3 Days Selous/Nyerere NP : Game Drive, Boat & Walking Safari

Discover the Wild at Selous/Nyerere NP: A 3-Day Safari Adventure

Travelers eager to witness Africa’s iconic wildlife will find this 3-day Selous/Nyerere National Park tour a compelling option. This adventure promises a blend of game drives, boat safaris on the Rufiji River, and walking safaris, all led by knowledgeable guides. It’s a well-rounded experience designed for those who want to see big game, enjoy scenic waterways, and get up close to nature in an authentic setting.

What we love about this tour is its balanced mix of activities—it’s not just about sitting in a vehicle all day. The full-board accommodation keeps you comfortable, the professional guides bring much-needed insight, and the chance to combine game drives with boat and walking safaris makes every moment feel fresh. The only potential concern is that it’s a five-and-a-half-hour drive from Dar es Salaam, which might be tiring for some travelers, but the landscape vistas make the journey worthwhile.

This trip suits adventure seekers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone looking to explore Tanzania beyond the usual beaches or city life. It’s especially appealing if you want a comprehensive safari experience in a less crowded, more authentic environment.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Multi-Activity Experience: Combines game drives, boat safaris, and walking safaris for a full immersion.
• Wildlife Focus: Large populations of elephants, lions, buffaloes, wild dogs, crocodiles, and hippopotamus.
• Professional Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with expert insights.
• Full-Board Accommodation: Comfortable stays at Mloka Safaris Lodge included.
• Duration & Flexibility: 3 days with options to pay later, suitable for flexible planning.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or wheelchair users.

Inside the 3-Day Selous/Nyerere Safari Experience

Day 1: Arrival and Riverside Adventure

The journey begins with a pick-up from your hotel, airport, or ferry in Dar es Salaam. After a brief safari briefing, you’ll hit the road for about five and a half hours southward. The scenic drive offers glimpses of Tanzanian countryside, setting the mood for your adventure.

Once in Selous (also called Nyerere National Park), you’ll settle into Mloka Safaris Lodge, a comfortable base for your stay. The afternoon kicks off with a boat safari along the Rufiji River, a highlight for many travelers. This activity offers the chance to see hippos, crocodiles, and an incredible variety of birdlife—often described as serene but exhilarating.

A boat safari is a great way to experience the water-based ecosystem and see wildlife that’s often inaccessible by land. You’ll love the relaxed pace and the chance to appreciate the park’s vibrant river life at sunset.

Day 2: Full-Day Game Drives and Picnics

Wake up early for a full day of game driving, packed with opportunities to spot Tanzania’s iconic animals. Your guides will lead you through the bush, sharing their expertise on animal behavior and park ecology. Many reviews note that guides like James and Emmanuel are passionate and insightful, making the experience both fun and educational.

The game drives are timed around the early mornings and late afternoons, when animals are most active. Between drives, you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch at a scenic site, with some reviews mentioning that the guide carefully selects spots that offer both great views and good shade for resting.

Traveling in a relatively small group ensures personalized attention and a more intimate experience. As you explore, expect sightings of elephants, lions, buffaloes, and perhaps the elusive wild dogs. The park’s large population of these animals makes it one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations.

More Great Tours Nearby

Day 3: Walking Safari and Return to Dar

The last morning begins with an exciting walking safari—a rare chance to see wildlife on foot under the guidance of experienced rangers. Walking safaris are often highlighted as a more personal and immersive way to connect with nature, allowing for close-up animal observations and a focus on the smaller details of the bush.

After about two and a half hours, you’ll return to the lodge, freshen up, and enjoy a hearty breakfast. A packed lunch follows before your drive back to Dar es Salaam. Expect to arrive in the late afternoon, ready for your onward journey or flight home.

Value and Practicality

This tour’s $620 per person price includes everything you need: park fees, all activities, accommodation, transportation, meals, and drinks (as specified). The full-board basis ensures comfort and convenience, while the professional guides enhance your understanding of the park’s ecology and wildlife.

What truly sets this experience apart is the diversity of activities packed into just three days. You get to enjoy water safaris, game drives, and walking safaris, covering different perspectives of the park’s ecosystems. The guided nature walks are a highlight — many reviews mention how guides like Emmanuel and James make the bush come alive with stories and facts.

Authenticity and Connection

Many travelers appreciate that Selous is less commercialized than other parks like Serengeti or Ngorongoro, making it a more genuine experience. The large animal populations ensure good chances of sightings, especially if you’re patient and lucky.

The boat safaris are often praised as peaceful moments where you can observe hippos and crocodiles up close, while the walking safaris offer a sensory connection to the environment, from the smell of the bush to the sounds of birds.

Transportation and Timing

The drive from Dar es Salaam is a significant part of the experience, offering scenic views and a taste of rural Tanzania. While a bit lengthy, the journey is generally smooth, with comfortable vehicle transportation. The activities are timed to maximize wildlife sightings, especially early mornings and late afternoons, aligning with the animals’ natural routines.

What Could Be Better?

While the experience is well-rounded, some might find the duration of the drive a bit tiring, especially for those with limited travel stamina. Also, because the tour is quite activity-packed, travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace might want to consider adding rest days.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This safari is perfect for wildlife lovers looking for a comprehensive experience with a mix of water and land-based safaris. It suits travelers who appreciate guided tours with knowledgeable guides, and who are comfortable with a few hours of travel. It’s particularly good for those wanting to see large game and enjoy authentic safari activities without the crowds of larger parks.

However, it’s not recommended for pregnant women, people with back problems, or those with mobility issues due to the walking safaris and vehicle rides. Travelers with a flexible schedule and a sense of adventure will gain the most from this trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the transfer from Dar es Salaam to Selous?
The drive takes approximately five and a half hours, giving you time to enjoy the scenic countryside en route.

What activities are included in the tour?
All activities listed—game drives, boat safaris, walking safaris—are included unless marked as optional. Meals and accommodation are also covered.

Is the accommodation comfortable?
Yes, staying at Mloka Safaris Lodge, travelers report it’s a comfortable place to rest after active days, with full board included.

Are drinks included during the safari?
Drinks are included as specified in the day-by-day itinerary, so you can enjoy refreshments during activities and meals.

Can I pay later or reserve my spot?
Yes, you can reserve your place now and pay later, offering flexibility in planning your trip.

Is this tour suitable for families?
The tour is designed for adventure-minded travelers. It’s not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or wheelchair users.

What should I bring?
A valid passport is essential. Additional personal items like souvenirs, travel insurance, or visas are not included.

What is the best time of year for this safari?
While not specified, Tanzania’s dry seasons typically offer better wildlife viewing, so planning during those months may enhance your experience.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day safari in Selous/Nyerere National Park offers a genuine taste of Tanzania’s wild side, blending exciting game viewing with tranquil water and bush experiences. With knowledgeable guides, full-board lodging, and a mix of safaris, it’s designed for those who crave an immersive, authentic adventure. The combination of large wildlife populations, scenic boat trips, and walking safaris ensures every moment feels connected to the environment.

It’s a great pick for travelers who want a well-rounded, active safari that balances adventure and comfort, all at a reasonable price. If you’re hoping to see elephants, lions, and hippos in their natural habitat while enjoying the peace of the Tanzanian wilderness, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

Note: Always double-check current park conditions, guide availability, and travel advisories before booking.

You can check availability for your dates here: