SELOUS GAME RESERVES

Enter Africa’s largest protected area uninhabited by man, where Tanzania’s greatest population of elephants wander in an area bigger than Switzerland! The Selous (pronounced “Seloo”) is considered important enough to be World Heritage Site, in which the lucky few can experience a safari in absolutely wild and unspoiled bush.

The park is named after Englishman, Frederick Courtney Selous – conservationist, hunter, explorer and author, whose adventure books on Africa became best sellers in Victorian England.

The park varies from rolling grassy woodlands and plains, to rocky outcrops cut by the Rufiji River – the lifeblood of the park, whose tributaries form a network of lakes, lagoons and channels. Volcanic hot springs even burst forth in places. The Rufiji offers a superb method of game viewing especially during the dry season when animals congregate.

ANIMALS AND AQUATIC LIFE

Selous contains about one third of all the wild dogs (often called painted dogs), in the world. Their need to roam vast areas and their formidable hunting skills have caused many to be shot by farmers, but here in Selous they have boundless woodlands and savannahs in which to roam.

Along the Rufiji River, an array of grazing antelopes, crocodiles and hippos are commonly seen as well as black and white colobus monkeys in the riverine forests. 

During the dry season from June to October, the concentration of animals along the river is astonishing. Linked to the Rufii is Lake Tagalala where waterbuck, reedbuck and bushbuck gather at the water’s edge. Magnificent sickle-horned sable and curly-horned greater kudu tend to keep to the longer grass and wooded shrubby areas.

In the dry season an ancient migration of elephants takes place between the Selous and Mozambique’s Niassa Game Reserves. This is one of the largest natural trans-boundary eco-systems in Africa and at the last consensus it was estimated that 64,400 elephants roam the two parks, with 84% on the Tanzanian side.

Fierce tiger fish and smooth slippery vandu catfish are caught in the rivers. The latter is equipped with primitive lungs allowing it to cross land for short distance in an attempt to find water water during the dry season.
Largest national Park in Tanzania – southern tanzania national parks

SEASONS

• Dry Season: The dry season sets in during June to November and is the best time for game viewing along the rivers. Elephants come out of the bush at that time and predators are more commonly seen.
• Rainy Season: January to April is wonderful for birdlife ad lush scenery but many roads become impassable after heavy rains. December to February is still good for game viewing but can be rather hot and humid. The safari lodges are usually closed from March to May.

SELOUS SPECIALITIES

• Rare and endangered Wild Dog
• Boat game viewing
• Fishing
• Thousands of migrating elephants
• Walking safaris
• Huge wilderness

When to go

• All Year Around

How To get there

• By Air
• By Land

Mikumi National Park

Swirls of opaque mist hide the advancing dawn. The first shafts of sun colour the fluffy grass heads rippling across the plain in a russet halo. A herd of zebras, confident in their camouflage at this predatory hour, pose like ballerinas, heads aligned and stripes merging in flowing motion.

Mikumi National Park abuts the northern border of Africa’s biggest game reserve – the Selous – and is transected by the surfaced road between Dar es Salaam and Iringa. It is thus the most accessible part of a 75,000 square kilometre (47,000 square mile) tract of wilderness that stretches east almost as far as the Indian Ocean.

The open horizons and abundant wildlife of the Mkata Floodplain, the popular centrepiece of Mikumi, draw frequent comparisons to the more famous Serengeti Plains.

Lions survey their grassy kingdom – and the zebra, wildebeest, impala and buffalo herds that migrate across it – from the flattened tops of termite mounds, or sometimes, during the rains, from perches high in the trees. Giraffes forage in the isolated acacia stands that fringe the Mkata River, islets of shade favoured also by Mikumi’s elephants.

Criss-crossed by a good circuit of game-viewing roads, the Mkata Floodplain is perhaps the most reliable place in Tanzania for sightings of the powerful eland, the world’s largest antelope. The equally impressive greater kudu and sable antelope haunt the miombo-covered foothills of the mountains that rise from the park’s borders.

More than 400 bird species have been recorded, with such colourful common residents as the lilac-breasted roller, yellow-throated longclaw and bateleur eagle joined by a host of European migrants during the rainy season. Hippos are the star attraction of the pair of pools situated 5km north of the main entrance gate, supported by an ever-changing cast of waterbirds.

About Mikumi National Park

• Size: 3,230 sq km (1,250 sq miles), the fourth-largest park in Tanzania, and part of a much larger ecosystem centred on the uniquely vast Selous Game Reserve.
• Location: 283 km (175 miles) west of Dar es Salaam, north of Selous, and en route to Ruaha, Udzungwa and (for the intrepid) Katavi.

How to get there

A good surfaced road connects Mikumi to Dar es Salaam via Morogoro, a roughly 4 hour drive.
Also road connections to Udzungwa, Ruaha and (dry season only) Selous.
Charter flight from Dar es Salaam, Arusha or Selous. Local buses run from Dar to park HQ where game drives can be arranged.

What to do

Game drives and guided walks. Visit nearby Udzungwa or travel on to Selous or Ruaha.

When to go

Accessible year round.

Accommodation

Two lodges, three luxury tented camps, three campsites.
Guest houses in Mikumi town on the park border. One lodge is proposed at Mahondo and one permanent tented camp at Lumaaga.
More information on Accomodation

UDZUNGWA MOUNTAINS  SAFARI & TREK

Conservation Status :National Park and one of the World Biodiversity hotspots. The full, official name is Udzungwa Mountains National Park.

Established :1992

Location :Southern Tanzania, 350 Kms from Dar es Salaam; 65 Kms Southwest of Mikumi

Size :1,990 Kms²

Maximum Length :80 Kms from Southwest to Northeast

Height A.S.L. :250 m (Mangula) – 2,576 m (Mt Luhomero). The second highest peak is Mt. Mwanihana (2,570 m).

Seasonal Variation :
The areas covered by evergreen forests show no significant seasonal variation. The areas covered by miombo savanna are in the “rain shadow” and two well-defined seasons occur: a dry season from May to October and a wet season from October to May. Trekking routes maybe difficult during the period of heaviest rains in March – May.

Precipitation :
Great variations occurs depending on altitude and area: mean annual rainfall is 600 m (rain shadows in the north and northwest) – 2,000 m (lowland rain forests in the east and southeast). June – August is practically rainless in the North and Northwest. The Eastern mountains receive some rain all the year round at altitude of more than equal to 1,500 m, but the rainfall is lower in June – October at altitudes of less than 1,500 m.

Temperatures :
There is a great variation depending on altitude and season. On the lowlands (250 – 500 m) temperatures are 26 – 34°C in the daytime and 18 – 21°C at night, but high up in the mountains (more than equal to 2,000 m) they are 18 – 25°C by day and occasionally close to 0°C at night.

Activities :
Hiking and mountain trekking

One of Tanzania’s most beautiful wilderness areas, the Udzungwa Mountains National Park, is a high forest area and a haven for hikers. This 1,990 sq km park was formed in 1992 by combining several forest reserves.

 The mountains are a part of the Eastern African Arc, a chain of ancient mountains which run from the Taita Hills in Kenya through the Pare and Usambara ranges to the Uluguru Mountains to Udzungwa. 

The park covers a wide range of altitudes, from 200 m to Luhombero Peak at 2,576 m, and is the only place in East Africa with unbroken forest canopy over this entire elevation, ranging from miombo woodlands, bamboo forest and lowland forest to montane forest and highland grassland.

Udzungwa’s wildlife is rich, containing Tanzania’s largest variety of primates, ten species including four not found anywhere else – these are the Sanje-crested mangabey, the Iringa (Uhehe) red colobus monkey, the Matundu galago and the Amani mountain dwarf galago (bush baby).

 Other primates include black and white monkeys, blue monkeys and thick-tailed galago. Rarer animals include red duiker, blue duiker, sun squirrel, bushpig and bushbuck.

 Over 250 bird species have been recorded including the rufous-winged sunbird and Udzungwa partridge; both are rare endemics and over 1300 species of butterfly, of which 121 are endemic to Tanzania. There are at least 5 unique species of amphibians and reptiles. Lion, leopard, buffalo and hippo are present but mainly in the less accessible parts of the park.

There are six hiking trails in the Park, ranging from an easy hour’s walk to a serious five-day hike up the park’s second-highest peak. 

The Prince Bernhard Trail starts from the park headquarters and goes to the small Prince Bernhard Falls named after the Dutch prince who as president of WWF opened the park in 1992. Baboons are frequently seen here. 

Another short trail is the Sonjo Trail passing through miombo woodland and two waterfalls. Primates and birds are the main attractions on this trail. 

The most popular route is the Sanje Falls Trail that heads through many forest zones to the Sanje Falls, a succession of three waterfalls which drop over 170 m. The first two have splash pools you can swim in providing a refreshing experience; the third has the longest fall.

There are plenty of primates, butterflies and birdlife on this trail. The Campsite 3 Circuit is best for wildlife, giving a chance to see bushbuck and duiker in addition to the primates, butterflies and birds.

 The Mwanihana Trail, takes you to Udzungwa’s second highest peak at 2,111 m. This trail takes three days and the walk can be very exhausting. 

And the Lumemo Trail takes about five days and passes along the saddle between Luhomero and Mwanihama peaks. Here you may encounter herds of buffalo and elephant, also provides good bird watching. Armed rangers are needed for these last three trails. There are other paths that run through the forest. Porters and guides are available at the park offices.

Accommodation

There are two modest but comfortable lodges with en-suite rooms near the park entrance. Some camping areas have been established inside the park. More About accommodation here…

RUAHA NATIONAL PARK

Conservation Status :National Park

Established :1964

Location :Southern Tanzania

Size :20,200 Kms² (Tanzania’s Largest National Park)

Maximum Length :260 Km. from Southwest to Northeast

Height A.S.L. :Ca. 1,000 m. Some scattered hills in the west rise up to 1,800 m (Lyambagari 1,816 m, Ikungu 1,830 m)

Seasonal Variation :Two well defined seasons – a dry season from May to October and a wet season from November to April (less rainy in December – February). Bushfires often occur in the dry season. 

Only minor seasonal variation in the occurrence of animals. The vegetation flourishes best in March – April. The best seasons for visiting is July – October. The roads are difficult during the west season and can be impassable in places.

Precipitation :Mean annual rainfall 500 mm (in the valley of the Great Ruaha River) – 800 mm (in other parts of the park, e.g. on the escarpment of the Rift Valley). Highest rainfall in March – April and lowest rainfall in June – September (practically rainless)

Temperatures :Monthly average 21 – 24°C. Daytime 25 – 30°C, up to 35 – 42°C in October – November, and 15 – 18°C at night, sometimes only 5°C in July.

Activities :Game drives, bird watching and guided walking safari

One of Tanzania’s best kept wildlife secrets, the Ruaha National Park is the country’s second largest game park covering about 13,000 sq km. It takes its names from the great Ruaha River that flows along its eastern border.

Ruaha is an amazing park – remote with spectacular topography of river, trees, plains and mountains, its beauty is unmatched due to the diversity and concentration of wildlife and birds. Ruaha’s ecosystem represents a transition between the miombo woodlands and the more open savannah. 

This can be seen in the Park’s flora which is thick in some areas and yet wide open in others. Its spectacular scenery includes rolling hills, large open plains and huge baobab tress and the magnificent Ruaha River which is home to crocodiles and hippos.

Almost all of Africa’s large mammal species are to be found in Ruaha. It has the largest elephant population than any Tanzanian national park. Large carnivores are well represented, populations of lions doze in sandy riverbeds, leopards are wide spread, and cheetahs are often seen hunting on open plains.

 Hyena and wild dogs can be seen throughout the park. The park is also known for its huge buffalo herds and variety of antelope species including both greater and lesser kudu, roan, sable, dik dik, Grant’s gazelle and eland. Others include warthog, mongoose, wildcat and rare civet. The park’s main wildlife spectacle however centers on the Great Ruaha River where the animals congregate to drink water.

For birdwatchers, Ruaha’s birdlife is extraordinary, with over 400 species recorded including a wide of variety of herons and egrets, bee-eaters, cuckoos, owls, rollers, hornbills, bustards, kingfishers and woodpeckers. 

The best time to visit Ruaha National Park is probably in the dry season between June and October when the animals are concentrated around shrinking water holes. As a simple rule, the drier it gets, the fewer places there are for the game to drink and the more the animals congregate around remaining water sources

FACILITIES

The park has an airstrip for light air crafts and its accessible by road. There are several tented lodges and permanent lodges that operate during the dry season, May-March. 

The park has also one lodge,self catering huts (bandas) and several tented camps including few public campsites.

Saadani National Park

Saadani national park is located in the centre of the historic triangle of Bagamoyo, Pangani and Zanzibar, Saadani National Park covers 1100 km2. It is the only wildlife sanctuary in Tanzania bordering the sea. The climate is coastal, hot and humid.

 It offers a unique combination of both marine and mainland flora and fauna in a culturally fascinating setting. About 30 species of larger mammals are present as well as numerous reptiles and birds. Besides many species of fish, Green turtles, Humpback whales and dolphins also occur in the ocean nearby.

Gazetted in 2005, it encompasses a preserved ecosystem including the former Saadani game reserve, the former Mkwaja ranch area, the Wami River as well as the Zaraninge Forest. Many villages exist around the boundaries of the Park.

 In 1969, when Saadani Game Reserve was officially created, Saadani village elders were consulted and the loss of cultivated land was compensated for. Before being included in the national park, the Zaraninge Forest was managed by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) whose goal was to preserve the extremely high botanical diversity of one of the last coastal rain forests remaining in Tanzania. The Mkwaja area is the reminder of a large cattle ranch which has been run from 1952 to 2000. The presence of many dams and paddocks attest to the former existence of the ranch.

Accommodation: There are numerous numbers of tented camps and hotels available in the area, including the Saadani river lodge, and few public camps

The Best Of Selous Safaris Adventures – 5 Days 4 Nights.

1. Dar es Salaam /Selous.
2. Full Day in Selous.
3. Another Full Selous.
4. Last Full Day In Selous.
5. Drive from Selous to Dar Es Salaam & Fly Out

This is largest game reserve area in Tanzania and Africa in general. It is home to thousands of elephants and it supports all other wild animals including the endangered species like wild-dog etc. In selous you can do canoe, walking safaris which is supported with an armed ranger, birding etc. In five days your soul and body will join together!!

 REQUEST A QUOTE

• DAY 1

DAR ES SALAAM /SELOUS.

Meet at the Hotel or residence and transfer to Selous. On arrival at Selous you will enjoy full day of game drives until sunset, picnic lunch served on the bonnet at the edge of one the lakes found in Selous. Later evening drive back to the camp for dinner and overnight at Rufiji River Camp.

• DAY 2

FULL DAY IN SELOUS.

Breakfast is served at the camp, Full day of game excursion in the Reserve; Morning enjoys game drives in the game reserve till lunch which is served at the camp. After lunch followed by Boat Safari in the Rufiji River, Boat Safari in the afternoon is another way of game viewing on the Rufiji River; it offers a unique experience as the Selous is the only reserve in Tanzania where this option is available. Rufiji River is one of the most dramatic rivers in Tanzania’s Game Reserves and National Parks which is navigable all year round. The chance to get out of the vehicle and view game from a boat is one of the things which make Selous Game Reserve such a great place to visit. Dinner and overnight at Rufiji River Camp

• DAY 3

ANOTHER FULL SELOUS.

Wake up very early morning, after a cup of tea/coffee transfer to Mtemere gate for Walking inside the Reserve with the escort of an armed ranger, the journey takes about 2 to 3hrs. On arrival to your pick up point you will be transferred back to the Lodge for Breakfast followed by a short rest. After early lunch check out and enjoy afternoon game drives ‘till sunset en route to Lake Manze tented Camp for dinner and overnight.

• DAY 4

LAST FULL DAY IN SELOUS.

Breakfast is served at the Camp, Full day of game excursion in the game reserve; Selous is the largest game reserve in Africa – 4 times the size of the Serengeti. It possesses a diverse landscape from hot volcanic springs, sporadic lakes, channels from the Great Ruaha and Rufiji rivers. Selous is Africa’s greatest conservation area and covers a wide variety of wildlife habitats including Lakes, open grassland, Acacia, Miombo woodland and riverine forests. The topography of the park varies from rolling savannah woodland, grassland plains and rocky outcrops cut by the Rufiji River and its tributaries. The Kilombero and Luwegu which together cover the greatest catchment area in East Africa, which flows from north to south provides the life-blood of the Selous. Sailing or Rafting down the Rufiji River is a superb way of seeing game.

Lunch served at the lodge followed by afternoon game drives in the reserve. Dinner and overnight Lake Manze Tented Camp

• DAY 5

DRIVE FROM SELOUS TO DAR ES SALAAM & FLY OUT

Breakfast is served at the Lodge. Check out and drive back to Dar es Salaam for your flight back to Dar your flight back home.

Included

• Required Game reserve entry & Concession fees
• Accommodations as specified in the itinerary.
• Meals as per the above itinerary – 3 Meals a day – Vegetarians and Non vegetarians
• Services of Dove Wildlife Experience English Speaking Driver Guide throughout the Trip.
• Wildlife viewing in a specially customized 4-wheel drive Land cruiser with Pop up roof for game viewing
• One Boat safari in the Rufiji River is included
• Bottled drinking water (1.0ltr bottled water per person per day).
• Full Board accommodation on Safari as specified in the itinerary
• Complete preparation materials including helpful tips, packing list, trip expectations, tipping guideline and much more

EXCLUDES

• Flying Doctors emergence fees
• Flight fares; Shown separately
• Soft drinks, beer, wine and spirits (as well as gifts like local crafts etc)
• Any local and international flights tickets (airline).
• Fees for passport, visas, immunizations and insurance
• Laundry, phone and other items of a personal nature
• Cost of hospitalization and evacuation if necessary
• Personal travel insurance
• Tips & Gratuities for assisting staff

Other Information

Transport while on Safari 

We’ll provide 1 special Safari Jeep – 4-Wheel drive Land cruiser fitted with pop – up roof for game viewing and photographing

Untouched Wildlife Zone

– An Experience Of A Life Time 13- Days/12 Nights

Its is a true itinerary that gives you time to touch and experience the untouched part of national parks lands in Africa. This trip will take you the famous selous, go for Ruaha national park, Mikumi national park and Katavi national park. You will be enjoying walking, hiking, game viewing, canoe ride etc. This is an adventure of a life time, for those who loves to be on safaris in areas which are virgin, this is the itinerary to take!!

 REQUEST A QUOTE

• DAY 1

ARRIVE AT DAR ES SALAAM.

Arrive Nyerere International Airport, Meet, greet and transfer to Dar es Salaam City center hotel for overnight.

Dinner and overnight Holiday inn Hotel  http://www.holidayinn.co.tz.

• DAY 2

DAR ES SALAAM/SELOUS GAME RESERVE.

After Breakfast at the hotel, collect packed lunch boxes and drive to Selous Game drive. Selous is the largest game reserves in Africa – 4 times the size of the Serengeti. It possesses a diverse landscape from hot volcanic springs, sporadic lakes, channels from the Great Ruaha and Rufiji rivers.It is one of the largest faunal reserves of the world, located in the south of Tanzania and was named after Englishman Sir Frederick Selous, a famous big game hunter and early conservationist, who died at BehoBeho in this territory in 1917.  Selous was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982 due to the diversity of its wildlife and undisturbed nature.

Interesting places in the park include the Rufiji River, which flows into the Indian Ocean opposite Mafia Island and the Stiegler Gorge, a canyon of 100 meters depth and 100 meters width. Habitats include grassland, typical Acacia savanna, wetlands and extensive Miombo woodlands. Rufiji River crossing the reserve is one of the most dramatic rivers in Tanzania’s Game reserves & National Parks which is navigable all year round. The chance to get out of a vehicle and view game from a boat is one of the things which make Selous Game Reserve such a great place to visit.
Dinner and overnight at Mbega camp.

• DAY 3

FULL DAY IN SELOUS GAME RESERVE

Breakfast is served at the Camp, Morning and afternoon game drives in the reserve.
Selous Game reserve is the largest protected wildlife area in Africa, due to unique ecological importance this pristine uninhabited area was declared as “World Heritage Site” by United Nations in 1982.

It is Africa’s greatest conservation area and covers a wide variety of wildlife habitats including Lakes, open grassland, acacia and Miombo woodland and riverine forests, which help the reserve to boast Tanzania’s largest and most important population of Elephant, Buffaloes & Wild Dogs. The topography of the park varies from rolling savannah woodland, grassland plains and rocky outcrops cut by the Rufiji River and its tributaries.

Game drives along the edges of the lakes, river and bushes are an extra attractive conjuring up a special magic as the sun goes down over the lakes.
Dinner and overnight at Mbega tented camp. http://www.selous-mbega-camp.com/

• DAY 4

ANOTHER FULL DAY IN SELOUS PARK.

Wake up very early morning, after a cup of tea/coffee transfer to Mtemere gate for Walking inside the Reserve with the escort of an armed ranger, the journey takes about 2 to 3hours, on arrival to your pick up point you will be transferred back to the Lodge for Breakfast. There after proceed with short game drives or short walk at the nearby village known as Mloka ‘till lunch time which will be served at Rufiji River Camp.

After lunch and short rest, followed by Boat Safari in the afternoon in Rufiji River, This is another way of game viewing in Selous game reserve by boat; it offers a unique experience as the Selous is the only reserve in Tanzania and East Africa where this option is available. Sailing or Rafting down the Rufiji River is a superb way of seeing game.
Dinner and overnight at Mbega tented camp.

• DAY 5

DRIVE FROM SELOUS GAME RESERVE/MIKUMI NATIONAL PARK.

Breakfast is served at the camp. Check out and drive to Mikumi National Park, lunch served en-route. The Park itself is nestled between Uluguru Mountain to the northeast, Udzungwa Mountains and the Rift Valley escarpment to the south west as part of Selous ecosystem, it benefits from the highest game density of the entire conservation area. This lies west of Dar es Salaam City and 107km from the nearest town named Morogoro on the highway from Dar es Salaam to Zambia, covering an area of 3230km sq.

The landscape of Mikumi is often compared to that of the Serengeti. The road that crosses the park divides it into two areas with partially distinct environments. The north-west area is characterized by the alluvial plain of the river basin Mkata. The vegetation of this area consists of savannah dotted with acacia, baobab, tamarinds, and some rare palm. In this area, at the furthest from the road, there are spectacular rock formations of the mountains Rubeho and Uluguru. The southeast part of the park is less rich in wildlife, and not very accessible.
Late evening drive to your Camp for Dinner and overnight.

Dinner and overnight at vuma hill tented camp. www.vumahills.com

• DAY 6

MIKUMI NATIONAL PARK/RUAHA NATIONAL PARK.

Wake up early morning for sunrise game drives in Mikumi followed by breakfast served at the Camp around 0900hrs, there after check out and drive to Ruaha National Park across Udzungwa chain of Mountains, crossing Ruaha Great River and the famous Kitonga Mountain, passing Iringa town for lunch. Afternoon proceed  with afternoon game drives en route to your lodge,Ruaha National park was named after Great Ruaha River which crosses the park and saves as its life line.The park history dates back to 1910 when it was gazetted as Saba Game Reserve by the German.

The name was changed to Rungwa game reserve in 1946 by British. In 1964 the southern portion of the game reserve was gazette as Ruaha National Park and in 1974 a small section of the southern part of the Great Ruaha River was incorporated into the park. Ruaha National Park is part of Rungwa, Kizigo and Muhesi ecosystem which covers approximately 45,000km sq.to make it the biggest National Park in East Africa after its nearby game reserves declared by the Government as part of Ruaha National Park.

Dinner and overnight at Ruaha River lodge. www.ruahariverlodge.com

• DAY 7

FULL DAY IN RUAHA NATIONAL PARK.

Breakfast is served at the lodge, Full day of game drives in Ruaha National park famous for concentration of Elephant than any other National Park in East Africa, it’s  a place where the magnificent mammals like Kudu (Both greater and lesser), Sable and Roan antelopes can easily be spotted, the Park is also the habitat for endangered Wild dogs. Other Mammals includes Giraffe, Zebra, Eland, Impala, Lion, Leopard, Cheetah, bat eared fox, jackals, etc. The Great The Great Ruaha River and other rivers like Mzombe save as the life line of the park due to the fact that, during the dry season these rivers become the only source of water for wildlife and habitats for Crocodiles, Hippos and Fish, however some few natural springs save the same purpose. Great Ruaha River support agricultural activities downstream and contributes to Hydro Electric Power (HEP) in Mtera and Kidatu dams. The Park boasts of its untouched and unexplored ecosystem, making visitors to have a unique safari experience.

Dinner and overnight at Ruaha river lodge.

• DAY 8

ANOTHER FULL DAY AT RUAHA NATIONAL PARK.

Breakfast is served at the lodge, Full day of game drives in Ruaha National Park with a combination of walking Safari with the escort of an armed ranger.

The Park is famous for its large population of elephants, with about 10,000 roaming the park. It is also frequented bybirdwatchers, with 436 species having been identified of an estimated total of 475. Among the resident birds are different species of Hornbills,Kingfishers and Sunbirds. Also many migrants’ birds visit Ruaha, e.g. the White Stork.

The park is currently facing a significant environmental challenge from the progressive drying up of the Great Ruaha River. The river used to flow all year round, but since 1993 there have been increasingly long periods every dry season in which it has dried up completely. Different hypotheses have been advanced to account for this, and one view is that it is caused by the expansion of irrigation schemes for rice cultivation and growth of livestock keeping in the Usangu wetland, which feeds the Great Ruaha River.

Enjoy sunset game drives in park, retire to your comfortable lodge after a full of satisfying day.Few travelers ever have the privilege of seeing, “the world as it was in the beginning.”  Under your dining area, hot soup, fresh bread, entrees and a scrumptious dessert await your evening indulgence.
Dinner and overnight at Ruaha River lodge.

• DAY 9

DRIVE FROM RUAHA NATIONAL PARK/MBEYA TOWN

After breakfast drive to Mbeya town, this City was created in 1961and considered to be heading the Southern Highlands Regions. It has weather with enough rainfall and fertile soil which enable it to be thelargest producer of maize, rice, bananas, beans, potatoes (Irish & sweet), soya nuts and wheat in the entire country. This City is now a growing metropolis and business Centre for the southern regions and the neighboring countries of Malawi, Zambia and Congo. Mbeya City is well connected with an all-weather road that forms part of the “Great North Road” running from Cape Town to Alexandria
Dinner and overnight at Utengule country resort. https://www.utengule.com/

• DAY 10

MBEYA TOWN/KATAVI NATIONAL PARK.

After breakfast, drive to Katavi National Park, lunch served en-route. Katavi is a very remote park that is less frequently visited than other Tanzanian national parks. It is approximately 4,471 square kilometers (1,726 sq mi) in area, which makes it the third largest national park in Tanzania. The park encompasses the Katuma River and the seasonal Lake Katavi and Lake Chada floodplains.

Wildlife features include large animal herds, particularly of Cape Buffaloes, zebras, wildebeest, giraffes, and elephants, plus along the Katuma river, crocodiles and hippopotami which upon annual dry seasons results in mudholes that can be packed with hundreds of hippos

Dinner and overnight at Katavi wildlife camp.

• DAY 11 & 12

FULL DAY KATAVI NATIONAL PARK

Breakfast is served at the camp, full day of game drives in the park. Carnivorous animals that are found in this park are cheetahs, wild dogs, hyenas, leopards, and lions. Some sources claim a very high biodiversity in the park, although there are also reports of wildlife decline due to illegal hunting and poaching, presumably bush meat’ sustenance. Katavi has fewer human visitors and jeeps conducting game drives than other Tanzania parks.
Dinner and overnight at Katavi wildlife camp  http://www.kataviwildlifecamp.com/.

• DAY 13

FLY BACK TO DAR ES SALAAM FOR YOUR INTERNATIONAL FLIGHT BACK HOME.

Breakfast is served at the hotel, Check out and drive back to Dar es Salaam – “house of Peace” formerly known as Mzizima, is the largest city in Tanzania. Dar es Salaam lost its official status as capital city to Dodoma in 1974; it remains the center of the permanent central government bureaucracy and continues to serve as the capital for the surrounding and is the commercial capital of the country

Included

• Meet and greet services and Airport transfers
• Required Game reserve entry& Concession
• All National Park entry & concession fees
• Accommodations as specified in the itinerary.
• Meals as per the above itinerary – 3 Meals a day – Vegetarians and Non vegetarians
• Full Board accommodation on Safari as specified in the itinerary
• Services of Bright Safari English Speaking Driver Guide throughout the Trip.
• Wildlife viewing drives in a specially customized 4-wheel jeep with Pop up roof for game viewing
• One Boat safari in the Rufiji River in Selous is included
• One Walking Safari in Selous Game Reserve with the escort of an armed ranger.
• One Walking Safari in Ruaha National Park with the escort of an armed ranger.
• Guiding fees during walking in Ruaha National Park& Selous Game Reserve
• Bottled drinking water (1.0ltr bottled water per person per day).
• FAR – First Air Responder (Cover East Africa only)
• Complete preparation materials including helpful tips, packing list, trip expectations, tipping guideline and much more

EXCLUDES

• Soft drinks, beer, wine and spirits (as well as gifts like local crafts etc)
• Any local and international flights tickets (airline).
• Fees for passport, visas, immunizations and insurance
• Laundry, phone and other items of a personal nature
• Tips for assisting staff, guide, etc.
• Cost of hospitalization and evacuation if necessary
• Personal travel insurance

Selous Touch Expirience

– 3 Days 2 Nights

Get a quick adventure down to selous, this is an adventure which gives you three days to explore the selous game reserve. It is a fly in and out package that help to save you time spent on the road driving and instead you will use this time on game drives, boat tour and walking safaris in the selous game reserve. Selous cover 50,000 squire kilometers and it is one of the favorate game viewing area in Africa.

 REQUEST A QUOTE

• DAY 1

DAR ES SALAAM /SELOUS.

Meet at Mtemere Airstrip in Selous and transfer to the Camp for check in and lunch, followed by afternoon game drives, Selous is the largest game reserve in Africa – 4 times the size of the Serengeti. It possesses a diverse landscape from hot volcanic springs, sporadic lakes, channels from the Great Ruaha and Rufiji rivers.

Rufiji River crossing the reserve is one of the most dramatic rivers in Tanzania’s Game reserves & National Parks which is navigable all year round. The chance to get out of a vehicle and view game from a boat is one of the things which make Selous Game Reserve such a great place to visit. Lunch at the lodge followed by afternoon game drives OR Cultural tourism at the nearby village named Mloka if staying out of the Game Reserve. Dinner and overnight at Rufiji River Camp.

• DAY 2

FULL DAY IN SELOUS.

Breakfast is served at the Camp, Morning and afternoon game execution in the reserve.
Selous Game reserve is the largest protected wildlife area in Africa, due to unique ecological importance this pristine uninhabited area was declared as “World Heritage Site” by United Nations in 1981.

It is Africa’s greatest conservation area and covers a wide variety of wildlife habitats including Lakes, open grassland, acacia and Miombo woodland and riverine forests, which help the reserve to boast Tanzania’s largest and most important population of Elephant, Buffaloes & Wild Dogs. The topography of the park varies from rolling savannah woodland, grassland plains and rocky outcrops cut by the Rufiji River and its tributaries.

Game drives along the edges of the lakes, river and bushes are an extra attractive conjuring up a special magic as the sun goes down over the lakes. Afternoon Boat Safari in the Rufiji River.
Dinner and overnight at Rufiji River Camp.

• DAY 3

DRIVE OR FLY BACK TO DAR ES SALAAM. FLY OUT

After breakfast which is served at the Lodge, you will check out and transfer to Mtemere airstrip for your flight back to Dar es Salaam/Drive back to Dar es Salaam airport for your flight back home.

Included

• Meet and greet services and Airport transfers
• Required Game reserve entry& Concession
• All National Park entry & concession fees
• Accommodations as specified in the itinerary.
• Meals as per the above itinerary – 3 Meals a day – Vegetarians and Non vegetarians
• Full Board accommodation on Safari as specified in the itinerary
• Services of Bright Safari English Speaking Driver Guide throughout the Trip.
• Wildlife viewing drives in a specially customized 4-wheel jeep with Pop up roof for game viewing
• One Boat safari in the Rufiji River in Selous is included
• One Walking Safari in Selous Game Reserve with the escort of an armed ranger.
• One Walking Safari in Ruaha National Park with the escort of an armed ranger.
• Guiding fees during walking in Ruaha National Park& Selous Game Reserve
• Bottled drinking water (1.0ltr bottled water per person per day).
• FAR – First Air Responder (Cover East Africa only)
• Complete preparation materials including helpful tips, packing list, trip expectations, tipping guideline and much more

EXCLUDES

• Soft drinks, beer, wine and spirits (as well as gifts like local crafts etc)
• Any local and international flights tickets (airline).
• Fees for passport, visas, immunizations and insurance
• Laundry, phone and other items of a personal nature
• Tips for assisting staff, guide, etc.
• Cost of hospitalization and evacuation if necessary
• Personal travel insurance

The Best Of Tanzania Southern Circuit Safaris

– 8 Days 7 Nights.

With this itinerary you will be having an amazing time to visit the southern Tanzania parks like Mikumi national park, Ruaha national park including the popular selous game reserve which is among st the largest African protected area with less human impact. In this package you will be having three day in selous, one full day in Mikumi national park and three full days in Ruaha national park. These areas are still with their natural environments and big part is still like the world it was before.

 REQUEST A QUOTE

• DAY 1

DAR ES SALAAM /SELOUS.

After breakfast, Pick up from Residence/Hotel and drive to Selous Game reserve, picnic lunches served on the way, Selous is the largest game reserve in Africa – 4 times the size of the Serengeti. It possesses a diverse landscape from hot volcanic springs, sporadic lakes, channels from the Great Ruaha and Rufiji rivers.

Rufiji River crossing the reserve is one of the most dramatic rivers in Tanzania’s Game reserves & National Parks which is navigable all year round. The chance to get out of a vehicle and view game from a boat is one of the things which make Selous Game Reserve such a great place to visit. Lunch at the lodge followed by afternoon game drives OR Cultural tourism at the nearby village named Mloka if staying out of the Game Reserve.
Dinner and overnight at Rufiji River Camp.

• DAY 2

FULL DAY IN SELOUS.

Breakfast is served at the Lodge/ Camp, Morning and afternoon game drives in the reserve.
Selous Game reserve is the largest protected wildlife area in Africa, due to unique ecological importance this pristine uninhabited area was declared as “World Heritage Site” by United Nations in 1981.

It is Africa’s greatest conservation area and covers a wide variety of wildlife habitats including Lakes, open grassland, acacia and Miombo woodland and riverine forests, which help the reserve to boast Tanzania’s largest and most important population of Elephant, Buffaloes & Wild Dogs. The topography of the park varies from rolling savannah woodland, grassland plains and rocky outcrops cut by the Rufiji River and its tributaries.

Game drives along the edges of the lakes, river and bushes are an extra attractive conjuring up a special magic as the sun goes down over the lakes.
Dinner and overnight at Rufiji River Camp.

• DAY 3

ANOTHER FULL DAY IN SELOUS.

Breakfast is served at the Lodge, Transfer to the Mtemere gate for a short walking safari in the reserve, you will be escorted by an armed ranger, this excursion can give you a big possibility to get closer to Elephant, Giraffe, Zebras and many more animals, The walk takes about 2hours. Then back to the gate and you will transferred to Lodge for Breakfast followed by a short game drives again in the reserve. Hot lunch is served at the lodge, there after followed by Boat safari in the Rufiji River (sailing in Rufiji River is another way to explore the beauty and game in Selous from the boat). Late evening you will transfer back to the Lodge for your overnight at Lake Manze Tented Camp.

• DAY 4

DRIVE FROM SELOUS TO MIKUMI PARK.

Breakfast is served at Camp, collect packed lunch and enjoy morning game drives en-route to Mikumi National Park. On arrival to Mikumi enjoy evening game drives enroute to your lodge of accommodation.
Dinner and Overnight Mikumi Wildlife Lodge

• DAY 5

MIKUMI NATIONAL PARK/RUAHA NATIONAL PARK.

Early morning game drives in Mikumi National Park, which itself is nestled between Uluguru Mountain to the northeast, Udzungwa Mountains and the Rift Valley escarpment to the south west as part of Selous ecosystem, it benefits from the highest game density of the entire conservation area. This lies west of Dar es Salaam City and 107km from the nearest town named Morogoro on the highway from Dar es Salaam to Zambia, covering an area of 3230km sq.
After breakfast around 0930hrs, collect packed lunch and drive to Ruaha National Park crossing Udzungwa chains of Mountain to Iringa town for a lunch stop, then precede to Ruaha National Park for game drives enroute to your Lodge for dinner and overnight at Ruaha River Lodge

• DAY 6

FULL DAY IN RUAHA NATIONAL PARK.

Breakfast is served at the lodge, Full day of game drives in Ruaha National park famous for concentration of Elephant than any other National Park in East Africa, it’s a place where the magnificent mammals like Kudu (Both greater and lesser), Sable and Roan antelopes can easily be spotted, the Park is also the habitat for endangered Wild dogs. Other Mammals includes Giraffe, Zebra, Eland, Impala, Lion, Leopard, Cheetah, bat eared fox, jackals, etc. The Great The Great Ruaha River and other rivers like Mzombe save as the life line of the park due to the fact that, during the dry season these rivers become the only source of water for wildlife and habitats for Crocodiles, Hippos and Fish, however some few natural springs save the same purpose. Great Ruaha River support agricultural activities downstream and contributes to Hydro Electric Power (HEP) in Mtera and Kidatu dams. The Park boasts of its untouched and unexplored ecosystem, making visitors to have a unique safari experience.
Dinner and overnight at Ruaha River Lodge

• DAY 7

ANOTHER FULL DAY GAME DRIVES IN RUAHA NATIONAL PARK.

Breakfast is served at the lodge, Full day of game drives in Ruaha National Park with a combination of walking Safari with the escort of an armed ranger.

The Park is famous for its large population of elephants, with about 10,000 roaming the park. It is also frequented by bird watchers, with 436 species having been identified of an estimated total of 475. Among the resident birds are different species of Hornbills, Kingfishers and Sunbirds. Also many migrants’ birds visit Ruaha, e.g. the White Stork. The park is currently facing a significant environmental challenge from the progressive drying up of the Great Ruaha River. The river used to flow all year round, but since 1993 there have been increasingly long periods every dry season in which it has dried up completely. Different hypotheses have been advanced to account for this, and one view is that it is caused by the expansion of irrigation schemes for rice cultivation and growth of livestock keeping in the Usangu wetland, which feeds the Great Ruaha River.

Enjoy sunset game drives in park, retire to your comfortable lodge after a full of satisfying day.Few travelers ever have the privilege of seeing, “the world as it was in the beginning.” Under your dining area, hot soup, fresh bread, entrees and a scrumptious dessert await your evening indulgence.
Dinner and overnight at Ruaha River Lodge

• DAY 8

DRIVE OR FLY BACK TO DAR ES SALAAM.

Breakfast is served at the Lodge, check out and transfer to Mtemere Airstrip for your flight to Dar es Salaam. OR drive back to Dar es Salaam for your flight back home.

Included

• Required Game reserve entry& Concession fees
• Accommodations as specified in the itinerary.
• Meals as per the aboveitinerary – 3 Meals a day – Vegetarians and Non vegetarians
• Services of Bright African Safari English Speaking Driver Guide throughout the Trip.
• Wildlife viewing drives in a specially customized 4-wheel drive Land rover (Tdi) Land cruiser with Pop up roof for game viewing
• One Boat safari in the Rufiji River is included
• One walking safari in Selous game reserves
• Complimentary bottled drinking water (1.5ltr bottled water per person per day).
• Full Board accommodation on Safari as specified in the itinerary
• Walking safari in Selous Game Reserves
• Complete preparation materials including helpful tips, packing list, trip expectations, tipping guideline and much more

EXCLUDES

• Soft drinks, beer, wine and spirits (as well as gifts like local crafts etc)
• Any local and international flights tickets (airline).
• Tips for staff such as guides, porters and the cook staff
• Fees for passport, visas, immunizations and insurance
• Meals and expenses en route to Tanzania
• Laundry, phone and other items of a personal nature
• We advice our clients to bring their own first Aid Kit.

With this itinerary you will be having an amazing time to visit the southern Tanzania parks like Mikumi national park, Ruaha national park including the popular selous game reserve which is among st the largest African protected area with less human impact. In this package you will be having three day in selous, one full day in Mikumi national park and three full days in Ruaha national park. These areas are still with their natural environments and big part is still like the world it was before.

 REQUEST A QUOTE

• DAY 1

DAR ES SALAAM /SELOUS.

After breakfast, Pick up from Residence/Hotel and drive to Selous Game reserve, picnic lunches served on the way, Selous is the largest game reserve in Africa – 4 times the size of the Serengeti. It possesses a diverse landscape from hot volcanic springs, sporadic lakes, channels from the Great Ruaha and Rufiji rivers.
Rufiji River crossing the reserve is one of the most dramatic rivers in Tanzania’s Game reserves & National Parks which is navigable all year round. The chance to get out of a vehicle and view game from a boat is one of the things which make Selous Game Reserve such a great place to visit. Lunch at the lodge followed by afternoon game drives OR Cultural tourism at the nearby village named Mloka if staying out of the Game Reserve.
Dinner and overnight at Rufiji River Camp.

• DAY 2

FULL DAY IN SELOUS.

Breakfast is served at the Lodge/ Camp, Morning and afternoon game drives in the reserve.
Selous Game reserve is the largest protected wildlife area in Africa, due to unique ecological importance this pristine uninhabited area was declared as “World Heritage Site” by United Nations in 1981.

It is Africa’s greatest conservation area and covers a wide variety of wildlife habitats including Lakes, open grassland, acacia and Miombo woodland and riverine forests, which help the reserve to boast Tanzania’s largest and most important population of Elephant, Buffaloes & Wild Dogs. The topography of the park varies from rolling savannah woodland, grassland plains and rocky outcrops cut by the Rufiji River and its tributaries.

Game drives along the edges of the lakes, river and bushes are an extra attractive conjuring up a special magic as the sun goes down over the lakes.
Dinner and overnight at Rufiji River Camp.

• DAY 3

ANOTHER FULL DAY IN SELOUS.

Breakfast is served at the Lodge, Transfer to the Mtemere gate for a short walking safari in the reserve, you will be escorted by an armed ranger, this excursion can give you a big possibility to get closer to Elephant, Giraffe, Zebras and many more animals, The walk takes about 2hours. Then back to the gate and you will transferred to Lodge for Breakfast followed by a short game drives again in the reserve. Hot lunch is served at the lodge, there after followed by Boat safari in the Rufiji River (sailing in Rufiji River is another way to explore the beauty and game in Selous from the boat). Late evening you will transfer back to the Lodge for your overnight at Lake Manze Tented Camp.

• DAY 4

DRIVE FROM SELOUS TO MIKUMI PARK.

Breakfast is served at Camp, collect packed lunch and enjoy morning game drives en-route to Mikumi National Park. On arrival to Mikumi enjoy evening game drives enroute to your lodge of accommodation.
Dinner and Overnight Mikumi Wildlife Lodge

• DAY 5

MIKUMI NATIONAL PARK/RUAHA NATIONAL PARK.

Early morning game drives in Mikumi National Park, which itself is nestled between Uluguru Mountain to the northeast, Udzungwa Mountains and the Rift Valley escarpment to the south west as part of Selous ecosystem, it benefits from the highest game density of the entire conservation area. This lies west of Dar es Salaam City and 107km from the nearest town named Morogoro on the highway from Dar es Salaam to Zambia, covering an area of 3230km sq.
After breakfast around 0930hrs, collect packed lunch and drive to Ruaha National Park crossing Udzungwa chains of Mountain to Iringa town for a lunch stop, then precede to Ruaha National Park for game drives enroute to your Lodge for dinner and overnight at Ruaha River Lodge

• DAY 6

FULL DAY IN RUAHA NATIONAL PARK.

Breakfast is served at the lodge, Full day of game drives in Ruaha National park famous for concentration of Elephant than any other National Park in East Africa, it’s a place where the magnificent mammals like Kudu (Both greater and lesser), Sable and Roan antelopes can easily be spotted, the Park is also the habitat for endangered Wild dogs. Other Mammals includes Giraffe, Zebra, Eland, Impala, Lion, Leopard, Cheetah, bat eared fox, jackals, etc. The Great The Great Ruaha River and other rivers like Mzombe save as the life line of the park due to the fact that, during the dry season these rivers become the only source of water for wildlife and habitats for Crocodiles, Hippos and Fish, however some few natural springs save the same purpose. Great Ruaha River support agricultural activities downstream and contributes to Hydro Electric Power (HEP) in Mtera and Kidatu dams. The Park boasts of its untouched and unexplored ecosystem, making visitors to have a unique safari experience.
Dinner and overnight at Ruaha River Lodge

• DAY 7

ANOTHER FULL DAY GAME DRIVES IN RUAHA NATIONAL PARK.

Breakfast is served at the lodge, Full day of game drives in Ruaha National Park with a combination of walking Safari with the escort of an armed ranger.
The Park is famous for its large population of elephants, with about 10,000 roaming the park. It is also frequented by bird watchers, with 436 species having been identified of an estimated total of 475. Among the resident birds are different species of Hornbills, Kingfishers and Sunbirds. Also many migrants’ birds visit Ruaha, e.g. the White Stork. The park is currently facing a significant environmental challenge from the progressive drying up of the Great Ruaha River. The river used to flow all year round, but since 1993 there have been increasingly long periods every dry season in which it has dried up completely. Different hypotheses have been advanced to account for this, and one view is that it is caused by the expansion of irrigation schemes for rice cultivation and growth of livestock keeping in the Usangu wetland, which feeds the Great Ruaha River.
Enjoy sunset game drives in park, retire to your comfortable lodge after a full of satisfying day.Few travelers ever have the privilege of seeing, “the world as it was in the beginning.” Under your dining area, hot soup, fresh bread, entrees and a scrumptious dessert await your evening indulgence.
Dinner and overnight at Ruaha River Lodge

• DAY 8

DRIVE OR FLY BACK TO DAR ES SALAAM.

Breakfast is served at the Lodge, check out and transfer to Mtemere Airstrip for your flight to Dar es Salaam. OR drive back to Dar es Salaam for your flight back home.

Included

• Required Game reserve entry& Concession fees
• Accommodations as specified in the itinerary.
• Meals as per the aboveitinerary – 3 Meals a day – Vegetarians and Non vegetarians
• Services of Bright African Safari English Speaking Driver Guide throughout the Trip.
• Wildlife viewing drives in a specially customized 4-wheel drive Land rover (Tdi) Land cruiser with Pop up roof for game viewing
• One Boat safari in the Rufiji River is included
• One walking safari in Selous game reserves
• Complimentary bottled drinking water (1.5ltr bottled water per person per day).
• Full Board accommodation on Safari as specified in the itinerary
• Walking safari in Selous Game Reserves
• Complete preparation materials including helpful tips, packing list, trip expectations, tipping guideline and much more

EXCLUDES

• Soft drinks, beer, wine and spirits (as well as gifts like local crafts etc)
• Any local and international flights tickets (airline).
• Tips for staff such as guides, porters and the cook staff
• Fees for passport, visas, immunizations and insurance
• Meals and expenses en route to Tanzania
• Laundry, phone and other items of a personal nature
• We advice our clients to bring their own first Aid Kit.