2 Days Selous Game Reserve Safari from Zanzibar or Dar es salaam

A Complete Guide to the 2-Day Selous Game Reserve Safari from Zanzibar or Dar es Salaam

Planning a safari in Tanzania? If you’re after a quick, well-organized wildlife getaway, this 2-day tour of Selous Game Reserve might be just what you need. As one of Africa’s largest protected areas and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Selous offers vast, undisturbed landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and plenty of chances to see incredible wildlife—think elephants, lions, leopards, hippos, and even the elusive Big Five.

What struck us most about this tour are two key features: the hassle-free logistics, thanks to included flights and transfers, and the immersion in authentic wilderness—you’ll be in open 4×4 vehicles with roof hatches, perfect for photography and close animal encounters.

On the flip side, some travelers might find the pace a bit brisk and the accommodations basic, but overall, this trip offers excellent value for wildlife enthusiasts eager for a compact yet immersive adventure.

This tour suits travelers short on time but eager to see Africa’s wild heart, especially those who appreciate good guides and well-organized logistics. It’s ideal if you’re staying in Zanzibar or Dar es Salaam and want to add a taste of safari to your itinerary without a lengthy commitment.

Key Points

• All-inclusive package with flights, accommodations, meals, and transfers makes for a seamless experience.
• Close wildlife encounters are possible thanks to open 4x4s with photographic roofs.
• The boat safari on Lake Manze offers a unique perspective on hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds.
• The full-day game drive covers a broad range of animals in their natural habitat.
• Authentic safari experience with knowledgeable guides who have been praised for their friendliness and expertise.
• The tour is practical and flexible, perfect for travelers wanting a taste of wildlife without the longer stay.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Day 1: From Zanzibar or Dar es Salaam to Selous

The journey begins early—either at 7:30 am from Zanzibar or 8:00 am from Dar es Salaam—with a flight to the Selous Airstrip. This aviation element helps maximize your safari time, skipping long drives and putting you directly into the wilderness. Expect to arrive around 8:30 am, where your guide will meet you for the start of your game drive.

Once you’re in the park, you’ll be in a 4×4 vehicle with a roof hatch, designed for both comfort and photography. The size of the group is typically up to 30 travelers, providing a sense of camaraderie while still maintaining the intimacy of a shared adventure.

The full-day game drive is the core of this experience. You’ll traverse the diverse landscape—dense thickets, open grasslands, and wooded areas—looking for the animals that make Selous famous. Reviews highlight seeing elephants, lions, cheetahs, leopards, giraffes, hippos, and crocodiles. One reviewer mentioned the “splendid lodge” and attentive staff, which, although not luxurious, offers enough comfort after a day in the wild.

A highlight of the day is the bush lunch, served at a scenic spot—an opportunity to relax amid nature while fueling up for more wildlife spotting. As the sun sets, the savannah offers stunning views, perfect for photos and quiet reflection on your day’s sightings.

Day 2: Boat Safari and Return Journey

Early morning, you’ll wake to the sounds of the bush and enjoy breakfast before checking out. The second day features a 2-hour boat safari on Lake Manze. This activity allows for a different perspective on the reserve’s water-loving residents. Expect to see hippos bubbling in the water, crocodiles sunbathing, and a variety of waterbirds. Several reviews praised this boat ride as “exceptional,” providing close-up views of hippos and crocodiles—something you simply can’t replicate on land.

Following the boat safari, you’ll head back to the airstrip for your 9:30 am flight back to Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar, arriving around 11:20 am, giving you plenty of time to continue your travels or relax after a quick but intense safari experience.

What Travelers Say about This Tour

The reviews offer a strong endorsement of the tour’s value and guides. One reviewer called it “The perfect safari,” highlighting the knowledgeable guides and “splendid lodge,” which, while not five-star luxury, provides good comfort. They appreciated the easy logistics, from pickup to return, and the opportunity for excellent animal sightings.

Another traveler remarked on the well-populated reserve—noting the sight of elephants, giraffes, hyenas, and zebras—and praised the comfortable jeeps used during game drives. They also pointed out the opportunity to book additional activities like visiting a Maasai village or taking a boat ride, although these are not included in the standard itinerary.

A French-speaking traveler appreciated the well-organized transfer system and the professional guides who started the safari immediately after arrival, emphasizing the efficiency of the experience.

Meanwhile, a traveler from a French review highlighted the close proximity to animals and the exciting off-trail spotting, which makes this safari especially appealing for those craving authentic wildlife encounters.

The Practicalities and Value

At $840 per person, the price includes return flights from Zanzibar or Dar es Salaam, all meals, accommodation, park entrance fees, and a 4×4 safari vehicle with photographic roof hatch. This all-in-one package simplifies planning, saving travelers the hassle of booking flights, transfers, and park logistics separately.

The accommodation is typically modest, but reviews indicate it’s comfortable enough for a safari base. The included meals, especially the bush lunch, are seen as a highlight—adding to the overall value by providing sustenance during long days in the wild.

While the tour does not include international flights or visas, the convenience of door-to-door transfers, combined with the quality of wildlife viewing, offers good bang for your buck. Plus, the small group size ensures a personalized experience, with guides eager to share their knowledge.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This safari is best suited for travelers with limited time who want a full immersion in African wildlife without a lengthy stay. It’s ideal for those who appreciate organized logistics and the chance to see the Big Five and waterfowl from an open vehicle. If you’re eager for close animal encounters and a photo-friendly environment, this trip checks those boxes.

It also works well for first-time safari-goers or those wanting to combine a safari with a beach holiday in Zanzibar or a city trip in Dar es Salaam. The tour’s moderate pace and inclusive nature mean you won’t need to worry about planning every detail.

The Sum Up: Is This Safari Worth It?

For anyone looking for a quick but comprehensive taste of Tanzania’s wilderness, this 2-day Selous safari offers excellent value. The all-inclusive package means less stress, and the combination of game drives and boat safaris provides a well-rounded experience. The knowledgeable guides and well-managed logistics ensure you’ll get the most out of your time in the park, making it a smart choice for busy travelers.

While the accommodations are straightforward, reviews reveal that most travelers find them reasonable and comfortable enough to enjoy after long days of wildlife spotting. For wildlife lovers, the chance to see elephants, lions, hippos, crocodiles, and more—often from very close range—makes this tour memorable.

If you want a short, organized, and authentic safari experience that allows you to witness Africa’s iconic animals in their natural habitat, this tour could be just what you’re looking for. It’s a practical, value-packed way to add a true adventure to your Tanzanian trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I get to Selous from Zanzibar or Dar es Salaam?
The tour includes a return flight from Zanzibar or Dar es Salaam to the Selous Airstrip, making the transfer quick and straightforward.

What is included in the package?
You get round-trip flights, all park fees, meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner), hotel pickup and drop-off, and a 4×4 safari vehicle with a photographic roof hatch.

Are the accommodations comfortable?
The reviews mention a “splendid lodge” and decent amenities, though they are not luxury. They provide a comfortable base to relax after a day in the wild.

Can I see wildlife, including the Big Five?
Yes. The full-day game drive and boat safari increase your chances to spot elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, hippos, crocodiles, and more.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
While not explicitly stated, the tour’s group size and nature suggest it’s more suited for adult travelers or families with older children comfortable with wildlife safaris.

What should I bring on the safari?
Bring comfortable clothing, sun protection, binoculars, camera gear, and a sense of adventure. Since the vehicle has a roof hatch, photography is encouraged!

This 2-day Selous safari from Zanzibar or Dar es Salaam balances adventure and convenience, making it a strong choice for wildlife enthusiasts eager to experience Africa’s wilderness with minimal fuss.