Departing Dar es Salaam, we drive southwest towards Nyerere National Park, formerly known as Selous Game Reserve. This vast wilderness, one of the largest protected areas in Africa, offers an incredible range of habitats and a truly off-the-beaten-path safari experience. Arriving by midday, we settle in at our riverside lodge and enjoy lunch, with views of the Rufiji River winding through the landscape. In the afternoon, we’ll set out on a boat safari along the river, where hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds make for unforgettable encounters. As the sun begins to set, painting the river and sky in vibrant colors, we’ll return to our lodge, where a hearty dinner and a peaceful night await.

Today, we set off on a full day of exploration in Nyerere, a park known for its impressive populations of elephants, lions, and giraffes. Our game drive takes us through diverse landscapes—wooded hills, savannas, and swamps. It’s not uncommon to spot African wild dogs here, one of the park’s most elusive inhabitants. After lunch at a scenic spot, we continue our game drive, stopping at waterholes and riversides where wildlife gathers. As the day winds down, we’ll return to our lodge, where stories of the day’s sightings can be shared over a warm meal.

On our final morning, we’ll venture out on a guided walking safari—a truly unique experience that offers a close look at the bush’s smaller details. Led by an expert guide, we’ll learn about the flora, tracks, and animal behaviors that often go unnoticed from a vehicle. After breakfast, we begin the drive back to Dar es Salaam, arriving by late afternoon with unforgettable memories of Tanzania’s wild heart.