3-Day Selous National Park Tour 2026/2027/2028
Embedded in the vast, unspoilt landscapes of Tanzania’s southern circuit, the iconic Selous National Park (now part of Nyerere National Park) offers an extraordinary safari experience far from the crowds. With one of Africa’s largest wilderness areas, this three-day safari invites you to explore riverine habitats, sweeping plains and forested miombo-woods, where elephant herds, wild dogs and hippo-filled rivers thrive. UNESCO World Heritage Centre. Our 3-Day Selous National Park Tour 2026/2027/2028 is designed for travellers seeking authentic, eco-conscious wildlife encounters: guided game drives, boat cruises on the Rufiji River, walking safaris and stays in sustainable camps—all facilitated by experienced local guides deeply rooted in conservation. We link you from your arrival in Tanzania, into this lesser-visited gem, and deliver the kind of wild, off-the-beaten-path safari that sets our luxury safari brand apart in East Africa comparisons . Our “Best Tanzania Safari Packages 2025/2026/2027” encourages visitors to explore longer stays or combinations. With limited-group departures, your safari becomes a personalised journey, not a bus tour. A perfect choice for families, couples or solo travellers who want “wild Africa” with minimal crowds, responsible travel, and high-impact wildlife viewing.
Itinerary: Day by Day
Day 1 – Arrival & Afternoon Boat & Game Drive
Arrive either by flight or road transfer into the heart of Selous National Park where your eco-camp awaits beneath miombo tree canopy close to the Rufiji-River system. After a welcome lunch and camp briefing by your local guide, embark on an afternoon boat safari along the shimmering Rufiji River—spot hippos, crocodiles and elephants drinking at the water’s edge. As the golden hour sets in, switch to a game drive through forest-border plains, where buffalo herds and sitatunga antelopes quietly graze. Return to camp at dusk for sundowners, a bush dinner beside the fire and an introduction to tomorrow’s walking safari and river-channel exploration.
Day 2 – Full Day Game Drives & Walking Safari
Rise early for a pre-dawn coffee and then head out on a full-day wildlife circuit through Selous’ wilderness. Your 4×4 will carry you across dry riverbeds, along shaded woodland tracks and onto open floodplains where lions, wild dogs and large elephant herds thrive. Enjoy a bush-lunch under giant baobabs, then in the afternoon transition to a guided walking safari — one of the most intimate ways to experience this wild terrain on foot. Your ranger will lead you through tracks, bird-rich wetlands and reveal the hidden micro-habitat of bushbuck, civet and birds of paradise. End day two with a twilight drive, returning to camp for dinner and a nightcap under wide African skies.
Day 3 – River Cruise, Conservation Visit & Departure
On your final morning, embark on an early river cruise one last time—spot the sunrise across the water, alongside hippo pods and crocodiles basking on the banks. After brunch, visit a local community conservation project to learn how your safari contributes to habitat protection and livelihoods in the region. Then pack up and transfer to the airstrip or onward road journey, reflecting on your short but powerful safari in Tanzania’s wild south — wild, less-crowded, conservation-minded, and utterly memorable.
What the Tour Offers & Unique Selling Points
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Where? South-eastern Tanzania in Selous National Park (Nyerere region) — vast, remote and under-visited.
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What? A tightly-designed 3-day safari that includes boat safaris on the Rufiji River, walking safaris, classic 4×4 game drives, accommodation in eco-friendly camps, and experienced local guides.
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Unique Aspects:
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Low vehicle density, giving you more solo wildlife-viewing moments than typical northern parks.
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Boat safaris and walking safaris are included — rarer experiences compared to standard game drives alone.
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Strong eco-tourism orientation: supporting conservation, local communities and sustainable lodging.
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Targeted for 2026/2027/2028 — giving early-book advantage and premium choices.
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Small-group size with optional private upgrades — ensuring personalised service.
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Ideal for: Wildlife lovers, photographers, birders (Selous hosts vast buffalo, elephant and hippo numbers) travellers seeking an alternative to the busy northern safari circuit; responsible travellers focused on eco-tourism.
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Booking transparency: Clear pricing, group sizes, included activities, deposit/booking terms, and conservation linkages.
Price Comparison Table
| Package Option | Price per Person* | Included Activities | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Camp (3★/4★) | From US$1,950 | 2 nights lodging, all meals, boat & walking safari, park fees | Twin share, 2026 departures |
| Premium Camp (5★) | From US$2,800 | Same + premium lodge, bush-lunch upgrade | Limited 2027/2028 availability |
| Private Vehicle Upgrade | From US$3,600 | Private 4×4 + guide, premium camp | For families or photography groups |
*Indicative, subject to change. International flights & Tanzania visa not included.
FAQ — 3-Day Selous National Park Tour
1. What is included in the 3-Day Selous National Park Tour?
The package typically includes return transfers, 2 nights accommodation, all meals, park entrance fees, guided game drives, a boat safari on the Rufiji River, walking safari with an armed ranger, bottled drinking water, and services of a professional English-speaking guide.
2. Where is Selous National Park located?
Selous National Park (now part of Nyerere National Park) is located in southeastern Tanzania, forming part of the remote Southern Safari Circuit. It is accessible via bush flights to Mtemere or by road from Dar es Salaam.
3. What wildlife can I expect to see?
Selous is renowned for hosting elephants, buffalo, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, wild dogs, lions, and over 440+ bird species. The Rufiji River system provides ideal habitats for big mammals and diverse birdlife.
4. What makes this Selous safari unique?
Unlike many parks, Selous offers boat safaris, walking safaris, and low-density wildlife viewing, providing rare close-to-nature experiences beyond classic 4×4 game drives.
5. What is the best time to visit Selous National Park?
The best period is June–October (dry season), when game congregates near water sources. November–March sees greener landscapes, bird migration, and fewer visitors.
6. How do I get to Selous?
Most travellers fly from Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar, Arusha or the Serengeti directly to Mtemere/Nyerere National Park airstrips. A long overland drive is possible but less common.
7. Is this safari suitable for families?
Yes — it is ideal for families with children aged 7+ and can be customized with family-friendly camps and private guiding.
8. Do the camps have power & Wi-Fi?
Most eco-lodges offer solar electricity and limited Wi-Fi in common areas. Due to the remote location, speeds may vary.
9. Can this tour be customized?
Absolutely. Travellers can upgrade to luxury camps, book a private vehicle, extend to Serengeti, Ruaha, Mikumi, or Zanzibar, or add a night game drive (where permitted).
10. What should I pack?
Light neutral-colored clothing, walking shoes, hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, camera, reusable water bottle, and warm layers for mornings.
Inclusions & Exclusions
Tour Inclusions
The following are included in the tour price:
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2 nights accommodation inside/near Selous (Nyerere) National Park
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All meals while on safari — breakfast, lunch, dinner
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Professional English-speaking safari guide
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4×4 pop-up roof safari vehicle for game drives
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Afternoon game drive on Day 1
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Full-day game drive on Day 2
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Rufiji River boat safari
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Guided walking safari with armed ranger
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Bottled drinking water on safari
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Selous/Nyerere National Park entrance & conservation fees
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Medical emergency evacuation cover
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Return transfers to/from Mtemere or Nyerere airstrip
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All government taxes & VAT
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24/7 ground support via WhatsApp
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Carbon-conscious eco-safari practices
➜ Explore Tanzania Safari Packages 2026/2027/2028
Tour Exclusions
The following are not included unless requested:
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International flights
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Tanzania entry visa fees
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Travel insurance (recommended)
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Drinks (soft drinks, premium wines, beers, spirits)
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Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, phone, etc.)
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Tips for guide/driver & camp staff
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Optional activities not listed (e.g., night game drive)
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Single room supplement
➜ Add Zanzibar Beach Extension
Optional Upgrades
These items can be arranged on request:
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✦ Luxury camp upgrade (4★–5★)
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✦ Private 4×4 safari vehicle + guide
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✦ Night game drive (where allowed)
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✦ Pre- & post-tour hotels (Dar es Salaam/Zanzibar)
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✦ Photography specialist guide
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✦ Combination tour: Selous + Mikumi + Ruaha + Serengeti
➜ View East Africa Luxury Safari Tours
Trust & Transparency Notes
A detailed list of included services avoids hidden fees
Optional extras are clearly listed to manage expectations
24/7 assistance builds confidence for international travellers
Ready to Experience Selous’ Wild Beauty?
Explore one of Africa’s last true wildernesses — remote river systems, thriving big game, boat safaris, walking adventures & intimate eco-camps.
✔ Small-group & private tours
✔ Available for 2026/2027/2028
✔ Flexible start dates — fly-in or drive-in
Plan your Selous adventure today — limited spaces available in peak season!
START PLANNING NOW
→ Check Availability & Get a Free Quote
→ Reserve My Spot for 2026/2027/2028
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✔ Ethical, Low-Impact Safaris
✔ Flexible Rebooking Policy
High-quality guidance + responsible travel = unforgettable memories.
Previous Travellers’ Reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Beyond our expectations — the river safari was unforgettable!”
— Michael & Sarah, USA • Traveled July 2024
“We’ve been on several safaris before, but Selous was on another level. The Rufiji River boat safari was a highlight — hippos everywhere and elephants drinking just meters away. Our guide, Daniel, was fantastic and had incredible knowledge of wildlife behavior. The camp was charming and eco-friendly, with great food. Loved how quiet and uncrowded the park felt. Highly recommended!”
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Perfect mix of game drives, walking & river experiences.”
— Julia, Germany • Travelled September 2023
“This 3-day Selous trip was the perfect getaway — relaxed, immersive and beautifully organized. We spotted wild dogs on our first game drive and woke up to hippos grunting near camp! The walking safari felt thrilling and safe, and gave us a deeper understanding of nature. The guiding team was friendly, and everything was flawlessly coordinated. Would gladly return and stay longer.”
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Wild, peaceful and unforgettable — one of Africa’s best hidden gems.”
— Emmanuel & Olivia, France • Traveled February 2024
“If you want wilderness with almost no crowds, Selous is the place. The scenery along the Rufiji River is stunning — birds, crocodiles, elephants, buffalo… all in abundance. Our lodge was intimate and eco-conscious, and the food was great. The evenings around the campfire were magical. Easily one of the most memorable trips we’ve taken in Africa.”
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“Incredible guiding + amazing wildlife variety.”
— Arjun, India • Travelled November 2023
“From the moment we arrived, we were impressed by the warmth and professionalism of the team. The boat safari and game drives offered great contrast — so many hippos and crocodiles, plus lions and wild dogs! Our guide’s passion made every moment educational. Really appreciated the sustainability focus. Worth every penny.”

