Southern Circuit Splendor: Selous Game Reserve & Ruaha National Park

Experience the untamed wilderness of Ruaha National Park and Selous Game Reserve on an extraordinary 7-day adventure. Discover vast landscapes teeming with wildlife, from elephants and lions to rare species like the African wild dog and the endangered wild cat. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of remote lodges and indulge in expertly guided game drives for a once-in-a-lifetime safari experience

Highlights

Discover diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, and cheetahs.
Experience stunning landscapes with vast plains, rocky kopjes, and the Great Ruaha River.
Enjoy peaceful game drives, walking safaris, and optional fly-camping under the stars.

Destinations

Ruaha National Park: Known for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and serene wilderness.
Selous Game Reserve: Africa’s largest protected wildlife reserve, offering untouched beauty and abundant wildlife

Best season

June to October: Dry season, perfect for wildlife viewing and walking safaris.

November to March: Green season with vibrant landscapes and birdwatching opportunities

Ruaha National Park is home to one of the largest populations of elephants in Tanzania. The park’s vast, remote wilderness provides a sanctuary for these majestic creatures, offering a unique opportunity to witness them in their natural habitat, often seen near the Great Ruaha River and its surrounding floodplains.

Safari itinerary

What to expect on the Southern Circuit Splendor Selous and Ruaha National Park....

Exceptional Wildlife Encounters: Explore the remote wilderness of Ruaha National Park and Selous Game Reserve, where you’ll witness an array of iconic African wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, and endangered species like African wild dogs and the elusive wild cats.
Breathtaking Landscapes: Enjoy the vast, rugged terrains of both parks, with sprawling savannahs, towering kopjes, and winding rivers that create a captivating natural backdrop. The serene beauty of these untouched wilderness areas offers a true sense of adventure and tranquility.
Exclusive Safari Experiences: Embark on expertly guided game drives in 4×4 vehicles for optimal wildlife viewing. Additionally, explore on foot with walking safaris, allowing for more intimate encounters with nature. River exploration in both Ruaha and Selous offers unique insights into aquatic ecosystems and their inhabitants.
Luxury and Comfort in Nature: Stay at premium lodges and tented camps designed to provide modern comforts while blending seamlessly with the surrounding wilderness. Enjoy gourmet meals, private game viewing decks, and exclusive, personalized service that enhances your safari experience.
Cultural and Adventure Activities: Optional visits to local villages offer a deeper understanding of traditional African cultures and daily life. Engage in birdwatching, bush walks, and even canoeing safaris in Selous, all designed to enrich your adventure beyond just wildlife sightings

June to July – River Crossings:
Witness the dramatic Grumeti and Mara River crossings as millions of wildebeest and zebras risk everything to traverse crocodile-filled waters. This period showcases nature’s raw power and determination.

January to March – Calving Season:
Experience the magic of new life as wildebeest give birth to thousands of calves. The southern Serengeti is alive with activity, attracting predators and creating unparalleled game-viewing opportunities.

Day to day summary itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at Ruaha National Park – Settle into your luxury tented camp.
Day 2-3: Guided game drives, walking safaris, and river exploration in Ruaha.
Day 4: Transfer to Selous Game Reserve – Afternoon game drive and evening relaxation.
Day 5-6: Morning and evening game drives in Selous, including boat safaris and optional cultural visits.
Day 7: Departure from Selous – Transfer to nearest airstrip for departure.

What’s Included:

Full-board accommodation at luxury lodges and tented camps.
Daily game drives, walking safaris, and river expeditions.
Transfers to and from the nearest airstrips.
Expert guides with extensive knowledge of the wildlife and terrain.
All park fees and conservation contributions.

What’s Excluded:

International and domestic flights.
Beverages and personal expenses.
Optional activities such as hot air balloon safaris, spa treatments, or additional excursions.