5 Days Selous (Nyerere) & Rufiji River Safari
This 5-day southern Tanzania safari offers a unique blend of game drives, boat safaris, and walking adventures inside Africa’s largest protected wildlife reserve — Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve). Explore the mighty Rufiji River, spot elephants, lions, hippos, crocodiles, and wild dogs, and enjoy authentic bush experiences with comfortable lodge stays. Perfect for travelers seeking a quieter, more exclusive safari.
Duration:
5 Days / 4 Nights
Destinations:
Nyerere National Park (Selous) • Rufiji River
Tour Type:
Private Lodge Safari (4×4 Safari Vehicle + Boat Safari)
Starting Point:
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Safari Highlights
Game drives in Africa’s largest wildlife sanctuary
Scenic boat safari on the Rufiji River — see hippos, crocs & water birds
Excellent chances to spot wild dogs, lions, elephants, buffalo & giraffes
Optional guided walking safari inside Nyerere
Fewer crowds compared to northern parks — pure wilderness
Beautiful river sunsets and photographic landscapes
Comfortable lodges/tented camps with excellent service
🗓️ Itinerary Overview
Day 1: Dar es Salaam → Nyerere National Park (Selous)
After breakfast your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Dar es Salaam. Drive south through coastal villages and miombo woodlands toward Nyerere National Park. Arrive for lunch followed by a relaxing afternoon and optional nature walk.
Accommodation: Selous/Nyerere Lodge or Tented Camp (FB)
Day 2: Full-Day Game Drive in Nyerere National Park
Enjoy a full day of game viewing in this vast wilderness. Explore woodlands, open plains, riverbanks, and lakes where lions, elephants, buffaloes, wild dogs, zebras, and impalas roam freely. Picnic lunch inside the park keeps you close to the wildlife.
Accommodation: Selous/Nyerere Lodge or Tented Camp (FB)
Day 3: Rufiji River Boat Safari + Afternoon Game Drive
Today begins with a thrilling boat safari on the Rufiji River, one of Tanzania’s most scenic waterways. Watch hippos wallow, crocodiles sunbathe, and birds fill the sky. After lunch, head out for an afternoon game drive to track predators and big game.
Accommodation: Selous/Nyerere Lodge or Tented Camp (FB)
Day 4: Walking Safari + Game Drive
Start the morning with a guided walking safari led by an armed ranger — a chance to learn about animal tracks, plants, insects, and the ecosystem of Selous up close. Later, enjoy another game drive or relax at your lodge overlooking the river.
Accommodation: Selous/Nyerere Lodge or Tented Camp (FB)
Day 5: Return to Dar es Salaam
After breakfast, begin your journey back to Dar es Salaam with drop-off at your hotel or airport. End of an unforgettable southern Tanzania wilderness adventure.
Safari Booking
Private 4×4 safari vehicle
Professional English-speaking safari guide
All park entry fees & conservation fees
Full-board accommodation
Boat safari on the Rufiji River
Guided walking safari
Drinking water during safari
Hotel/airport transfers (Dar es Salaam)
International/domestic flights
Visa fees
Travel insurance
Tips for guide & lodge staff
Alcoholic & soft drinks
Personal expenses (laundry, souvenirs)
Optional activities not listed