Overview & Summary
Welcome to one of Africa's largest and most pristine wilderness areas. This 3-day safari takes you from Dar es Salaam into the heart of Nyerere National Park, formerly the legendary Selous Game Reserve. Spanning over 30,000 square kilometers, this UNESCO-recognized landscape offers a raw and uncrowded safari experience unlike any other. You will explore the mighty Rufiji River on a peaceful boat safari, watching hippos and crocodiles in their natural element, and venture across vast savannahs on thrilling game drives in search of elephants, lions, wild dogs, and giraffes. With comfortable accommodations, expert guidance from BMC TOURS & SAFARI, and a gentle pace that lets you absorb every moment, this safari is a perfect escape into Tanzania's southern wilderness.
Full Itinerary
Scenic Countryside Transfer & Sunset Rufiji River Boat Safari
Your adventure begins with a warm welcome from your BMC TOURS & SAFARI guide at your Dar es Salaam hotel or the airport. You will depart on a scenic drive of approximately 5 to 6 hours through rural landscapes and bustling villages, offering glimpses of everyday Tanzanian life along the way. Upon arrival at your lodge near the park, enjoy a freshly prepared lunch and settle into your comfortable accommodation.
In the late afternoon, embark on a peaceful boat safari along the Rufiji River, the lifeblood of Nyerere National Park. Drift silently past pods of hippos grunting and splashing, crocodiles basking on sandy banks, and elephants coming to drink at the water's edge. Colorful kingfishers and fish eagles fill the air with song. As the sun sets over the river painting the sky in gold and orange, return to your lodge for dinner and a restful night.
Dinner and overnight at Nyerere Tented Camp
Vast Savannah Big Game Drive, Lake Picnic Lunch & Wild Dog Tracking
After an early breakfast, set off with your BMC guide for a full day game drive across Nyerere's vast and varied landscapes. This enormous park is home to an incredible diversity of wildlife, including large herds of elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, and impalas. Predators such as lions, leopards, hyenas, and the endangered African wild dog (painted wolf) roam freely here.
Your guide will navigate open grasslands, miombo woodlands, and hidden lagoons, sharing insights about animal behaviors and the park's unique ecosystem. Stop for a peaceful picnic lunch at a scenic spot selected by your guide, perhaps overlooking a lake or shaded by acacia trees. The afternoon offers more gentle exploration before returning to your lodge for dinner under the stars.
Dinner and overnight at Nyerere Tented CampArmed Ranger Walking Trek, Bush Tracking & Dar es Salaam / Zanzibar Drop-off
Wake to the soft light of dawn for one of Africa's most intimate experiences—a guided walking safari accompanied by an armed ranger. On foot, you will notice the small details often missed on game drives: animal tracks in the sand, medicinal plants, insects, and the awakening sounds of the bush. Your guide and ranger will ensure your safety while sharing knowledge about survival skills and the delicate ecosystem.
After approximately two hours, return to your lodge for a hearty breakfast and time to refresh. Later, begin your scenic drive back to Dar es Salaam, with a packed lunch provided for the journey. You will arrive in the late afternoon, with flexible drop-off at your hotel, the airport, or the ferry terminal if continuing to Zanzibar, marking the end of your unforgettable southern wilderness safari.
END OF OUR SERVICESInclusions & Exclusions
Included
- Professional English-speaking BMC TOURS & SAFARI guide
- Private 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
- Airport and hotel pickup and drop-off in Dar es Salaam
- All park entry fees for Nyerere National Park
- Boat safari on the Rufiji River as described
- Full day game drive with picnic lunch
- Guided walking safari with armed ranger
- 2 nights' accommodation in comfortable lodge or tented camp (Nyerere Tented Camp)
- Meals: 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners
- Bottled drinking water throughout your safari
- All government taxes and levies
Excluded
- International and domestic flights
- Tanzania visa fees
- Travel and medical insurance
- Tips for your guide, ranger, and lodge staff
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Personal expenses such as souvenirs and laundry
- Accommodation in Dar es Salaam before or after the safari
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
Optional Activities
