How do I reach Selous Game Reserve for the safari?

The journey starts with a direct flight from zanzibar/ Dar es Salaam to Nyerere national park, taking approximately one hour. You will be greeted at the airstrip by a Selous River Camp guide upon arrival.

What wildlife can I expect to see during the game drives?

Nyerere national park boasts a rich diversity of wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, buffalos, zebras, and various bird species. The reserve is also home to the rare African hunting dog, providing unique safari encounters.

Can this safari be customized?

Yes! This trip can start from Dar es Salaam or Arusha and tailored to fit your travel schedule or comfort preferences.

What type of accommodation does Selous River Camp offer?

Selous River Camp provides a choice of accommodation, including comfortable "mudhut" rooms with en-suite bathrooms and tents for budget-minded travelers. Both options offer beautiful views of the Rufiji River, providing an authentic and intimate safari experience.

3-Day Zanzibar Safari to Nyerere National Park

Experience a classic safari from the beaches of Zanzibar to the wild heart of Tanzania

Safari From
Zanzibar or Dar es salaam
Destinations to visit
Nyerere National Park
Best season
June to February
Transportation
4x4

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Overview

This 3-day Zanzibar safari takes you from the island’s turquoise shores straight into the untamed beauty of Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve), one of Africa’s largest protected wilderness areas. Staying at the renowned Selous River Camp, perched along the Rufiji River, you’ll enjoy game drives, boat safaris, and a guided walking tour—all while surrounded by raw, unspoiled nature. It’s the perfect add-on to your beach holiday or a standalone fly-in safari from Zanzibar for travelers seeking a short yet immersive wildlife experience.

Highlights

Fly directly from Zanzibar to the Selous wilderness—skip the long drives and maximize your time in the bush.
Full-Day Game Drive—Search for lions, elephants, giraffes, and other iconic wildlife in an open-sided 4x4
Sunset Boat Safari on the Rufiji River—see hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife with a golden horizon backdrop.
Morning Walking Safari—Explore the wild on foot with an experienced guide and learn about the small wonders of the bush.
Stay at Selous River Camp—choose between unique “mudhut” cottages or budget tents with riverside views.
Scenic picnic lunch in the bush—enjoy lunch in the reserve with wildlife as your backdrop.

ItineWhy Choose This Zanzibar Safari Itinerary?rary

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This 3-day Zanzibar safari to Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous) is the ideal short escape for travelers seeking to combine beach relaxation with a real African safari experience. Flying directly from Zanzibar means you skip long, exhausting transfers and maximize your time in the wilderness.

Whether you’re a couple on a romantic getaway, a family on holiday, or a solo traveler looking for adventure, this itinerary offers it all—sunset boat safaris, open-vehicle game drives, and walking safaris led by expert guides. You'll stay at a scenic riverside camp, getting close to nature without giving up comfort.

This trip is also easily customizable, making it perfect for beachgoers in Zanzibar who want to explore Tanzania’s rich wildlife without compromising their travel schedule. It's quick, immersive, and unforgettable—a perfect taste of Tanzania’s wild beauty.

Day 1 :

Fly from Zanzibar – Full-Day Game Drive – Camp Check-in

Begin your Zanzibar safari adventure with a scenic morning flight from Zanzibar to Nyerere National Park. Upon arrival, meet your professional guide and head straight into the wild for a full-day game drive in an open safari vehicle. Explore the park's rich biodiversity, spotting elephants, lions, giraffes, and more. Enjoy a packed lunch in the bush. By late evening, arrive at your camp for check-in, dinner, and a relaxing overnight stay surrounded by nature.

Day 2 :

Bush Walk – Maasai Cultural Visit – Sunset Boat Safari

Start your morning with a guided bush walk, immersing yourself in the untouched wilderness as your guide shares insights into the flora, fauna, and animal tracks. After breakfast back at camp, set out for a Maasai cultural tour, where you'll learn about the traditions and lifestyle of one of Tanzania’s most iconic tribes. After lunch, unwind with a sunset boat safari along the Rufiji River, where hippos, crocodiles, and vibrant birdlife provide the perfect end to the day.

Day 3 :

Breakfast & Return Flight to Zanzibar

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at camp, soaking in the final moments of your Nyerere adventure. Afterward, you'll be transferred to the Dar es salaam for your return flight to Zanzibar, taking unforgettable safari memories back with you to the beach