21 days, classic self-drive trip itinerary

Explore the cities and scenery of both the North and South on this 21-day extensive trip. The itinerary is ideal for those wishing to get a glimpse of Tanzania’s wildlife and beaches away from the more standard northern circuit and the Zanzibar Archipelago combination. Allow about 10 days for a straight Selous – Mafia combination, and up to one week for extended versions taking in Kilwa and Mikindani, further south.

Pick up your  4×4 at Dar es Salaam and drive to Selous. The Selous is a magnificent game reserve, our favourite in Tanzania and well worth at least three to four days enjoying the fine lodges, the boat ride, the wildlife, and the amazing night sounds, especially hippos grunting in the Rufiji River.  For adventurous travellers with more time and a taste for the offbeat, it’s easily possible to continue from Selous to tiny, sleepy Kilwa Masoko.  Make a pleasant destination for spending a day or two. The town is also the springboard to the famed ruins at Kilwa Kisiwani, just offshore.

Another possible excursion from Kilwa Masoko is to nearby Fanjove Private Island, which has a lovely, upmarket lodge, and which is easily combined with both Mafia and Kilwa. Once you have finished exploring the Kilwa area, drive south via Lindi to the Mtwara area, where Mikindani with its coconut plantations and long history and the beach at Msambiati, in the Mnazi Bay Ruvuma Estuary Marine Park, are the highlights.

Taking into account that,  there is plenty you can do and create your own itinerary along the way in your trip. Book your rental now