ecology, and tracking.

• Excellent opportunities for wildlife photography.

• Experience the tranquility of Tanzania’s untouched wilderness.

Day 4: Boat Safari on Rufiji River

Activities:
Start the day with a morning boat safari on the Rufiji River, gliding past hippos wallowing, crocodiles basking, and colorful birdlife. In the afternoon, return to land for an afternoon game drive, seeking predators, elephants, and other large mammals. Enjoy a spectacular sunset over the river and savannah.

Accommodation: Selous Serena Camp / Rufiji River Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Highlights:

• Unique perspective of wildlife from the river.

• Birdwatching opportunities including kingfishers, herons, and African fish eagles.

• Sunset views over the African wilderness.

Day 5: Nyerere – Ruaha National Park

Activities:
After breakfast, transfer to Ruaha National Park, either by flight or road. Check in at your lodge or camp and relax for the evening. Enjoy the breathtaking views of the rugged savannah and acacia-studded landscapes as the sun sets.

Accommodation: Ruaha River Lodge / Mdonya Old River Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Highlights:

• Scenic landscapes en route to Ruaha.

• Evening at leisure in a pristine wilderness setting.

Day 6: Ruaha – Full Day Safari

Activities:
Embark on a full-day safari in Ruaha, known for its large elephant herds and abundant predators. Drive through the park’s open plains, river valleys, and woodland areas. Look out for kudu, giraffes, lions, cheetahs, and hyenas, and enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush amidst stunning views.

Accommodation: Ruaha River Lodge / Mdonya Old River Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Highlights:

• Observe wildlife in Ruaha’s diverse habitats.

• Learn about conservation efforts and species behavior from your guide.

• Sunset views ideal for photography.

Day 7: Ruaha – Walking Safari

Activities:
Start the day with a guided walking safari, accompanied by an armed ranger. Learn to identify animal tracks, insects, and plants, and gain insight into the park’s ecology. In the afternoon, enjoy another game drive focusing on large cats and elephant herds.

Accommodation: Ruaha River Lodge / Mdonya Old River Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Highlights:

• Close-up experience of the bush on foot.

• Learn tracking skills and bush survival tips.

• Afternoon drive capturing wildlife in action.

Day 8: Ruaha – Game Drives

Activities:
Enjoy morning and afternoon game drives to maximize wildlife sightings. Traverse river valleys, open plains, and woodland areas while searching for predators, elephants, and rare antelopes. Evening at leisure at the lodge, reflecting on your safari experiences.

Accommodation: Ruaha River Lodge / Mdonya Old River Camp
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Highlights:

• Opportunity to see elusive predators like leopards and cheetahs.

• Scenic drives through varied landscapes.

• Capture your last African sunset in Ruaha.

Day 9: Departure

Activities:
After breakfast, transfer to the airstrip for your flight back to Dar es Salaam, connecting with your onward journey. Reflect on your safari adventure filled with memorable wildlife encounters, stunning landscapes, and cultural experiences.

Meal Plan: Breakfast
Highlights:

• Final opportunity for wildlife sightings and photography.

• Safe transfer to Dar es Salaam for departure.

Safari Includes

• Airport transfers (Dar es Salaam)

• Domestic flights (if included in package)

• Accommodation as mentioned (or similar)

• Meals as per itinerary

• Game drives in 4×4 safari vehicle with professional guide

• Boat safari in Nyerere

• Walking safari in Ruaha

• Park entry fees

Safari Excludes

• International flights

• Visa fees & travel/medical insurance

• Drinks and personal expenses

• Tips and gratuities for guides and lodge staff

• Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary

What to Pack

• Light, breathable clothing in neutral colors

• Warm jacket or fleece for early mornings and evenings

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen

• Binoculars & camera with extra batteries

• Insect repellent

• Personal medications and basic first-aid kit