Nyerere National Park, established in 2019, is Africa’s largest national park, spanning over 30,000 square kilometers. It boasts a relatively untouched ecosystem with a rich variety of wildlife, including hippos, rhinos, giraffes, and elephants. The Rufiji River, which flows into the Indian Ocean, is a key attraction for eco-photo tourism due to its vibrant hippo and rhino populations. The park’s extensive landscapes and diverse animal life make it a significant destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
Day by Day
Day 1: Zanzibar to Nyerere National Park
- Morning: You'll be picked up from your Zanzibar hotel and transferred to Zanzibar International Airport for your flight to Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve).
- Afternoon: Upon arrival, you'll travel to Selous Game Reserve for a full-day game drive. This will include a packed lunch in the park and exploring its rich wildlife and diverse landscapes.
- Evening: After your game drive, return to Selous Safari Lodge for dinner and overnight accommodation. The lodge, located just outside the park, offers comfortable mid-range lodging and a serene environment to unwind after your adventures.
Day 2: Bush Walk, Village Tour, and Boat Safari
- Morning: Begin with an early bush walk safari for about 1.5 hours to experience the park’s natural beauty up close. Return to the lodge for breakfast.
- Late Morning: Visit Mloka village to explore local Maasai culture, including traditional practices and crafts. This tour will last until lunchtime.
- Afternoon: Enjoy lunch back at the lodge and rest.
- Late Afternoon: Embark on a boat safari along the Rufiji River. This scenic trip will offer views of hippos and crocodiles and is a great way to observe the river's ecosystem.
- Evening: Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 3: Full-Day Game Drive and Hot Spring Visit
- Morning: After breakfast, head out for a full day of game driving in Nyerere National Park, covering different routes from the previous day. Expect to see a variety of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, zebras, and possibly rhinos, depending on the season and route.
- Afternoon: Enjoy a packed lunch during the game drive. If accessible, visit a local hot spring for a relaxing swim.
- Evening: Return to Selous Safari Lodge for dinner and your final night’s stay in the park.
Day 4: Maasai Culture and Return to Zanzibar
- Morning: Visit a Maasai village to learn about their traditional lifestyle and culture for 2 to 3 hours.
- Late Morning: Return to the lodge for lunch and some rest.
- Afternoon: Transfer to Mtemere Airstrip for your flight back to Zanzibar.
- Evening: Arrive in Zanzibar and be transferred to your hotel.
Wildlife and Scenic Highlights:
- Nyerere National Park: The park boasts a variety of landscapes including wetlands, dry grasslands, acacia forests, and mountains. It’s known for its abundant elephants, hippos, giraffes, zebras, and a rich birdlife.
- Activities: Game drives, bush walking, village tours, boat safaris, and hot spring visits offer diverse ways to experience the park's wildlife and culture.
Accommodations:
- Selous Safari Lodge: Located just outside Nyerere National Park, this mid-range lodge provides comfortable accommodations with essential amenities and is a perfect base for exploring the park.
Meals:
- Included: All meals during your stay at the lodge, including lunch and dinner on Day 1, and breakfast, lunch, and dinner on Days 2 and 3.
- Non-Alcoholic Drinks: Provided during meals; other drinks (including spirits) are not included.
Rates Per Person
Start dates | Solo1 room | 2 people1 room | 3 people2 rooms | 4 people2 rooms | 5 people3 rooms | 6 people3 rooms | 7 people |
Jan 1, 2024 - Dec 31, 2024 | n/a* | $3,355 | $3,245 | $3,135 | $3,135 | $3,135 | n/a* |
Jan 1, 2025 - Dec 31, 2025 | n/a* | $3,355 | $3,245 | $3,135 | $3,135 | $3,135 | n/a* |