At I Artist Adventure, we specialize in crafting extraordinary safari experiences in Tanzania's southern circuit. Both Selous (Nyerere National Park) and Ruaha National Park offer exclusive, crowd-free safaris rich with wildlife and stunning landscapes.

1. Location & Landscape

Southern Tanzania is a hidden gem for safari lovers seeking privacy and unique experiences.
  • Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park): Africa's largest protected reserve, offering diverse ecosystems of rivers, lakes, and woodlands. It is famous for boat safaris on the Rufiji River and large populations of elephants, hippos, and crocodiles.
  • Ruaha National Park: Known for its rugged beauty and high predator density, Ruaha is Tanzania's largest national park. It features dramatic landscapes of baobab forests and rocky hills, home to lions, leopards, and rare wild dogs.

2. Costs of a Selous or Ruaha Safari

Selous and Ruaha offer excellent value for those seeking exclusive safari experiences. Here's a breakdown of average per-person-per-night costs:
Comfort Level Low (USD) High (USD)
4-Star Comfort $400 $600
5-Star Luxury $700 $1,200
Ultra-Luxury $1,500 $2,000
We provide bespoke safari packages tailored to your budget and preferences, ensuring an unforgettable adventure.

3. Best Selous & Ruaha Safari Accommodation

Our handpicked lodges and camps blend luxury with authentic safari experiences. Selous:
  • Siwandu Camp: Luxury tented suites by Lake Nzerakera with boat and walking safaris.
  • Selous Serena Camp: Elegant accommodations with panoramic views of the reserve.
Ruaha:
  • Jabali Ridge: Stylish lodge perched on a rocky kopje with breathtaking views.
  • Kwihala Camp: An intimate tented camp ideal for game enthusiasts and photographers.

4. Game Viewing & The Big 5

Both parks provide exceptional wildlife encounters in less-crowded environments.

Unique Wildlife Highlights

  • Selous: Home to Africa's largest wild dog population, plus crocodiles, hippos, and rare black rhinos.
  • Ruaha: Known for large lion prides, elusive leopards, and significant elephant herds.

Safari Activities

  • Game Drives: Explore diverse terrains in open 4x4 vehicles.
  • Boat Safaris: Exclusive to Selous, offering close encounters with aquatic wildlife.
  • Walking Safaris: Led by expert guides for a deeper connection with nature.

5. Best Time to Go on a Selous or Ruaha Safari

Each season offers unique safari experiences:
Season Months Highlights
Dry Season June to October Best game viewing, predator activity
Green Season November to May Birdwatching, lush scenery, fewer tourists

6. Getting Around in Southern Tanzania

Fly-in safaris are the easiest and most comfortable way to reach Selous and Ruaha:
  • Arrival Airports: Julius Nyerere International Airport (Dar es Salaam)
  • Regional Access: Light aircraft flights to airstrips within the parks.
  • Transfers: Private 4x4 vehicles for seamless travel between lodges.

7. Choosing Your Safari

We design personalized safaris to match your interests and pace:
  • Classic Game Drives: Witness the Big 5 and other rare species.
  • Water Safaris (Selous): Explore the Rufiji River by boat.
  • Photographic Safaris: Ideal for capturing the rich biodiversity.
  • Private Guided Tours: Tailored experiences led by expert naturalists.

8. Health & Safety

We prioritize your well-being throughout your journey:
  • Vaccinations: Consult your healthcare provider for recommended vaccines.
  • Safety Protocols: Expert guides trained in first aid and emergency response.
  • Travel Insurance: Comprehensive coverage is recommended.

9. Combines Best With?

Enhance your southern Tanzania safari with these incredible add-ons:
  • Zanzibar: Unwind on idyllic beaches after your safari.
  • Mikumi National Park: A perfect stopover for more wildlife encounters.

10. Popular Itinerary Ideas

Explore our curated itineraries for an immersive adventure:
  1. Southern Circuit Explorer (10 Days): Selous, Ruaha, and a Zanzibar beach retreat.
  2. Luxury Fly-In Safari (8 Days): Experience the best of Selous and Ruaha with private charters.
  3. Exclusive Photographic Safari (12 Days): Tailored for wildlife photographers seeking the perfect shot.
At I Artist Adventure, we bring your safari dreams to life with expertly crafted itineraries. Contact us today to start planning your ultimate Selous or Ruaha safari!