Southern Tanzania Safari - Nyerere, Ruaha, Saadani, Udzungwa
Best 5 Day Southern Circuit Safari | Nyerere, Ruaha, Saadani & Udzungwa 2026-2027
Southern Tanzania Highlights
Duration

5 Days / 4 Nights

Tour Type

Private Flying Safari

Group Size

Private (Customizable)

Languages

English, French, Spanish

About the Best 5-Day Southern Circuit Safari

This ultimate 5-day flying safari packs the very best of southern Tanzania into one unforgettable journey. Combining boat safaris in massive Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous), predator-rich Ruaha, the unique beach-and-bush experience of Saadani, and the rainforest waterfalls of Udzungwa Mountains, this itinerary offers incredible diversity in the shortest possible time – perfect for travelers with limited days who want to experience Tanzania beyond the northern circuit.

Safari Highlights

  • Boat safari on Rufiji River in Nyerere (Selous)
  • Big game & wild dogs in Ruaha National Park
  • Beach + wildlife combination in Saadani (elephants on the beach!)
  • Hiking to Sanje Waterfalls in Udzungwa Mountains
  • Domestic flights between parks – maximum game time
  • Year-round departure from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar
Southern Tanzania Safari

Detailed Itinerary

  • 01

    Day 1: Dar es Salaam/Zanzibar → Nyerere National Park

    Your 5 Day Southern Circuit Safari begins with a scenic morning flight from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar to Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous). Upon arrival, enjoy a relaxed lunch before heading out on a breathtaking afternoon boat safari along the Rufiji River. This is one of the most iconic activities in Nyerere, offering close-up views of hippos, crocodiles basking on the riverbanks, elephants drinking, and an impressive array of birdlife.

    As the sun sets, the river lights up with golden reflections—an unforgettable start to your Southern Circuit adventure.

    Meals: Lunch & Dinner Overnight: Rufiji River Camp / Similar

  • 02

    Day 2: Nyerere → Ruaha National Park

    Start your day with a morning game drive through Nyerere, where your guide tracks wildlife through vast woodlands and open plains. After exploring Africa’s largest protected wilderness, take a scheduled flight to Ruaha National Park—another hidden gem of the 5 Day Southern Circuit Safari.

    Upon arrival, enjoy an afternoon game drive in Ruaha, famous for its thriving lion population, elusive leopards and one of the last strongholds of endangered African wild dogs.

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Overnight: Ruaha River Lodge / Similar

  • 03

    Day 3: Full Day in Ruaha National Park

    Today is dedicated to discovering Ruaha in depth. As one of the highlights of the 5 Day Southern Circuit Safari, this full-day experience takes you through dramatic landscapes dotted with giant baobab trees, seasonal rivers and expansive plains.

    Ruaha is revered for its massive elephant herds, varied antelope species, and incredible predator action. With both morning and afternoon game drives, you have excellent chances to spot lions, cheetahs, wild dogs, buffalo and more—making this one of Tanzania’s most rewarding wildlife destinations.

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Overnight: Ruaha River Lodge / Similar

  • 04

    Day 4: Ruaha → Saadani National Park

    Continue your 5 Day Southern Circuit Safari with a flight to Saadani National Park, the only park in East Africa where wildlife meets the Indian Ocean. Upon arrival, unwind at your lodge or embark on an afternoon game drive to spot giraffes, buffalo, lions and warthogs roaming near the coastline.

    Saadani offers a unique and refreshing contrast to Ruaha and Nyerere—its blend of beach, bush and wildlife creates a serene and unforgettable safari atmosphere.

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Overnight: Saadani Safari Lodge / Similar

  • 05

    Day 5: Saadani → Udzungwa → Dar es Salaam/Zanzibar

    Your 5 Day Southern Circuit Safari concludes with a scenic transfer to the Udzungwa Mountains National Park. Enjoy a guided hike through tropical rainforest to the breathtaking Sanje Waterfalls, where crystal-clear waters cascade over 170 meters—one of the tallest waterfalls in East Africa.

    After exploring this pristine mountain paradise, you will connect to an afternoon flight back to Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar, marking the end of a diverse and unforgettable safari experience.

    Meals: Breakfast & Lunch

Costs

The cost of 5-day tanzania southern circuit safari to nyerere, ruaha, saadani and udzungwa starts from $1,200 per person depending on number of people, accommodation chosen and level of service.

What’s Included

  • ✅ All domestic flights & airstrip transfers
  • ✅ Park fees & conservation charges
  • ✅ Professional English-speaking guide
  • ✅ 4×4 game viewing vehicles & boat safari
  • ✅ All accommodation (mid-range/luxury)
  • ✅ All meals as per itinerary
  • ✅ Bottled water & soft drinks

What’s Excluded

  • ❌ International flights
  • ❌ Travel insurance
  • ❌ Gratuities
  • ❌ Alcoholic beverages & laundry
  • ❌ Visa fees

Best Time to Travel (2026–2027)

Year-round destination. Dry season (June–October) offers the best game viewing; green season (November–April) brings lush scenery and fewer visitors.

Book Your 5-Day Southern Circuit Safari Now

Limited availability – this exclusive flying safari books up fast for 2026–2027. Contact us today to secure your dates!

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