11 Day Southern Tanzania Safari – Nyerere & Mafia Island

11-Day Southern Tanzania Safari – Nyerere & Mafia Island

Quick Itinerary Overview:
Experience a unique Southern Tanzania Safari that takes you through the remote Nyerere National Park and the stunning Mafia Island Marine Park. This exceptional adventure offers a perfect blend of African bush and beach, allowing you to explore two of Tanzania’s most unspoiled destinations. Enjoy 4×4 game drives in Nyerere and Mikumi National Parks, followed by world-class snorkelling, diving, and outdoor activities on the pristine beaches of Mafia Island. This small-group, affordable safari ensures an intimate and memorable experience in Southern Tanzania.

Itinerary Highlights

Escape the crowds in Southern Tanzania’s remote Nyerere National Park
4×4 game drives in Nyerere, one of the largest national parks in Africa
Explore the wildlife-rich Mikumi National Park
Discover the marine wonders and idyllic beaches of Mafia Island Marine Park

Day-by-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Dar es Salaam – Tanzania

Your Southern Tanzania Safari starts in Dar es Salaam. After arriving at Julius Nyerere International Airport, your guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel. Settle into the vibrant city of Dar es Salaam, the economic hub of Tanzania. Explore the city or relax before starting your safari adventure.

Accommodation: Tiffany Diamond Hotel or CBD Hotel (superior room)

Day 2: Mikumi National Park – Tanzania

After an early start, drive west to Mikumi National Park. After a six-hour drive, arrive at your camp near the park and enjoy a late lunch. Embark on your first 4×4 game drive in Mikumi, home to diverse wildlife like lions, elephants, and giraffes. Look out for rare species like African wild dogs and sable antelopes.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Camp Atupele (or similar)

Day 3: Mikumi National Park – Tanzania

Spend another day in Mikumi with both a morning and afternoon 4×4 game drive. Enjoy more sightings of Africa’s iconic wildlife, including zebras, warthogs, and baboons. Capture the rare animals that make Mikumi so special, including leopards and wild dogs.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Camp Atupele (or similar)

Day 4: Nyerere National Park – Tanzania

Today, drive to Nyerere National Park, formerly the Selous Game Reserve. The journey takes about 8-9 hours, with packed lunches along the way. Upon arrival, head to Selous Kulinda Camp, located along the Rufiji River, where you’ll stay in a beautiful, unfenced tented camp.

Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Selous Kulinda Camp (or similar)

Days 5 & 6: Nyerere National Park – Tanzania

Explore the vast wilderness of Nyerere National Park over two days. After breakfast each day, enjoy thrilling 4×4 game drives in search of elephants, lions, and buffalo. Nyerere also offers opportunities to spot rare species like wild dogs and leopards. End each day with a relaxing dinner by the river.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Selous Kulinda Camp (or similar)

Day 7: Mafia Island Marine Park – Tanzania

On day seven, head back to Dar es Salaam before taking a domestic flight to Mafia Island. Upon arrival, transfer to Butiama Marine Camp on Utende Beach, located inside Mafia Island Marine Park. Enjoy dinner overlooking the Indian Ocean as you settle into this tranquil island paradise.

Meals: Breakfast, Packed Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Butiama Marine Camp (or similar)

Days 8 to 10: Mafia Island Marine Park – Tanzania

Enjoy three full days of leisure and exploration on Mafia Island. Known for its world-class snorkelling and diving, you can experience the underwater wonders, including snorkelling with whale sharks during the summer months. Optional activities include dhow sailing, exploring Chole Bay, kayaking, and visiting the historical Chole Island. Whale watching and turtle tours are available seasonally.

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Butiama Marine Camp (or similar)

Day 11: Mafia Island to Dar es Salaam – Tanzania

Your Southern Tanzania Safari concludes with a transfer back to Dar es Salaam. Enjoy one last breakfast on the beach before heading to the airstrip for your flight back to the mainland, where your guide will meet you for your onward journey.

Meals: Breakfast

About Mafia Island Marine Park

The Mafia Island Marine Park, established in 1995, protects diverse marine habitats off Tanzania’s southeastern coast. It covers over 822 km² of coral reefs, seagrass beds, and mangrove forests, hosting over 400 fish species and marine mammals like dolphins and sea turtles. The park encourages eco-tourism, allowing visitors to experience its rich biodiversity while supporting local conservation efforts.

Southern Tanzania Safari Transport

During your Southern Tanzania Safari, you’ll travel in a comfortable, air-conditioned 4×4 safari vehicle. Each vehicle is equipped with large windows, two-way radios, a first aid kit, and a refrigerator. You’ll also have access to complimentary drinking water during game drives.