Tanzania's southern parks are wilder, greener and far quieter than the north, and this is the classic way to see the two best of them. You start in Nyerere (the former northern Selous), where the Rufiji River makes boat and walking safaris as much a part of the day as game drives, then fly across to Ruaha for big-cat and elephant country along the Great Ruaha.
The whole circuit is done by scheduled light aircraft — a short flight from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar to start, a hop between the parks, and a flight out — so there are no long transfers. It combines well with a Zanzibar beach finish. Best June to October.
Morning flight from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar. Transfer to camp and an afternoon game drive toward the Rufiji lakes.
Morning game drive, afternoon boat safari — hippo, crocodile, elephant and outstanding birdlife along the river.
Early guided walk with an armed ranger, then a game drive among the palm-fringed lakes — wild dog and lion country.
Morning at leisure or a final activity, then the light-aircraft flight to Ruaha. Afternoon game drive along the Great Ruaha River.
A full day of game viewing with a picnic lunch, following the river for big cats, elephant herds and kudu.
Morning and afternoon game drives, with an optional guided walk and sundowners over the river.
A short morning drive, then the flight back to Dar es Salaam, Iringa or on to Zanzibar or the Serengeti.