From Zanzibar: 4 Days Selous Safari with flights,boat safari

Exploring the vast wilderness of Nyerere National Park (Selous) from Zanzibar offers a unique blend of adventure and comfort. While we haven’t personally been on this exact trip, reviews and detailed itineraries paint a vivid picture of what to expect: exhilarating game drives, scenic river cruises, and the chance to experience Tanzania’s incredible wildlife firsthand.

What we love about this tour is the combination of diverse activities—from full-day game drives to peaceful boat safaris—offering a comprehensive safari experience. Staying overnight in a cozy lodge close to the park adds a sense of authenticity and immersion. The hot springs visit is a bonus, giving travelers a relaxing break amidst the wild landscape.

One possible consideration is the weather-dependent nature of some activities, like the hot springs game drive, which may not be accessible during rainy seasons. Still, this safari is suited for those looking for an active, immersive adventure into Tanzania’s renowned wildlife areas—ideal for first-time safari-goers or seasoned travelers wanting a quick but rich experience in Africa’s largest protected reserve.

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Key Points

Comprehensive Experience: Combines game drives, boat safaris, walking tours, and hot springs visits.
Authentic Wildlife Encounters: Large park, abundant wildlife, expert guides.
Convenience: Flights from Zanzibar simplify travel logistics.
Unique Accommodation: Staying in a Banda Bungalow offers an authentic bush lodge feel.
Seasonal Notes: Activities like hot springs visits may be affected by weather conditions.
Value for Money: For around $1,533, you get a multi-day, all-inclusive safari experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Introduction to the Selous Safari Experience

Traveling from Zanzibar to Tanzania’s largest protected game reserve feels like stepping into a different world. The 4-day Selous Safari offers an accessible way to experience the raw beauty of Africa’s wilderness without sacrificing comfort.

This package is especially appealing for travelers who want to maximize wildlife sightings while enjoying a mix of land, water, and walking safaris. The journey is designed to be both adventurous and relaxing, with plenty of opportunities to see Tanzania’s iconic animals—hippos, crocodiles, elephants, giraffes, and a variety of birdlife—within a short timeframe.

You’ll appreciate the balanced itinerary, which includes early morning game drives, scenic boat rides along the Rufiji River, and the memorable experience of visiting natural hot springs. The tour’s inclusion of flights from Zanzibar makes logistics smoother, saving time and avoiding long overland drives.

A noteworthy highlight is the guides’ expertise, who are passionate about sharing wildlife facts and spotting behaviors, adding educational value to each excursion. The one potential drawback? The weather can influence some activities, especially during the rainy season. Still, most travelers find the experience worthwhile, especially given the price point.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers seeking a compact, immersive safari that combines diverse wildlife encounters with comfort and convenience—perfect for those with limited time but a deep desire to see Tanzania’s wilderness.

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Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: Flying into Nyerere National Park and First Game Drive

Your adventure begins early with a flight from Zanzibar to Selous (Nyerere National Park), a sprawling area known for its rich biodiversity. Once you land, a shared vehicle takes you into the park, where your first game drive kicks off. Expect to encounter a variety of wildlife, with the guides eager to share insights—expect to hear colorful stories about the animals and the park’s history.

The game drive includes a mid-morning coffee/tea break, a delightful pause in the middle of the wilderness that allows for restful viewing and photographs. The landscape is vast, with open plains dotted with acacia trees, and the chance to see elephants meandering peacefully or watching crocodiles sunbathing on riverbanks.

A bush lunch is a highlight—not just for the food but for the experience of eating amid nature. The setting is often quiet, with only the sounds of birds and distant animal calls. After lunch, the drive continues, giving you ample time to soak up the scenery.

Day 2: Walking Safari and Rufiji River Boat Ride

Starting with a hearty breakfast, you’ll then join a walking safari—a rare chance to experience the bush on foot. Guides equipped with rifles and expert knowledge will point out signs of wildlife, plants, and insect life. Walking safaris are intimate, allowing you to notice details that might go unnoticed from a vehicle.

Later in the day, the adventure takes a peaceful turn with a boat safari along the Rufiji River. This is a unique opportunity to see wildlife from a different perspective: hippos submerged in the water, crocodiles basking on riverbanks, and an array of bird species. As one reviewer noted, “You might even see an elephant or giraffe drinking from the river,” which makes this a memorable highlight.

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Day 3: Full-day Game Drive and Hot Springs Visit

Your third day is dedicated to exploring the Beho Beho area, renowned for its birdlife and concentration of large animals. The day begins early, with a full-day game drive that may include sightings of lions, buffalo, and other big game.

One of the key attractions is the Hot Springs, which travelers can swim in—bring your swimsuit! The springs provide a relaxing interlude amid the adrenaline of wildlife spotting. Be aware that, depending on the season, this activity might be postponed if the area is inaccessible due to rain.

This full day of exploration allows for a deeper understanding of the park’s ecosystem, and guides often share fascinating details about animal behaviors and conservation efforts.

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Day 4: Departure and Flight Back to Zanzibar

After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airstrip for your flight back to Zanzibar. This provides a comfortable and hassle-free end to a packed safari, leaving you with memories of unforgettable wildlife encounters and scenic river views.

What Makes This Safari Stand Out

Flight Convenience: Traveling by plane from Zanzibar is a major time-saver, giving you more hours in the park rather than overland travel. It’s especially beneficial if your time is limited but you want a rich experience.

Diverse Activities: The mix of game drives, walking safaris, and boat trips ensures a multi-sensory experience. Each activity offers a different perspective on wildlife and landscape, making the adventure well-rounded.

Authentic Accommodation: Staying in a Banda Bungalow provides a cozy, authentic lodge experience close to nature. Many reviewers appreciated the simple yet comfortable setting that made them feel part of the bush.

Wildlife and Birdlife: The park is teeming with animals, and guides are experienced at spotting them. The birdwatching opportunities are also excellent, especially during the game drives.

Hot Springs Visit: The chance to dip in natural thermal waters adds a relaxing element to the safari, with the added bonus of scenic views and the possibility of wildlife sightings nearby.

Practical Considerations and Tips

Weather Impact: The hot springs activity is weather-dependent and might be unavailable during the rainy season, which runs roughly from April to June. It’s worth planning your trip outside these months if this is a priority.

Group Size and Guides: The tour involves shared activities, but reviews highlight that guides are knowledgeable and passionate. Some mention that the group sizes are manageable, enhancing the personal experience.

Price and Value: At $1,533 per person, this package offers a comprehensive safari with flights, accommodations, meals, and park fees included. Compared to arranging all components separately, this package provides good value for the convenience and coverage.

What to Bring: Pack essentials like a passport or ID, insect repellent, and appropriate clothing for hot days and cooler evenings. Don’t forget your camera and binoculars for wildlife viewing.

Additional Costs: Keep in mind the tourism levy ($1.50 pp/pn) and village tax ($1.00 pp/pn), payable at check-in, plus any personal expenses or optional activities.

The Sum Up

This 4-day safari from Zanzibar to Nyerere National Park offers a well-rounded taste of Tanzania’s wilderness, combining land, water, and walking safaris with comfortable lodge stays and convenient flights. It’s an excellent pick for travelers who want a structured, immersive experience without the logistical hassle of arranging flights, transfers, and activities separately.

The opportunity to see diverse wildlife, take scenic river cruises, and relax in natural hot springs makes this a memorable adventure. The tour’s emphasis on authentic, guided experiences ensures you’ll gain not just sights but insights into Tanzania’s rich ecosystems.

Perfect for first-time safari visitors or those short on time but seeking a genuine wildlife fix, this trip balances adventure, comfort, and value. Just be mindful of the season, as some activities might be weather-dependent.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The package covers flights from Zanzibar to Selous, shared transfers, game drives, excursions, park fees, and full-board accommodation in a Banda Bungalow.

Are the activities suitable for all travelers?
While most activities are accessible for travelers in good health, the tour is not suitable for those with back problems, heart issues, or limited mobility, as it involves some walking and vehicle rides over uneven terrain.

Can I see wildlife from the boat safari?
Yes, the Rufiji River boat trip offers views of hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species, providing a different perspective on the wildlife of the reserve.

What should I pack?
Bring your passport or ID, insect repellent, comfortable clothing for hot weather, and a swimsuit for the hot springs. A camera with zoom is recommended for wildlife photography.

Is the hot springs visit guaranteed?
The hot springs visit depends on weather and accessibility, especially during the rainy season, and may be postponed if the area is inaccessible.

How flexible is the schedule?
The itinerary is fixed but subject to minor adjustments due to weather, operational needs, or safety considerations. Travelers should be ready for early mornings and full days of activity.

This safari stands out as a well-organized, authentic adventure into Tanzania’s wilderness, perfect for those craving a mix of wildlife, scenery, and culture—all in just four days.