7‑Day Southern Tanzania Classic Wildlife Safari

A safari through Tanzania’s most untouched wilderness — from the vast river systems of Nyerere National Park, the rugged baobab‑studded landscapes of Ruaha, to the open savannahs of Mikumi. This 7‑day safari blends game drives, boat safaris, walking adventures, and authentic bush experiences, offering close encounters with elephants, lions, hippos, wild dogs, giraffes, buffaloes, and hundreds of bird species.

Safari Attractions Highlights

• Rufiji River boat safari — hippos, crocodiles, riverine birds

• Walking safari in Nyerere with armed ranger

• Ruaha’s big cats and massive elephant/buffalo herds

• Iconic baobab valleys and rugged terrain

• Mikumi’s open plains — easy wildlife viewing

• Morning & afternoon 4×4 game drives in all parks

• Authentic Southern Tanzania wilderness with minimal crowds

Day‑by‑Day Safari Plan

Day 1: Arrival in Nyerere National Park

• Fly from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar to Nyerere Airstrip

• Meet your safari guide and begin your first game drive

• Explore riverine forests, lagoons, and open plains

• Check‑in at your lodge/camp

• Sunset relaxation and dinner by the Rufiji River

Day 2: Full‑Day Game Drives in Nyerere

• Early morning game drive — best time for predators

• Search for elephants, lions, wild dogs, giraffes, and antelopes

• Midday rest at the lodge

• Afternoon game drive through new habitats

• Overnight at your lodge/camp

Day 3: Boat Safari & Walking Safari

• Morning boat safari on the Rufiji River

• Spot hippos, crocodiles, fish eagles, and river wildlife

• Afternoon walking safari with armed ranger

• Learn about tracks, plants, insects, and bush survival

• Evening campfire and dinner

Day 4: Transfer to Ruaha National Park

• Breakfast and checkout

• Scenic flight or road transfer to Ruaha

• Afternoon game drive in baobab valleys

• Search for lions, leopards, elephants, kudu, and buffalo

• Overnight at a Ruaha lodge/camp

Day 5: Full‑Day Safari in Ruaha

• Early morning game drive — prime time for big cats

• Explore Mwagusi, Mdonya, and Ruaha River areas

• Picnic lunch in the bush

• Afternoon game drive focusing on elephants and buffalo herds

• Sunset at the lodge

Day 6: Transfer to Mikumi National Park

• Breakfast and depart for Mikumi

• Scenic drive through mountains and local villages

• Afternoon game drive in Mikumi’s open plains

• Spot giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, elephants, and lions

• Overnight at a Mikumi lodge

Day 7: Morning Game Drive & Return

• Final morning game drive in Mikumi

• Visit the Mkata Floodplain — excellent wildlife viewing

• Return to Dar es Salaam by road or flight

• End of safari

➕ Safari Add‑Ons

Optional Upgrades

• Hot air balloon safari (Ruaha)

• Night game drive (Mikumi)

• Cultural tour in Morogoro or Maasai village

• Zanzibar beach extension (3–5 nights)

• Photographic safari vehicle upgrade

• Private bush dinner experience

• Birdwatching specialist guide

❓ Safari FAQs

Best Time to Visit

Dry season (June–October) offers the best wildlife viewing, but all parks are excellent year‑round.

Safari Vehicles

4×4 Land Cruisers with pop‑up roofs or open‑sided vehicles depending on park regulations.

Safety of Walking Safaris

Fully safe — guided by armed rangers and professional safari guides.

Packing Essentials

Light clothing, hat, sunscreen, binoculars, camera, comfortable shoes, warm jacket for early mornings.

Customization

Itinerary can be adjusted — number of nights, lodges, and activities tailored to your preferences.