7 Days Katavi & Ruaha Safari Itinerary

Embark on an unforgettable journey into two of Tanzania’s most spectacular and untouched wilderness areas—Katavi National Park and Ruaha National Park. This 7-day safari combines thrilling game drives, exclusive wildlife encounters, and authentic safari camps that immerse you in the raw beauty of Africa.

Safari Overview

This 7-day Katavi and Ruaha safari offers an off-the-beaten-path adventure through some of Tanzania’s most remote and wildlife-rich national parks. From vast floodplains filled with hippos and crocodiles in Katavi to the dramatic landscapes and elephant herds of Ruaha, this itinerary is tailored for travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility.

Safari Highlights

• Explore Katavi National Park, home to some of the largest buffalo herds in Africa.

• Witness huge gatherings of hippos and crocodiles in Katavi’s rivers and floodplains.

• Experience Ruaha National Park, renowned for its predator population including lions, leopards, and wild dogs.

• Scenic bush flights connecting the two wildernesses.

• Stay at exclusive safari camps offering comfort in the heart of nature.

• Daily game drives, bush walks, and breathtaking sundowners.

Belief Itinerary

• Day 1–2: Arrival in Katavi National Park, game drives and exploration.

• Day 3–4: Continue Katavi adventures with walking safaris and river explorations.

• Day 5–6: Fly to Ruaha National Park, game drives and predator tracking.

• Day 7: Final game drive and departure.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Katavi National Park

Fly into Katavi National Park via charter flight from Arusha or Dar es Salaam. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your safari camp. Enjoy an afternoon game drive across Katavi’s open plains before a warm welcome dinner.

• Accommodation: Katavi Wildlife Camp or similar

• Meal Plan: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Game Drives in Katavi

Spend a full day exploring Katavi, famous for its abundant wildlife. Expect to see elephants, zebras, giraffes, lions, and large herds of buffalo. Hippos crowd the river pools, creating dramatic wildlife spectacles. Return to camp for a bush dinner under the stars.

• Accommodation: Katavi Wildlife Camp or similar

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Walking Safari & Floodplains

Start the morning with a guided walking safari to experience the park up close. In the afternoon, explore Katavi’s seasonal floodplains where crocodiles and hippos congregate in astonishing numbers.

• Accommodation: Katavi Wildlife Camp or similar

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Katavi Game Drives & Sundowners

Enjoy another day of thrilling game drives. In the evening, sip sundowners as the sun sets over Katavi’s vast wilderness, creating the perfect photo moments.

• Accommodation: Katavi Wildlife Camp or similar

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Transfer to Ruaha National Park

After breakfast, take a scenic charter flight to Ruaha National Park. On arrival, enjoy a game drive en route to your lodge. In the afternoon, embark on a game drive through Ruaha’s rugged terrain, home to large elephant herds.

• Accommodation: Ruaha River Lodge or similar

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Full-Day Safari in Ruaha

Spend the day exploring Ruaha, Tanzania’s largest national park. The park is rich with predators, from lions to cheetahs and rare wild dogs. Birdwatchers will enjoy spotting more than 570 bird species. Return to camp for a relaxing evening by the campfire.

• Accommodation: Ruaha River Lodge or similar

• Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Morning Game Drive & Departure

Enjoy a final early morning game drive before breakfast. Later, transfer to the airstrip for your return flight to Arusha or Dar es Salaam, marking the end of your Katavi & Ruaha safari adventure.

• Accommodation: None

• Meal Plan: Breakfast

Package Inclusive

• Accommodation as specified in the itinerary.

• All meals as indicated (breakfast, lunch, dinner).

• Private 4×4 safari vehicle with professional English-speaking guide.

• Park entrance fees, conservation levies, and game drives.

• Bottled drinking water during safari activities.

• Scheduled activities listed in the itinerary

Package Exclusive

• International and domestic flights (unless stated).

• Travel insurance and Tanzania visa.

• Personal expenses, tips, laundry, and souvenirs.

• Alcoholic beverages and drinks not included in meals.

• Optional activities not listed in the itinerary.

Travel Advisory / Important Notes

1. Health & Safety

   • Ensure you have relevant vaccinations (yellow fever certificate may be required).

   • Carry personal medications and first aid essentials.

   • Drink bottled water provided; avoid untreated tap water.

2. Clothing & Gear

   • Lightweight, breathable, neutral-colored clothing for game drives.

   • Comfortable hiking shoes and sandals for walking safaris or forest treks.

   • Warm layers for early mornings and evenings.

   • Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent.

   • Camera, binoculars, and extra batteries/memory cards.

3. Weather & Terrain

   • Tanzania has wet and dry seasons; terrain may be muddy or dusty depending on the time of year.

   • Be prepared for long drives between parks.

4. Cultural Etiquette

   • Respect local customs and communities.

   • Ask permission before photographing people in villages.

5. Safari Conduct

   • Follow your guide’s instructions during game drives and forest walks.

   • Maintain a safe distance from wildlife; do not feed animals.

   • Keep noise levels low to avoid disturbing wildlife.

6. Connectivity

   • Mobile signal may be limited in remote parks.

   • Wi-Fi is often only available at lodges or main camps.