10 Day Southern Tanzania Wilderness Safari
10 DaysOverview
Leave the well-trodden Northern Circuit behind and venture into the pristine wilds of Southern
Tanzania. This 10-day safari takes you to two of Africa’s most remote and rewarding parks:
Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous) and Ruaha National Park. With fewer crowds and
untouched landscapes, these parks offer a deep dive into nature’s rhythm—from tracking
predators on foot to cruising alongside hippos on the Rufiji River. Expect to witness some of
Africa’s best-kept secrets: thriving populations of elephants, lions, crocodiles, hippos, and the
elusive African wild dog. With expertly guided safaris—by vehicle, boat, and on foot—you’ll
experience a level of intimacy with nature that mass tourism rarely allows. This itinerary is
perfect for seasoned safari-goers, photographers, and those craving something more adventurous
and exclusive.
Upon arrival in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s bustling commercial capital on the Indian Ocean
coast, a Neste Uganda Safaris Ltd. representative will greet you and transfer you to your hotel for
an overnight stay. This coastal city is a vibrant mix of Swahili, Arab, and colonial influences—a
gateway to your southern adventure. Settle into your comfortable hotel and relax after your
journey. Depending on your arrival time, you may explore a bit of the city or unwind by the
beach or pool. Your guide will brief you on the exciting itinerary ahead, ensuring you’re ready
for the wild days to come.
After breakfast, you'll transfer to the domestic terminal and catch a scenic bush flight to Nyerere
National Park (formerly part of the Selous Game Reserve), Africa’s largest national park. Upon
landing on the remote airstrip, you’ll be met by your guide and driven to your lodge or camp. In
the late afternoon, embark on a boat safari along the Rufiji River, one of the most unique
experiences in African safaris. Cruise past pods of hippos, crocodiles basking on sandbanks, and
elephants drinking at the water’s edge. Watch the sunset paint the river golden as birds call
overhead. Return to camp for dinner and overnight in the wild.
Today, experience Nyerere wild interior with a full-day game drive combined with a guided
walking safari. The park’s landscape is varied—open plains, woodlands, and river
systems—making it a haven for diverse wildlife. You'll likely spot giraffes, zebras, impalas,
buffaloes, lions, and perhaps even the rare African wild dog. The walking safari, led by an armed
ranger and naturalist guide, offers a chance to track animals on foot, examine tracks, and observe
smaller ecosystems that are often missed in a vehicle. Feel the bush come alive through sounds
and smells—this is true immersion in nature. Return to camp for a night under the stars.
Dedicate today to exploring deeper into Nyerere National Park. The sheer size of the park means
there’s always something new to discover—hidden waterholes, predator hotspots, and birding
havens. Your guide will tailor the day to your interests, whether you want to find elephants, lions
on the hunt, or photograph rare birds. Midway through the day, enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush,
surrounded by the sounds of nature and the open air of the African savannah. With few vehicles
in the park, you’ll feel like you have the wilderness to yourself. Return to camp in the evening
for a relaxed dinner and a recap of the day’s highlights.
After breakfast, transfer to the airstrip and board your flight to Ruaha National Park, a vast and
remote wilderness known for its dramatic landscapes and predator-rich ecosystem. Upon arrival,
enjoy a game drive en route to your lodge, watching the terrain change from miombo woodland
to baobab-studded savannah. Ruaha is less visited but incredibly rewarding. You may spot
elephants migrating between waterholes, kudu hidden among bushes, or even lions stalking prey
in the golden grasses. Settle into your lodge and enjoy dinner with panoramic views of the
rugged, wild terrain that makes Ruaha so special.
Today is a full day of exploration in Ruaha National Park, which boasts one of the largest
populations of elephants in East Africa. The park is also a stronghold for predators, including
lions, leopards, and African wild dogs—with sightings often more intimate than in busier parks.
You’ll drive along riverbanks, through rolling hills, and across vast plains, stopping for lunch in
a scenic spot. Ruaha's diversity of habitats supports everything from crocodiles and hippos to
over 570 bird species, making this a paradise for photographers and nature lovers. Return to your
camp in the evening and listen to the sounds of the wild as you dine.
Start the day with a guided walking safari, one of the most thrilling ways to experience Ruaha.
With expert rangers, you’ll explore the terrain on foot—learning about animal tracks, medicinal
plants, and the subtle signs of the bush that vehicles often miss. After a bush breakfast or brunch
back at camp, enjoy a relaxed afternoon game drive to seek out any wildlife you may have
missed. Look for big cats in the shade, elephants dust bathing, or antelope grazing peacefully.
This slower-paced day gives you a chance to fully appreciate Ruaha’s untouched beauty.
Enjoy a final morning game drive in Ruaha, capturing the sunrise and early animal activity
before heading to the airstrip. You’ll fly back to Dar es Salaam, where a representative will meet
you and transfer you to your hotel for an overnight stay. Take the evening to relax, enjoy a good
meal, and reflect on the incredible wilderness you’ve just experienced. If you still have energy,
you might explore the local markets or enjoy a quiet walk along the coast.
Today is a buffer day, ideal for relaxing or exploring depending on your flight schedule. Neste
Uganda Safaris Ltd. can arrange a short city tour of Dar es Salaam, including the National
Museum, fish markets, or local crafts shops. Alternatively, enjoy the comfort of a day room at
your hotel to rest before your flight. Use this time to repack, have a seaside lunch, or catch up on
your travel journal. It's a flexible day designed to give you breathing space before your
international departure.
Your guide will transfer you to Julius Nyerere International Airport in time for your flight. As
you leave Tanzania, take with you not only photographs and souvenirs, but also memories of
quiet rivers, wild landscapes, and the powerful silence of true wilderness. Neste Uganda Safaris
Ltd. thanks you for choosing to explore Southern Tanzania with us. We hope to welcome you
again for your next great African adventure.




