If you’re dreaming of combining the white sands and turquoise waters of Zanzibar with Tanzania’s wild heart, this 3-day, 2-night safari to Nyerere National Park offers a compelling escape. While it’s not a walk-in wilderness trip, the seamless logistics, thrilling game drives, and authentic encounters make it a worthwhile adventure for wildlife lovers and safari newcomers alike.
What stands out most? The convenience of flying directly from Zanzibar, the focus on diverse safari activities—both game drives and boat safaris—and the chance to see Africa’s largest national park in just a few days. That said, it’s worth noting that this is a packaged experience with guided tours, which might mean some group settings. Still, if you want a taste of Tanzania’s famous wildlife without the hassle of planning every detail, this package offers excellent value at $950 per person.
This tour is ideal for travelers who want a well-organized, all-inclusive safari, especially those short on time but eager to see wildlife in the wild. It’s suited for first-timers, couples, or small groups seeking a balance of adventure and comfort.
Key Points
- Convenience of Flights: The tour includes roundtrip flights from Zanzibar, saving days of travel and logistical headaches.
- Diverse Safari Activities: Enjoy both full-day game drives, bush walks, and boat safaris, providing a well-rounded wildlife experience.
- All-Inclusive Price: Accommodation, park fees, guided tours, meals, and drinks are covered, making it straightforward to budget.
- Authentic Wildlife Encounters: Expect large herds, river safaris, and walking safaris that bring you close to nature.
- Limited Duration: Perfect for those with limited time but still seeking a meaningful safari experience.
- Potential Group Dynamics: The tour runs daily, often with small group sizes, which can enhance or limit personal space depending on bookings.
An In-Depth Look at the 3-Day Nyerere Safari
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Zanzibar City
Day 1: From Zanzibar to the Heart of Africa
Your adventure begins early, with a hotel pick-up and transfer to Zanzibar Airport for a domestic flight. The flight to Selous Game Reserve (now Nyerere National Park) typically offers scenic views of the Tanzanian landscape—expect to see hints of lush greenery breaking into open plains. After arriving, you’ll jump straight into your first game drive with a professional guide in a safari jeep.
This initial drive is a highlight, as it covers the largest national park in Africa, a sprawling wilderness teeming with elephants, lions, buffalo, and more. Travelers report that the game drives reveal a variety of wildlife, often with enthusiastic guides pointing out animals you might miss on your own. A mid-morning tea break adds a touch of comfort amid the wild setting, and lunch is a picnic hamper with hot dishes, allowing you to rest and refuel in the bush.
You’ll spend the night at the Africa Safari Selous, where full-board accommodation means your days are packed with activity but also well-catered for comfort. Reviewers praise the professional guides and mention that the park’s size allows for frequent sightings, making it a rewarding start.
Day 2: Walking and Boat Safaris to See Different Perspectives
Day two shifts gears with a full-day of exploring on foot and by water. After breakfast, you’ll head out for a walking safari in the bush, an experience that offers a more intimate connection with nature. This is where you might notice the small details—tracks, bird calls, the scent of the wilderness—that are often missed during vehicle safaris.
Later, you’ll head to the Rufiji River for a boat safari. This part of the tour is particularly popular, as it provides a different vantage point to observe wildlife along the riverbanks—hippos, crocodiles, and abundant birdlife dominate this scene. Reviewers often mention how peaceful and immersive the boat rides are, offering a break from the land-based game drives.
Day 3: Final Safari and Return to Zanzibar
Your last morning includes another bush walking safari followed by a boat safari along the Rufiji River. These activities tend to be highlights for travelers, offering different angles to see the park’s wildlife and scenery. After lunch at the hotel, you’ll transfer back to the airstrip for your flight to Zanzibar, completing your Tanzanian wilderness adventure.
The convenience of daily departures means you can adapt your plans easily, and the entire experience is designed to maximize your time exploring rather than in transit.
More Great Tours NearbyWhat’s Included and What’s Not
The tour’s $950 price tag covers many essentials: flights, accommodation, park fees, a professional guide, meals, and the safari jeep. Plus, soft drinks are part of the package, enhancing your comfort during game drives.
However, extras such as pick-up and drop-off at your Zanzibar hotel aren’t included, so you might need to arrange local transport to and from the airport. Alcoholic drinks are also not included, which might be worth considering if you enjoy unwinding with a drink after a day in the wilderness.
The Value Proposition
Looking at what’s included—flights, full-board accommodation, park fees, and guided safaris—the value for $950 holds up well. It’s a straightforward package that eliminates the logistical stress of planning a Tanzanian safari independently, especially for first-timers or those wanting a hassle-free experience.
Practical Tips and Considerations
- Timing: The tour runs daily, so flexible travelers can slot it into their schedule. Check weather conditions or peak wildlife seasons for optimal viewing.
- Group size: The experience is typically designed for small groups, which can make the game drives more personal.
- Physical activity: The walking safaris are generally straightforward, but be prepared for some physical exertion and uneven terrain.
- What to bring: Binoculars, camera, hat, sunscreen, and lightweight clothing are recommended for comfort and better wildlife viewing.
- Booking flexibility: You can reserve now and pay later, with the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Final Thoughts: Is This Safari for You?
This 3-day safari from Zanzibar to Nyerere National Park offers a balanced mix of wildlife viewing, adventure, and comfort—all packed into a manageable itinerary. It’s perfect for travelers who want to experience Africa’s vast landscapes without the long-haul overland drives or multiple flights. The inclusion of boat safaris and walking tours adds layers of authenticity and variety that many short safaris lack.
If you’re after a well-organized, value-packed safari that highlights the best of Tanzania’s wilderness in a short time, this experience is worth considering. It’s especially suited for those new to safaris or travelers who prefer guided, all-inclusive arrangements. Just keep in mind the group dynamic and physical activity level to ensure it matches your travel style.
FAQs
What is included in the tour?
The tour includes flights roundtrip from Zanzibar, full accommodation, park fees, a professional guide, all meals, and soft drinks during activities.
Are airport transfers included?
No, pick-up and drop-off at your Zanzibar hotel are not included, so you’ll need to arrange transportation to the airport.
What activities are part of the safari?
You’ll experience full-day game drives, bush walking safaris, and boat safaris along the Rufiji River, providing diverse wildlife encounters.
Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if plans change.
Is the safari suitable for families?
While not explicitly stated, the activities—such as walking safaris—may require a certain level of physical fitness. Check with the provider if traveling with children.
How many days does the trip last?
It’s a 3-day, 2-night experience, making it ideal for a short but immersive safari from Zanzibar.
What should I pack?
Bring binoculars, camera, hat, sunscreen, and lightweight, comfortable clothing suitable for outdoor activities and variable weather.
Are there any additional costs?
Alcoholic beverages and personal transportation to/from the airport are not included, so plan accordingly.
Who is the tour provider?
Rommy Safaris organizes this experience, known for their professional guides and smooth logistics.
In summary, this safari offers a practical, adventure-filled escape into Tanzania’s wilderness with the convenience of flights from Zanzibar. It’s a smart choice for those seeking a quick, authentic, and affordable way to encounter Africa’s iconic wildlife—making it a trip you’ll remember long after the sands of Zanzibar are a distant memory.
You can check availability for your dates here:More Private Tours in Zanzibar City
More Tours in Zanzibar City
More Tour Reviews in Zanzibar City
Still browsing? Here are more Zanzibar City experiences we've covered recently
- Zanzibar: Private Tour with Prison Island and Spice Farm
- Lunch Break, Mnemba Tour, Swim with Turtles, Kendwa Beach
- Salaam cave kizimkaz
- SELOUS: 1 DAY SAFARI FROM ZANZIBAR (SHARED GAME DRIVE)
- Zanzibar: Half-Day Prison Island, Tortoises and Spices Tour
- Blue Lagoon, Starfish Tour, The Rock, Kuza Cave, Paje Beach
- Zanzibar: Prison Island & Nakupenda Sandbank Tour with lunch
- FROM NUNGWI: STONE TOWN, SPICE FARM TOUR AND PRISONAL ISLAND
- Zanzibar: Mangrove Forest Kayaking Tour & Paje Beach Visit
- FROM NUNGWI : PRISON ISLAND AND NAKUPENDA SANDBNK WITH LUNCH
- ZANZIBAR, Stone town tour, Prison Island & Spice farm
- Zanzibar: Stone town, Prison island & Spice Farm with lunch