Into the Wild: 6-Day Ruaha & Selous Safari Expedition

6 Days | 5 Nights | Scheduled and Guided Tour

From the thundering herds of Selous to the predator-rich plains of Ruaha.

Venture deep into untamed Tanzania on this immersive 6-Day Ruaha and Selous Safari. From the river-rich landscapes of Selous Game Reserve—Africa’s largest protected wildlife area—to the remote, rugged Ruaha National Park, this itinerary is packed with dramatic scenery, raw encounters with wildlife and a true sense of seclusion.
Spot elusive predators, track elephant herds, watch crocs bask along riverbanks, and marvel at the diversity of birds and big game. This is a perfect short safari for seasoned adventurers and first-timers alike who want to dive straight into Africa’s wild heart.

Tour Highlights

Exclusive Fly-In Access
Maximize your time in the wild with scenic bush flights between parks, avoiding long drives and offering breathtaking aerial views of Tanzania’s vast wilderness.

Selous Game Reserve (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
Explore one of Africa’s largest protected areas, home to the largest populations of elephants and endangered wild dogs in East Africa. Enjoy game drives, walking safaris and boat rides through palm-fringed waterways.

Ruaha National Park
Venture into Tanzania’s hidden gem—known for its dramatic baobab-dotted landscapes and superb predator sightings including large lion prides, leopards and cheetahs.

Rare Antelope Sightings
Spot elusive roan, sable, and greater kudu antelopes in Ruaha, alongside buffalo herds and diverse plains game species.

Birdwatching Paradise
Both parks boast rich birdlife—over 450 species in Ruaha and 350+ in Selous—making this a birder’s dream.

Authentic Safari Lodges
Stay in remote, intimate safari camps that blend luxury with raw nature, offering immersive experiences far from the crowds.

Day 1: Arrival in Dar Es Salaam – Fly to Selous Game Reserve

Welcome to Tanzania! Upon arrival at Dar Es Salaam International Airport, a Silverbird representative will meet and escort you to your light aircraft flight bound for Selous Game Reserve.
Once you land, settle into your lodge nestled within this remote UNESCO World Heritage Site, then head out for a late afternoon game drive to catch the wildlife just before dusk.

Overnight at preferred lodge in Selous
Meal Plan: Full Board (B, L, D)

Day 2: Full Day in Selous Game Reserve

Start your day early with a sunrise game drive followed by another in the late afternoon. Selous is one of the largest faunal reserves in the world—home to over 70% of Tanzania’s elephants, vast herds of buffalo, giraffes, wildebeest and endangered African wild dogs.
Enjoy the thrill of seeing predators on the prowl, flocks of over 350 bird species, and the chance to join a guided walking safari for a ground-level view of this wilderness.

Overnight at preferred lodge in Selous
Meal Plan: Full Board (B, L, D)

Day 3: Selous – Flight to Ruaha National Park

Enjoy one last early morning game drive through the misty Selous bush, then transfer to the airstrip for your light aircraft flight to Ruaha National Park.
This is Tanzania’s second largest park, less frequented and incredibly raw. Arrive and settle into your remote safari lodge before heading out for a late afternoon game drive through rocky terrain and baobab-studded valleys.

Overnight at preferred lodge in Ruaha
Meal Plan: Full Board (B, L, D)

Days 4 & 5: Explore Ruaha Game Reserve

Spend two full days exploring Ruaha’s diverse habitats, home to more than 10,000 elephants, large lion prides, jackals, hyenas, leopards and the elusive cheetah and wild dogs.
Keep your eyes peeled for the stunning roan and sable antelope, kudu, gazelle, and vast buffalo herds. Ruaha’s rich birdlife also shines, with over 450 species, including Eurasian migrants and endemic African species.

Overnight at preferred lodge in Ruaha
Meal Plan: Full Board (B, L, D)

Day 6: Ruaha – Fly to Dar Es Salaam – Departure

Enjoy your final game drive en route to the airstrip, soaking in one last look at Ruaha’s unspoiled landscape. Board your light aircraft flight to Dar Es Salaam, arriving in time to connect with your international flight home.

Meal Plan: Breakfast (B)