Birding
Explore a pair of remote and uncrowded parks, home to a phenomenal number of bird species.
Discover southern Tanzania – a land of winding rivers, palm-dotted savannah and hidden beaches. Explore the vast reserves of Ruaha and Selous – packed with wilderness and wildlife – before decompressing on a secluded stretch of the Swahili Coast.
Key Highlights of this Itinerary
Boat Safaris
Spot wildlife roaming the banks of the Rufiji River.
Beach Time
Snorkel, swim and relax on the sandy beaches of the Swahili coast.
4
Walking Safaris
Leave the 4×4 behind and explore on foot, with greater opportunities than other parks.
Why Steppes?
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Why we like it
For those seeking a true African wilderness experience, this safari is ideal. Although the reserves and parks in southern Tanzania may not be as well-known as parks in the north, to safari connoisseurs they are some of most spectacular in all of Africa, retaining that wild feel that makes these places so special.
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Day 1
Nairobi - Dar Es Salaam - Ruaha National Park
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Days 2-3
Ruaha National Park
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Day 4
Ruaha National Park - Selous Game Reserve
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Days 5-6
Selous Game Reserve
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Day 7
Selous Game Reserve - Dar Es Salaam - Swahili Coast
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Days 8-9
Swahili Coast
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Day 10
Swahili Coast - Dar Es Salaam - Nairobi
Day 1
Nairobi - Dar Es Salaam - Ruaha National Park
Days 2-3
Ruaha National Park
Walking Safaris
Leave the 4×4 behind and explore on foot, with greater opportunities than other parks.
Day 4
Ruaha National Park - Selous Game Reserve
Days 5-6
Selous Game Reserve
Boat Safaris
Spot wildlife roaming the banks of the Rufiji River.
Day 7
Selous Game Reserve - Dar Es Salaam - Swahili Coast
Days 8-9
Swahili Coast
Beach Time
Snorkel, swim and relax on the sandy beaches of the Swahili coast.
Day 10
Swahili Coast - Dar Es Salaam - Nairobi
More Details
Ruaha National Park
Discover this biodiverse wilderness, which is dotted with animal and bird life. More than 560 species of birds can be spotted within the park, but also expect to encounter elephants, buffaloes, lions, hippos, giraffes and – if you’re very lucky – African wild dogs.
Explore on foot and by 4×4, across a landscape decorated by ancient baobabs, rolling hills and open plains. Thanks to the park’s vast size and lack of visitors, you can often have the wilderness and wildlife to yourself.
Selous Game Reserve
Set around the lush riverine ecosystem of the Rufiji River, the Selous Game Reserve is the largest in Africa. This mixture of waterways and savannah lands is dotted with acacia woodlands and the occasional palm tree. It hides elephants, lions, hippos, wild dogs and many other species.
The swirling river attracts plains game, predators and superb birdlife. Boat safaris explore the Rufiji River delta, allowing for relaxed sightings of animals that come to the water to drink, with the chance to sip sundowners on board.
Also explore on foot, walking across this wild landscape. The diverse terrain and wealth of birdlife make for fantastic birding.
Swahili Coast
After a busy safari, spend a few days relaxing on the deserted shores of the Indian Ocean on the beautiful Swahili Coast. Relax beside the pool, sunbathe on the beach or lie in the terrace hammock with views of the ocean.
Between July and October, there is even the chance to spot migrating humpback whales as they swim past the coast. Kayaks and boogie boards are provided, as well as snorkelling equipment. This is perfect for exploring the offshore shipwreck of The Chyko, which is home to an array of colourful fish.
A note on price
Prices will vary depending on the time of year you are travelling. Prices do not include international flights. Please ask one of our Travel Experts for an accurate quote. Flights purchased through Steppes Travel departing from the UK are ATOL protected.
This Itinerary
Price
From $8,604 Per person
When to travel
Tanzania in January
Generally, most places are quite humid and wet, although the north around the Serengeti can experience a brief dry season.
Tanzania in February
It remains a good time to head to the Serengeti and the north as it experiences a brief dry season.It is also one of the driest months in Zanzibar, so a great chances to spend some time on the quiet beaches.
Tanzania in March
The start of the long rainy season, as humidity builds. Some lodges close and roads can become impassable. The landscapes are lush but it makes wildlife harder to spot.
Tanzania in April
The wettest month, with uncomfortably high levels of humidity, so we advise against travel at this time.
Tanzania in May
The rain continues with uncomfortably high levels of humidity, so we advise against travel at this time.
Tanzania in June
The start of the dry season and one of the best months to visit. Clear skies dominate despite the lush landscapes, and it is a fantastic time to see thousands of wildebeest migrate in the Serengeti.
Tanzania in July
The driest and coolest month across the country. A popular time to travel, so heading to the south and west of the country is a good option. You can see all the wildlife that you can get in the northern parks but also chimpanzees.
Tanzania in August
Peak season, as the land dries up and makes spotting wildlife much easier. Spot elephants in Tarangire, or relax on the pristine white sandy beaches of Zanzibar. Just make sure to book well ahead as this is the busiest time of year.
Tanzania in September
After the European school holidays are finished, it is quieter. The great weather remains though, with less mosquitoes around too due to the low humidity. The water visibility improves and you can enjoy diving and snorkelling too.
Tanzania in October
Temperatures rise a little, as does the chance of a shower or two. The landscape is at its driest before the start of the rainy season, creating fantastic opportunities to see elephants in the sun-baked open plains.
Tanzania in November
A quiet time of year as the short rainy season starts. The rains are usually overnight but it can rain in the day too. Plenty of game can still be spotted in the Serengeti, but if you are searching for drier weather it is a good time to head south to the Selous.
Tanzania in December
The short rainy season continues throughout much of the country, but there is still plenty of game viewing in the Serengeti and it is peak season in Zanzibar. It can get very busy over the festive season so it is worth booking in advance.
Holiday Inspiration
Our experts have created and curated these tailor-made holiday ideas to get you started. Take the time to search through them and find something that is the spark for your unique adventure.
Why Choose Steppes?
Our knowledge and expertise set us apart. So too our curiosity. It is this that drives us to create a journey that is really bespoke to you, all the while ensuring we travel and operate sustainably.
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