8 Days Udzungwa Mountains & Nyerere National Park Safari

Overview

This 8-day safari adventure combines the lush rainforests of Udzungwa Mountains with the wildlife-rich plains of Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous). You’ll trek through spectacular mountain trails, chase waterfalls, encounter endemic primates, and enjoy thrilling game drives in one of Africa’s largest protected ecosystems. Perfect for travelers who want a mix of hiking, wildlife, and authentic Tanzania wilderness.

  

Safari Highlights

• Guided trek to Sanje Waterfalls in Udzungwa Mountains.

• Spot rare primates including Udzungwa red colobus and Sanford’s mangabey.

• Game drives in Nyerere National Park, home to elephants, lions, giraffes, and African wild dogs.

• Boat safari along the Rufiji River with stunning birdlife and hippo pods.

• Authentic cultural experiences in rural villages.

• Scenic landscapes from tropical forests to vast savannahs.

Brief Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Dar es Salaam – transfer to hotel.
>Day. 2: Drive to Udzungwa Mountains – evening at leisure.
>Day 3: Full-day hike & Sanje Waterfalls.
>Day. 4: Cultural village tour & transfer to Nyerere.
>Day 5: Full-day game drive in Nyerere National Park.
>Day. 6: Boat safari on Rufiji River & afternoon game drive.
>Day 7: Walking safari with ranger & sundowner.
>Day. 8: Transfer back to Dar es Salaam – departure.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Dar es Salaam

Activities:
Arrive at Julius Nyerere International Airport, where a friendly representative will meet you and escort you to your city hotel. Spend the afternoon settling in, relaxing after your flight, and perhaps enjoying the hotel facilities. Evening at leisure with an optional short stroll along the waterfront or a dinner at the hotel restaurant.

Accommodation: Slipway Hotel (or similar)
Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast

Day 2: Dar es Salaam – Udzungwa Mountains

Activities:
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive through rolling countryside, small villages, and lush farmland toward the Udzungwa Mountains National Park. Enjoy the views along the way and arrive at your lodge by mid-afternoon. Take the rest of the day to relax, explore the lodge surroundings, or enjoy the sounds and sights of the forest. Evening briefing about the upcoming treks and forest adventures.

Accommodation: Udzungwa Forest Tented Camp
Meal Plan: Full Board

Day 3: Udzungwa Trekking & Sanje Waterfalls

Activities:
Begin a full-day guided trek through the Udzungwa rainforest, immersing yourself in its rich biodiversity. Spot endemic primates, butterflies, and colorful birds as you make your way toward the magnificent Sanje Waterfalls, plunging over 170 meters. Stop for a picnic lunch by the falls and enjoy swimming in natural pools if weather permits. Return to the camp in the late afternoon for dinner and storytelling around the campfire.

Accommodation: Udzungwa Forest Tented Camp
Meal Plan: Full Board

Day 4: Cultural Experience – Transfer to Nyerere National Park

Activities:
In the morning, visit a nearby village to learn about local farming practices, crafts, and community life. Engage with villagers and gain insight into daily Tanzanian rural life. After lunch, drive to Nyerere National Park, passing through scenic landscapes and the Rufiji River basin. Evening at leisure at the lodge with time to relax and enjoy the sunset.

Accommodation: Rufiji River Camp
Meal Plan: Full Board

Day 5: Game Drive in Nyerere National Park

Activities:
Spend the day exploring the vast wilderness of Nyerere National Park, home to large elephant herds, lions, buffaloes, and diverse birdlife. Morning and afternoon game drives are scheduled, with opportunities for photography, wildlife observation, and learning about the ecosystem from your guide.

Accommodation: Rufiji River Camp
Meal Plan: Full Board

Day 6: Boat Safari & Afternoon Game Drive

Activities:
Begin with a morning boat safari along the Rufiji River, observing hippos, crocodiles, waterbirds, and animals coming to the riverbank. After a scenic lunch, continue with an afternoon game drive across the open savannah, tracking wildlife in their natural habitat.

Accommodation: Rufiji River Camp
Meal Plan: Full Board

Day 7: Walking Safari & Sundowner

Activities:
Take part in a guided walking safari with a knowledgeable park ranger, learning to identify animal tracks, medicinal plants, and bird species. Enjoy the intimate experience of the wilderness on foot. Conclude the day with a sunset sundowner, soaking in the views over the savannah with a refreshing drink.

Accommodation: Rufiji River Camp
Meal Plan: Full Board

Day 8: Departure

Activities:
After breakfast, transfer back to Dar es Salaam. Stop en route for refreshments or photos if time permits. Drop-off at Julius Nyerere International Airport for your onward flight or return to your hotel if extending your stay.

Meal Plan: Breakfast & Lunch

Safari Inclusions

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

• All park fees, government taxes, and permits

• Professional English-speaking driver-guide

• Private 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof

• Bottled water during drives

• Guided hikes, treks, and wildlife activities listed in itinerary

Safari Exclusions

• International flights and visas

• Travel & medical insurance

• Alcoholic and soft drinks

• Tips for guides and lodge staff

• Personal expenses, laundry, souvenirs

• Optional activities not listed in itinerary

What to Pack

• Lightweight safari clothing (neutral colors)

• Sturdy hiking shoes

• Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen

• Insect repellent and personal medication

• Binoculars and camera

• Warm sweater or jacket for evenings

• Refillable water bottle

• Swimwear for waterfalls and river pools