From Zanzibar: 5-Day Selous and Mikumi Safari with Flights

Planning a safari in Tanzania? This 5-day journey from Zanzibar to the Selous Game Reserve and Mikumi National Park offers a fantastic blend of wildlife encounters, scenic drives, and unique adventures. It’s a well-rounded option for those wanting to explore Tanzania’s lesser-visited southern circuits without sacrificing comfort or authenticity.

What we love about this experience is the variety it offers—starting with a scenic flight, then moving through boat safaris on the Rufiji River, and finishing with walking safaris that bring you face-to-face with wildlife. The chance to see animals like lions, elephants, giraffes, and leopards in their natural habitats makes it a memorable wildlife showcase. Plus, the inclusion of professional guides known for their knowledge and friendliness enhances the quality of the trip.

A possible consideration is the long drive from Dar es Salaam, which takes around five hours. While that means some early mornings and a bit of travel time, it’s a small price for the chance to experience such vast, untouched landscapes. This safari is best suited for travelers who have a few days to spare, appreciate authentic wilderness experiences, and are eager to see a diverse range of wildlife away from the crowds of Northern Tanzania parks.

This tour offers excellent value for those looking for an immersive, well-organized safari that balances adventure with comfort. It appeals especially to travelers interested in birdwatching, walking safaris, and seeing the African wilderness from different perspectives.

Contents show

Key Points

Authentic safari experience in Tanzania’s less crowded southern regions.
Diverse activities: game drives, boat safaris, and walking safaris.
Wildlife variety includes lions, elephants, giraffes, leopards, hippos, and over 350 bird species.
Expert guides known for their knowledge and friendly approach.
Comfortable accommodations at Selous Tented Camp or Selous Mapumziko Lodge.
Long travel days from Dar es Salaam but compensated by the pristine wilderness.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary in Detail: What Makes Each Part Special

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Dar Es Salaam

Day 1: Arrival and transfer from Zanzibar to Selous

The journey kicks off with a scenic flight from Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam, a move that adds a touch of adventure right from the start. Once you land, your private guide greets you, and you settle into a 5-hour drive through Tanzania’s countryside to Selous. Although the drive is lengthy, it allows you to witness local life and landscapes, setting the stage for the wilderness ahead.

You arrive at your lodge just in time for a hot lunch—an appreciated touch after the travel—and then head straight into your first safari activity: a boat safari on the Great Rufiji River. This is where you truly start to see the wildlife in action, especially hippos and crocodiles, with birdlife soaring overhead. The boat safari offers a different perspective than land-based game drives—more relaxed and closer to aquatic animals.

Day 2: Full day of game viewing and birdwatching

The second day kicks off early with a hearty breakfast before a full day of exploring Selous on game drives. Here, you’ll get the chance to observe giraffes, lions, leopards, elephants, and impalas. Selous’s size—about the same as Switzerland—means less congestion and a more authentic wildlife experience, as animals are less accustomed to frequent vehicle visits.

Our sources highlight that Selous wildlife tends to be more reserved compared to Northern parks, making sightings feel more genuine and less rushed. Birdwatchers will be thrilled with over 350 bird species, including kingfishers and herons, often seen along waterholes and open plains.

Day 3: Walking safari and exploration

This day is a highlight—an opportunity to walk in the wilderness with armed guides. Walking safaris offer a different sense of connection to nature, with guides providing insights into spoor, plants, and the smaller creatures often overlooked during drives.

According to reviews, guides in Selous are notably knowledgeable, offering naturalist commentary that deepens your understanding of the ecosystem. The walking safari allows close-up encounters with the landscape and wildlife, such as observing elephants from a safe distance or bird species up close.

More Great Tours Nearby

Day 4: Transfer to Mikumi National Park

After breakfast, you leave Selous and head toward Mikumi, a drive of roughly 4 hours. Mikumi’s landscapes are characterized by open plains, acacia trees, and the iconic baobabs. As Tanzania’s fourth-largest park, Mikumi is famous for its large herds of elephants and buffalo, with the chance to spot predators like lions and leopards too.

This park often has a more accessible feel, making it suitable for a game drive-focused afternoon. The park’s proximity to Dar es Salaam makes it a practical choice for a shorter transfer without sacrificing wildlife viewing.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Dar Es Salaam

Day 5: Game drive and departure

Your final morning includes a game drive in Mikumi, where you’ll look for lions, giraffes, zebras, and possibly cheetahs. The park’s terrain and abundant wildlife make for excellent photography and a fitting farewell to Tanzania’s wilderness.

After your game drive, you’ll transfer back to Dar es Salaam for your flight out or onward travel. The overall experience leaves you with a broad picture of Tanzania’s southern ecosystems, from riverine habitats to open plains.

Overall Experience & What to Expect

Wildlife Encounters

The tour is designed for wildlife lovers, with chances to see the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—in their natural habitats. While rhinos are less common, the diversity of species like hartebeests, pythons, and elands adds richness to your sightings.

Activities & Adventures

The boat safari on the Rufiji River is a refreshing change from land drives, offering close-up views of hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds. The walking safari is a rare chance to observe the wilderness with heightened senses, guided by trained naturalists. Game drives in both Selous and Mikumi are leisurely, focused on quality sightings rather than quantity.

Guides & Group Size

Reviews emphasize the professionalism and friendliness of guides like James and Elijah, who are known for their wildlife expertise and storytelling skills. Small group sizes (often around 4-8 travelers) create a more intimate experience, allowing for better interaction and personalized attention.

Accommodation & Meals

Staying at Selous Tented Camp or Selous Mapumziko Lodge provides a comfortable base with a genuine bush feel, often with outdoor showers and panoramic views. Meals are included, with options for local cuisine and fresh ingredients, making the experience both authentic and relaxing after a day of adventure.

Transport & Logistics

The flight from Zanzibar adds a scenic and time-efficient element, but the 5-hour drive from Dar es Salaam to Selous is a significant part of the journey. Travelers should be prepared for this transfer but can enjoy the changing scenery and possibly spot some wildlife along the way.

Cost & Value

At $1,300 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package—flights, accommodations, meals, and activities—delivering good value for the immersive experience. The inclusion of unique activities like walking safaris and boat trips enhances the overall worth.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This safari is ideal for those seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience in Tanzania’s southern wilderness. It suits wildlife enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and adventurous travelers eager to try walking safaris and boat excursions. It’s also perfect for travelers who prefer a smaller group setting and knowledgeable guides who can share their expertise.

However, travelers should be comfortable with long travel days and the moderate physical activity involved in walking safaris. It’s less suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or those with back problems.

The Sum Up

This 5-day safari from Zanzibar to Selous and Mikumi offers a compelling mix of adventure, comfort, and wildlife encounters. It’s a well-balanced itinerary that showcases Tanzania’s lesser-visited southern ecosystems, giving travelers a chance to see diverse animals in a more tranquil setting.

The inclusion of boat safaris, walking adventures, and game drives makes for an engaging and dynamic experience. The guides’ expertise adds depth and safety to your journey, enhancing the authenticity of the experience. The accommodations strike a nice balance between comfort and immersion, making this a solid choice for adventurous wildlife lovers.

If you’re after a true safari experience that combines scenic travel with genuine encounters in remote wilderness areas, this tour deserves serious consideration. It’s particularly suitable for those who want to explore beyond the crowds and appreciate wildlife in a more natural, less commercialized environment.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children under 12 years old, as the activities involve walking safaris and long drives which may be tiring or challenging for young children.

Are the guides experienced?
Yes, reviews highlight that guides are highly knowledgeable, friendly, and capable of providing insightful naturalist commentary, enhancing the overall experience.

What should I pack?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, insect repellent, and binoculars. Weather can vary, so pack accordingly, especially for early mornings and evenings.

How long is the drive from Dar es Salaam to Selous?
Approximately 5 hours, which might be a lengthy part of the day but allows you to see the Tanzanian countryside and wildlife along the way.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Look out for giraffes, lions, leopards, elephants, hippos, impalas, hartebeests, and possibly wild dogs. Bird enthusiasts will also enjoy the over 350 species recorded in Selous.

Is the price of $1,300 per person good value?
Considering the flights, accommodations, meals, and diverse activities including boat and walking safaris, the price offers good value for an immersive, well-organized safari.

This safari from Zanzibar covers a wide spectrum of wildlife and landscapes, packed with activities that cater to adventurous spirits and wildlife lovers alike. With knowledgeable guides and authentic experiences, it’s a trip that can leave lasting memories of Tanzania’s wild heart.