This seven-day southern circuit pairs the water-and-woodland wilderness of Nyerere National Park with the rugged, elephant-rich landscapes of Ruaha, linked by a short scenic flight rather than a long drive.
From Rufiji boat safaris and walking safaris to baobab-studded game drives among huge herds and big lion prides, it suits adventurous travellers and wildlife enthusiasts wanting a deeper, two-park journey through Tanzania’s wild and uncrowded south.
Depart Dar es Salaam on a short light-aircraft flight to Nyerere and transfer to your riverside tented camp for lunch. Settle in before an afternoon game drive through the woodlands along the Rufiji, watching for giraffe, buffalo and impala. Dinner is served at camp beside the river.
A morning game drive seeks out lions, greater kudu and the resident packs of African wild dogs. In the afternoon, a Rufiji River boat safari brings you close to hippos, crocodiles and elephants drinking at the water's edge, with fish eagles overhead. Return to camp for sundowners and dinner.
Set off on a guided walking safari with an armed ranger for a closer, on-foot perspective of the bush and its smaller wonders. Later, explore toward Lake Tagalala and its hot springs, taking in the lakeside birdlife and crocodiles. A final Nyerere evening is spent around the campfire.
After a leisurely breakfast, take a light-aircraft flight to Ruaha National Park, landing at Msembe airstrip after roughly one and a half to two hours. Your guide transfers you to a camp or lodge on the Great Ruaha River. An afternoon game drive introduces Ruaha's baobab country and its large elephant herds.
Spend a full day exploring Ruaha's dramatic landscapes, following the river where elephants, buffalo and antelope gather. Ruaha is renowned for its big lion prides and both greater and lesser kudu, offering superb sightings against a backdrop of ancient baobabs. Picnic in the bush or return to the lodge for lunch before an afternoon drive.
Continue full-day game viewing across Ruaha's varied terrain, from riverine forest to open plains, with excellent chances of predators and huge elephant gatherings. This wild, remote park sees few vehicles, so sightings feel intimate and unhurried. Enjoy a final sundowner in the bush before dinner at your lodge.
Take an early game drive or a relaxed breakfast depending on your flight schedule. You are then transferred to Msembe airstrip for your light-aircraft flight back to Dar es Salaam, connecting with onward or international travel.
10 Days
5 Days
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