2 days 1 night Nyerere national park from Zanzibar by flight

If you’re dreaming of spotting elephants in the wild or cruising along Tanzania’s largest river with a backdrop of incredible wildlife, a 2-day trip from Zanzibar to Nyerere National Park might be just what you need. This tour promises a blend of flying in style, immersive game drives, and relaxing stays at comfortable lodges, all organized by Rommy Safaris.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the ease of travel—flying directly from Zanzibar to the park’s airstrip streamlines the logistics. Second, the opportunity for varied wildlife viewing, including both land and water safaris. Third, the chance to stay in a mid-range lodge with full-board options, balancing comfort and value.

That said, it’s a fast-paced excursion that packs in a lot in just 48 hours, so it might feel a bit rushed for those wanting a slow, in-depth safari. This tour suits travelers who crave a genuine wildlife adventure without sacrificing convenience, especially those short on time but eager to tick Tanzania’s big five off their list.

Contents show

Key Points

Convenient Flight Transfer: Quick, direct flights from Zanzibar make your journey smooth and time-efficient.
Expert Guides: Guides like Osman, Goodluck, and Hassan are praised for their knowledge and efforts to spot animals.
Diverse Wildlife Viewing: Experience both land game drives and boat safaris with chances to see elephants, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, and more.
Comfortable Lodging: Stay at Selous Safari Lodge, a mid-range option offering full-board meals and a cozy atmosphere.
Authentic Encounters: Visitors highlight genuine animal sightings, enthusiastic guides, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Highly Rated Experience: Consistently receiving 5-star reviews for organization, guides, and overall value.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Nyerere National Park Safari Tour

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Zanzibar

Seamless Travel from Zanzibar to Nyerere

Starting your adventure, a private transfer from your Zanzibar hotel delivers you to the airport early in the morning. The included flight to Mtemere Airstrip is quick, saving hours compared to land options, and sets the tone for a hassle-free experience. Reviewers mention the professionalism of Rommy Safaris, with one traveler noting, “The driver was there at 4 a.m., ready to go, with my boarding pass already prepared.” The flight itself is described as pleasant, with friendly crew, making the journey enjoyable even before the adventure begins.

Arrival at Nyerere: The Gateway to Wildlife

Touching down at Mtemere Airstrip, your private safari vehicle is waiting. This is where the real magic starts—immediately, you’re whisked into the park’s wilderness. Expect to be greeted by a knowledgeable guide who will share insights into the park’s ecosystems and animal behaviors. As one reviewer, Osman, shared, guides like him make the experience memorable by actively seeking out animals and sharing fascinating facts, like the habits of elusive leopards or the social lives of hippos.

Day 1: Game Drive & Lunch in the Wilderness

The core of your day involves a game drive in an open safari jeep, offering 360-degree views of the landscape. The park’s size means you can expect diverse terrain—from grassy plains to dense bush. You’re likely to see elephants, giraffes, lions, buffalo, and perhaps even some rare sightings if luck is on your side, as one traveler fondly recalls seeing “all of them except leopards,” during a 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. stretch.

Lunch is served within the park, providing a truly authentic experience—nothing beats eating amidst nature with wildlife sightings as your backdrop. The guide’s local knowledge helps maximize wildlife sightings, often making the difference between just seeing footprints and observing animals in action.

More Great Tours Nearby

Accommodation at Selous Safari Lodge

Even after an adventurous day, you’ll return to the Selous Safari Lodge, a mid-range accommodation praised for its comfort and welcoming atmosphere. Guests report the lodge as “amazing,” highlighting the full-board meal service, which is especially appreciated after a long day of game viewing. The lodge’s location offers a peaceful setting, often with views of the river or surrounding landscapes, allowing for relaxation and reflection on the day’s highlights.

Love the evening vibe? Here are more after-sunset activities we've covered in Zanzibar

Day 2: Boat Safari on Rufiji River

Wake up to breakfast before heading out for a boat safari on the Rufiji River, which is the largest in Tanzania. This part of the trip is especially cherished by travelers, as it offers a unique perspective—gliding past hippos and crocodiles, with birds fluttering overhead, and if you’re lucky, spotting elephants or giraffes drinking from the riverbanks. One reviewer described it as “such a beautiful, peaceful experience,” emphasizing the chance to see wildlife in a different habitat.

The boat safari lasts a few hours and provides opportunities for close-up animal encounters that land safaris might miss. It’s an excellent way to wrap up the wildlife viewing before heading back to lodge, feeling both exhilarated and relaxed.

Return Flight & Zanzibar

After a hearty breakfast and some final moments in the wilderness, you’ll fly back to Zanzibar in the afternoon. The return journey is smooth, with Rommy Safaris arranging pickup from the airport and transfer back to your hotel. Reviewers confirm this seamless process, with many calling it “the best part of the trip,” thanks to the expert organization and attentive guides.

The Value of This Safari Experience

This tour offers exceptional value for those seeking a compact but comprehensive safari. The package includes all flights, park fees, taxes, meals, and a knowledgeable guide—covering most costs upfront. Compared to standalone safaris or multi-day trips, this 2-day version provides a rich wildlife experience without the long-term commitment or high expense.

Guests consistently praise the guidance and organization, with guides like Osman, Goodluck, Hassan, Freddy, and Thomas making the experience engaging and educational. The full-board lodgings ensure comfort after a day of exploration, and the boat safari adds a special touch not always included in shorter trips.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

Ideal for travelers with limited time but a keen interest in wildlife, this tour suits those who value convenience, comfort, and authentic experiences. It’s perfect for first-timers eager to see Tanzania’s Big Five or seasoned safari lovers wanting a quick escape from Zanzibar’s beaches with a focus on wildlife. Families, couples, or solo travelers will find this a well-organized, memorable outing.

Summary: Why This Safari Might Be Your Perfect Tanzanian Escape

This 2-day safari from Zanzibar to Nyerere National Park packs in a lot: scenic flights, guided game drives, boat safaris, and cozy lodgings—all curated to deliver an authentic wildlife adventure. The reviews highlight the professionalism of Rommy Safaris, the warmth and expertise of guides, and the incredible animal sightings, making it clear this experience is highly appreciated.

The balance of comfort and adventure makes it a standout choice, especially for travelers who want to maximize wildlife sightings in a short amount of time. The inclusion of both land and water safaris offers variety and a broader view of Tanzania’s ecosystems.

While it’s a quick trip, the quality of organization and guided expertise ensures you leave with meaningful memories—not just photos of animals but stories of the guides who made it all happen.

To sum it up, if you’re looking to combine the ease of flying, the thrill of safari, and the comfort of a well-organized tour, this adventure from Zanzibar offers excellent value. It’s best suited for those eager to discover Tanzania’s wildlife without the hassle of complex planning or long stays, and who want to experience the sights and sounds of Nyerere’s wilderness in just a weekend.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, as long as participants are comfortable with outdoor activities and early mornings, this safari can suit families, couples, and solo travelers.

Do I need to have previous safari experience?
Not at all. Guides like Osman are very experienced and eager to share their knowledge, making it accessible for first-timers.

What should I pack for this trip?
Light, breathable clothing, binoculars, sun protection, and a camera are recommended. The lodge provides full-board meals, so just bring essentials for comfort.

How long are the flights between Zanzibar and the park?
The flights are relatively short, offering a quick way to reach the park and maximize your safari time.

Are the accommodations comfortable?
Yes, Selous Safari Lodge is generally praised for its comfort, beautiful setting, and full-board meals, making your stay relaxing after days of adventure.

Can I customize or add extra activities?
While the package is set, you might find additional experiences like village visits or extra game drives available through the organizer, but confirm with Rommy Safaris beforehand.

If wildlife and quick yet immersive adventures are calling your name, this Zanzibar to Nyerere safari is a fantastic choice—delivering memorable sightings, professional guides, and seamless organization all in just a couple of days.