Self Drive in Southern Tanzania Itinerary – Dar es salaam Car Rental Holidays with Self Drive East Africa.
Southern Tanzania Itinerary grants you the ultimate adventure experience of visiting the A southern Tanzania road trip itinerary focuses on the Southern Circuit, which includes less visited parks like Ruaha National Park, Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve), and Mikumi National Park, offering a more rugged and wild experience than the Northern Circuit.
A possible 20 Day Tanzania Road trip itinerary could involve arriving in Dar es Salaam, driving to Nyerere for game drives and boat safaris, transferring to Mikumi for more wildlife, exploring Udzungwa Mountains for hikes, and potentially visiting Iringa ( Ruaha National Park) or even Katavi National Park before returning to relax at Sadaani National Park where the ocean touches to the land.
This 20 days Self drive in Southern National Parks of Tanzania comes with the great opportunity to extend for guided adventure to Zanzibar islands within the Indian ocean of Tanzania.
From the bush to Zanzibar island is the most rewarding Tanzania adventure for timely experience of an African road trip with Self drive East Africa the leading car rental and Safari operator offering classic adventures within Tanzania , Kenya , Rwanda and Uganda with full freedom to explore the less visited national parks in the wilderness of Africa.
Trip Summary : 20 Days Southern Tanzania Self Drive itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at Dar es salaam ( Nyerere International Airport )
Day 2: Transfer to Selous National Reserve ( Nyerere National Park)
Day 3: Game drive and Boat Cruise on Rriver rufiji
Day 4: Walking Safaris and Transfer to Mikumi National Park
Day 5: Game drive Full Day
Day 6: Walking Safaris in Mikumi National Park
Day 7: Transfer to Uzunggwa Mountains National Park
Day 8: Hike to the water falls and Nature walk
Day 9: Feeling the nature on Birding experience
Day 10: Transfer to Ruaha National Park
Day 11: Game drive
Day 12: Walking Safari in Ruaha National Park
Day 13: Game drive and drive back to Iringa Town
Day 14: Transfer back to Dar es salaam
Day 15: Transfer to Sadaani National Park
Day 16: Game drive & Boat Cruise on river rufiji
Day 17: Walking Safari
Day 18: Game drive and relaxation at the beach ( visiting the lagoon Lakes )
Day 19: Transfer to Dar es salaam
Day 20: Return the rental jeep and take ferry to Zanzibar Islands.
Safari Extension on Zanzibar Island 5 Days
The Zanzibar Island extension suits you as relaxation point after the wildlife watching in the less crowded Tanzanian parks within Southern Region and it comes as guided adventure in Zanzibar after the return of the self drive jeep in Dar es salaam for magical experience of the sea waters. The package includes Hotels, Airport transfers, adventurous activities. We make sure you are stress-free to plan your Zanzibar vacation.
To book the Zanzibar extension package is simple! Just send us an inquiry to the team.
5 Days Zanzibar Vacation Trip Summary.
Day 1: Transfer to Hotel
Day 2: Stone Town, Spice Farms & Prison Island
Day 3: Half Day – Mnemba Dolphins & Snorkeling
Day 4: Relax at the beaches of Indian Ocean
Day 5: Transfer to the Airport, Goodbye!
20 DAYS SOUTHERN TANZANIA SELF DRIVE ITINERARY
Day 1: Arrival at Dar es Salaam (Nyerere International Airport)
Your journey begins in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s busiest city and the main entry point for Southern Circuit safaris. After landing at Nyerere International Airport, pick up your rental jeep with a rooftop tent. You can shop for supplies, water, and snacks in the city since once you enter the parks, shops will be limited. Depending on your arrival time, you can explore the city, relax, or simply rest and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Camping option: Mikadi Beach Camp or Kipepeo Beach Village Campsite
Day 2: Transfer to Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park)
Today you start your drive to Selous, which takes about 6-7 hours. The road is partly paved and partly gravel, giving you your first taste of off-road driving. Once you arrive at the park, check in at the gate, set up camp, and enjoy your first evening surrounded by nature. The park is famous for its untouched wilderness and large populations of elephants, buffalo, and wild dogs. Camping option: Lake Manze Public Campsite
Day 3: Game Drive and Boat Cruise on the Rufiji River
Spend the morning exploring the vast Selous plains by car. You may spot giraffes, lions, elephants, and hippos. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat safari on the Rufiji River, where you can see crocodiles basking, hippos cooling in the water, and colourful birdlife. Sunset over the river is one of the most beautiful sights in Southern Tanzania.
Camping option: Ngalawa Public Campsite.
Day 4: Walking Safari and Transfer to Mikumi National Park
Start the day with a guided walking safari in Selous, which lets you see smaller details like tracks, insects, and plants that you would miss from the car. After the walk, drive toward Mikumi National Park, which will take you most of the day. On arrival, set up camp and relax under the stars. Camping option: Mikumi Wildlife Camp Public Campsite
Day 5: Full-Day Game Drive in Mikumi National Park
Mikumi is often called “the mini-Serengeti” because of its open savannah landscape. Spend a full day driving through the park. You may encounter elephants, giraffes, wildebeest, and zebras, and with luck, even lions. Mikumi is an excellent place for photography thanks to its wide landscapes. Camping option: Mikumi Wildlife Camp Public Campsite
Day 6: Walking Safari in Mikumi National Park
Today you can enjoy a guided walking safari with a ranger. This gives you a more intimate look at the bush and a chance to observe wildlife from a different perspective. The rest of the day is free to relax at camp or take a short evening drive.
Camping option: Mikumi Park Public Campsite
Day 7: Transfer to Udzungwa Mountains National Park
Drive to Udzungwa Mountains, a short trip from Mikumi. This park is known for its green mountains, waterfalls, and rare primates. Set up camp near the park headquarters and enjoy a quiet evening in the cool mountain air. Camping option: Hondo Hondo Campsite
Day 8: Hiking to the Waterfalls and Nature Walk
Today is for hiking. With a guide, trek to Sanje Waterfalls, one of the tallest waterfalls in Tanzania. The trail is moderately challenging, but the reward is swimming in cool pools and panoramic views. In the evening, return to your campsite and enjoy the sounds of nature.
Camping option: Hondo Hondo Campsite
Day 9: Birding Experience in Udzungwa
The Udzungwa Mountains are a paradise for birdwatchers. Over 400 species are recorded here, including endemic species. Spend the day birding along trails and forest edges, with possible sightings of monkeys and butterflies along the way.
Camping option: Hondo Hondo Campsite
Day 10: Transfer to Ruaha National Park
This is a long but rewarding drive (about 9-10 hours). You will pass through Iringa town, where you can refuel and stock up on supplies. Continue toward Ruaha National Park, one of the most remote and wild places in Africa. Once inside, set up camp and rest.
Camping option: Ruaha Public Campsite
Day 11: Game Drive in Ruaha National Park
Ruaha is famous for its rugged landscapes and large elephant herds. Spend the full day exploring the park. You may also spot lions, leopards, wild dogs, and many antelope species. The Great Ruaha River is a good place to stop and watch wildlife come to drink.
Camping option: Ruaha Public Campsite
Day 12: Walking Safari in Ruaha National Park
Join a ranger-led walking safari for a close look at Ruaha’s flora and fauna. Walking in Ruaha feels adventurous, as you can track animals and learn more about the smaller details of the ecosystem. Spend the evening around the campfire listening to the bush sounds.
Camping option: Ruaha Public Campsite
Day 13: Game Drive and Return to Iringa Town
After a short morning game drive, pack up and drive back to Iringa. This is a good day to rest, recharge, and enjoy some town comforts after several nights in the wild. Iringa has a cool climate and is friendly for travellers. Camping option: Riverside Campsite Iringa
Day 14: Transfer Back to Dar es Salaam
Today is mostly a travel day as you return to Dar es Salaam. The journey takes about 8-9 hours. Once in the city, you can relax and prepare for the next leg of your safari.
Camping option: Mikadi Beach Camp or Kipepeo Beach Village Campsite.
Day 15: Transfer to Saadani National Park
Drive to Saadani National Park, the only park in Tanzania that borders the Indian Ocean. The drive is about 5-6 hours. This unique park combines wildlife with coastal scenery. Set up camp near the beach and enjoy the breeze. Camping option: Saadani Public Campsite
Day 16: Game Drive and Boat Cruise on the Wami River
Spend the morning on a game drive in Saadani, where you can see giraffes, buffaloes, and even lions near the beach. In the afternoon, take a boat safari on the Wami River, which is full of hippos, crocodiles, and birds. Sunset over the river is magical.
Camping option: Saadani Public Campsite.
Day 17: Walking Safari in Saadani National Park
Explore Saadani on foot with a ranger. Walking safaris here let you experience both the bush and the coast. The combination of savannah and ocean makes it very special. Spend the rest of the day relaxing at your camp. Camping option: Saadani Public Campsite.
Day 18: Game Drive and Relaxation at the Beach
Today you can enjoy a morning game drive followed by relaxation at the Saadani beaches or lagoon lakes. It’s a rare opportunity to combine wildlife viewing with swimming and sunbathing. Camping option: Saadani Public Campsite
Day 19: Transfer Back to Dar es Salaam
Pack up and drive back to Dar es Salaam. The road trip takes about 4–5 hours. Once in the city, you can shop for souvenirs or simply enjoy your last evening on the mainland.
Camping option: Mikadi Beach Camp or Kipepeo Beach Village.
Day 20: Return Jeep and Take Ferry to Zanzibar Islands
After breakfast, drive back to Dar es Salaam and return your rented Jeep. Once all handover formalities are complete, head to the ferry terminal for your scheduled ferry ride to Zanzibar. Enjoy the scenic journey across the Indian Ocean as you approach the beautiful Zanzibar Islands. Upon arrival in Stone Town, you’ll be met by the warm coastal breeze and the island’s relaxed atmosphere. Transfer to your hotel or explore the historic streets of Stone Town if time allows.
SAFARI EXTENSION ON ZANZIBAR ISLAND 5 DAYS
Day 1: Transfer to Hotel
This morning, the hotel’s transfer service will pick you up from the ferry terminal and take you to your accommodation in Zanzibar. Enjoy a smooth and relaxing transfer while soaking in the stunning coastal views. Spend the rest of the day at leisure relax on the beach, take a dip in the ocean, or enjoy the laid-back island vibe.
Mid-range lodge option: Maru Maru Hotel (Stone Town), Tembo House Hotel
Day 2: Explore Stone Town, Spice Farms & Prison Island
In the morning, take a guided tour of Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Walk through its narrow streets, visit the old slave market, Sultan’s Palace, and admire the unique wooden carved doors. Later, visit one of Zanzibar’s famous spice farms to see, smell, and taste spices like cloves, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg. In the afternoon, take a boat trip to Prison Island, which was once used to house prisoners and is now home to giant Aldabra tortoises. Return in the evening to your hotel in Stone Town.
Mid-range lodge option: Maru Maru Hotel or Tembo House Hotel.
Day 3: Half-Day – Mnemba Dolphins & Snorkeling
After breakfast, head to the northeast coast of Zanzibar for a half-day boat excursion around Mnemba Atoll. This is one of the best places in Zanzibar for snorkelling, where you can swim among colorful fish and coral reefs. If you are lucky, you may also spot dolphins in the open water. Return to your hotel around midday, giving you the afternoon to rest and enjoy the beach.
Mid-range lodge option: Sunshine Hotel Zanzibar (Matemwe), Zanzibar Queen Hotel
Day 4: Relax at the Beaches of the Indian Ocean
Today is dedicated to relaxation. Zanzibar’s beaches are world-famous for their soft white sand and turquoise waters. You can spend the day sunbathing, swimming, or taking optional activities like kite surfing, paddle boarding, or visiting nearby fishing villages. This is your chance to simply enjoy the calm rhythm of island life.
Mid-range lodge option: Sunshine Hotel Zanzibar, Zanzibar Queen Hotel
Day 5: Transfer to the Airport – Goodbye Zanzibar
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and, depending on your flight time, take a final walk along the beach or buy souvenirs from local markets. Afterwards, transfer to Abeid Amani Karume International Airport for your departure. This marks the end of your Zanzibar holiday with beautiful memories of culture, beaches, and adventure.