Tanzania · Safari

4-Day Bagamoyo and Selous Safari from Dar es Salaam with Rufiji Cruise

4 Days Round trip from Dar es Salaam Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights

01 Explore Bagamoyo's historic sites, including the Old Fort and Caravan Serai Museum
02 Meet local artisans in Bagamoyo and learn about local traditions and way of life
03 Experience a full-day game drive in Selous Game Reserve
04 Enjoy a scenic boat safari on the Rufiji River
05 Look for elephants, lions, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, and various antelope species in Selous

Experience a 4-day safari from Dar es Salaam that combines Bagamoyo's rich history and cultural heritage with the wildlife of Selous Game Reserve. Explore Bagamoyo's historic sites, including the Old Fort and Caravan Serai Museum, meet local artisans, and learn about local traditions and way of life. Continue to Selous for a full-day game drive in search of elephants, lions, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, and various antelope species, then enjoy a scenic boat safari on the Rufiji River. This journey offers a diverse and enriching safari experience in Tanzania.

In the afternoon, take a boat safari on the Rufiji River, the largest river in Tanzania, to observe hippos, crocodiles, and various birdlife.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 4 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Not applicable

Cities Dar es Salaam, Selous Game Reserve, Bagamoyo

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival and Historic Bagamoyo Exploration

Arrive in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania's largest city, either by international flight or by connecting from another destination.
Meet your guide and drive to Bagamoyo, approximately a 1-2 hour journey from Dar es Salaam.
Check in at your chosen accommodation in Bagamoyo and have lunch.
In the afternoon, explore the historic town of Bagamoyo, known for its slave trade history and cultural significance. Visit the Bagamoyo Old Fort, Caravan Serai Museum, and other historical sites.
Return to your hotel in the evening for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 02

Bagamoyo Cultural Tour and Transfer to Selous

After breakfast, continue your cultural tour of Bagamoyo, interacting with the local community and learning about their traditions and way of life.
Visit local artisans, such as woodcarvers and traditional artists, to see their craftsmanship.
Enjoy a traditional Tanzanian lunch in Bagamoyo.
In the afternoon, depart from Bagamoyo and drive to Selous Game Reserve, which takes approximately 5-6 hours.
Arrive at your lodge or camp within Selous Game Reserve, have dinner, and spend the night.

Day 03

Full-Day Game Drive and Rufiji River Boat Safari

After an early breakfast, set out for a full-day game drive in Selous Game Reserve. Explore different areas of the reserve, seeking out diverse wildlife that includes elephants, lions, giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, and various antelope species.
Enjoy a picnic lunch in the heart of the reserve, surrounded by nature and wildlife.
In the afternoon, take a boat safari on the Rufiji River, the largest river in Tanzania, to observe hippos, crocodiles, and various birdlife.
Return to your lodge or camp in the evening for dinner and relaxation.

Day 04

Morning Game Drive and Return Journey

On the final day, wake up early for a final morning game drive in Selous Game Reserve. This is a chance to catch glimpses of animals during their most active hours.
After breakfast, check out from your accommodation and begin your journey back to Dar es Salaam or your onward destination.

Where this trip takes you

Bagamoyo Old Fort, Caravan Serai Museum, Selous Game Reserve, Rufiji River boat safari

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Dar es Salaam 3 cities · 4 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Park fees
Transport in open-roofed 4x4 vehicles
Professional English-speaking driver guide
Guide allowances
Excursions as per the itinerary
Full-day game drive - 8 hrs
Half-day game drive - 4 hrs
1 litre of water per person per day during the safari
Accommodation on a sharing basis
Meals as per the itinerary
Taxes

What's Not Included

Beverages
Alcoholic drinks
Items of a personal nature
Tips
Visa
Insurance
Flights
Bank charges

What to bring

When visiting Tanzania, especially for a safari or outdoor adventure, it's essential to pack wisely to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Here's a list of items to bring with you:

Travel Documents:
- Passport with a minimum of six months' validity.
- Visa (if required; check Tanzania's entry requirements).
- Photocopies of important documents.
Vaccination and Health Documents:
- Yellow fever certificate (required for entry).
- Immunization records and necessary vaccinations (consult your healthcare provider).
- Personal medications and prescriptions, if applicable.
Clothing:
- Lightweight and breathable clothing for hot days.
- Long-sleeved shirts and pants to protect against the sun and insects.
- Warm clothing for cooler evenings, especially in highland areas.
- Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots for outdoor activities.
- Sandals or flip-flops for casual wear.
- Swimsuit (if your itinerary includes beach or water activities).
Outdoor Gear:
- Sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen with a high SPF.
- Insect repellent.
- Rain jacket or poncho (especially if traveling during the wet season).
- Daypack for excursions and hikes.
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing.
- Camera and extra memory cards for capturing the stunning landscapes and wildlife.
Cash and Banking:
- Tanzanian Shillings (local currency) for small expenses.
- Credit/debit cards for larger purchases (notify your bank of your travel plans).
- U.S. dollars in small denominations for emergencies.

Know before you go

Remember that the specific items you need may vary depending on your itinerary and preferences. It's important to check with your tour operator or accommodation provider to see what items they might provide, such as camping equipment, before overpacking.
Also note that while Tanzania is relatively well-equipped, especially in major cities and tourist areas, some items may be harder to find in remote locations, so it's wise to come prepared.
Please note that payment by credit card will incur an additional 5% charge, as bank charges are applied by the bank in Tanzania. Payment by Telegraphic Transfer will attract an additional USD 50 per transfer as bank charges.
Please note that this is a sample itinerary and can be customized based on your preferences, available time, and budget. Combining Bagamoyo's cultural experiences with Selous Game Reserve's wildlife encounters provides a diverse and enriching safari experience in Tanzania. Plan your safari with a reputable tour operator to ensure a well-organized and memorable journey.

Logistics