From Zanzibar: Selous Day Safari With Flights Included

Planning a safari from Zanzibar that combines quick flights, thrilling game drives, and a genuine bush experience sounds ideal, but how does it actually work? We’ve looked into the Selous Day Safari with Flights Included offered by Beach & Safari Holidays to see if it lives up to expectations. From the moment you’re greeted at the airport to the final flight back, this tour promises a compact yet immersive taste of Tanzania’s wildlife.

What we love about this experience is the convenience of flights, the opportunity to see Tanzania’s largest protected game reserve in just one day, and the chance to enjoy a bush lunch right in the middle of nature. The expert guides and well-organized schedule are definite highlights. However, it’s also worth noting that this tour is a long day with early starts, which might be tiring for some travelers.

If you’re seeking a short but impactful safari experience—especially if time is limited—this trip could suit you perfectly. It’s ideal for those wanting to tick Tanzania’s wildlife off their bucket list without sacrificing too much time or budget. Just be prepared for a busy schedule and the early morning wake-up call.

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Key Points

Convenient round-trip flights from Zanzibar save time and simplify logistics.
Full-day game drives offer a comprehensive view of Tanzania’s wildlife.
Bush lunch experience in the heart of the park adds authenticity.
Guides are experienced and knowledgeable, enhancing the educational aspect.
Strict schedule means early mornings but efficient use of your day.
Price point ($450) provides good value considering flights, park fees, and guided drives.

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An In-Depth Look at the Selous (Nyerere) Safari Experience

This tour is essentially a flying day trip that packs many highlights of Tanzania’s wildlife into a single day. It begins with an early morning pickup and a quick flight from Zanzibar to the Selous/Nyerere National Park, the continent’s largest protected game reserve. The entire experience is designed for travelers wanting a taste of Africa’s wilderness without the two-week commitment typical of traditional safaris.

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The Journey Begins: Early Morning Airport Arrival

Your day kicks off around 5:00 am at Zanzibar’s terminal, where you’ll meet your guide from Beach & Safari Holidays. The process is straightforward: arrive at Terminal 2, grab a coffee at Jahazi Cafe, and wait for your flight. The early start might seem daunting, but it’s manageable thanks to the well-organized schedule and the promise of a full day ahead.

The flight itself is a notable feature. At around 6:00 am, you’ll take off from Zanzibar, flying about 45 minutes to an airstrip inside the Selous (Nyerere) National Park. The convenience of door-to-door flights means less time spent on ground transportation and more time on game viewing.

Arriving at the Park: A Full-Day of Wildlife Watching

Once at the park’s airstrip, your adventure begins with a shared or private game drive. The guides are experienced, with extensive knowledge about the park’s wildlife and environment. One reviewer mentioned how guide Charles was particularly enthusiastic about sharing insights, making the experience truly educational. Expect to spot elephants, lions, crocodiles, hippos, and a variety of antelopes among the sprawling landscape.

The game drive usually starts around 7:00 am, with breaks for refreshments. A mid-morning coffee or tea at 10:30 provides a welcome pause amidst the excitement. The drives are designed for maximized wildlife sightings, with the guides knowing the best spots to stop.

Bush Lunch: A Unique Dining Experience

One of the tour’s highlights is the bush lunch — a warm, set-table meal served in the middle of the wilderness around 12:30 pm. This is a rare chance to enjoy a hearty meal surrounded by nature, with the sounds of birds and distant animal calls providing an unforgettable backdrop. Many reviews praise this aspect, describing it as a “surreal experience” that elevates the safari from a simple drive to a memorable adventure.

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Afternoon Game Drive and Return Flight

Post-lunch, the game drive continues until about 3:30 pm. During this time, you’ll be able to revisit favorite spots or explore new areas that might be rich in wildlife. The guides aim to make the most of your remaining hours in the park, sharing stories and spotting animals right up to the last minute.

At around 4:15 pm, you’ll be driven back to the airstrip for your return flight to Zanzibar, arriving back at 5:05 pm. The entire day is a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and sensations, all within a compact 12-hour window.

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The Value of the Tour

Considering the $450 price tag, this package offers excellent value. The cost includes return flights, park entry, guiding services, and the bush lunch. Without the hassle of organizing flights separately or navigating park fees independently, travelers get a seamless, all-inclusive experience.

Compared to traditional safaris that can cost thousands for multi-day adventures, this day trip is an efficient way to see Tanzania’s wildlife highlights. It’s especially appealing for those who want a high-impact, short-duration safari or have limited time during their Zanzibar stay.

Practical Considerations

Timing: The early start and late return mean you should be prepared for a long day. If you’re not a morning person or prone to jet lag, it’s advisable to get good rest beforehand.
Weather: The tour notes that operations might be affected between April and June by weather or airfield conditions, so flexibility is key.
Physical requirements: The tour isn’t suitable for those with back problems, wheelchairs, insect allergies, or heart conditions due to the nature of the drives and outdoor lunch.
Booking tips: To maximize your experience, it’s recommended to book at least two nights before your international departure from Zanzibar, giving you flexibility in case of delays.

Authenticity and Review Insights

From the reviews, many travelers appreciated the professionalism of the guides, particularly their enthusiasm and knowledge. One reviewer highlighted how guides love to share detailed information about the animals and environment, making the drive both fun and educational.

The bush lunch is often described as “a highlight that makes the trip special,” with many noting the quality of food and the unique setting. Some mentioned the early morning start as a challenge but felt it was justified by the stunning wildlife sightings and the overall value.

Final Thoughts

This Selous/Nyerere Day Safari from Zanzibar is perfect for travelers wanting a taste of Tanzania’s wildlife in a single day. The combination of flights, guided game drives, and a bush lunch offers a well-rounded experience that doesn’t require multiple days or hefty budgets.

While it demands an early wake-up and a full day’s commitment, the rewards are worth it: the chance to see big game in one of Africa’s largest parks, all within a carefully curated itinerary. It’s especially suited for wildlife enthusiasts, first-time safari-goers, or those short on time but eager to experience Africa’s wilderness.

If you’re looking for a reliable, professionally organized day trip that captures the essence of Tanzania’s wildlife with minimal hassle, this tour checks many boxes — delivering value, authenticity, and adventure in a single package.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, the tour includes return flights from Zanzibar to the Selous (Nyerere) National Park, as well as transportation to and from the airport and airstrip at both ends.

What is the best time of year to do this safari?
While the tour can operate year-round, weather or airfield conditions from April to June might cause delays or postponements. Booking in the dry season (July to October) generally results in better wildlife visibility and easier travel conditions.

How long does the entire trip last?
The tour starts early in the morning, around 5:00 am, and ends back in Zanzibar at approximately 5:05 pm. Expect a full 12-hour day packed with activity.

Are the game drives shared or private?
You have the option to choose between a shared or private game drive, depending on your preference and budget.

What should I bring on the day?
A valid passport is required, and it’s advisable to carry sun protection, insect repellent, some water, and a camera. Comfortable outdoor clothing suited for early mornings and outdoor activity is recommended.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
The tour is generally suitable for those able to handle early mornings and outdoor conditions. It’s not recommended for travelers with back problems, wheelchairs, insect allergies, or heart issues due to the nature of the outdoor drives and bush lunch.