8 Day Authentic Nyerere & Ruaha National Park Safari

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Private Safari
From$3,480
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392
8 Day,7 Night
Availability : Jun, July, August, September, October, November, December, January, February, & March
Dar es Salaam
Nyerere National Park > Ruaha National Park > Dar es Salaam
Min Age : 5+
Max People : 12

This 8-day authentic safari takes you deep into Tanzania’s wild and less-traveled southern circuit, combining the vast riverine wilderness of Nyerere National Park with the rugged, predator-rich landscapes of Ruaha National Park. Beginning with a scenic road journey from Dar es Salaam, the experience offers a perfect mix of classic game drives, boat safaris, and immersive bush activities.

Midway through the safari, you’ll fly from Nyerere (Mtemere Airstrip) to Ruaha (Msembe Airstrip), allowing you to seamlessly transition between two very different ecosystems. With fewer crowds and raw, untouched nature, this itinerary is ideal for travelers seeking a truly authentic and exclusive safari experience.

Tour Highlights

Dive deep into Tanzania’s untouched wilderness on this 8-day authentic safari combining the remote beauty of Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous) and Ruaha National Park. Experience raw nature, abundant wildlife, and genuine safari adventures, all starting and ending in Dar es Salaam. This journey is designed for travelers seeking immersive game drives, river safaris, and tranquil bush lodge stays.

Departure & Return Location

Dar es Salaam ➝ Nyerere National Park ➝ Ruaha National Park ➝ Dar es Salaam

Departure Time

Depending on the Flight Schedule

Price Includes

  • 7 nights’ accommodation in mid-range lodges and/or tented camps on a full board basis.
  • Daily game drives in Nyerere and Ruaha in open-sided 4x4 vehicles
  • Sunset Boat safari on the Rufiji River
  • Guided Walking Safari in Nyerere & Ruaha
  • Flight transfer between the parks
  • Bottled drinking water during game drives and transfers
  • All park and conservation fees for Nyerere and Ruaha
  • Professional English-speaking safari guide

Price Excludes

  • International flights to/from Tanzania
  • Accommodation in Dar es Salaam before or after the safari
  • Personal expenses such as drinks, laundry, souvenirs
  • Travel insurance and visa fees
  • Optional activities not listed (e.g., hot air balloon unless pre-arranged)
  • Tips and gratuities for driver-guide and lodge staff
  • Any service not specified under "Package Inclusions"

Tips and Recommendations

  • Reccommended soft-sided duffel bags (max 15kg) for the domestic flight.
  • Wear neutral tones beige, olive, or khaki ideal for game drives and keeping insects away.
  • Bring a fleece or sweater for cool mornings and evenings in Ruaha.
  • Good walking shoes or boots are essential for optional walking safaris and nature walks.
  • Don't forget sunscreen, insect repellent, a wide-brim hat, and sunglasses for sun and bug protection.
  • Binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens will enhance wildlife and bird watching.
  • Small USD bills or Tanzanian Shillings are useful for tips and small purchases in remote areas.
  • Notify us of any dietary restrictions or medical needs before your trip.
  • Respect wildlife and guide instructions—especially during walking safaris and game drives.
What to Expect

This immersive 8-day journey takes you deep into two of Tanzania’s most remote and wildlife-rich parks. You’ll experience a mix of thrilling open-vehicle game drives, serene boat safaris, and optional walking adventures. With a slower pace, less-crowded landscapes, and rich biodiversity, this safari offers a more intimate connection with nature. From elephant herds along the Rufiji to big cats roaming the baobab-filled valleys of Ruaha, every day brings a new surprise.

  • Scenic road transfer from Dar es Salaam to Nyerere National Park
  • Boat safari on the Rufiji River with close-up wildlife viewing
  • Guided game drives and optional walking safaris
  • Fly-in transfer from Nyerere to Ruaha for efficiency and comfort
  • Exceptional Big Cats sightings in Ruaha
  • Remote, uncrowded parks with authentic wilderness feel
  • Diverse ecosystems from wetlands to dry savannah
Itinerary

Day 1 Dar es Salaam to Nyerere National Park

Your journey begins with an early morning departure from Dar es Salaam, traveling by road to Nyerere National Park (approx. 4 – 5 hours). The drive offers a glimpse into rural Tanzania, passing local villages and changing landscapes.

Upon arrival, check in at your lodge and enjoy lunch before heading out for an afternoon boat safari on the Rufiji River. This unique activity allows you to get close to hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of birdlife as the sun sets over the water. Dinner and overnight at your lodge or tented camp.

Accommodation: Nyerere Tented Camp
Meals & Drinks

  • All meals included
  • Drinking water (Other drinks not included).

Day 2 Full Day Safari in Nyerere National Park

After an early breakfast, set off for a full-day game drive exploring the vast and diverse ecosystems of Nyerere. The park is home to large populations of elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and predators such as lions and wild dogs.

Enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush before continuing your exploration in the afternoon. The relatively low number of visitors enhances the feeling of true wilderness. Return to camp in the late afternoon for dinner and overnight.

Accommodation: Nyerere Tented Camp
Meals & Drinks

  • All meals included
  • Drinking water (Other drinks not included).

Day 3Walking Safari & Afternoon Game Drive

Start your day with a guided walking safari, offering a completely different perspective of the bush. Accompanied by an armed ranger, you’ll learn about animal tracks, plants, and smaller wildlife often missed during game drives. After returning to camp for breakfast and some relaxation, head out again in the afternoon for another game drive, focusing on areas not yet explored. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.

Accommodation: Nyerere Tented Camp
Meals & Drinks

  • All meals included
  • Drinking water (Other drinks not included).

Day 4 Nyerere to Ruaha National Park

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast followed by leisure time at the lodge. Later, transfer to Mtemere Airstrip for your scheduled flight to Ruaha National Park (Msembe Airstrip). The scenic flight offers stunning aerial views of Tanzania’s landscapes. Upon arrival, meet your guide and begin a game drive en route to your lodge, with chances to spot elephants, antelope, and predators. Dinner and overnight in Ruaha.

Accommodation: Ruaha River Camp
Meals & Drinks

  • All meals included
  • Drinking water (Other drinks not included).

 

Day 5 Full Day Game Drives in Ruaha

After breakfast, embark on a full-day game drive in Ruaha National Park, known for its rugged terrain and high concentration of predators. The Great Ruaha River is a key wildlife hotspot, attracting elephants, buffalo, and large prides of lions. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush and continue exploring different habitats throughout the day. Return to your lodge in the late afternoon for dinner and overnight.

Accommodation: Ruaha River Camp
Meals & Drinks

  • All meals included
  • Drinking water (Other drinks not included).

Days 6Game Drives & Big Cats Tracking

Spend the day exploring Ruaha with morning and afternoon game drives. This park is famous for its Big Cats, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs. Your guide will track wildlife movements to maximize sightings. Between drives, relax at the lodge and enjoy the peaceful surroundings. Dinner and overnight.

Accommodation: Ruaha River Camp
Meals & Drinks

  • All meals included
  • Drinking water (Other drinks not included).

Day 7Optional Activities & Final Exploration

Enjoy a flexible day in Ruaha. You may choose to go on additional game drives, revisit favorite areas, or simply relax at the lodge while soaking in the wilderness atmosphere. This day allows you to fully appreciate the remote beauty of the park at your own pace. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.

Accommodation: Ruaha River Camp
Meals & Drinks

  • All meals included
  • Drinking water (Other drinks not included).

Days 8Ruaha to Dar es Salaam / Zanzibar (Flight)

After breakfast, transfer to Msembe Airstrip for your scheduled flight back to Dar es Salaam or onward to Zanzibar. As you depart, take in final aerial views of the vast wilderness, marking the end of your unforgettable southern Tanzania safari.

Accommodation: No Accommodation
Meals & Drinks

  • Breakfast (Lunch & Dinner not included)
  • Drinking water (Other drinks not included).

 

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