Embark on an exclusive 8-day fly-in safari with Bakia Africa Safaris, exploring the unspoiled wilderness of Tanzania’s southern gems: Ruaha National Park and Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve). This meticulously crafted itinerary offers seamless transitions between these remote parks via short domestic flights, ensuring you maximize your wildlife encounters and leisure time. Experience the raw beauty of Tanzania’s less-traveled paths, where diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife await.

Itinerary Overview:

• Day 1: Arrival in Dar es Salaam; flight to Ruaha National Park; evening game drive.
• Day 2-3: Full-day game drives in Ruaha National Park.
• Day 4: Morning game drive; flight to Nyerere National Park.
• Day 5-7: Exploration of Nyerere National Park through game drives, boat, and walking safaris.
• Day 8: Morning game activity; flight back to Dar es Salaam for departure.

Day 1: Arrival in Dar es Salaam – Flight to Ruaha National Park

Meal Plan: Lunch, Dinner

Upon your arrival at Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam, a Bakia Africa Safaris representative will assist you with the transfer to your domestic flight bound for Ruaha National Park. As Tanzania’s largest national park, Ruaha boasts a rich tapestry of landscapes, from rolling hills to vast savannahs. Upon landing, you’ll be greeted by your guide and embark on an introductory evening game drive en route to your lodge. Anticipate sightings of elephants, giraffes, and a variety of antelope species as the sun sets over the African horizon.

Accommodation Options:

• Budget: Mwagusi Safari Camp
• Midrange: Ruaha River Lodge
• Luxury: Jabali Ridge

Day 2-3: Full-Day Game Drives in Ruaha National Park

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Over the next two days, delve deep into Ruaha’s wilderness with comprehensive game drives. The park is a predator’s haven, home to substantial populations of lions, leopards, and cheetahs. Bird enthusiasts will be captivated by over 570 bird species, including the endemic Ruaha red-billed hornbill. Between game drives, relax at your lodge, perhaps taking a dip in the pool or enjoying panoramic views of the park.

Optional Activities:

• Night Game Drive: Experience the nocturnal side of Ruaha, observing creatures like bush babies and aardvarks.
• Walking Safari: Accompanied by an armed ranger, explore the park on foot, gaining insights into the smaller wonders of the bush.

Day 4: Morning Game Drive – Flight to Nyerere National Park

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After a final morning game drive in Ruaha, savoring the early activity of the wildlife, you’ll transfer to the airstrip for your flight to Nyerere National Park. Covering over 30,000 square kilometers, Nyerere is one of the world’s largest wildlife sanctuaries. Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation and enjoy a leisurely evening, perhaps with a sundowner overlooking the Rufiji River.

Accommodation Options:

• Budget: Rufiji River Camp
• Midrange: Selous Riverside Safari Camp
• Luxury: Beho Beho

Day 5-7: Exploration of Nyerere National Park

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

These days are dedicated to uncovering the diverse habitats of Nyerere. Morning and afternoon game drives will introduce you to the park’s residents, including African wild dogs, hippos, and crocodiles. A boat safari on the Rufiji River offers a unique perspective, bringing you close to aquatic life and providing excellent bird-watching opportunities. A guided walking safari will allow you to appreciate the finer details of the bush, from unique plant species to insect life.

Optional Activities:

• Fishing Excursion: Try your hand at fishing in the Rufiji River, with potential catches like tiger fish and catfish.
• Cultural Visit: Engage with a local village to learn about the traditions and lifestyles of the indigenous communities.

Day 8: Morning Game Activity – Flight to Dar es Salaam – Departure

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch

On your final morning, choose between a short game drive or a relaxing breakfast at the camp. Afterward, you’ll be transferred to the airstrip for your flight back to Dar es Salaam. Upon arrival, a representative will assist you with your onward travel arrangements, marking the end of your unforgettable safari with Bakia Africa Safaris.

Inclusions:

• All internal flights between parks
• A Luxury Private safari vehicle
• A Professional English / Spanish / French / German / Italian – speaking Safari guide
• Accommodation as per the chosen category (Budget, Midrange, or Luxury)
• Park fees and conservation fees
• All meals as indicated in the meal plan
• Game drives, boat safari, and walking safari as mentioned
• Bottled water during game drives
• Airport transfers

Exclusions:

• International flights
• Visa fees
• Travel insurance
• Alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages (unless stated)
• Optional activities not included in the itinerary
• Tips for guides and lodge staff
• Personal expenses