Overview & Summary
Welcome to Ruaha National Park, Tanzania's largest and most untamed wilderness. This 3-day fly-in & fly-out safari offers a comfortable escape from Dar es Salaam into a landscape of ancient baobabs, dramatic river gorges, and extraordinary wildlife. With far fewer visitors than Northern parks, Ruaha feels like your own private safari destination. Your BMC TOURS & SAFARI guide ensures every moment is relaxed and effortless, from sunrise game drives to peaceful meals overlooking the savannah. Experience lions, elephants, wild dogs, and over 570 bird species in one of Africa's most beautiful and uncrowded parks.
Full Itinerary
Fly-In Arrival at Msembe Airstrip, Great Ruaha River Drive & Sunset
Your safari begins with a friendly greeting from your BMC TOURS & SAFARI driver at your Dar es Salaam hotel or the airport. You will be transferred to the domestic terminal for your scheduled flight to Ruaha National Park departing @ 08:30 / 11:00—a short and scenic journey of approximately two hours over mountains, rivers, and remote villages.
Upon landing at Msembe Airstrip, your safari guide will welcome you in a private 4x4 Land Cruiser. The game drive begins immediately, as wildlife often gathers near the airstrip. Make your way slowly toward your lodge along the Great Ruaha River, watching elephants drinking, giraffes browsing, and lions resting in the shade before checking in for dinner and sunset views.
Dinner and overnight at Ruaha River Lodge
Predator Paradise Tracking, Ancient Baobab Valleys & River Picnic Lunch
Wake gently to the sounds of the bush and enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your lodge. Your BMC guide will meet you to begin a full day of exploration across Ruaha's diverse landscapes—ancient baobab trees dotting the hills, the Great Ruaha River winding through the valley, and open woodlands stretching to the horizon.
Ruaha is famous for hosting one of Africa's largest lion populations, as well as leopards, cheetahs, and endangered wild dogs. You may also spot greater kudu, sable antelopes, and vast elephant herds. Enjoy a peaceful picnic lunch under a shady tree overlooking the river before an afternoon of gentle game viewing and lodge relaxation.
Dinner and overnight at Ruaha River LodgeGolden Light Dawn Game Drive, Msembe Flight & Dar / Zanzibar Drop-off
Wake before dawn for an early morning game drive, the most magical time to experience Ruaha. The golden light illuminates the landscape as animals emerge from the night. Your BMC guide navigates riverbanks and open plains for fantastic wildlife photography and quiet observation.
After several hours of gentle exploration, return to your lodge for a hearty breakfast. Mid-morning transfer to Msembe Airstrip for your scheduled flight back to Dar es Salaam departing 11:45 / 14:00. Upon arrival at DAR Airport, your driver meets you for transfer to your hotel, the airport, or the ferry terminal for Zanzibar, marking the end of your safari retreat.
END OF OUR SERVICESInclusions & Exclusions
Included
- Professional English-speaking BMC TOURS & SAFARI guide
- Private 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
- Round-trip domestic flights from Dar es Salaam to Ruaha (included as arranged)
- Airport transfers in Dar es Salaam for your flights
- All park entry fees for Ruaha National Park
- Game drives as described in the itinerary
- 2 nights' accommodation in comfortable lodge (Ruaha River Lodge)
- Meals: 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners
- Bottled drinking water throughout your safari
- All government taxes and levies
Excluded
- International flights to Dar es Salaam
- Tanzania visa fees
- Travel and medical insurance
- Tips for your guide and lodge staff
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Personal expenses such as souvenirs and laundry
- Accommodation in Dar es Salaam before or after the safari
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
Optional Activities
