1-Day fyling safari to Nyerere National Park from Zanzibar

Traveling from Zanzibar for a full-day safari in Nyerere (formerly Selous Game Reserve) offers a rare chance to see Tanzania’s incredible wildlife without the hassle of a multi-day trip. This tour packs a lot into a single day, combining quick flights, exciting game drives, and a picnic lunch, all designed for travelers eager to spot elephants, lions, and giraffes in their natural habitat.

What makes this experience appealing is its convenience and inclusiveness—the flights, park fees, transportation, and meals are all taken care of, so you can focus on the thrill of the safari. Plus, the chance to see some of Tanzania’s most iconic animals in a relatively short time frame is pretty unbeatable. That said, the early start and tight schedule might be a challenge for those who prefer a more relaxed, leisurely pace.

This tour is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts with limited time, travelers who want a taste of the African safari experience, or those looking for a unique day trip from Zanzibar. If you’re comfortable with early mornings and packed itineraries, you’ll likely find this a memorable and worthwhile adventure.

Contents show

Key Points

Efficient use of time allows you to experience Tanzania’s wildlife in a single day from Zanzibar.
All-inclusive package with flights, park fees, a safari jeep, and lunch simplifies planning.
Wildlife diversity includes elephants, lions, rhinos, giraffes, hippos, and crocodiles.
Expert guides enhance the experience with knowledgeable insights and help spot elusive animals.
Flexible booking options with payment later and cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Potential for early wake-up and tight schedules might not suit everyone.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Zanzibar

Starting the Day: Early Mornings and Airport Transfers

The adventure begins with hotel pickups in Zanzibar between 6:00 and 6:30 AM, a time when the island is still quiet and the day is fresh. While the tour price does not include transfer from your hotel, the option for a cheaper pickup based on your location makes the experience more flexible. Expect to be driven to Zanzibar airport, where you’ll meet your guide, who will give a brief overview of the day and assist with check-in.

The flight from Zanzibar to the Mtemere airstrip is quick, roughly 45-50 minutes, allowing you to maximize your safari time. The early departure means you’ll experience a sense of anticipation and excitement right from the start—plus, flying over Tanzania’s landscape offers stunning aerial views of the wilderness below.

Arrival and the Safari Game Drive

Upon landing at Mtemere airstrip, your guide and safari vehicle await. The safari begins promptly around 6:45 AM, just as the animals are waking up and becoming active. The game drive lasts until 1:30 PM, giving you several hours to explore one of Tanzania’s most diverse wildlife areas.

The guides, often experienced locals, are praised for their knowledge and ability to spot wildlife that might escape the average eye. Reviewers mentioned that guides like George and Joseph made the experience both educational and fun, sharing insights into animal behavior and the park’s ecosystem. Expect to see African bush elephants, possibly black rhinos, hippos lounging in water, lions resting in the shade, and maybe even African wild dogs based on recent sightings.

Wildlife Encounters and the Lunch Break

The park’s diverse habitats mean you’ll enjoy encounters with animals such as giraffes stretching for treetop leaves, zebras grazing peacefully, crocodiles sunbathing, and hippos grunting in the water. Many reviewers highlight how the guides’ expertise elevates the experience; they not only help find animals but also share fascinating facts and stories.

A short break around midday allows for a picnic bush lunch, often consisting of sandwiches, fruits, and soft drinks. This downtime offers a chance to relax, soak in the surroundings, and chat with fellow travelers. Several reviews mention that the lunch provided was satisfying and well-organized, giving enough energy for the afternoon session.

More Great Tours Nearby

Wrapping Up the Safari and Return Flight

Post-lunch, the safari resumes until about 3:30 PM, after which you’ll head back to the airstrip to catch your return flight to Zanzibar. The entire safari, from pickup to drop-off, is tightly scheduled, ensuring you return by late afternoon.

Back in Zanzibar, your driver will be waiting to take you back to your hotel, leaving you with wonderful memories of a day filled with wildlife and adventure.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Zanzibar

What to Expect and Practical Considerations

Transportation & timings: The early start requires a good level of stamina, but it’s worth it for the best wildlife sightings. The flights are included, but the tour does not cover hotel transfers unless arranged separately.
Group size & guides: Most reviews indicate small-group experiences with knowledgeable guides, which enhances the chance of witnessing animals and asking questions.
Wildlife sightings: The diversity is impressive—it’s quite common to see elephants, lions, giraffes, and hippos, but sightings of black rhinos and wild dogs are less guaranteed, depending on the day.
Meals & drinks: The picnic lunch is included, and soft drinks are provided—perfect for staying refreshed during the drive.
Flexibility & booking: You can reserve your spot with the option to pay later, and cancellations are possible up to 24 hours beforehand, making this a low-pressure choice.

Value for Money

At $500 per person, this tour offers a well-rounded, all-inclusive experience, especially considering flights, park fees, and a safari vehicle are included. For travelers short on time but eager to experience Tanzania’s wildlife, this is a good value, eliminating the hassle of arranging transport, park entry, or meals independently.

While the price might seem steep for a single day, keep in mind that Tanzania’s parks are vast, and flights significantly cut down on travel time and fatigue. This experience delivers a snapshot of the country’s iconic animals and landscapes, making it a practical and exciting option for a quick safari adventure from Zanzibar.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This safari is perfect for individuals or families wanting a concentrated wildlife experience, especially if you’re already in Zanzibar and craving a taste of Africa’s wilderness. It’s suited for those comfortable with early mornings and tight schedules, and who value guided expertise and convenience. It’s also ideal for travelers who prefer an all-in-one package rather than planning every detail themselves.

If you’re seeking a luxurious, relaxed safari with multiple days in the bush, this might feel rushed, but for a quick, high-impact experience, it hits the mark.

FAQs

How early do I need to wake up for the tour?
You should be ready by 6:00 AM for hotel pickup, with pickups typically between 6:00 and 6:30 AM.

Does the tour include transportation from my Zanzibar hotel?
Not automatically, but you can arrange a pickup at a lower cost based on your hotel’s location.

What is included in the price?
The package covers flights, park entrance fees, a safari jeep, a picnic lunch with soft drinks, and a professional guide.

Are the guides experienced?
Yes, reviews mention guides like George and Joseph, who are praised for their knowledge and ability to spot wildlife.

Can I see rhinos and wild dogs?
While sightings of rhinos (including black rhinos) and wild dogs are possible, they’re not guaranteed as animal presence varies daily.

How long is the actual game drive?
The safari drive lasts from about 6:45 AM to 1:30 PM, with a break for lunch.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexible planning.

Is the experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the early start and full-day schedule are generally suitable for older children or teenagers interested in wildlife.

To sum it up, this 1-day flying safari from Zanzibar to Nyerere National Park offers a practical, exciting way to encounter some of Tanzania’s best wildlife in a single day. It combines comfort, convenience, and authenticity, making it ideal for wildlife lovers short on time but eager for a true African adventure. Whether you’re eager to tick off the Big Five or simply want a taste of the savannah, this tour promises a memorable experience with minimal fuss.