14‑Day Southern Tanzania Grand Circuit Safari Itinerary

14‑Day Southern Tanzania Grand Circuit Safari Itinerary

Nyerere National Park

Destinations

This 14‑day safari showcases the full beauty of Tanzania’s Southern Circuit — a journey through vast savannahs, riverine forests, baobab valleys, tropical rainforests, remote floodplains, and one of Africa’s most spectacular floral landscapes. You will explore Nyerere National Park, Mikumi, Udzungwa Mountains, Ruaha, Katavi, and the breathtaking Kitulo National Park, known for its seasonal wildflower bloom and high‑altitude grasslands.

Expect fewer crowds, dramatic scenery, and wildlife encounters that feel raw, exclusive, and deeply immersive.

Safari Attractions Highlights

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

  • Walking safari in Nyerere with armed ranger

  • Mikumi’s open plains — giraffes, zebras, lions

  • Udzungwa’s Sanje Waterfalls & rainforest trekking

  • Ruaha’s big cats, huge elephant & buffalo herds

  • Katavi’s massive hippo pods, crocodile gatherings, untouched wilderness

  • Kitulo’s wildflower meadows, orchids, rare birds, and highland scenery

  • Classic 4×4 game drives across all parks

  • Authentic Southern Tanzania experience with minimal crowds

Day‑by‑Day Safari Plan

Day 1: Arrival in Dar es Salaam

  • Meet and greet at Julius Nyerere International Airport

  • Safari briefing

  • Overnight in Dar es Salaam

Day 2: Dar es Salaam → Nyerere National Park

  • Drive or fly to Nyerere

  • Afternoon game drive

  • Explore riverine forests and open plains

  • Overnight at Nyerere lodge/camp

Day 3: Full‑Day Game Drives in Nyerere

  • Early morning game drive — predators active

  • Search for elephants, lions, wild dogs, giraffes

  • Afternoon game drive

  • Sunset by the Rufiji River

Day 4: Boat Safari & Walking Safari

  • Morning boat safari on the Rufiji River

  • Afternoon walking safari with armed ranger

  • Evening campfire and dinner

Day 5: Nyerere → Mikumi National Park

  • Breakfast and checkout

  • Scenic drive to Mikumi

  • Afternoon game drive in Mikumi’s open plains

  • Overnight at Mikumi lodge

Day 6: Full‑Day Safari in Mikumi

  • Explore Mkata Floodplain

  • Search for lions, elephants, buffaloes, hippos

  • Visit Vuma Hills viewpoints

  • Sunset at the lodge

Day 7: Mikumi → Udzungwa Mountains

  • Breakfast and depart for Udzungwa

  • Arrive at rainforest foothills

  • Short nature walk

  • Overnight at Udzungwa

Day 8: Udzungwa Mountains Trekking (Sanje Waterfalls)

  • Full‑day guided hike to Sanje Waterfalls

  • Spot colobus monkeys, birds, butterflies

  • Swim at waterfall pools

  • Return to lodge

Day 9: Udzungwa → Ruaha National Park

  • Breakfast and depart for Ruaha

  • Scenic drive through mountains and villages

  • Afternoon game drive in baobab valleys

  • Overnight at Ruaha lodge/camp

Day 10: Full‑Day Safari in Ruaha

  • Early morning game drive — big cats active

  • Explore Mwagusi, Mdonya, Ruaha River areas

  • Picnic lunch in the bush

  • Afternoon game drive focusing on elephants & buffalo herds

Day 11: Ruaha → Kitulo National Park

  • Breakfast and depart for Kitulo Highlands

  • Scenic drive through the Southern Highlands

  • Arrive at Kitulo Plateau — known for wildflowers and orchids

  • Gentle afternoon walk across the grasslands

  • Overnight at Kitulo/nearby lodge

Day 12: Kitulo National Park Exploration

  • Full‑day exploration of Kitulo Plateau

  • Discover seasonal wildflower blooms (Dec–April)

  • Spot rare birds, primates, and high‑altitude flora

  • Visit waterfalls or local viewpoints

  • Overnight at Kitulo

Day 13: Kitulo → Katavi National Park

  • Breakfast and transfer to airstrip

  • Scenic flight to remote Katavi National Park

  • Afternoon game drive

  • Overnight at Katavi camp

Day 14: Full‑Day Safari in Katavi & Departure

  • Morning game drive — raw wilderness

  • Visit Chada Plains or Katuma River

  • Search for lions, hyenas, elephants, buffaloes

  • Afternoon relaxation

  • Fly back to Dar es Salaam

  • End of safari

Safari Add‑Ons

Optional Upgrades

  • Hot air balloon safari (Ruaha)

  • Night game drive (Mikumi or Katavi)

  • 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) is ideal for wildlife; Kitulo flowers bloom December–April.

Safari Vehicles

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

Walking Safari Safety

Guided by armed rangers and professional safari guides — fully safe.

Packing Essentials

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

Customization

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

Book Your Tanzania Itinerary Today!

Take the first step toward your dream adventure and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature! Reach out to us today to secure your spot on this unforgettable tour and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Talk With Our Expert

Whatever your circumstances, do not fear it. We can design a custom trip, especially for you. To find out more, just get in touch with us, and tell us as much detail as you can about the special trip you want to organize.

 icon_headphones iconCall now!   whatsapp iconChat with WhatsApp now!

Safari Experience Pricing Terms

Price Includes the following:

icon_box checked icon Accommodation in lodges and tented camps
icon_box checked icon All meals and bottled water during the safari
icon_box checked icon Game drives in a 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof
icon_box checked icon Professional English-speaking safari guide
icon_box checked icon Park entry fees for all destinations
icon_box checked icon Cultural tour with the Hadzabe tribe if applicable
icon_box checked icon Airport transfers
icon_box checked icon Daily photographic and wildlife viewing opportunities
icon_box checked icon Domestic flights for Arusha Zanzibar transfers

Note: This list of inclusions and exclusions is just a sample and can be altered in the final version to suit client needs and budget

Price Excludes the following:

icon_close_alt2 icon  International and domestic flights
icon_close_alt2 icon  Visa fees for entry into Tanzania
icon_close_alt2 icon  Travel insurance
icon_close_alt2 icon  Alcoholic beverages and personal expenses
icon_close_alt2 icon  Optional activities like hot air balloon safaris
icon_close_alt2 icon  Tips for guides and staff

You may also like this safari itinerary

What to Pack

  • Lightweight clothing for warm days
  • Warm layers for cooler evenings
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Sun hat and sunglasses
  • Binoculars for wildlife viewing
  • Camera with extra batteries
  • Insect repellent
  • Sunscreen with high SPF
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Personal toiletries
  • First aid kit
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Guidebook or map
  • Snacks for the journey
  • Power bank for charging devices
  • Notebook and pen for journaling
  • Lightweight backpack
  • Travel pillow for comfort
11‑Day Southern Tanzania Grand Wilderness Safari Itinerary

11‑Day Southern Tanzania Grand Wilderness Safari Itinerary

Nyerere National Park

Destinations

This extended safari takes you deep into Tanzania’s wildest and least‑crowded national parks. From the riverine forests of Nyerere, the open plains of Mikumi, the rugged baobab valleys of Ruaha, the lush rainforests of Udzungwa Mountains, to the remote and untouched wilderness of Katavi National Park — this itinerary blends classic game drives, boat safaris, walking adventures, waterfalls, primate trekking, and raw African wilderness.

Expect dramatic landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and wildlife encounters that feel truly exclusive.

Safari Attractions Highlights

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

  • Walking safari in Nyerere with armed ranger

  • Ruaha’s big cats, huge elephant & buffalo herds

  • Mikumi’s open plains — giraffes, zebras, lions

  • Udzungwa’s rainforest trekking & Sanje Waterfalls

  • Katavi’s massive hippo pools, crocodile gatherings, untouched wilderness

  • Classic 4×4 game drives across all parks

  • Fewer tourists — pure Southern Circuit authenticity

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 by the Rufiji River

Day 2: Full‑Day Game Drives in Nyerere

  • Early morning game drive — predators most active

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

  • Midday rest at the lodge

  • Afternoon game drive in new habitats

Day 3: Boat Safari & Walking Safari

  • Morning boat safari on the Rufiji River

  • Spot hippos, crocodiles, fish eagles, kingfishers

  • Afternoon walking safari with armed ranger

  • Learn tracks, plants, insects, bush survival

  • Evening campfire

Day 4: Transfer to Mikumi National Park

  • Breakfast and checkout

  • Scenic drive or flight to Mikumi

  • Afternoon game drive in Mikumi’s open plains

  • Spot giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, elephants, lions

  • Overnight at a Mikumi lodge

Day 5: Full‑Day Safari in Mikumi

  • Explore the Mkata Floodplain — excellent wildlife viewing

  • Search for lions, elephants, buffaloes, hippos

  • Visit Vuma Hills or other scenic viewpoints

  • Sunset at the lodge

Day 6: Transfer to Udzungwa Mountains National Park

  • Breakfast and depart for Udzungwa

  • Arrive at the rainforest foothills

  • Short nature walk near the lodge

  • Overnight at Udzungwa

Day 7: Udzungwa Mountains Trekking (Sanje Waterfalls)

  • Full‑day guided hike to Sanje Waterfalls

  • Spot colobus monkeys, birds, butterflies

  • Swim at the waterfall pools

  • Return to lodge for relaxation

Day 8: Transfer to Ruaha National Park

  • Breakfast and depart for Ruaha

  • Scenic drive through mountains and villages

  • Afternoon game drive in baobab valleys

  • Search for lions, leopards, elephants, kudu

  • Overnight at Ruaha lodge/camp

Day 9: Full‑Day Safari in Ruaha

  • Early morning game drive — big cats active

  • Explore Mwagusi, Mdonya, Ruaha River areas

  • Picnic lunch in the bush

  • Afternoon game drive focusing on elephants & buffalo herds

  • Sunset at the lodge

Day 10: Fly to Katavi National Park

  • Breakfast and transfer to airstrip

  • Scenic flight to remote Katavi National Park

  • Afternoon game drive in Katavi’s untouched plains

  • Spot huge hippo pods, crocodile gatherings, elephants

  • Overnight at Katavi camp

Day 11: Full‑Day Safari in Katavi & Departure

  • Morning game drive — raw wilderness experience

  • Visit Chada Plains or Katuma River

  • Search for lions, hyenas, elephants, buffaloes

  • Afternoon relaxation

  • Fly back to Dar es Salaam

  • End of safari

Safari Add‑Ons

Optional Upgrades

  • Hot air balloon safari (Ruaha)

  • Night game drive (Mikumi or Katavi)

  • 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) is ideal, but all parks offer year‑round wildlife.

Safari Vehicles

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

Walking Safari Safety

Guided by armed rangers and professional safari guides — fully safe.

Packing Essentials

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

Customization

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

Book Your Tanzania Itinerary Today!

Take the first step toward your dream adventure and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature! Reach out to us today to secure your spot on this unforgettable tour and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Talk With Our Expert

Whatever your circumstances, do not fear it. We can design a custom trip, especially for you. To find out more, just get in touch with us, and tell us as much detail as you can about the special trip you want to organize.

 icon_headphones iconCall now!   whatsapp iconChat with WhatsApp now!

Safari Experience Pricing Terms

Price Includes the following:

icon_box checked icon Accommodation in lodges and tented camps
icon_box checked icon All meals and bottled water during the safari
icon_box checked icon Game drives in a 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof
icon_box checked icon Professional English-speaking safari guide
icon_box checked icon Park entry fees for all destinations
icon_box checked icon Cultural tour with the Hadzabe tribe if applicable
icon_box checked icon Airport transfers
icon_box checked icon Daily photographic and wildlife viewing opportunities
icon_box checked icon Domestic flights for Arusha Zanzibar transfers

Note: This list of inclusions and exclusions is just a sample and can be altered in the final version to suit client needs and budget

Price Excludes the following:

icon_close_alt2 icon  International and domestic flights
icon_close_alt2 icon  Visa fees for entry into Tanzania
icon_close_alt2 icon  Travel insurance
icon_close_alt2 icon  Alcoholic beverages and personal expenses
icon_close_alt2 icon  Optional activities like hot air balloon safaris
icon_close_alt2 icon  Tips for guides and staff

You may also like this safari itinerary

What to Pack

  • Lightweight clothing for warm days
  • Warm layers for cooler evenings
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Sun hat and sunglasses
  • Binoculars for wildlife viewing
  • Camera with extra batteries
  • Insect repellent
  • Sunscreen with high SPF
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Personal toiletries
  • First aid kit
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Guidebook or map
  • Snacks for the journey
  • Power bank for charging devices
  • Notebook and pen for journaling
  • Lightweight backpack
  • Travel pillow for comfort
7‑Day Southern Tanzania Classic Wildlife Safari

7‑Day Southern Tanzania Classic Wildlife Safari

Nyerere National Park

Destinations

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.

Book Your Tanzania Itinerary Today!

Take the first step toward your dream adventure and immerse yourself in the wonders of nature! Reach out to us today to secure your spot on this unforgettable tour and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Talk With Our Expert

Whatever your circumstances, do not fear it. We can design a custom trip, especially for you. To find out more, just get in touch with us, and tell us as much detail as you can about the special trip you want to organize.

 icon_headphones iconCall now!   whatsapp iconChat with WhatsApp now!

Safari Experience Pricing Terms

Price Includes the following:

icon_box checked icon Accommodation in lodges and tented camps
icon_box checked icon All meals and bottled water during the safari
icon_box checked icon Game drives in a 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof
icon_box checked icon Professional English-speaking safari guide
icon_box checked icon Park entry fees for all destinations
icon_box checked icon Cultural tour with the Hadzabe tribe if applicable
icon_box checked icon Airport transfers
icon_box checked icon Daily photographic and wildlife viewing opportunities
icon_box checked icon Domestic flights for Arusha Zanzibar transfers

Note: This list of inclusions and exclusions is just a sample and can be altered in the final version to suit client needs and budget

Price Excludes the following:

icon_close_alt2 icon  International and domestic flights
icon_close_alt2 icon  Visa fees for entry into Tanzania
icon_close_alt2 icon  Travel insurance
icon_close_alt2 icon  Alcoholic beverages and personal expenses
icon_close_alt2 icon  Optional activities like hot air balloon safaris
icon_close_alt2 icon  Tips for guides and staff

You may also like this safari itinerary

What to Pack

  • Lightweight clothing for warm days
  • Warm layers for cooler evenings
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Sun hat and sunglasses
  • Binoculars for wildlife viewing
  • Camera with extra batteries
  • Insect repellent
  • Sunscreen with high SPF
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Personal toiletries
  • First aid kit
  • Travel insurance documents
  • Guidebook or map
  • Snacks for the journey
  • Power bank for charging devices
  • Notebook and pen for journaling
  • Lightweight backpack
  • Travel pillow for comfort