16 DAY OF DISCOVERING THE HIDEN GEM OF SOUTHERN TANZANIA AND ZANZIBAR.
16 DAY OF DISCOVERING THE HIDEN GEM OF SOUTHERN TANZANIA AND ZANZIBAR. DAR ES SALAAM – NYERERE NATIONAL PARK – MIKUMI NATIONAL PARK – UDZUNGWA MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK – RUAHA NATIONAL PARK – ZANZIBAR Explore the untouched wilderness of Tanzania’s Southern Circuit Safari, where adventure meets luxury. Begin your journey in the iconic Nyerere National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and witness the largest population of elephants on the continent. Immerse yourself in the diverse landscapes of Mikumi National Park, home to a variety of wildlife. Continue to Ruaha National Park, known for its rugged terrain and abundant predators, offering a thrilling safari experience. End your adventure in Zanzibar. Zanzibar’s beaches offer pristine white sands, turquoise waters, and a tranquil atmosphere, making it an ideal tropical getaway. The archipelago boasts picturesque shores like Nungwi and Kendwa, providing a perfect blend of relaxation and water activities. Day by Day Route Day 1 : DAR ES SALAAM – NYERERE NATIONAL PARK In the morning your guide will meet you at your hotel in Dar es Salaam and as soon as your luggage has been loaded into the vehicle you will set off. The journey typically starts with a drive from Dar es Salaam, a bustling city on the coast of the Indian Ocean, heading southwest towards the national park. As you leave the city behind, the landscape gradually changes from urban to rural, with small villages and farms dotting the roadside. The road passes through lush greenery, including forests and farmlands, providing a scenic backdrop for the journey. Upon arrival at the park, you are greeted by the park’s stunning natural beauty, with sweeping views of the plains and the meandering Rufiji River Day 2 & 3: NYERERE NATIONAL PARK Nyerere National Park, formerly known as Selous Game Reserve, is a pristine wilderness and UNESCO World Heritage Site in Tanzania. Spanning over 30,000 square kilometers, it is one of the largest protected areas in Africa. The park is named after Julius Nyerere, Tanzania’s first president, and is renowned for its vast and diverse wildlife. Embark on thrilling safaris to spot a variety of iconic African animals, including elephants, lions, leopards, and buffalo. The park is also home to over 400 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Nyerere National Park offers a range of activities from game drives and walking safaris to boat tours along the Rufiji River, where hippos and crocodiles can be seen basking in the sun. The park’s remote location ensures a truly authentic safari experience, with the chance to explore untouched wilderness away from the crowds. Day 4: NYERERE NATIONAL PARK – MIKUMI NATIONAL PARK You will start the day early for the drive to the M National Park. If you wish, your guide can stop in Mikumi town for you to explore the market and local shops. You will then continue through small villages before you arrive at your camp. After exploring the wonders of Nyerere National Park, your safari continues to Mikumi National Park. The journey is not just about the destination but also about the incredible sights and sounds that accompany you throughout the drive. Immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of Tanzania as you drive from Nyerere National Park to Mikumi National Park, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Day 5: MIKUMI NATIONAL PARK. Mikumi National Park is an ideal destination for those seeking an authentic African safari experience without the crowds. Whether you’re a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or a first-time visitor, Mikumi promises an unforgettable adventure amidst nature’s wonders. The park’s network of roads provides easy access to its different areas, ensuring that guests can explore its beauty comfortably. Day 6: MIKUMI NATIONAL PARK – UDZUNGWA MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK – MIKUMI NATIONAL PARK. Today you will go hiking in the Udzungwa Mountains National Park, one of 34 “World Biodiversity Hotspots”. Leaving after an early breakfast you will meet your hiking guide at the national park entrance gate. The park can only be explored on foot and from the gate you will set off on a hike through the rainforest. Udzungwa Mountains National Park is a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers, offering a unique and unspoiled wilderness experience in the heart of Tanzania. The park is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna, including many species that are endemic to the area. It is particularly famous for its population of primates, including the Udzungwa red colobus monkey, which is found nowhere else in the world. Day 7: MIKUMI NATIONAL PARK – RUAHA NATIONAL PARK As you leave Mikumi, you’ll pass through villages and small towns, giving you a true definition of local life. The road winds through hills and valleys, offering picturesque views of the surrounding wilderness. the drive from Mikumi to Ruaha National Park is an adventure in itself, offering a taste of Tanzania’s natural beauty and wildlife before you even reach your destination. Day 8 & 9: RUAHA NATIONAL PARK Ruaha National Park is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of Tanzania, renowned for its breathtaking diverse wildlife offering a truly authentic and remote safari experience, away from the crowds, making it a fantastic destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. The Great Ruaha River, which winds its way through the park, provides a vital water source for the wildlife and creating stunning scenery along the way Day 10: RUAHA NATIONAL PARK – FLIGHT TO ZANZIBAR. Morning game drive before departure to Zanzibar. The Morning game drive provides an opportunity to witness the natural behaviors of wildlife, such as predator-prey interactions, mating rituals, and playful activities among young animals. Your guide will share insights into the park’s ecosystem, pointing out different species and explaining their roles in the environment. After the game drive, you’ll return to your accommodation for breakfast before heading to the airstrip for your flight to Zanzibar. The experience of a Ruaha National Park morning game drive is both exhilarating and peaceful, offering a memorable start to your journey to