2 Day Zanzibar to Nyerere NP (Selous GR) By Flight

Traveling from Zanzibar to Nyerere National Park (also known as Selous Game Reserve) promises an exciting adventure packed with wildlife encounters, gorgeous scenery, and seamless logistics. This tour, organized by Uwanda Tours and Safaris, offers a swift and comfortable way to see some of Tanzania’s most iconic animals while avoiding long drives and complicated arrangements. Whether you are limited on time or want a hassle-free safari experience, this trip is tailored for those craving authentic wildlife encounters with maximum convenience.

What we especially appreciate about this tour is the flight transfer, which cuts down travel time and adds a sense of exclusivity. The comfortable jeep game drives allow for close encounters with wildlife, and the boat safari on Rufiji River provides a different perspective of the park’s natural beauty. Plus, the all-inclusive approach—covering flights, accommodations, meals, and park fees—means you can relax and focus on enjoying the experience.

That said, a potential consideration is that this tour is somewhat structured—you’ll be on a tight schedule with a specific itinerary, so if you prefer more flexibility or extended stays in one spot, it might not suit you. Also, since the tour involves flights, it’s important to consider possible delays or cancellations that could affect your plans.

This safari works best for wildlife enthusiasts, first-timers in Tanzania who want a condensed, immersive experience, or travelers seeking excellent value with premium amenities. If you love seeing a variety of animals in a relatively short period, this tour is a strong choice.

Key Points

• Convenient flight transfer saves significant travel time from Zanzibar to Nyerere NP.
• All-inclusive package covers flights, accommodation, meals, park fees, and transportation.
• Expert guides and drivers enhance wildlife viewing and provide insightful commentary.
• Comfortable accommodations like Selous Safari Lodge ensure restful nights after long days.
• Diverse activities include game drives and boat safaris, offering multiple ways to observe wildlife.
• Authentic experiences with close encounters with elephants, lions, hippos, crocodiles, and more.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: From Zanzibar to Nyerere NP and Full-Day Game Drive

The adventure starts with a hotel pickup in Zanzibar, where a professional driver will whisk you to Zanzibar International Airport. The short flight to Mtemere Airstrip is a highlight—a swift, scenic hop over the Tanzanian landscape, giving you a glimpse of the vast wilderness before landing.

Once at Nyerere National Park, you’re greeted by your guide and immediately taken on a full-day game drive. Nyerere (Selous) is renowned for its remarkable diversity of wildlife, and during this drive, you’ll get a chance to see lion, elephant, rhinoceros, buffalo, leopard, giraffe, zebra, and many other species. The park’s openness offers great views, and the guides are highly knowledgeable—an aspect praised by past travelers like Brenda, who said, “Our guide and driver did everything so that we could observe as many animals as possible.”

Lunch is packed so you can enjoy a meal amidst the wild, and then continue your safari in the afternoon. The park’s ecosystem supports large herds, and the guides excel at positioning you for the best animal sightings. As the day winds down, you’ll head to Selous Safari Lodge, just outside the park, where you’ll spend the night. Reviewers like Anastasiia noted, “The staff was very professional, and the accommodation was great,” emphasizing the comfort and quality of the stay.

Day 2: Boat Safari on Rufiji River and Return Flight

Wake up to a hearty breakfast, then set out for a 2-hour boat safari along the Rufiji River. This experience offers a different vantage point—watching hippos, Nile crocodiles, and countless fish species from the water. The boat journey is praised for its relaxed pace and the chance to see wildlife like no other—reviewers mentioned that the boat safari is a highlight and a peaceful way to connect with nature.

Post-boat, you’ll be transferred back to Mtemere Airstrip for your flight back to Zanzibar. The entire process is designed to be smooth, with a professional driver ensuring timely departures, allowing for a hassle-free end to your safari.

Included and Not Included in the Package

The tour’s all-inclusive pricing is impressive, covering park fees, all activities, accommodations, meals, drinks, and transportation. This means no hidden costs—great for budgeting and peace of mind. The roundtrip airport transfers also add to the convenience.

However, international flights and extra accommodation before or after the tour aren’t included, so travelers will need to arrange these separately. Some meals are not included on the first day, so you might want to carry snacks or plan to eat at the lodge.

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What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The main draw is the combination of quick, comfortable flights and diverse activities that maximize your safari experience. You get to see big game, birds, and aquatic animals within a compact timeframe, making it ideal for those on a tight schedule or seeking a taste of Tanzania’s wilderness.

Guides and drivers are often singled out for their professionalism and knowledge, creating a friendly atmosphere and enhancing wildlife sightings. Anastasiia praised the staff, saying, “It was an adventure of our lifetime,” highlighting the memorable quality of the trip.

The lodging at Selous Safari Lodge offers a comfortable retreat, with reviews emphasizing the quality of the accommodation and the attentive service. Having a cozy base after a day of game drives helps travelers recharge and appreciate the beauty of the surroundings.

Wildlife viewing in Nyerere is exceptional, thanks to the park’s size and diversity. The park’s openness allows for fantastic vistas, and the guides’ expertise ensures you won’t miss the best sightings. Brenda’s review underscored this, noting the guides’ efforts to optimize animal observation.

The boat safari provides a tranquil, scenic experience, perfect for spotting hippos and crocodiles up close. It’s a unique aspect that sets this tour apart from land-only safaris, adding a water-based dimension to your adventure.

The Practicalities: Transportation, Timing, and Cost

Travelers will appreciate the private, comfortable jeep used for game drives—no crowded vehicles here. The trip is carefully timed to maximize wildlife sightings, with the full-day game drive starting early and ending in the late afternoon.

Flights are scheduled during daylight hours, offering scenic views and avoiding late-night arrivals or departures. The entire experience lasts two days, making it accessible for those with limited time but still eager for an impactful safari.

Cost-wise, the tour offers great value considering the inclusive nature—flights, park fees, meals, and accommodations are bundled, reducing hassle and extra expenses. Past guests felt that the price was justified by the quality of guides, accommodations, and wildlife encounters.

Authentic Experiences and What Travelers Say

From the reviews, it’s clear that knowledgeable guides make a big difference. Brenda appreciated their efforts: “They did everything so that we could observe as many animals as possible.” Their expertise helps maximize sightings, especially in a vast park like Nyerere.

Guests also highlighted the stunning scenery and wildlife diversity. Anastasiia described her experience as “amazing,” emphasizing the professionalism of the staff and the quality of the lodges. The personalized service and well-organized itinerary** contribute to a smooth and memorable trip.

The comfort of the lodge and the variety of activities—game drives and boat safaris—offer a well-rounded safari experience. Reviewers felt that this combination delivered a genuine connection with nature, but in a way that’s manageable within a short timeframe.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Zanzibar to Nyerere NP safari provides a fantastic value for wildlife lovers and adventure seekers. You’ll appreciate the hassle-free flights, expert guides, and varied activities that bring Tanzania’s wilderness to life. It’s an excellent choice for those who want a comfortable, authentic safari experience but don’t have weeks to spare.

The inclusion of a boat safari adds a special touch, offering a unique water-based perspective. Meanwhile, the quality accommodations and smooth logistics make this trip suitable for first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike.

While it may not suit those seeking a highly flexible or extended safari, this tour strikes a strong balance between convenience, immersion, and value—ensuring you’ll leave with unforgettable memories of Tanzania’s incredible wildlife.

FAQ

How do I get to the start point of this tour?
The tour begins with a hotel pickup in Zanzibar, and you’ll be transferred to Zanzibar International Airport for your flight to Nyerere National Park.

Are flights included in the package?
Yes, all flights during the tour are included, making the journey quick and comfortable.

What kind of accommodation is provided?
Guests stay at Selous Safari Lodge, which is described as a mid-range lodge located just outside Nyerere NP, offering comfortable and practical amenities.

What activities are included?
The tour includes full-day game drives, a boat safari on Rufiji River, park fees, and all specified activities. Meals and drinks are included as well, except on the first day’s breakfast.

Can I see big game like lions and elephants?
Absolutely. Guests frequently observe lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalo, and other iconic wildlife during the game drives.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The information doesn’t specify age restrictions, but generally, safaris with game drives are suitable for older children and teenagers who enjoy wildlife and outdoor adventures.

What if my flight gets delayed?
While the itinerary is designed for smooth transitions, delays in flights could affect your schedule. It’s good to communicate with the tour provider beforehand for assistance with rebooking or adjustments.

This safari offers an efficient, authentic way to experience Tanzania’s wildlife, combining comfort, convenience, and adventure in a well-organized package. Perfect for those eager to see big game without the fuss of complex planning.

You can check availability for your dates here: