Nyerere National Park

Upon arrival at Dar es Salaam International Airport, you will be met by your guide who will assist you with your luggage and provide an overview of your safari. From here, you will embark on a scenic road transfer to Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve), located about 4–5 hours away. The park’s terrain is largely flat, with large expanses of open savannah, river valleys, and thick forested areas that make up the park's diverse ecosystems. Nyerere National Park is one of the largest in Africa, covering an area of over 30,000 square kilometers, and it is situated at an average altitude of around 300 meters above sea level.

The park's temperature varies between 20°C in the cool months and 30°C during the hotter months, making it ideal for a safari year-round. Upon arrival at Sable Mountain Lodge, you will check in and settle into your spacious accommodation. The lodge is designed to blend with its natural surroundings and offers luxurious tents with ensuite bathrooms, private terraces, and stunning views of the surrounding wilderness. The lodge also features an outdoor pool, lounge areas, and a dining area where you will enjoy meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients.

After checking in, you’ll enjoy a relaxed lunch at 13:00 before heading out for your first activity: a boat safari along the Rufiji River. This is one of the most unique ways to explore Nyerere, as the river system plays a vital role in supporting the park’s ecosystem. During the boat safari, you’ll see large groups of hippos lounging in the water, crocodiles basking in the sun, and a variety of bird species such as the white-breasted cormorant, African fish eagle, and the endangered pel’s fishing owl. After your boat safari, you’ll return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay. .

On these two days, you will spend your time exploring Nyerere National Park on game drives and boat safaris, giving you ample opportunities to observe the park’s remarkable wildlife. The park is home to a rich diversity of species, including large herds of elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, giraffes, and zebras. Nyerere is also known for its population of African wild dogs, which are becoming increasingly rare in other parts of Africa. During the calving season, you will see newborn wildebeest and zebra on the plains, which in turn attract predators such as lions, cheetahs, and hyenas.

The park’s birdlife is equally impressive, with over 400 species recorded. You’ll have the chance to spot various raptors, waterfowl, and terrestrial species, including the yellow-throated longclaw, saddle-billed stork, and lilac-breasted roller. As you explore the park, you’ll also come across the park’s stunning landscapes, which include the Rufiji River, Lake Tagalala, and wide grassland plains.

In addition to traditional game drives, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy a walking safari on one of the days with an expert guide. This activity allows you to experience the park from a different perspective, as you walk through the wilderness while observing the smaller, often-overlooked elements of the ecosystem. The walking safari guide will point out tracks, animal signs, plants, and insects, giving you an intimate understanding of the bush.

Lunches will be provided at 13:00, either at a scenic picnic spot in the park or back at the lodge. Each evening, after returning from your afternoon game drive or safari activity, you will enjoy a delicious dinner at the lodge, featuring local Tanzanian cuisine. Afterward, you’ll relax and unwind in your private tent or enjoy a drink at the bar before settling in for the night.

On your final day, you will have an early breakfast before heading out for a walking safari around the lodge or within the park. This is a great way to connect with nature and learn more about the smaller details of the environment, such as plant life, insects, and animal tracks. Accompanied by a trained ranger, you will explore the area on foot, with the chance to discover fascinating aspects of the ecosystem that often go unnoticed during game drives.

After the walking safari, you will return to the lodge for a final lunch at 13:00, before preparing for your departure. Depending on your flight schedule, you will either transfer back to Dar es Salaam by road or fly out from the nearby Selous Airport. Your guide will ensure that you are transferred safely to your departure point, marking the end of your 4-day adventure in the wilds of Nyerere National Park. .