Safari from Dar es Salaam to Mafia – Southern Tanzania Tour

Q: What’s the best time to go on this safari from Dar es Salaam?

The best time is from June to February, during the dry season when wildlife viewing is optimal and beach conditions in Mafia Island are perfect.

Q: How do we travel between safari parks and Mafia Island?

All transfers between Dar es Salaam, Nyerere, Ruaha, and Mafia Island are done via domestic flights, ensuring comfort and saving travel time.

Q: What kind of animals will I see on this safari?

Expect to see elephants, lions, hippos, crocodiles, giraffes, buffaloes, and rich birdlife in Nyerere and Ruaha National Parks. Marine life such as whale sharks, turtles, and colorful reef fish await in Mafia Island.

Q: Is this safari suitable for families or first-time travelers?

Yes! This trip is designed for all experience levels, offering guided safaris, safe accommodations, and flexible beach activities—ideal for couples, solo travelers, and families.

Q: Do I need a visa or vaccinations for this trip?

A Tanzania tourist visa is required and can be obtained online or upon arrival. Vaccinations for yellow fever and malaria prevention are recommended—please consult your travel clinic.

Q: What should I pack for this safari and beach combination?

Pack light safari clothing, sun protection, swimwear, a light jacket for evenings, and reef-friendly sunscreen for Mafia. Most camps provide laundry service, so travel light!

Embark on an extraordinary 11-day safari from Dar Es Salaam that blends the best of southern Tanzania’s wildlife and coastal beauty. Your journey begins with thrilling game drives and boat safaris in Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous), known for its abundant wildlife and scenic Rufiji River. Continue your adventure into the vast wilderness of Ruaha National Park, where fewer tourists and raw, untamed nature await. After exploring Tanzania’s finest southern parks, fly to the exotic Mafia Island—a hidden gem in the Indian Ocean. Relax on pristine beaches, snorkel in vibrant coral reefs, or swim with whale sharks. This itinerary combines thrilling safari experiences with ultimate beach relaxation for the perfect African escape.

Transportation
By Air,4x4 Safari Vehicle,Minbus or Tax
Safari From
Dar Es Salaam
Best season
June to Feb
Language
All

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Map

Overview

Discover the untouched beauty of Southern Tanzania with this unforgettable safari from Dar es Salaam to Mafia Island. Explore the raw wilderness of Nyerere National Park (Selous) and Ruaha National Park, home to some of Africa’s most iconic wildlife. Then unwind in tropical bliss on Mafia Island, where turquoise waters, whale sharks, and coral reefs await. This fly-in safari combines thrilling game drives, riverboat safaris, cultural immersion, and barefoot island luxury.

Highlights

Nyerere National Park: Boat safaris, bush walks & Lake Manze game drives
Ruaha National Park: Classic big-game experience with fewer crowds
Mafia Island: White-sand beaches, snorkeling, whale shark encounters
Treehouse stay on Chole Island: Eco-luxury in a baobab canopy
Fly-in convenience: Maximize time in nature, not on the road

Why Choose This Trip

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This safari from Dar es Salaam offers a seamless blend of adventure and relaxation, ideal for travelers seeking an authentic Tanzanian experience beyond the crowds. You’ll explore two of the country’s best-kept secrets—Nyerere National Park and Ruaha National Park—with diverse wildlife, fewer tourists, and dramatic landscapes. Then, unwind on the unspoiled shores of Mafia Island, a marine paradise perfect for snorkeling, whale shark diving, and eco-friendly beach stays. With flights between destinations, hand-picked lodges, and expert local guides, this trip guarantees comfort, adventure, and unforgettable moments across Tanzania’s southern circuit.

Day 1 :

Flight from Dar es Salaam to Nyerere National Park (Selous)

Depart Dar es Salaam on a short flight to Nyerere National Park. On arrival, enjoy a scenic transfer and game drive en route to Lake Manze Camp. After check-in and lunch, opt for an afternoon boat safari, game drive, or walking safari (extra cost). Overnight at Lake Manze Camp.

Day 2 :

Safari in Nyerere National Park

Spend two full days exploring Selous by open 4x4 vehicle, boat, or on foot. Spot elephants, lions, hippos, and crocodiles along the Rufiji River. Watch wildlife wander through camp and enjoy meals in the wild. Optional guided walks and bush breakfasts available (extra cost). Overnight at Lake Manze Camp.

Day 3 :

Safari in Nyerere National Park

Day 4 :

Fly to Ruaha National Park

After breakfast, catch a flight to Ruaha National Park. Game viewing begins right from the airstrip. Enjoy refreshments on your drive to Kwihala Camp, located in a prime wildlife area. After lunch, set out for your first Ruaha safari. Dinner and overnight in the bush.

Day 5 :

Ruaha National Park Safari

Choose between full-day or half-day game drives in search of lions, elephants, kudus, and rare species like wild dogs. Enjoy sundowners, bush dinners, and optional guided walking safaris (extra cost). Relax in comfort at Kwihala Camp.

Day 6 :

Ruaha National Park Safari

Day 7 :

Fly to Mafia Island via Dar es Salaam

After breakfast, fly to Mafia Island, stopping briefly in Dar. Transfer across Mafia Island, then enjoy a short boat ride to Chole Island Lodge, your tropical hideaway. Unwind with ocean breezes and seafood delights.

Day 8 :

Beach Stay on Chole Island, Mafia

Spend your days soaking up Mafia Island’s magic. Enjoy snorkeling or sunset cruises (included), or opt for extra activities like:

Whale shark swims (seasonal)
Diving with local guides
Island and ruin tours
Turtle nesting visits
Nights are spent in eco-chic treehouses overlooking the Indian Ocean.

Day 9 :

Beach Stay on Chole Island, Mafia

Spend your days soaking up Mafia Island’s magic. Enjoy snorkeling or sunset cruises (included), or opt for extra activities like:

Whale shark swims (seasonal)
Diving with local guides
Island and ruin tours
Turtle nesting visits
Nights are spent in eco-chic treehouses overlooking the Indian Ocean.

Day 10 :

Beach Stay on Chole Island, Mafia

Spend your days soaking up Mafia Island’s magic. Enjoy snorkeling or sunset cruises (included), or opt for extra activities like:

Whale shark swims (seasonal)
Diving with local guides
Island and ruin tours
Turtle nesting visits
Nights are spent in eco-chic treehouses overlooking the Indian Ocean.

Day 11 :

Return to Dar es Salaam

Relax on your final morning before your return flight to Dar es Salaam. We can arrange transfers, day rooms, or overnight stays in Dar depending on your international flight schedule.

Top FAQs – Safari from Dar Es Salaam Tanzania

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What’s the best time to go on this safari from Dar es Salaam?

The best time is from June to February, during the dry season when wildlife viewing is optimal and beach conditions in Mafia Island are perfect.

How do we travel between safari parks and Mafia Island?

All transfers between Dar es Salaam, Nyerere, Ruaha, and Mafia Island are done via domestic flights, ensuring comfort and saving travel time.

What kind of animals will I see on this safari?

Expect to see elephants, lions, hippos, crocodiles, giraffes, buffaloes, and rich birdlife in Nyerere and Ruaha National Parks. Marine life such as whale sharks, turtles, and colorful reef fish await in Mafia Island.

Is this safari suitable for families or first-time travelers?

Yes! This trip is designed for all experience levels, offering guided safaris, safe accommodations, and flexible beach activities—ideal for couples, solo travelers, and families.

Do I need a visa or vaccinations for this trip?

A Tanzania tourist visa is required and can be obtained online or upon arrival. Vaccinations for yellow fever and malaria prevention are recommended—please consult your travel clinic.

What should I pack for this safari and beach combination?

Pack light safari clothing, sun protection, swimwear, a light jacket for evenings, and reef-friendly sunscreen for Mafia. Most camps provide laundry service, so travel light!