3 Days Selous (Nyerere National Park)

Exploring Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous) offers a fascinating glimpse into Tanzania’s wild heart. This tour promises a chance to see elephants, lions, wild dogs, and many more in their natural habitat—all within Africa’s largest protected area. While the price tag of $850 per person might seem steep, the experience balances this with incredible wildlife encounters, expert guiding, and comfortable lodgings.

What makes this safari stand out? We love the diversity of activities—from game drives and boat safaris to walking safaris—giving you a well-rounded view of the reserve. The knowledgeable guides, praised time and again, ensure that every moment is educational and engaging. Plus, roundtrip airport transfers and private transportation promise a smooth, hassle-free adventure.

A potential downside? The walking safari on the last day has received mixed feedback, with some travelers finding it less aligned with their expectations. That said, most agree that the overall experience is well worth it, especially for those eager to see wildlife in a less touristy setting.

This tour is perfect for nature enthusiasts, wildlife photographers, and anyone eager for an authentic African safari. If you appreciate good organization, expert guides, and a mix of land and water safaris, this trip could be your next adventure.

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Key Points

Comprehensive 3-day itinerary covering game drives, boat safaris, and walking safaris.
Expert guides like William and Iddris receive high praise for their professionalism and knowledge.
Diverse wildlife viewing including lions, elephants, buffaloes, wild dogs, crocodiles, hippos, and abundant birdlife.
All-inclusive pricing with meals, private transport, activities, and accommodation.
High customer ratings of 5.0 based on 43 reviews, with 98% recommending the experience.
Valuable for travelers seeking an authentic, well-organized safari without feeling overwhelmed.

An In-Depth Look at the 3-Day Selous (Nyerere) Safari

Looking for more options in Dar es Salaam? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Day 1: From Dar es Salaam to the Heart of the Wild

Your adventure begins with a pick-up in Dar es Salaam by a professional guide from Kihindo Tours. The drive to Nyerere National Park takes approximately five and a half hours—an opportunity to enjoy scenic views and learn about the Tanzanian countryside from your driver. Guests consistently praise the smooth, punctual transfers, making for a stress-free start.

Once you arrive, a hearty lunch sets the tone for what’s to come. The afternoon kicks off with a boat safari on the Rufiji River, offering a chance to see hippos and crocodiles up close, along with a variety of bird species. As a reviewer noted, “we saw hippos, crocodiles, and many birds,” highlighting how water-based excursions reveal a different side of the reserve’s wildlife.

Day 2: Full-Day Game Drive and Picnic Lunch

After an early breakfast, the focus shifts to full-day game drives. Pack a lunch—most guides and lodges provide picnic boxes—so you can pause in scenic spots and enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. Reviewers repeatedly emphasize how guides, like William, excel in teaching about animals and their behaviors, elevating the typical game drive to an educational experience.

Expect to spot elephants, lions, buffaloes, and perhaps the elusive wild dogs, which are increasingly seen in the reserve. As one guest remarked: “we saw the Big Four out of the Big Five,” with guides making sure no opportunity is missed. The day typically ends with a relaxing dinner back at the lodge, where comfort and good food balance the wilderness experience.

Day 3: Walking Safari and Return Journey

The last day features a morning walking safari, which provides a more intimate encounter with nature. While some reviews pointed out that this part may involve group walking and less interactive moments, guides like William or Iddris are repeatedly praised for their professionalism, patience, and knowledge. Walking safaris are an excellent way to see smaller creatures and plant life, as well as to feel a closer connection with the bush.

Following breakfast, guests are driven back to Dar es Salaam, often with a packed lunch to keep energized for the journey home. Many reviewers have expressed how smoothly the entire process runs, from pickup to drop-off, thanks to attentive guides and well-organized logistics.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

Though $850 might seem a significant investment, this tour packages a lot into three days. It includes meals, private transportation, all activities, and accommodation, reducing the hassle of planning individual components. The reviews consistently highlight the professionalism of guides like William and Iddris, who bring a wealth of knowledge and a friendly attitude.

The combination of land and water safaris offers a comprehensive look at Nyerere’s wildlife, with many guests remarking on the abundance of animals and bird life. The boat safaris along the Rufiji River are especially praised for their close-up viewings, often revealing hippos and crocodiles in surprising proximity.

There's plenty more to explore in Dar es Salaam

Lodging and Meals

Guests stay at Selous Mloka Safaris Lodge, a full-board setup that receives positive reviews for comfort and food quality. The lodge’s location provides easy access to the river and game drives, making early mornings and late evenings more manageable. Reviewers describe the food as “delicious,” often highlighting the local dishes served, which help keep energy levels high for the busy days.

Transportation and Guides

The private transportation ensures a comfortable and personalized experience, avoiding the crowds common in larger group safaris. Guides like William and Iddris earn special praise for their professionalism, patience, and storytelling skills. Several reviews mention how guides go beyond just spotting animals—they teach you about their habits and the ecosystem, adding educational value.

Wildlife Viewing and Experience Authenticity

The reserve’s size—about 54,600 sq km—means plenty of space for diverse wildlife. Many guests comment on the luck of spotting lions, elephants, and wild dogs, especially during full-day game drives. The boat safari adds a different perspective, allowing sightings of hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of waterbirds.

Critical Considerations

The walking safari is the only aspect that drew some criticism, with one guest describing it as a “circle walk led by a village guy dressed in a loincloth,” which felt less professional. However, most reviews emphasize guides’ knowledge and the overall quality of the experience, making this a minor concern for many.

Who Should Consider This Safari?

This tour is ideal for adventurers who want a balanced mix of water and land safaris within one of Africa’s largest protected areas. It suits wildlife photography enthusiasts, families with children, and solo travelers seeking a well-organized, authentic experience. The high reviews suggest it’s also perfect for those who value guides with a wealth of knowledge and good communication.

If you’re after luxury or prefer a more exclusive experience, this package offers good value but doesn’t include ultra-luxury accommodations. For travelers eager to see a wide variety of animals in a relatively short time, the itinerary hits the mark.

FAQs about the 3 Days Selous (Nyerere) Safari

Is airport pickup included?
Yes, roundtrip airport transfers are included, making the start and end of your trip seamless.

What is the price per person?
The tour costs $850 per person, which covers accommodations, activities, meals, and private transport—an overall good value considering the comprehensive experience.

Are meals included?
Yes, meals are included as specified in the day-by-day itinerary, with guests often praising the quality and variety of food served.

How long is the drive from Dar es Salaam?
The drive takes approximately five and a half hours, providing a scenic introduction to Tanzania’s landscape.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Expect elephants, lions, buffaloes, wild dogs, crocodiles, hippos, and many bird species, especially along the Rufiji River.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, many reviews mention traveling with children and babies, with guides accommodating requests and ensuring safety and comfort.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day safari in Nyerere (Selous) National Park offers a rich, authentic experience that combines game drives, boat safaris, and walking adventures. With highly praised guides, seamless logistics, and a broad spectrum of wildlife, it’s a fantastic choice for travelers eager to see Tanzania’s wilderness without sacrificing comfort or organization.

The value for money, especially given the all-inclusive package, makes it appealing for those who want a comprehensive safari experience. It’s particularly suited to wildlife lovers, photography enthusiasts, and those craving a true African adventure.

If you’re after an experience with expert guides who teach as they take you through the bush, stunning views, and the chance to spot numerous iconic animals, this safari should be on your list. Just keep in mind that the walking safari may not be for everyone, but the overall journey is likely to be unforgettable.