Travel with us to one of Tanzania’s least-visited destinations: Selous Game Reserve. We camp on the banks of the Rufiji River as we take game drives, walking safaris and boat trips to view wildlife including herds of elephants and buffalos. We then travel to the Indian Ocean island of Zanzibar to discover its rich spice history and relax on the white beaches.
Itinerary
[+] Detailed Itinerary
Day 1:
Join tour Dar es Salaam
Arrive Dar es Salaam and check-in to hotel. The afternoon is free to explore.
Overnight Standard Hotel (H+)
Day 2:
Fly to Selous Game Reserve
Today we fly to our tented camp, situated in its own forest reserve, bordering Africa's largest protected area, the untamed Selous Game Reserve. On the banks of the Rufiji River we can see the sun setting over the Borassus palms and possibly watch crocodiles snapping at fish while the many varieties of water birds feed along the banks.
Overnight Standard Camping (C+)
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 to 5:
Game viewing activities in the Selous
The exact itinerary will depend on local conditions, but the following itinerary will give you an idea of the highlights of your trip. We may split up into two smaller groups for game viewing activities that include a full days game drive, a boat safari, a foot safari and a visit to a local village. There is the opportunity for an additional game drive should you wish. The boat safari will take us past submerged schools of hippos while crocodiles bask on the riverbanks. Often hundreds of pelicans fly overhead and we may see elephants bathing in the water. An early morning foot safari in the Selous has to be one of the most exciting experiences imaginable. Walking through the bush gives the feeling of being an intrepid explorer! We have the chance to see birds, insects and observe the flora and smaller fauna before the sun gets becomes too hot. Just the experience of seeing tracks and traces in the ground and following spoor gives us a feel for, and an understanding of, the land. Our game drives will allow us to search for all the animal species that are resident in the Selous including lion, vast herds of buffalo, wild dog, wildebeest, zebra, giraffe, waterbuck, baboon, eland and one of the largest remaining elephant populations in the world. The extremely rich birdlife includes goliath heron, open billed stork, hammerkop, fish eagle, sunbird and kingfisher. There is even game to be seen from our camp each evening as we watch the golden light and flame red sunsets over this iconic reserve.
Overnight Standard Camping (C+)
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6 to 7:
Fly to Zanzibar; explore Zanzibar Town
Today we fly to the exotic and friendly island of Zanzibar. The name conjures up an image of exotic spices, white-washed houses and narrow streets and all this is true! Travellers, traders and colonisers have all passed through the town’s port, trading in gold, ivory, spices and slaves. Historically, the biggest influence here was the arrival of the Arabs from the 8th century onwards bringing Islam with them. They intermarried with the indigenous population and the exotic culture that is reflected in Zanzibaris today was born. Arab dhows can still be seen sailing the shores and graceful mosques with towering minarets are suddenly revealed round a hidden corner. An enormous demand for slaves brought unprecedented wealth and by the middle of the 19th century as many as 50,000 slaves were sold a year in the slave market. Today the alleys are filled with colourful bazaars with hawkers selling a myriad of goods. Everywhere the atmosphere is permeated with the smell of cloves and spices. It is possible to arrange an optional ‘Spice tour’ of the island to learn more of Zanzibar’s history. This includes a visit to Livingstone’s House, the Sultan’s Palace, lunch and various plantations. Alternatively, you could spend your time here relaxing and enjoying the atmosphere that is Zanzibar.
Overnight Standard Hotel (H+)
Included meals: Breakfast
Day 8 to 9:
Transfer to North Coast, at North Coast
Transfering up to the north coast, we stay in simple chalets by a tropical sandy beach with tall coconut trees bowing to the sea. There is plenty of time to simply relax and unwind or enjoy a choice of optional activities. It’s easy to spend time watching the fishermen bringing in their catch, cycling to nearby villages or strolling along the beach admiring the seashells washed in by the warm waters. Alternatively, with a mask and snorkel, you can explore the colourful reef offshore, teeming with tropical fish. Scuba diving is also possible. Other optional activities include an organised walking tour to a local fishing village or perhaps a memorable sunset dhow cruise.
Overnight Standard Hotel (H+)
Included meals: Breakfast
Day 10:
Tour ends Zanzibar
We return to Zanzibar Town where the tour ends.
Included meals: Breakfast
