Overview for 9-Day Southern Tanzania & Coastal Experience Safari
This 9-day safari offers an extraordinary blend of adventure and relaxation, taking you through the rugged wilderness of southern Tanzania before ending with a luxurious beach stay on Zanzibar Island. Experience thrilling game drives in Ruaha National Park and Selous Game Reserve, two of Tanzania’s most pristine and lesser-known parks. Then, unwind on the white sandy beaches of Zanzibar, where you can enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Indian Ocean and explore the island’s rich cultural heritage.
Highlights:
- Explore Ruaha National Park, home to large populations of elephants, lions, and leopards.
- Discover the diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife of Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park).
- Enjoy a luxurious beach retreat on Zanzibar, with opportunities for snorkeling, diving, and cultural excursions.
- Stay in high-end lodges and beach resorts that offer exceptional service and comfort.
Accommodation: Throughout your safari, you’ll stay in luxurious lodges and resorts that provide the perfect blend of comfort and proximity to nature:
- Jabali Ridge in Ruaha National Park (Day 1, 2, 3)
- Siwandu Camp in Selous Game Reserve (Day 4, 5)
- Zuri Zanzibar in Zanzibar (Day 6, 7, 8)
9-Day Southern Tanzania & Coastal Experience Safari Price Range
Price Includes:
- Full board accommodations as listed
- All park fees and government taxes
- Transportation in a 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for game viewing
- Services of a professional English-speaking guide
- Game drives and activities as mentioned
- Drinking water while on safari
- Airport transfers
Price Excludes:
- International flights
- Visas
- Travel insurance
- Tips and gratuities
- Personal expenses (e.g., laundry, phone calls)
- Alcoholic beverages
Book 9-Day Southern Tanzania & Coastal Experience Safari NOW!
Our sample itineraries are adjustable to your preferences. You can talk to Our specialists and work together with you to create your dream journey!
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Dar es Salaam & Fly to Ruaha National Park
- Accommodation: Jabali Ridge
- Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Upon arrival at Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam, you’ll be greeted by your private guide and transferred to a domestic flight bound for Ruaha National Park. Upon arrival, you’ll be driven to Jabali Ridge, a luxurious lodge nestled in the heart of Ruaha’s rugged landscape. After settling into your suite, enjoy an afternoon game drive, where you can start exploring Ruaha’s diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, and kudu. Return to the lodge for a gourmet dinner.
Day 2: Full Day in Ruaha National Park
- Accommodation: Jabali Ridge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Spend a full day exploring the vast wilderness of Ruaha National Park. Your private guide will take you on morning and afternoon game drives, focusing on the areas where wildlife is most abundant. Ruaha is known for its large predator populations, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs, as well as its impressive elephant herds. In between game drives, relax at Jabali Ridge and take in the panoramic views from the infinity pool. Enjoy a sunset game drive followed by a dinner under the stars.
Day 3: Another Day of Adventure in Ruaha National Park
- Accommodation: Jabali Ridge
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Continue your exploration of Ruaha with another full day of game drives. This park is less visited than others in Tanzania, offering a true sense of wilderness and solitude. In addition to game drives, you may opt for a walking safari, where you can experience the bush on foot, guided by a knowledgeable ranger. The day concludes with a sundowner in a scenic location, followed by a delicious dinner at the lodge.
Day 4: Fly to Selous Game Reserve
- Accommodation: Siwandu Camp
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After a final morning game drive and breakfast at Jabali Ridge, you’ll be transferred to the airstrip for your flight to Selous Game Reserve. Upon arrival, you’ll be driven to Siwandu Camp, located on the shores of Lake Nzerakera. In the afternoon, embark on a boat safari along the Rufiji River, where you can spot hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. Return to camp for dinner and enjoy the sounds of the African night.
Day 5: Full Day in Selous Game Reserve
- Accommodation: Siwandu Camp
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Spend the day exploring the rich landscapes of Selous Game Reserve, one of Africa’s largest and most diverse protected areas. Enjoy a mix of game drives, boat safaris, and walking safaris, allowing you to experience the wildlife from different perspectives. Selous is home to a wide range of animals, including elephants, lions, leopards, and African wild dogs. After a day of adventure, return to Siwandu Camp for a relaxing evening and a sumptuous dinner.
Day 6: Fly to Zanzibar
- Accommodation: Zuri Zanzibar
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, take a morning flight to the beautiful island of Zanzibar. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to Zuri Zanzibar, a luxury beach resort located on the island’s northern shores. Check into your spacious bungalow or villa and spend the rest of the day relaxing on the pristine beach, swimming in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, or exploring the resort’s lush gardens. Enjoy a gourmet dinner at the resort’s restaurant.
Day 7: Full Day at Leisure in Zanzibar
- Accommodation: Zuri Zanzibar
- Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Spend the day at your leisure, enjoying the many activities that Zanzibar has to offer. You can choose to go snorkeling or diving in the vibrant coral reefs, take a spice tour to learn about Zanzibar’s rich agricultural heritage, or visit the historic Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Alternatively, simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun. Return to Zuri Zanzibar for a romantic dinner and sunset views.
Day 8: Another Day in Paradise on Zanzibar
- Accommodation: Zuri Zanzibar
- Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy another day in paradise, with plenty of time to explore or relax as you wish. Consider taking a dhow cruise at sunset, visiting Jozani Forest to see the endemic red colobus monkeys, or indulging in a spa treatment at the resort. Zuri Zanzibar offers the perfect blend of luxury and tranquility, making it the ideal place to unwind after your safari. In the evening, savor a special dinner on the beach.
Day 9: Departure from Zanzibar
- Meals: Breakfast
After a leisurely breakfast, enjoy your final moments on the beach before being transferred to Zanzibar International Airport for your departure flight. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for some last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Stone Town.
Book 9-Day Southern Tanzania & Coastal Experience Safari NOW!
Our sample itineraries are adjustable to your preferences. You can talk to Our specialists and work together with you to create your dream journey!