Traveling from Zanzibar to Tanzania’s largest national park, Nyerere National Park, offers an exciting blend of wildlife encounters, scenic flights, and authentic safari adventures. While this trip packs in a lot in just 2 days, it’s designed for those eager for a quick but immersive escape into Africa’s wilderness.
What we love about this tour is its seamless combination of international flight logistics, expert-guided safaris, and the chance to see iconic animals in their natural habitat—all packed into a relatively compact itinerary. Plus, the opportunity to explore Rufiji River by boat adds a serene, wildlife-rich experience that’s often overlooked.
On the flip side, a potential consideration is the short timeframe, which might leave some travelers wanting more time to settle into the bush or really soak in the scenery. Also, the cost of $770 per person reflects a mid-range experience, so it’s ideal for travelers seeking quality without ultra-luxury price tags.
This tour suits those with limited time but a strong desire to witness Tanzania’s renowned wildlife and landscapes firsthand. Whether you’re a safari newbie or an experienced traveler craving a new adventure, the combination of flight, game drives, and river safaris provides a well-rounded taste of Tanzanian nature.
Key Points
- Efficient itinerary packs a lot of wildlife viewing into just two days and one night.
- Fly-in safari from Zanzibar simplifies logistics and saves time for those with tight schedules.
- Diverse experiences include game drives, boat safaris, and scenic flights for a well-rounded adventure.
- Authentic wildlife encounters with hippos, crocodiles, elephants, and giraffes in their natural setting.
- Mid-range accommodation at Selour Safari Lodge offers comfort on a full-board basis, balancing quality and value.
- Flexibility with options like “reserve & pay later” helps plan without immediate commitment.
An In-Depth Look at the 2-Day Nyerere Safari from Zanzibar
Looking for more options in Matemwe? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.
Starting Point: Zanzibar’s Convenience and the Flight to Nyerere
Your journey begins with a hotel pickup in Zanzibar’s Matemwe or Kiwengwa area (if selected), making the trip smooth and hassle-free. From there, a dedicated driver takes you to the airport, where you board a flight to Mtemere Airstrip within Nyerere National Park. The flight—an essential part of the experience—offers travelers a bird’s-eye view of the park’s vastness, with some reviewers mentioning the “breathtaking views of the wilderness from above.”
The flight duration isn’t specified, but considering the distance, it’s quick enough to keep anticipation high without losing the sense of adventure. This approach eliminates the need for long drives, giving you more time once on the ground for game viewing.
Day 1: Safari Begins with an Intimate Game Drive
Immediately after landing, your private safari begins. The guide and driver are experienced, often described as friendly and knowledgeable, eager to share insights about the park’s ecosystems. The focus is on spotting big mammals like elephants and giraffes, as well as predators if luck is on your side.
Lunch is served within the park, often at a designated picnic area or possibly at the lodge, giving you a taste of local flavors amidst the wilderness. Reviewers have appreciated the quality of the meals, which are included in the full-board package, providing fuel for the afternoon drives.
Throughout the day, you’ll experience the vastness of Nyerere’s landscapes—a mix of savannah, woodlands, and wetlands. The game drives are tailored to maximize wildlife sightings, with some guests noting the guides’ expertise in tracking animals and sharing interesting facts. The park’s size means that sightings can vary, but the chance to see hippos and crocodiles in their natural habitat is a great highlight.
Accommodation: Comfort in the Bush at Selour Safari Lodge
After a full day of adventure, you’ll retreat to Selour Safari Lodge, a mid-range accommodation that offers a cozy, authentic feel. Guests often mention the clean rooms, friendly staff, and the chance to relax in a setting that’s both comfortable and close to nature. The full-board basis means you won’t have to worry about additional meals, keeping your experience stress-free.
More Great Tours NearbyDay 2: River Safari and Return to Zanzibar
The next morning begins with breakfast, after which you’ll embark on a unique shared boat safari along the Rufiji River. This part of the trip is particularly appreciated for its tranquility and the wildlife viewing opportunities it affords.
The Rufiji River, being Tanzania’s largest, is home to hippos, crocodiles, and multiple bird species. Several reviews highlight the spectacle of watching elephants or giraffes coming to drink, making it a memorable experience. The boat safari also offers a different perspective of the African wilderness—more relaxed, more intimate, and often filled with birdwatching highlights.
After this peaceful cruise, you’ll head back to the lodge, have lunch, and prepare for your flight back to Zanzibar in the afternoon. On arrival, your driver will transfer you back to your hotel, completing a whirlwind but enriching safari experience.
The Practicalities: Transportation, Costs, and Tips
The price of $770 per person includes flights, boat safaris, game drives, snorkeling equipment, bottled water, fresh fruit, and hotel transfers. This covers a lot, but travelers should consider that this is a mid-range experience—meaning comfortable accommodations but not luxury lodges or private guides.
The logistics are well-organized, with the entire trip designed to maximize wildlife viewing while minimizing travel stress. The full-board basis simplifies planning, as meals are included during your stay, and the transportation is handled for you.
Because the safari is run by Yellow Zebra Safaris, a reputable provider, you can expect professionalism and good communication—plus, flexible booking options like “reserve & pay later” and cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
What to Pack and Expect
Travelers should bring essentials such as sun protection, binoculars, and camera gear. Lightweight clothing suited for warm days and cooler evenings is recommended, along with sturdy shoes for game drives. Since snorkel gear is included, you might also want to bring your own if you prefer, though equipment is provided.
Authentic Experiences You Might Not Expect
A frequent theme in reviews is the sense of being well looked after. Guests mention guides who are passionate and eager to share their knowledge, often going beyond expectations to find elusive wildlife. The boat safari on the Rufiji River is described as “peaceful and surreal,” offering a calm contrast to the busy game drives.
Some travelers appreciated the small group size during boat safaris, which enhances the feeling of intimacy with nature. Others noted that the lodge staff was friendly and helpful, providing a welcoming atmosphere after a day of adventure.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This safari is perfect for time-conscious travelers who want to experience the highlights of Tanzanian wildlife without the lengthy stays. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate combining flying with outdoor activities, or for anyone looking to add a cultural twist by exploring one of Africa’s most significant parks.
If you’re interested in wildlife photography, the variety of landscapes and animals offers plenty of opportunities. However, if you prefer a more relaxed pace or longer stays in one place, this short itinerary might feel a bit rushed.
The Sum Up
This 2-day, 1-night safari from Zanzibar is a practical way to enter Tanzania’s wilderness, offering a snapshot of its incredible biodiversity. The combination of flight, game drives, and river safaris makes for an engaging, diverse experience that’s well-suited to travelers short on time but eager to see Africa’s iconic animals.
The full-board accommodation at Selour Safari Lodge balances comfort and authenticity, and the logistics handled by Yellow Zebra Safaris are reliable and thoughtfully organized. While the cost might seem high, the inclusive nature of the trip, combined with the unique perspectives offered by aerial views and river cruises, provides solid value for wildlife enthusiasts.
This experience is best for adventurous travelers, wildlife lovers, or busy explorers wanting a taste of Tanzania’s stunning landscapes without committing to a longer, more expensive safari. It’s a quick, efficient, and memorable way to tick Tanzania off your bucket list.
FAQ
Is this safari suitable for children?
While the tour offers a family-friendly experience with boat safaris and game drives, it’s best suited for older children or teenagers who can comfortably handle early mornings and outdoor activities.
What is included in the price?
The tour fee covers flights, boat transportation, guided safaris, snorkeling equipment, bottled water, fresh fruit, hotel pickup and drop-off, and accommodation with full-board meals.
Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The flexible booking options allow you to reserve without immediate payment.
Is the accommodation in a lodge or a tent?
Guests stay at the Selour Safari Lodge, which offers mid-range comfort with good amenities, not camping tents.
How long are the game drives and boat safaris?
The exact durations aren’t specified, but expect a full day of wildlife viewing, with the boat safari likely lasting a couple of hours.
What kind of wildlife might I see?
Expect to see hippos, crocodiles, elephants, giraffes, and a variety of bird species. The park’s diverse ecosystems support many species typical of Tanzania’s wilderness.
What should I pack?
Bring lightweight clothing, sun protection, binoculars, camera gear, and sturdy shoes. Snorkeling gear is provided, but you can bring your own if preferred.
Is there a guide or instructor involved?
Yes, a knowledgeable guide accompanies all safaris, sharing insights and helping you spot wildlife effectively.
Enjoy your Tanzanian adventure—this short but sweet safari packs in the wildlife, scenery, and unforgettable moments you’ll treasure long after the trip ends.
You can check availability for your dates here: