Southern Tanzania Safari: Mikumi, Ruaha & Nyerere
Explore Tanzania's wild and remote southern circuit with incredible wildlife encounters in three spectacular national parks
Tour Overview
Venture off the beaten path to discover Tanzania's spectacular southern circuit. This 13-day safari takes you through Mikumi, Ruaha, and Nyerere (formerly Selous) National Parks—three of Tanzania's most pristine and remote wilderness areas. Experience authentic "wild Africa" with fewer tourists and abundant wildlife.
From traditional game drives to thrilling boat safaris on the Rufiji River and adventurous walking safaris, this comprehensive tour offers diverse ways to experience Tanzania's incredible biodiversity. Encounter massive elephant herds, rare African wild dogs, and an impressive concentration of predators in landscapes ranging from baobab-dotted plains to lush rainforests.
Day by Day Itinerary
Arrival in Tanzania
Accommodation: Hotel in Dar es Salaam | Meals: Half Board
Upon arrival at Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR), you will be met by your Kim'zebra Adventures & Safaris driver for a transfer to your hotel in Dar es Salaam. (Lunch & Dinner Included)
Dar es Salaam – Mikumi National Park
Accommodation: Lodge / Tented Camp in Mikumi | Meals: Full Board
Pick up from your Dar es Salaam hotel and drive to Mikumi National Park. Arrive in the early afternoon, check-in, have lunch, and then set off for a late afternoon safari drive to get your first glimpse of Mikumi's wildlife.
Mikumi & Udzungwa Mountain National Park
Accommodation: Lodge / Tented Camp in Mikumi | Meals: Full Board
After breakfast, drive with packed lunch to Udzungwa Mountain National Park. Enjoy a guided walk in this unique park, famous for its rare plants and endemic primates like the Iringa Red Colobus. Walk through the lush rainforest, relax by waterfalls, and enjoy spectacular views. Return to Mikumi in the late afternoon.
Mikumi National Park – Ruaha National Park
Accommodation: Lodge / Tented Camp in Ruaha | Meals: Full Board
After breakfast, depart with a packed lunch for Ruaha National Park. The drive is a long but fascinating 7-hour journey, offering an immersive experience of the Tanzanian countryside before arriving at your lodge/tented camp.
Full Day in Ruaha National Park
Accommodation: Lodge / Tented Camp in Ruaha | Meals: Full Board
Spend the first of two full days on safari drives within Ruaha National Park, often referred to as one of Tanzania's best-kept secrets. Its remoteness provides an authentic 'wild Africa' safari impression. Enjoy packed lunches during the day.
Full Day in Ruaha National Park
Accommodation: Lodge / Tented Camp in Ruaha | Meals: Full Board
Your second full day of game drives in the vast wilderness of Ruaha. This park is known for its rugged landscape and large concentration of elephants and predators. Return to your lodge/tented camp in the evenings.
Ruaha National Park – Mufindi Highlands
Accommodation: Lodge in Mufindi Highlands | Meals: Full Board
After breakfast, drive to the Mufindi Highlands, arriving in time for lunch. This area offers a refreshing change of scenery, surrounded by tea estates, montane forest, lakes, and rivers. Choose from activities like walks, fishing, golf, or horseback riding.
Full Day in Mufindi Highlands
Accommodation: Lodge in Mufindi Highlands | Meals: Full Board
A full day to relax after your safari rigors or participate in the lodge's offered activities. Enjoy the cool climate, stunning scenery, or simply unwind.
Mufindi Highlands – Morogoro
Accommodation: Lodge in Morogoro | Meals: Full Board
After breakfast, drive north towards Dar es Salaam to the town of Morogoro with a packed lunch. Enjoy the local town life and stay overnight at a lodge.
Morogoro – Selous/Nyerere National Park
Accommodation: Lodge / Tented Camp in Selous | Meals: Full Board
After breakfast, drive with a packed lunch to the vast Selous Game Reserve / Nyerere National Park. The journey is approximately 7 hours through truly wild and untouched areas of Tanzania. Arrive and check in to your accommodation.
Full Day in Selous/Nyerere National Park
Accommodation: Lodge / Tented Camp in Selous | Meals: Full Board
Start with a full day of traditional safari drives. In the afternoon, enjoy a thrilling boat safari on the mighty Rufiji River, where you will glide past hippos, crocodiles, and abundant birdlife.
Full Day in Selous/Nyerere National Park
Accommodation: Lodge / Tented Camp in Selous | Meals: Full Board
Wake up early for an adventurous walking safari led by a professional guide and an armed ranger. This offers a unique perspective to learn about the reserve's small details, flora, and fauna. Return for lunch and an afternoon of relaxation.
Selous – Dar es Salaam
Accommodation: Departure/Own Accommodation | Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
After breakfast, drive back to Dar es Salaam with a packed lunch. Arrive in the early afternoon for drop-off at your hotel or Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) for your onward journey.
What's Included
- Airport transfers (Pick-up and drop-off at Julius Nyerere Airport)
- Accommodation and meals as specified (Full Board Days 2-12)
- All game drives, concession fees, and park entry fees
- Government tax (18% VAT) and service charges
- Private 4x4 safari vehicle with English-Speaking Driver-Guide
- Bottled mineral water in vehicle
- Optional camping gear for camping safari
What's Not Included
- International and domestic flights
- Tanzania Visa ($50-$100 depending on nationality)
- Meals not listed (Breakfast Day 1, Dinner Day 13)
- Accommodation in Dar es Salaam (can be arranged)
- Optional activities and excursions
- Tips for crew (Recommended: $25/day guide, $15/day cook)
- Personal insurance and inoculations
- Holiday surcharges ($40/day Christmas/New Year, $35 Easter)
Ready for an Authentic Safari Adventure?
Book this incredible 13-day southern circuit safari and discover Tanzania's hidden wilderness gems