Ruaha represents a transition zone where both east and southern African species of fauna and flora overlap. The park forms the most southerly range where Grants Gazelle, Lesser Kudu and the Striped Hyena are to be found, yet also seen are Greater Kudu, Sable, Eland and Roan antelope - all of which are considered to be more southern African species. Lion, leopard, cheetah and wild dog are all found here together with a number of smaller predators. Ruaha's 8,000 resident elephants remain the largest population in east Africa. Giraffe, Zebra, Impala and Buffalo are all to be found along with a myriad of other species.
The Selous is Africa's largest wildlife sanctuary and remains largely unchanged from the days of the earliest colonial settlers. A true wilderness. To this day there are no permanent inhabitants to be found in this vast area comprising sandy rivers, tall grasslands and swathes of woodland. Named after the celebrated hunter turned conservationist, Frederick Courtney Selous, the Selous Game Reserve still retains a sense of wild remoteness.
A place where time stands still - southern Tanzania has changed little in recent times, especially in the wild and remote areas of Ruaha and the Selous Game Reserve. Experience a classic safari adventure - a fabulous wildlife spectacle in an untouched part of Africa. Tour extensions include Zanzibar & the Swahili coast.
Tour Itinerary:
Day 1: Dar es Salaam / Ruaha National Park
You will fly by private charter from Dar es Salaam airport, over the Udzungwa Mountains to Ruaha National Park and your base for the next three nights, Jongomero Camp.
Ruaha has gained a reputation amongst safari connoisseurs for its unique ecological and geographical character, offering a cross-section of species and a climate that is unique to the country. We arrive in Tanzania’s second largest National Park in time for lunch and a siesta.
In the late afternoon, we set out on a game drive in our open-sided vehicle, following the course of the Ruaha River in search of wildlife. We stop for a sundowner drink on the way back and return to camp for dinner and overnight.
All meals and overnight at Jongomero.
Day 2: Ruaha National Park
A full day in Ruaha National Park with a morning and afternoon game drive to take us into new territories of this remote Park. Jongomero is situated far to the South of the park and it feels like we have all of Africa to ourselves as we roam the parklands, riverine areas and hills of the area.
Ruaha is a ecological convergence for Northern and Southern species of mammal and is also one of the few areas where Greater and Lesser Kudu can be seen. Game drives in Ruaha rarely disappoint and with the bush luxury of Jongomero Camp as our base, we can enjoy a most exclusive and rewarding safari experience.
All meals and overnight at Jongomero.
Day 3: Ruaha National Park
Our final day in Ruaha and with over 475 species of bird represented and all of the major African mammals present, we must make the most of the opportunity. A full day game drive is a recommended option, taking a picnic lunch and driving North to the Ruaha hills and the river plains in search of the excellent wildlife on display. A generous picnic lunch and the day to roam makes for an unhurried drive and we can focus our attention on the smaller game often overlooked during the short drives.
All meals and overnight at Jongomero
Day 4: Selous Game Reserve
A slow start today, perhaps with a short walk from the camp before we drive to the strip for our scheduled bush flight to The Selous Safari Camp.
Selous is Africa’s largest Game Reserve, the size of a European country and one of the last great wilderness areas on the continent. We will have three nights here to take full advantage of the opportunities for wildlife, either by boat, vehicle or on foot.
After arrival, there will be the opportunity to take the first of the chosen activities and head out to explore, returning in time for sunset and dinner.
All meals and overnight Selous Safari Camp
Day 5: Selous Game Reserve
An early breakfast, before we head out by boat, following the course of the mighty Rufiji River, weaving amongst the pods of hippo and crocodile lining the bank, as we observe the game coming down to drink.
After a splendid lunch, there is the chance for a siesta or a dip in the swimming pool whilst we wait for the heat of the day to subside.
We then set out in late afternoon on a walk with our guide, heading out on Selous’ most privileged of experiences, the overnight fly-camp. Accompanied by our experienced guide and an armed ranger, we walk out into Africa’s largest wilderness, learning about the complex eco-system that it embraces, encountering the thrills and visceral contentment of being at the heart of Nature.
The flycamp is a simple bush camp, set up in a place of outstanding beauty, to bring us closer to everything that we came to see, without compromising on comfort. The same outstanding bush cuisine is served, the drinks are cold and the bucket showers hot, but this is a different experience from that which we encounter elsewhere, one that we shall remember for ever.
Overnight Selous Safari Camp/ Fly Camp
Day 6: Selous Game Reserve
After breakfast, we set off on foot or by vehicle for the main camp, alive with the experiences of the night before. We return to camp by late morning, for a siesta and that proud exhilaration that normally follows a night out in the African bush.
Lunch is taken at camp.
The late afternoon is an excellent time to head out and explore the surrounding areas, perhaps in an open-sided vehicle, a comfortable and privileged journey through the wild African bush. We can expect to see any of the major African mammals, including elephant, lions, leopard and even the rare African Wild Dog.
We return to the camp for sunset and dinner. Overnight Selous Safari Camp.
Day 7: Selous Game Reserve
A final day to round off the Selous experience, with some walking or boating, even perhaps considering a full day game drive into a region that we have not yet explored. The Guides are always on hand to take us out tracking the wildlife that is always close by and we are advised to take full advantage of their prolific birding and botanical knowledge
Overnight Selous Safari Camp
Day 8: After a morning game activity or some relaxation if you prefer we make our way to the airstrip for your return charter flight to Dar es Salaam – or if you have selected one of the tour extensions – on to Zanzibar or the Swahili Coast.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Price per person sharing - USD4,060 to USD4,605
All tours are quoted on a twin share basis and in United States dollars (USD). Prices are also available in Euro, Pounds Sterling or Australian dollars - please indicate your preference on your Booking / Quote request.
Important
1. Single supplement prices are available on request.
2. Overnight stays in Dar es Salaam pre or post safari can be arranged at an additional cost.
3. Visas, travel insurance, gratuities and purchases of a personal nature as well as some airport taxes are not included.
4. Prices are subject to confirmation on booking.
Also see tour packages in:
Africa
Tanzania
Wildlife Viewing
National Parks
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