Overview
In twelve (12) days we explore together the land of giants in Africa.
We bring together the largest reserve in the world and the second-largest national park in Tanzania just in one tour to make sure that we fulfill your desire to see the big five of the world.
From Selous, Mikumi to Ruaha these are the safari germ of the south, explore wildlife in their natural state, and feel and be part of the astonishing & untouched nature in the heart of Africa Safari.
Don’t forget the classical accommodation which offers the best meals and drinks to spice up your Tanzania vacation experience.
And what about Zanzibar Island? This tour is loaded with unique excitement you don’t dare to miss while planning your Africa Safari.
Talk with your travel experts if you wish to customize this tour.
Scope
- Duration: 12 Days Tanzania Safari
- Destination: Selous Game Reserve, Mikumi, Ruaha, and Zanzibar
- Enjoy a charming and warmly team soon after arrival at the Airport and drop off at the hotel
- Enjoy the short ride from the airport to the hotel depending on arrival time, you can experience the traffic and the busy life of Dar es Salaam city.
- Expect to meet the Blessing safaris Team for a tour briefing and other arrangements
- A beautiful start to the day with a heavy breakfast and a hot shower at the hotel
- Expect to travel with not only a travel guide but also a friendly and knowledgeable safari expert
- Expect the welcoming groups of big elephants at Ruaha National park one of the best attraction in this park
- Open your heart and mind for the best view and enjoyment of wildlife within Selous and Ruaha National Park
- In a Selous Game Reserve! we let the true nature amaze you with millions of animals roaming around with every rhythmic of the wild
- Birds migration from different parts of the world is a seasonal event you don’t have to miss.
- Spend four (4) days on the Spice Island of Zanzibar
- Delicious and healthy meals served on time, depending on the type of accommodation option you have chosen ( lodge, hotel, camping)…
- Also, you will have an option to visit cultural villages for an authentic African experience
- Sleep in a safe and neatly adventurous environment safe from wild animals and mosquitos
- Expect direct communication with the ground team for tour monitoring but also in case of any emergency. Your safety is our priority.
Itinerary
Our driver will pick you up from the Airport in Dar-es-salaam and transfer you to the hotel. Later on, one of our representatives will meet you for a briefing about your tour.
Accommodation: Airport Transit Lodge
After breakfast, our driver-guide will pick you up from Dar-es-salaam and drive you to Selous Game Reserve. On arrival late afternoon, short rest for lunch before departing for a boat safari experience in the Rufiji river which is among the biggest water systems in East Africa, you will be able to see Hippos, Crocodiles, and other animals in their natural habitat. Later in the evening, drive to the lodge for dinner and overnight.
Accomodation: Mapumziko Lodge
After breakfast, start another beautiful day exploring Selous Game Reserve which is reputed to be best off the beaten track wildlife safari destination away from the crowds. Spend a full day Game drive while enjoying your picnic lunch in the bush. Selous is Africa’s largest wildlife reserve and Tanzania’s most extensive protected area; it is home to a large population of Elephants, Buffalo, and wild dogs. Expect to see other animals such as Lions, giraffes, Zebras, Kudus, Impala, Leopards, crocodiles, and 350 species of birds. After a full day game drive, return to the lodge for dinner and overnight.
Accomodation:Mapumziko lodge
After getting breakfast, check out and proceed by crossing the north of Selous and driving to Mikumi National Park. On arrival, check in to Mikumi Adventure Lodge before starting your first Game drive in Mikumi National Park, Mikumi is the fourth largest national park in Tanzania. The park has a wide variety of wildlife that can be easily spotted and is also well acclimatized to game viewing. During the evening arrive at the lodge for dinner and overnight.
Accommodation: Mikumi Adventure Lodge
After breakfast, start a long day’s drive to Ruaha National Park with a packed lunch box. On arrival check in to the lodge or hotel for rest, dinner, and overnight.
Accommodation: Mabata Makali
After breakfast in the morning, leave the lodge for a full day game drive with a packed lunch box, This Park is one of the few of Tanzania’s famous wilderness areas where the tourist can have a rare experience of game viewing spiced up by the fascinating landscape. After lunch in the park, you will continue with the game drive till the evening then depart back to the camp for dinner and overnight.
Accommodation: Mabata Makali
After breakfast, leave Ruaha National park and drive to Mikumi with a packed lunch. On arrival, depart for a late afternoon game drive until sunset. Dinner and overnight at the luxury lodge within the park.
Accommodation: Mikumi Adventure Lodge.
After breakfast, today you will enjoy a short walking safari in Mikumi National Park which will be accompanied by an armed ranger. After lunch, departing to Dar-es-salaam for dinner and overnight.
Accommodation: Airport Transit lodge
The morning after breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for Zanzibar Island. Upon arrival at Zanzibar airport, you will meet our representative and drive to the hotel in Stone Town for relaxation, lunch, dinner, and overnight.
Accommodation: Forodhani Park Hotel
This is a guided tour. Soon after breakfast, your tour will start in Stone Town. You will visit Zanzibar’s colorful market full of fresh vegetables and tropical fruit; (Heard toward) continue to the cathedral which was built in 1874. Here you will learn about the history of the slave trade and Sultanate dominance. You will visit the old fort and House of Wonders. Lunch will be offered in local restaurants. After lunch, I heard Prison Island by boat. Dinner and overnight in stone town.
Accomodation:Amaan Beach Bungalow
Leave the hotel after breakfast to Mangapwani village. Visit slave caves and chambers. Enjoy lunch at Mangapwani Serena Restaurant located on the outskirts of Zanzibar Stone Town. Also, visit the Watersports Centre which is the best place for visitors who are looking for somewhere special to eat fresh seafood and have great traditional food. Dinner and overnight in Stone Town.
Accomodation: Amaan Beach Bungalow
Depending on your flying time, we will take you to the airport to catch your home flight. As we come to the end of your Africa vacation, our team wishes you a safe journey back home, we are delighted to express our gratitude for choosing us as your host in Africa. We believe you have learned, enjoyed, and exchange social tokens with our friendly team. Bon, voyage
Costs & Inclusions
12 Days Great Southern safaris price
| Pax | 1 pax | 2 pax | 3 pax | 4 pax+ |
| Price | $ | $ | $ | $ |
- Airport Transfers (upon Arrival and departure)
- Two nights accommodation in Dar es salaam
- Full board luxury accommodation on safari
- All Entrance fees and Government taxes
- Services of Professional multilingual driver-guide
- Enough litters of mineral water and soft drinks
- Safari jeep 4×4 with pop up roof suitable for game viewing
- Unlimited mileage on the safari
- International and local airfare.
- Optional tours example Iringa Boma, Balloon Safaris $500 per person.
- Personal expenses example Laundry, beverages, etc.
- Yellow fever vaccinations
- Items of a personal nature such as passport, visa, and traveler’s insurance.
- Tips for driver-guide
Booking Process
General Travel Information
Climate. Tanzania climate is tropical and there are two rain seasons the longer being March through May and the shorter between October and November. The dry season lasts from July through October with clear sky and sunshine the whole day. The weather is suitable for beach vacations. The coastal area is normally hot and humid.
Visa: Coming to Tanzania has been made easy for visitors. It is easy to obtain a Tanzanian visa and there are three ways to obtain it: You can get a visa from a Tanzanian Embassy or High Commission from your country or upon arrival at the port of entry or you can apply online via Tanzania Immigration site, that is, the airport or at the border port. The above procedure applies to North American and European citizens. For more details about visas please contact the nearest Tanzanian Embassy or High Commission in your area.
Tanzania’s International Airports: Tanzania has two international airports, one outside the commercial capital Dar es Salaam (airport code: DAR) and the other near Arusha (and Mount Kilimanjaro) called Kilimanjaro International Airport (airport code: JRO). Charter flights and some international operators fly directly to Zanzibar Island (airport code: ZNZ)
Getting to Tanzania: If you’re planning to visit Northern Tanzania, the best airport to arrive at is Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA). KLM has daily flights from Amsterdam. Ethiopian and Kenya Airways / Precision Air also fly into KIA.
If you’re planning to visit Zanzibar, southern and western Tanzania, it is ideal to fly to the capital city of Dar es Salaam. European carriers that fly into Dar es Salaam include British Airways, KLM and Swissair(which share codes with Delta). There are long-distance bus services between Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda.
Attractions: The country has a lot to offer educationally, historically, for leisure and adventures. These adventures are safaris (game) driving in the National Parks like Serengeti, Manyara, and Tarangire to see wildlife, historical sites such as museums, landscapes, mountains, beaches, lakes, rivers, and culture.
Social life: The country has more than 120 tribes. Each tribe has its own vernacular. Although there are many languages “Swahili” was adopted as the national language in 1961 right after independence. The language has spread and is being used in the neighboring countries of Uganda, Kenya, and Central Africa. English is the second official language of the nation. You will find that Tanzanians are very welcoming and friendly.
Political system: Tanzania is perhaps the leading country on the continent of Africa for its political stability, peace, and tranquility. The political system is multi-party and the government is democratic. Political and religious conflicts are resolved through dialogue. In short, religious and tribal conflicts are very rare in this country because every citizen is free to worship as he/she pleases provided that one does not violate the law of the land
Currency: The national currency of Tanzania is the “shilling” (Tshs). Exchange rates vary and are subject to change anytime. Credit cards such as Euro-card, American Express, Master Card, Access, and Visa are accepted by most tourists’ hotels, carving shops, bureau de change, and banks. Also, Traveler’s Cheques in sterling pounds and US dollars are acceptable.
Religions: Because of its historical diversity Tanzania is a land of various religions. Nevertheless, the major religions are Christianity, Islam, Hindu, and African Traditional Religions. On the east coast – Dar es salaam, Bagamoyo, Zanzibar, and Tanga – the dominant religions are Islam and Hindu. This is due to the advent of Arabs and Eastern Indians which led to the spread of the two religions. The mainland is dominantly Christian and this is since European colonists, like Arabs, spread the Christian religion to the indigenous people.
Infrastructure & Accessibility: Major roads are paved and accessible throughout the year. Side roads and those around and within the National Parks are muddy and rough. For this reason, a 4WD car is required for safaris. Four-wheel cars include Toyota Land Cruisers, Land Rovers, and Toyota Hiace 4WD. These are the cars commonly used. The railway is also used in the eastern, southern, central, and western parts of the country.
Time: The time zone is GMT + 3 and the electricity is 220 – 240 V AC, 50 Hz.
This comes not actually from the company side but has something to do with yourself, you may wish to support locals by buying souvenirs or you may arrange some extra tours around the city or tipping to your team. Is the best way to acknowledge others as one of the best practices in life. Feel comfortable to discuss with your tour planner anytime
As any other endeavor challenges are part of the journey, you may experience congestion while arriving or you may experience network outage in most of the areas while on safari. Bear in mind that there are challenges which we can control as human beings but in case of natural disasters that we do not wish to happen if we are supposed to stop your tour, immediate actions are necessary to save a life.
Packing for a Tanzania safari is vastly different from packing for just about any other trip, and it offers a different challenge depending on whether you’re a solo traveler, family or couples. Not only do most safari-goers have weight restrictions on bush flights (a typical weight restriction is 15 kilograms or 33 pounds total per person, including camera equipment and carry-ons), but you also have the challenge of knowing which types of clothes to wear on safari are appropriate. We’ve been leading tours for years in Tanzania, and have put together our tips for what to pack for an African safari.
Duffel or soft-sided bag, TSA approved clear toiletry case,2 pairs of pants in the breathable fabric in earth tones,1 – 2 long sleeve shirts in chambray or earth tones,3 layering tanks or T-shirts, Utility jacket, Light scarf, Sports bra, Wide brim hat with chin strap, Closed-toe shoes like trail runners or fashion sneakers with good traction, Waterproof dry bag, Moisturizer, Sunscreen, Insect repellent with Deet, conditioner, Lip balm, Plug adapters/converters, USB flash drive, Memory cards for your camera and First aid kit
Travel insurance is very crucial once it comes to travel around the world, for any traveler. Getting travel insurance in Tanzania made easy through third parties companies which are dealing specifically with evacuation in case of any emergency during your tour, we do not sale it but we will be happy to recommend reliable compressive travel insurance that covers things like emergency helicopter rescue, medical evacuations expense it will be assisted protection tour to cover personal injury, repatriation expenses, and any kind of possibility illness will be covered. Having good travel insurance guarantees peace of mind while traveling, safety comes first.
Frequently Asked Questions
We are determined to ensure that you experience the luxury of genuinely memorable travel. On every trip, we aim to create a ‘charmed space’ within which you can relax, absorb fresh insights, be stimulated and charmed by new encounters – and have fun!
- Modest dressing is appreciated by everyone in Zanzibar. Foreign standards do not apply everywhere, so some items which are standard in your home country might not be appreciated. Bikinis and minis are fine for the beach, but in the villages and towns, women should cover their shoulders and wear a skirt or trousers that reach below the knee. Likewise, men should not go shirtless and should dress respectfully.
- If you are spending time on a beach in Stone Town or other beaches that are within sight from town, consider wearing beach clothes when not swimming. Being topless is not allowed for women.
You can take photos in public areas but ask for permission before taking pictures of individual people or private houses.
Clothes should be light, loose, washable, and preferably made from natural fabrics, rubber flip-flops or sandals are excellent choices for wandering around the villages and town, but a sturdy pair of walking shoes will normally be needed for sightseeing or walking through the forest. The tropical sun in Zanzibar is very strong, especially in midday. Sunscreen with high SPF and shady hats are preferable. It’s good to also pack sunglasses and a flashlight (the electricity is not completely reliable).
- Summer temperatures range from 20°C/68°F to 30°C/86°F, from December to March.
- Winter temperatures range from 19°C/66°F to 25°C/77°F, from March to May. From June to October, it gets very dry on the island with hot days and cool evenings.
- Late October through to mid-December is pretty hot with small thunderstorms.
Zanzibar is predominantly Muslim and filled with mosques. There are a few churches and temples for Christians and Hindus. Please do not enter the mosques if you are not Muslim.
When visiting Zanzibar, you should visit your local embassy to get details on your passport and visa. Depending on your nationality, you might be able to get a visa in Zanzibar or you might have to request it in your country. For more information kindly refers to our travel information section above.
- The unit of currency in Zanzibar is the Tanzanian shilling (Tsh).
- Foreign currency is usually accepted in most establishments in Tanzania. Traveler’s cheques and cash are widely accepted.
- Visa and MasterCard are accepted at all upmarket hotels and lodges.
- Zanzibar does not have any international banks. However, local banks will readily exchange foreign currency. The banks are open from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, Monday to Friday, and closed on a Saturday and Sunday.
- The capital of Zanzibar is Stone Town, a place where the past and present have mixed very well. Stone Town is an interesting mix of East African, Arab, Indian, Persian, and European conquerors, traders, and seafarers.
- The city is filled with old buildings created in the different periods in Zanzibar. Being a small and busy island, the town does not provide the cleanest view, but it’s interesting to see the markets, harbor, and mosques, and to dine at a few restaurants.
Credit cards such as Visa and MasterCard are accepted at large establishments. There are many ATM cash machines in Zanzibar Town and can be used with Visa, Visa Electron, and MasterCard. Sometimes you need to try different banks before you find the one that works with your card. American Express works in Zanzibar, but not at as many ATM’s.
Whether traveling alone or with friends, Blessing Safaris guests often mention how particularly agreeable they find their traveling companions. our groups are deliberately small, comprising 2 to 7 guests especially for safari.
- If you stay longer and need to make several phone calls, you might want to consider a local SIM card. We can arrange this for you. International calls are generally much cheaper with local SIM.
- The country code for Tanzania (including Zanzibar) is +255.
Our team carefully researched and focused on trips which attract people with the same interest and naturally get on well with each other through their shared interests.
Once you confirm your booking on a tour you will be sent further practical information – packing tips, detailed itineraries, including advice on health, passport and visa requirements, and minimum and maximum numbers of guests on tours.
Memorable meals are one of the hallmarks of an excellent holiday. With the support of the best cooks, the quality of food and drink service is guaranteed. Depending on the service level or type of tour you have chosen, pre-discussion with your tour planner is a win-win situation for an enjoyable diet. Other tours are accompanied by our cook and others are inclusive service from our accommodation partners including hotels, private camps, and luxury lodges.
This aspect is much overstated. You will rarely see a snake, but if you do, it will most likely be from the safety of your safari vehicle. Tents and lodges all have bug screens fitted to windows and doors. In most areas where bugs or mosquitoes are prevalent, rooms and tents are also equipped with mosquito nets, adding to the idealistic ambiance. Bear in mind that malaria is a threat in most wildlife areas, and it is necessary to consult your doctor for advice before embarking on your safari.
Although more than 200 languages and dialects are spoken throughout Africa, this presents no problem as English is spoken throughout East and Southern Africa. Apart from English, all our professional guides are multilingual so we get you covered
