7 Days Southern Circuit Sampler Safari

The 7 Days Southern Circuit Sampler is the perfect way to explore Tanzania’s less-traveled but equally rewarding southern safari destinations. From Selous Game Reserve (now Nyerere National Park) to Ruaha National Park and Mikumi National Park, this itinerary offers untouched wilderness, fewer crowds, and a chance to experience authentic African safari life. Expect game drives, boat safaris, and scenic landscapes with luxury tented camps and lodges to complete the experience.

Safari Highlights

• Game drives in Selous Game Reserve, Ruaha, and Mikumi National Park.

• A thrilling boat safari on the Rufiji River.

• Diverse wildlife: elephants, lions, leopards, hippos, crocodiles, giraffes, and over 400 bird species.

• Scenic drives through Tanzania’s southern wilderness.

• Accommodation in comfortable safari lodges and tented camps.

Belief Itinerary

This 7-day sampler balances adventure and relaxation, designed to immerse you in nature while ensuring comfort. Expect early morning game drives, peaceful evenings by the campfire, and the excitement of spotting Africa’s most iconic wildlife in vast, unspoiled habitats.

Day 1: Arrival in Dar es Salaam

Activities:
Upon arrival at Julius Nyerere International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by your professional safari representative. You will then embark on a scenic transfer to your hotel in Dar es Salaam, taking in the vibrant cityscape and coastal views along the way. The afternoon is free for rest, relaxation, and acclimatization after your flight. Use this time to stroll along the waterfront, enjoy the tropical breeze, and prepare for your upcoming safari adventure.

Accommodation: Slipway Hotel (BB – Bed & Breakfast)
Meals: Breakfast included
Highlights:

• Leisurely evening by the Indian Ocean, with the option to enjoy a walk along the marina.

• Scenic sunset views over Dar es Salaam harbor.

• Orientation briefing on your safari itinerary and safety tips.

Day 2: Dar es Salaam – Selous Game Reserve

Activities:
Depart early from Dar es Salaam via road or a domestic flight to Selous Game Reserve, one of Africa’s largest and least disturbed wildlife sanctuaries, covering over 50,000 square kilometers. Upon arrival, check into your lodge before embarking on an afternoon boat safari along the Rufiji River, a prime location for observing riverine wildlife. Glide along the calm waters while spotting hippos basking along the banks, crocodiles lurking beneath the surface, and elephants drinking at the river edge. Bird enthusiasts can spot kingfishers, African fish eagles, and herons, making this an ideal location for photography.

Accommodation: Rufiji River Camp (FB – Full Board)
Meals: Lunch & Dinner included
Highlights:

• Stunning river scenery and abundant wildlife.

• Guided explanation of the park’s ecosystem by your expert safari guide.

• Evening relaxation with a bush dinner under the African stars, listening to the distant calls of nocturnal animals.

Day 3: Full-Day Safari in Selous Game Reserve

Activities:
Spend a full day exploring Selous’ expansive wilderness on morning and afternoon game drives. Expect to encounter large elephant herds, prides of lions, elusive leopards, giraffes browsing treetops, and a variety of antelopes roaming freely. Your guide will share insights on animal behavior, predator-prey dynamics, and conservation efforts within the park.

Accommodation: Rufiji River Camp (FB – Full Board)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included
Highlights:

• Picnic lunch in the heart of the bush surrounded by wildlife.

• Observation of rare species such as wild dogs or sitatunga antelopes if luck permits.

• Afternoon relaxation and photography opportunities at the lodge, capturing sunsets over the savannah.

Day 4: Selous – Mikumi National Park

Activities:
After breakfast, depart Selous for Mikumi National Park, known for its open savannah plains dotted with baobab trees, grasslands, and kopjes. Upon arrival, embark on an afternoon game drive, spotting zebras, giraffes, elephants, and various antelope species. The park’s wide-open landscapes make it a photographer’s paradise, with golden sunsets casting dramatic shadows across the savannah.

Accommodation: Vuma Hills Tented Camp (FB – Full Board)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included
Highlights:

• Scenic drive through rural Tanzanian villages, interacting briefly with local communities.

• Sunset photography opportunities on the savannah.

• Evening at leisure enjoying traditional Tanzanian cuisine and stories from your safari guide.

Day 5: Mikumi – Ruaha National Park

Activities:
Continue your safari adventure with a scenic drive towards Ruaha National Park, Tanzania’s second-largest national park, covering over 20,000 square kilometers of diverse habitats, from savannahs and miombo woodlands to riverine forests. Arrive at the lodge in the afternoon for breathtaking views over the park and surrounding wilderness. Spend the evening relaxing, taking in the sights and sounds of the African bush, and preparing for the following day’s game drives.

Accommodation: Ruaha River Lodge (FB – Full Board)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included
Highlights:

• Scenic drive offering wildlife sightings along the way.

• Opportunity for early evening game photography with golden-hour lighting.

• Evening leisure at the lodge, enjoying African-inspired cuisine and panoramic views.

Day 6: Full-Day Safari in Ruaha National Park

Activities:
Spend the day exploring Ruaha National Park, famous for large elephant herds, prides of lions, and high densities of leopards. Morning and afternoon game drives maximize wildlife viewing opportunities. The park also supports rare species such as sable antelope, cheetahs, and African wild dogs, making this a highlight for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers.

Accommodation: Ruaha River Lodge (FB – Full Board)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner included
Highlights:

• Picnic lunch in the bush surrounded by wildlife.

• Afternoon sundowners overlooking the Rufiji River, while observing wildlife in their natural habitat.

• Expert guide sharing insights on animal tracking, bushcraft, and local ecology.

Day 7: Departure

Activities:
Enjoy a final morning game drive or breakfast at leisure at the lodge, taking in your last moments in the African wilderness. Transfer back to Dar es Salaam for your international flight. This is your opportunity to reflect on your safari experiences and the memorable encounters with Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes.

Meals: Breakfast & Lunch included

Safari Package Inclusions

• Airport transfers in Dar es Salaam

• Accommodation as per itinerary (Bed & Breakfast / Full Board)

• All meals as indicated

• Park entry fees for Selous, Mikumi, and Ruaha

• Game drives in 4×4 safari vehicles with unlimited mileage

• Boat safari on the Rufiji River

• Professional English-speaking safari guide

• Bottled drinking water during safaris

Safari Package Exclusions

• International flights

• Travel insurance (mandatory)

• Visa fees

• Tips and gratuities for guides and lodge staff

• Personal expenses (laundry, drinks, souvenirs)

• Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary

What to Pack

• Lightweight cotton clothing in neutral safari colors for blending into the bush

• Warm sweater or jacket for early mornings and evenings

• Comfortable walking shoes for game drives and lodge walks

• Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for sun protection

• Sunscreen and insect repellent

• Binoculars and camera with extra batteries

• Personal medication and basic first-aid kit

• Travel documents including passport, visa, and vaccination certificate