One-Day Safari Tour from Zanzibar with Lunch and Pick Up

Exploring Tanzania’s Selous Game Reserve from Zanzibar — A Compact but Rich Safari Experience

When it comes to seeing Africa’s wilderness, a full-day safari from Zanzibar offers an enticing mix of adventure, wildlife viewing, and stunning scenery — all packed into roughly ten hours. Although we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and details paint a vivid picture of what travelers can expect.

What appeals most? The convenience of flying directly from Zanzibar, the opportunity to witness diverse wildlife in Selous, and the chance to enjoy a boat safari along the Rufiji River. Plus, a picnic lunch amid nature sounds like a perfect way to break up the day.

That said, there’s a notable concern about the wildlife sightings — a common challenge with short, single-day safaris — and some travelers feel there could be more animals or varied sightings. Still, if you’re after a taste of the African bush with minimal fuss and maximum comfort, this tour ticks many boxes.

This experience is best suited for those with a keen interest in wildlife, limited time in Tanzania, or travelers who want to combine a quick flight with a safari adventure. If you love seeing animals in their natural habitat but prefer a structured, guided day, this tour might be just right.

Key Points

• Convenience of Air Travel: Quick flight from Zanzibar makes it easy to maximize your safari day.
• Wildlife & Scenery: You’ll explore the vast Selous Game Reserve, famous for its rivers and lakes, offering varied landscapes.
• Boat Safari Included: A chance to see river wildlife from a boat along the Rufiji River adds a different perspective.
• Full-Day Experience: Around 10 hours structured with game drives, lunch, and a return flight, giving a compact but comprehensive safari.
• Group Size & Guides: Limited to 10 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience with knowledgeable guides.
• Value for Money: At $520, including flights, transportation, and lunch, this tour offers a lot in a single day — though some reviews suggest wildlife sightings depend on luck.

An In-Depth Look at the Safari Itinerary

The day kicks off early, with a pick-up from Zanzibar airport at 07:00, a critical detail for travelers catching the scheduled flight. The flight from Zanzibar to Selous departs at 07:00 and lands at 08:00, giving you just enough time to start the day without rushing. The small aircraft ensures a scenic approach to the reserve, offering glimpses of Tanzania’s changing landscape.

Once on the ground at Selous Mtemere Airstrip, your guide will meet you and immediately set off for a full-day game drive. This part of the tour is where the experience can vary significantly — some reviewers mention seeing a fair number of animals, while others feel they didn’t see as many as hoped. One critic noted, “It felt like they only had a single lion, and we searched for an hour without much luck,” highlighting that wildlife sightings are somewhat unpredictable.

However, what’s guaranteed is the chance to witness the vast savannahs, winding rivers, and lakes. The guides are known for their knowledge, and their ability to spot wildlife in such expansive terrain is crucial. Exploring the park’s waterways and grassy plains, you’ll have opportunities to see elephants, crocodiles, hippos, and a variety of birds, depending on luck and the time of day.

Lunch is served as a picnic at a scenic spot overlooking the park — a highlight for many travelers. The provided meal includes soda, water, and fresh fruits, adding a refreshing touch to the midday break. The setting is described as “stunning,” with clear views of the wilderness, allowing you to relax and enjoy nature’s soundtrack — the sounds of birds, distant elephants, and rustling bushes.

In the afternoon, the journey continues with more game viewing until around 15:00. Travelers then head back to the airstrip for the return flight to Zanzibar at 16:00, arriving back in Zanzibar at approximately 17:30.

Adding to the adventure, the tour includes a boat safari along the Rufiji River, giving you the chance to see hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species from a different vantage point. A reviewer appreciated this part, noting, “During this adventure, you’ll have time to enjoy a boat safari along the Rufiji River,” which offers a change of pace from the land-based game drives.

Transportation, Timing, and Group Size

The entire day is structured around a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle for transfers and game drives. The small group size — limited to 10 travelers — ensures that you are not just a number, but part of a more intimate safari. This setup often translates into better interaction with guides and more personalized attention.

Timing-wise, the early start means you maximize your daylight hours and the likelihood of wildlife sightings, especially in the cooler morning hours. It also allows for a relaxed schedule, avoiding the rush of larger, multi-day safaris.

It’s worth noting that the cost of $520 per person includes all fees, taxes, and the essentials like lunch. However, alcoholic beverages are not included, so if you wish to indulge, you’ll need to bring your own or purchase locally.

Authentic Insights from Reviews

While generally well-received, some reviews point out areas for improvement. One reviewer expressed a feeling that some moments seemed staged, and they felt the wildlife encounters were limited. They said, “For the price we paid, I expected more animals,” which highlights a common challenge with single-day safaris — the unpredictability of sightings.

On the positive side, multiple reviewers appreciated the knowledgeable guides. One mentioned, “The guides were very experienced and knew exactly where to look,” making the experience more enriching even when animal sightings are sparse. The views of the river and plains were also praised, with travelers noting the scenic beauty of Selous and the Rufiji River, making the journey visually rewarding regardless of wildlife.

Who Should Consider This Safari?

This tour is ideal for those with limited time who still want a taste of Tanzania’s wildlife. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a convenient, guided day trip that combines flying, game viewing, and a boat safari, without the need for multi-day planning.

It also suits travelers who value comfort, small group interactions, and scenic flights. Keep in mind that wildlife sightings can depend heavily on luck and timing, so those with high expectations for animal encounters might want to consider multi-day safaris for more extensive viewing.

The Sum Up

This one-day safari from Zanzibar offers a well-organized, exciting way to glimpse Tanzania’s wildlife, with the added thrill of a scenic flight. The inclusion of a boat safari along the Rufiji River and the picnic lunch in natural surroundings make it a full, varied day. The small-group format and knowledgeable guides enhance the experience, making it more personal and engaging.

While wildlife sightings may not always be abundant, the stunning landscapes, the chance to see river animals from a boat, and the convenience of flying make this a strong choice for those short on time. It’s suitable for travelers seeking an easy, structured introduction to Tanzanian wildlife — especially if you’re eager to combine air travel with safari adventures.

Ultimately, this tour offers a balance of comfort, scenic beauty, and wildlife spotting that will delight beginners and seasoned travelers alike — as long as you’re okay with the unpredictability of wildlife encounters in a single day.

FAQ

How early do I need to be at the pick-up point?
The tour starts with a pickup at 4:00 am for the transfer to Zanzibar airport, ensuring you catch the scheduled flight to Selous.

What’s included in the price?
The $520 includes all fees and taxes, round-trip flights from Zanzibar, transportation, game drives, a boat safari, and a picnic lunch with drinks.

Can I participate if I have limited mobility?
Most travelers can participate, but since the day involves a full game drive and boat safari, some mobility may be required. It’s best to check with the tour provider for specific accommodations.

Is there a chance I won’t see many animals?
Yes, wildlife sightings depend on the day’s luck and time of day. Some reviewers noted limited animal encounters, so don’t expect guaranteed sightings.

How long is the boat safari?
The boat safari along Rufiji River lasts about an hour, providing a different perspective on the river’s wildlife.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring essentials like sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, camera, and perhaps a light jacket for early morning chill. Water and fruits are provided, but extra snacks or drinks are optional.

What happens if the weather is poor?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to bad weather, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

This safari experience from Zanzibar offers a practical and scenic way to see Tanzania’s wilderness in a single day. Whether you’re after a quick wildlife fix or a memorable adventure, it combines convenience with the thrill of discovery.