6 Days Southern Tanzania Safari Adventure

Embark on a 6-day Southern Tanzania safari adventure and experience the untamed beauty of the African wilderness. This incredible journey takes you through some of Tanzania’s most pristine and unspoiled regions, where sprawling plains, dense forests, and winding rivers teem with wildlife.

During this safari, you will have the opportunity to explore the largest game reserve in Africa, the Selous Game Reserve. This vast expanse of land is home to an incredible array of wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, and hippos, as well as over 400 bird species. With game drives and walking safaris led by experienced guides, you will have the chance to witness these animals in their natural habitat and gain a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the natural world.

As you travel through the various landscapes of Southern Tanzania, you will also have the chance to visit local villages and meet with Maasai tribespeople, learning about their customs and way of life. This cultural exchange adds a new dimension to your safari experience, allowing you to connect with the people who call this land home. With luxurious accommodations, gourmet meals, and expert guides leading the way, this 7-day Southern Tanzania safari adventure promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Africa’s wild beauty.

Southern Tanzania Great Adventure Itinerary

Day 1: Departure from Dar es Salaam to Selous Game Reserve

Your Southern Tanzania safari begins in Dar es Salaam, where you’ll depart early in the morning. The journey to Selous Game Reserve is part of the adventure, as you’ll traverse through the bustling city, rural landscapes, and finally into the heart of untamed Africa. The drive is approximately 6 hours, so it’s recommended to start early to make the most of your first day in the reserve. Upon arrival at Selous Game Reserve, you’ll check into your lodge or campsite, where you can freshen up and have lunch. Your introduction to the wild starts with a serene boat safari on the Rufiji River. It’s a unique opportunity to see crocodiles, hippos, and a plethora of bird life up close. The calm waters and the sound of nature will be a soothing start to your adventure.

After the boat safari, you’ll return to your accommodation for dinner. Most lodges and camps in Selous offer comfortable settings that blend with nature, ensuring you enjoy your stay while being eco-friendly. As night falls, listen to the sounds of the wild; it’s an immersive experience that connects you deeply with nature.

Day 2: Full-Day Game Drive in Selous Game Reserve

The second day of the southern Tanzania safari is dedicated to a full-day game drive, which is the highlight of the Selous Safari. After an early breakfast, you’ll set off in a 4×4 vehicle with an experienced guide. Selous Game Reserve is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, and the elusive African wild dog. The reserve’s vast landscapes also mean that you’ll enjoy sighting animals without the crowds found in more popular parks.

A picnic lunch will be served in the heart of the wilderness, offering a moment to relax and soak in the surroundings. Your guide will share insights about the reserve’s ecosystem, conservation efforts, and the behavior of the animals you encounter, making it an educational experience as well.

Returning to your lodge or campsite in the evening, you’ll have time to reflect on the day’s adventures. Dinner under the stars, surrounded by the sounds of the African bush, is the perfect way to end the day. Sharing stories and experiences with fellow travelers around a campfire can be a highlight in itself.

Day 3: Walking Safari and Depart to Mikumi

Early morning you will depart for a walking safari after breakfast. Accompanied by an armed ranger and guide, this safari offers a more intimate encounter with the wilderness. Walking safaris allow you to appreciate the smaller aspects of the bush, from tracking animal footprints to identifying plants and insects. It’s a thrilling experience that adds a different perspective to your safari adventure.

After the walking safari bid farewell to Selous and head towards Mikumi National Park. The journey itself is an adventure, offering glimpses of Tanzania’s villages and landscapes. Mikumi, bordering the Selous ecosystem, is famed for its population of elephants, lions, zebras, leopards, wildebeest, and buffaloes.

After settling into your accommodation, spend the afternoon on a game drive. The Mkata Floodplain is Mikumi’s most popular spot, often compared to the Serengeti for its rich wildlife. As the sun dips, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a vibrant display of stars, an unforgettable sight.

Day 4: Full Day in Mikumi National Park

Use your fourth day to delve deeper into Mikumi National Park. Start early to catch predators returning from their nocturnal hunts. The park’s diverse habitats, including woodlands, grasslands, and swamps, support over 400 bird species, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise.

Besides game drives, you can visit the Mikumi Wildlife Camp’s hippo pool, where you can observe these majestic animals at a safe distance. The evening offers another opportunity for a game drive, perhaps catching sights of the elusive leopards or the graceful giraffes against the backdrop of a golden sunset.

Day 5: Departure for Udzungwa Mountains National Park

On the fifth day, travel to Udzungwa Mountains National Park, a unique biodiversity hotspot unlike any other in Tanzania. Known for its rainforest-covered mountains, it’s a haven for hikers, bird watchers, and lovers of natural beauty.

Start with a visit to the Sanje Waterfall, which offers a breathtaking view and a refreshing swim. The park hosts several endemic species of plants and animals, including the Iringa red colobus and Sanje crested mangabey. The day’s hike not only immerses you in the park’s beauty but also provides a great opportunity for bird watching and enjoying the panoramic views.

In the evening return to Mikumi for overnight at the lodge.

Day 6: Mikumi to Dar es Salaam

On your final day of your Southern Tanzania Safari, embark on the final game drives in Mikumi which offers you the best chance to revisit favorite spots or explore new areas of the park. As your trip nears its end, reflect on the incredible diversity and beauty you’ve witnessed. At 11:00 am begin your journey back to Dar es Salaam. The drive back is a chance to process the myriad of experiences you’ve had over the past week. Once in Dar es Salaam, you may have some time to explore the city, visit local markets, or simply relax by the Indian Ocean before your departure.