Experience the Ultimate 7-Day Mikumi, Ruaha, and Nyerere Safari, a remarkable journey through southern Tanzania’s most spectacular wildlife destinations. This adventure combines the open plains of Mikumi National Park, the remote wilderness of Ruaha National Park, and the vast riverine landscapes of Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve), offering a truly immersive safari experience.

Over seven days, you’ll encounter elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, giraffes, hippos, and abundant birdlife across diverse ecosystems. Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, photographers, and travelers seeking a mix of adventure and tranquility, this itinerary showcases Tanzania’s southern circuit in all its glory.

Why Choose the Mikumi, Ruaha, and Nyerere Safari?

1. Diverse Wildlife Opportunities

• Mikumi National Park: Open savannah plains with zebras, giraffes, elephants, and lions.

• Ruaha National Park: Predator-rich areas with large lion prides, leopards, and rare African wild dogs.

• Nyerere National Park: Riverine habitats, wetlands, and floodplains supporting hippos, crocodiles, and elephants.

2. Scenic Contrasts

• Mikumi: Expansive plains reminiscent of the Serengeti, dotted with acacia trees.

• Ruaha: Rolling hills, miombo woodlands, and rivers teeming with wildlife.

• Nyerere: Forested riverbanks, lakes, and floodplains offering unique photographic opportunities.

3. Exclusive Safari Experience

Southern Tanzania receives fewer tourists than the northern circuit, allowing for private game drives, intimate wildlife encounters, and tranquil bush settings.

4. Comprehensive 7-Day Exploration

This itinerary provides a balanced safari experience, combining morning and evening game drives, boat safaris, and leisure time in luxury lodges or tented camps.

Safari Overview

Duration: 7 Days / 6 Nights
Destinations: Mikumi National Park, Ruaha National Park, Nyerere National Park
Safari Type: Luxury or Mid-Range Wildlife Safari
Starting Point: Dar es Salaam / Zanzibar / Iringa
Best Time to Visit: June – October (dry season) for wildlife spotting; November – May (green season) for lush landscapes and birdwatching.

Detailed 7-Day Safari Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Mikumi National Park – Welcome to the Savannah

Morning:

Pick up from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar and drive approximately 4–5 hours to Mikumi National Park. Enjoy views of Morogoro’s rolling hills, villages, and farmland en route.

Afternoon:

After lunch at your lodge or camp, embark on your first afternoon game drive across the Mkata Floodplain. Spot wildlife such as:

• Herds of elephants and buffaloes

• Lions and leopards lounging under acacias

• Giraffes and zebras grazing on the plains

Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

Accommodation Options:

• Luxury: Vuma Hills Tented Camp / Mikumi Wildlife Camp

• Mid-Range: Camp Bastian / Tan-Swiss Lodge

Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Full-Day Game Drive in Mikumi National Park

Start early to catch morning wildlife activity.

Morning:

Drive across the Mkata Floodplain and surrounding areas, focusing on predator and plains animal sightings:

• Lions, leopards, and cheetahs

• Large elephant herds

• Grazing giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests

Midday:

Enjoy a bush picnic lunch or return to your lodge.

Afternoon:

Continue your safari exploring Hippo Pools and birding hotspots. Optional sundowner photography session to capture the golden savannah light.

Return to lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 3: Transfer to Ruaha National Park – Remote Wilderness

Morning:

After breakfast, transfer to Ruaha National Park by road (approx. 5–6 hours) or via domestic flight. Stop en route for scenic views and short refreshments.

Afternoon:

Arrive at your lodge or camp and enjoy an afternoon game drive, exploring Ruaha’s rolling hills and river valleys. Wildlife highlights include:

• Elephants near the Great Ruaha River

• Lions, leopards, and buffaloes

• Hippos and crocodiles along riverbanks

Accommodation Options:

• Luxury: Jabali Ridge / Ruaha River Lodge / Ikuka Safari Camp

• Mid-Range: Mdonya Old River Camp / Ruaha Hilltop Lodge

Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Full-Day Game Drive in Ruaha National Park

Morning:

Early morning game drive along Mwagusi and Jongomero Rivers, observing predators, elephants, and other plains species.

Midday:

Enjoy a bush lunch or return to lodge for a break.

Afternoon:

Continue exploring Ruaha’s dramatic landscapes, focusing on:

• Lions, leopards, and cheetahs

• Elephants, giraffes, zebras, and buffaloes

• Birdwatching along rivers and floodplains

Return to lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Transfer to Nyerere National Park (Selous) – Riverine Safari

After breakfast, drive or fly to Nyerere National Park (Selous Game Reserve), one of Africa’s largest protected areas.

Afternoon:

Check in at your lodge and enjoy an afternoon game drive or optional boat safari along the Rufiji River:

• Hippos and crocodiles in the rivers

• Elephants drinking at riverbanks

• Lions and buffaloes in the floodplains

• Waterbirds including herons, storks, and African fish eagles

Accommodation Options:

• Luxury: Selous Safari Camp / Siwandu Camp / Beho Beho Safari Camp

• Mid-Range: Rufiji River Camp / Sand Rivers Selous

Meals: Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Full-Day Game & Boat Safari in Nyerere National Park

Morning:

Take a morning game drive to explore floodplains, miombo woodlands, and riverbanks for:

• Lions, leopards, and cheetahs

• Large herds of elephants and buffaloes

• Rare antelopes such as sable and roan

Midday:

Return to lodge for a relaxing lunch.

Afternoon Boat Safari:

Enjoy a boat safari along the Rufiji River for unique wildlife viewing:

• Hippos and crocodiles

• Elephants and buffaloes at the riverbanks

• Birdwatching and scenic photography

Return to lodge for dinner and overnight stay.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Morning Game Drive & Departure

Morning:

Enjoy a final early morning game drive in Nyerere or Mikumi, capturing last wildlife sightings.

After breakfast, transfer back to Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar for your onward flight. Depart with memories of an unforgettable southern Tanzania safari adventure.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation Highlights

Mikumi National Park:

• Vuma Hills Tented Camp: Elevated tents overlooking the plains

• Mikumi Wildlife Camp: Comfortable and close to wildlife

Ruaha National Park:

• Jabali Ridge: Luxury lodge with panoramic views

• Ruaha River Lodge: Riverside tented lodge for prime wildlife viewing

Nyerere National Park:

• Selous Safari Camp: Luxury riverside accommodation

• Siwandu Camp: Exclusive, intimate tented camp

• Sand Rivers Selous: Boutique luxury lodge with exceptional service

Wildlife You’ll Encounter

• Big Five: Lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and occasional rhinos in Ruaha

• Hippos and crocodiles along Nyerere rivers

• Plains wildlife: giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, impalas, elands, and kudu

• Rare African wild dogs in Ruaha

• Over 500 bird species across all parks

Best Time to Visit

• Dry Season (June–October): Best for wildlife viewing and photography

• Green Season (November–May): Lush scenery, waterfalls, and excellent birding

Safari Extensions

• Udzungwa Mountains: Hiking and waterfall adventure

• Zanzibar Beach Stay: Relax on pristine white sands after your safari

• Extra Days in Mikumi or Nyerere: Extend wildlife viewing opportunities

Packing List

• Neutral safari clothing and light layers

• Comfortable walking shoes or boots

• Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen

• Binoculars and camera with extra batteries

• Insect repellent and personal medication

• Reusable water bottle

• Light jacket for early morning and evening game drives

Safari Tips

• Follow your guide’s instructions for safety

• Wear neutral-colored clothing for better wildlife observation

• Carry small amounts of cash for tips or lodge extras

• Charge cameras and devices nightly

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How do I get to southern Tanzania parks?
Flights are available from Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, or Iringa. Road transfers are possible for scenic routes.

Q2: Is this safari family-friendly?
Yes, all three parks offer family-friendly lodges and guided activities suitable for children.

Q3: What wildlife will I see?
Expect elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, and abundant birdlife.

Q4: Can this safari be customized?
Yes, additional days can be added in Mikumi, Ruaha, or Nyerere. A Zanzibar extension is also possible.

Q5: Are walking safaris available?
Yes, walking safaris are offered in Ruaha and Nyerere with armed rangers for safety.

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Conclusion

The Ultimate 7-Day Mikumi, Ruaha, and Nyerere Safari is a comprehensive journey through southern Tanzania’s most spectacular parks. From Mikumi’s open plains to Ruaha’s predator-rich wilderness and Nyerere’s riverine landscapes, each day offers unique wildlife encounters, breathtaking scenery, and intimate African experiences.

Travelers will enjoy exclusive lodges, private game drives, and unforgettable photographic opportunities. This safari is perfect for those seeking adventure, tranquility, and a true immersion into Tanzania’s southern wilderness.

Pack your camera, binoculars, and adventurous spirit — southern Tanzania awaits with its lions, elephants, hippos, and untamed beauty on this 7-day wildlife safari.