5-Day Selous Game Reserve & Mikumi National Park Wildlife Adventure

An Unforgettable Safari in Tanzania’s Wild South!

If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path safari packed with untamed wilderness, stunning landscapes, and incredible wildlife, this 5-day Selous Game Reserve & Mikumi National Park adventure is perfect for you! Unlike the more crowded northern circuit, the southern parks offer a raw and authentic safari experience, where nature takes center stage.

You’ll explore Selous Game Reserve (now Nyerere National Park)—one of Africa’s largest protected areas—home to vast herds of elephants, lions, hippos, crocodiles, and African wild dogs. Then, journey to Mikumi National Park, often compared to the Serengeti, where giraffes, zebras, and big cats roam freely against a backdrop of stunning savannahs.

Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
Destinations: Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park) & Mikumi National Park
Best Time to Visit: June – October (dry season), but excellent year-round
Safari Style: Private or Group Safari
Activities: Game drives, boat safaris, walking safaris, cultural experiences


Day 1: Arrival in Dar es Salaam – Transfer to Selous Game Reserve

Welcome to Tanzania’s wild south! After you arrive in Dar es Salaam, your guide will greet you and start your exciting journey with a drive to Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park). This vast, remote paradise is nearly twice the size of the Serengeti, teeming with wildlife.

Upon arrival, settle into your safari lodge and get ready for an evening boat safari on the Rufiji River. Picture yourself drifting along the water, watching hippos, crocodiles, and elephants drinking at the banks as the sun sets in golden hues.

🛏 Accommodation: Selous Safari Camp / Rufiji River Camp
🍽 Meals: Lunch, Dinner


Day 2: Full-Day Safari in Selous – The Ultimate Big Game Experience

Wake up to the sounds of nature and embark on a full-day game drive in an open 4x4 safari vehicle. This reserve is home to some of Tanzania’s largest elephant and lion populations, as well as rare African wild dogs—one of the best places to see them in action!

Traverse vast grasslands, dense woodlands, and riverine forests, encountering giraffes, buffalos, zebras, and perhaps even a stealthy leopard hiding in the trees. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the heart of the bush, then continue your thrilling game drive.

Return to camp in the evening for a bonfire under the stars, where you can swap stories of the day’s adventures.

🛏 Accommodation: Selous Safari Camp / Rufiji River Camp
🍽 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Day 3: Selous Walking Safari – Transfer to Mikumi National Park

Start your morning with an exciting walking safari, led by expert guides and rangers. This is a chance to connect with the African wilderness on a deeper level—tracking animal footprints, learning about medicinal plants, and experiencing the bush in a completely new way.

After breakfast, you’ll begin your scenic drive to Mikumi National Park, passing through rural villages and beautiful landscapes. Upon arrival, relax at your lodge, enjoying the tranquil surroundings before your next adventure.

🛏 Accommodation: Mikumi Wildlife Camp / Vuma Hills Tented Camp
🍽 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Day 4: Full-Day Safari in Mikumi – Tanzania’s Hidden Gem

Rise early for a full-day game drive in Mikumi National Park, often called the "mini Serengeti" due to its wide-open plains. This lesser-known park is a haven for elephants, giraffes, buffalos, wildebeest, lions, and leopards.

One of the highlights of Mikumi is its large herds of giraffes, often seen elegantly walking across the golden savannah. Visit the Mkata floodplain, where lions are known to hunt, and spot hippos wallowing in the pools. Bird enthusiasts will love the 400+ bird species found here, including the striking lilac-breasted roller.

As the sun sets, return to your lodge for a delicious dinner and a chance to unwind.

🛏 Accommodation: Mikumi Wildlife Camp / Vuma Hills Tented Camp
🍽 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner


Day 5: Mikumi Morning Safari – Return to Dar es Salaam

Enjoy a final morning game drive in Mikumi, soaking up the last moments of your safari. After breakfast, begin your drive back to Dar es Salaam, where your adventure comes to an end. Drop off at your hotel or the airport for your onward journey.

🍽 Meals: Breakfast, Lunch


Why Choose This Selous & Mikumi Safari?

Remote & Less Crowded – Escape the tourist crowds and experience raw, untamed wilderness.
Diverse Wildlife – Encounter elephants, lions, giraffes, leopards, hippos, wild dogs, and more!
Boat & Walking Safaris – Go beyond traditional game drives with immersive activities.
Stunning Landscapes – Explore savannahs, forests, rivers, and floodplains in Tanzania’s south.
Authentic & Personalized Experience – Private or small-group options for a tailored safari.


What’s Included & Excluded?

Included in the Safari Package:

✔ Private 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for game viewing
✔ Professional English-speaking safari guide
✔ Accommodation in comfortable lodges or luxury tented camps
✔ Meals as per itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
✔ Park entry fees & conservation fees
✔ Boat safari on the Rufiji River
✔ Walking safari in Selous
✔ Bottled drinking water during game drives

Not Included:

✖ International flights
✖ Visa fees & travel insurance
✖ Optional activities (e.g., night game drives, cultural visits)
✖ Tips for guides, drivers, and lodge staff
✖ Personal expenses (souvenirs, alcoholic drinks, etc.)


Pricing & Booking for 2025-2026

💰 Mid-Range Package: Starting from $1,950 per person
💎 Luxury Package: Starting from $3,200 per person
👥 Group Discounts Available (for 4+ travelers)

📅 Book Your Dream Safari Today!
Are you ready to explore the wild side of Tanzania? Contact Macpace Tours to plan your customized Selous & Mikumi safari for 2025-2026!

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5-Day Selous Game Reserve & Mikumi National Park Wildlife Adventure