Romantic Campfires & Pristine Beach Safari
An unforgettable safari adventure visiting two of Africa’s most stunning game-filled wildlife areas – Tanzania’s Ruaha National Park and Selous Game Reserve. Staying at the luxury Jongomero and Siwandu camps, this experience offers guests the opportunity to take unique safari bush walks and boat excursions as well as top quality game drives. The safari ends at the small and exclusive Fanjove Island.
Ruaha National Park is the largest National Park in Africa. Jongomero camp is situated far to the South of the park in a remote location from where you can roam the riverine areas and hills. Birding is quite spectacular, with the park boasting some 500 different species of birds, including the Ruaha Red-billed hornbill which is unique to the park. Ruaha is an ecological convergence for Northern and Southern species of mammal and is also one of the few areas where Greater and Lesser Kudu can be seen.
Selous is Africa’s largest Game Reserve – the size of Switzerland – and one of the last great wilderness areas on the continent. You will spend three unforgettable nights here as well as taking full advantage of viewing the abundant wildlife, either by boat, vehicle or on foot.
Fanjove Island is located south of Dar es Salaam and is part of the Songo Songo Archipelago, Southern Tanzania. Included activities are snorkelling off the beach, kayaking, stand up paddleboarding (SUP) and island walks.
- Unique Ruaha National Park: Explore Ruaha National Park, the largest in Africa, known for its unique ecology and diverse wildlife. Experience the feeling of remoteness and adventure in this pristine wilderness.
- Exclusive Game Drives: Enjoy exclusive game drives in open-sided vehicles, tracking wildlife along the Great Ruaha River. Witness elephants and possibly African Wild Dogs while sipping sundowners against stunning sunset backdrops.
- Birding Paradise: Ruaha boasts over 500 bird species, including unique Ruaha Red-billed hornbills. Birdwatchers will be captivated by the avian diversity in this region.
- Walking Safaris: Embark on guided dawn game walks, immersing yourself in the local flora, fauna, and wildlife stories. For a true African camping experience, consider a night in the wilderness.
- Selous Game Reserve Adventure: Explore Africa’s largest Game Reserve, Selous, by boat, on foot, or in open-sided vehicles. Witness hippos, crocodiles, elephants, lions, leopards, and more while enjoying the natural beauty of the reserve.
Airport transfers, Four Points by Sheraton Arusha Hotel 1 night (Bed & Breakfast), 02 nights at a private camps in Tarangire Full Board with bottled water, tea / coffee, transport by private 4×4 safari vehicle with expert guide, separate support vehicle, back up crew, waiter and safari chef, fridges, private campsites in conservation areas or within the parks and all park / camping fees), 01 night at Bougainvillea Safari Lodge in Karatu, Serengeti Private Camp 3 nights (Full Board with bottled water, tea / coffee, transport by 4×4 safari vehicle with expert guide and all park / camping fees). Transfers to airstrip. Flight Serengeti to Kilimanjaro.
LENGTH
9 NIGHTS / 10 DAYS
BEST MONTHS TO VISIT
ALL YEAR
FROM
US$ 9,831
Romantic Campfires & Pristine Beach Safari
An unforgettable safari adventure visiting two of Africa’s most stunning game-filled wildlife areas – Tanzania’s Ruaha National Park and Selous Game Reserve. Staying at the luxury Jongomero and Siwandu camps, this experience offers guests the opportunity to take unique safari bush walks and boat excursions as well as top quality game drives. The safari ends at the small and exclusive Fanjove Island.
Ruaha National Park is the largest National Park in Africa. Jongomero camp is situated far to the South of the park in a remote location from where you can roam the riverine areas and hills. Birding is quite spectacular, with the park boasting some 500 different species of birds, including the Ruaha Red-billed hornbill which is unique to the park. Ruaha is an ecological convergence for Northern and Southern species of mammal and is also one of the few areas where Greater and Lesser Kudu can be seen.
Selous is Africa’s largest Game Reserve – the size of Switzerland – and one of the last great wilderness areas on the continent. You will spend three unforgettable nights here as well as taking full advantage of viewing the abundant wildlife, either by boat, vehicle or on foot.
Fanjove Island is located south of Dar es Salaam and is part of the Songo Songo Archipelago, Southern Tanzania. Included activities are snorkelling off the beach, kayaking, stand up paddleboarding (SUP) and island walks.
- Unique Ruaha National Park: Explore Ruaha National Park, the largest in Africa, known for its unique ecology and diverse wildlife. Experience the feeling of remoteness and adventure in this pristine wilderness.
- Exclusive Game Drives: Enjoy exclusive game drives in open-sided vehicles, tracking wildlife along the Great Ruaha River. Witness elephants and possibly African Wild Dogs while sipping sundowners against stunning sunset backdrops.
- Birding Paradise: Ruaha boasts over 500 bird species, including unique Ruaha Red-billed hornbills. Birdwatchers will be captivated by the avian diversity in this region.
- Walking Safaris: Embark on guided dawn game walks, immersing yourself in the local flora, fauna, and wildlife stories. For a true African camping experience, consider a night in the wilderness.
- Selous Game Reserve Adventure: Explore Africa’s largest Game Reserve, Selous, by boat, on foot, or in open-sided vehicles. Witness hippos, crocodiles, elephants, lions, leopards, and more while enjoying the natural beauty of the reserve.
Airport transfers, Four Points by Sheraton Arusha Hotel 1 night (Bed & Breakfast), 02 nights at a private camps in Tarangire Full Board with bottled water, tea / coffee, transport by private 4×4 safari vehicle with expert guide, separate support vehicle, back up crew, waiter and safari chef, fridges, private campsites in conservation areas or within the parks and all park / camping fees), 01 night at Bougainvillea Safari Lodge in Karatu, Serengeti Private Camp 3 nights (Full Board with bottled water, tea / coffee, transport by 4×4 safari vehicle with expert guide and all park / camping fees). Transfers to airstrip. Flight Serengeti to Kilimanjaro.
LENGTH
9 NIGHTS / 10 DAYS
BEST MONTHS TO VISIT
ALL YEAR
FROM
US$9,858
Itinerary in Detail
DAY BY DAY
Tour Experiences
Day 1
Welcome to Dar es Salaam! From the International terminal, you will take a transfer to the Domestic terminal. Your flight leaves Dar 08h30 and the flying time is about 3hrs but there might be some stops in between, you will only get off at Jongomero airstrip. On arrival you will be met by one of the guides and driven the short distance to Jongomero, in time for a traditional safari communal lunch.
Ruaha has gained a reputation amongst safari connoisseurs for its unique ecological and geographical character, offering a cross-section of species and a climate that is unique to the country. It is the largest National Park in Africa, and the feeling of remoteness and the spirit of adventure are immense. After afternoon tea, set out on a game drive in our open-sided vehicle, following the course of the Great Ruaha River in search of wildlife. Perhaps find elephants digging for water in the dry river bed, or catch a rare sighting of the African Wild Dog. As the sun sets, stop to admire the scenery and sip on a sundowner, before heading back to camp for hot showers and convivial drinks before dinner, discussing the day’s events and swapping safari stories.
Day 2-3
Wake up to early morning tea or coffee in your luxury tent and look forward to another wonderful day exploring Ruaha National Park.
Jongomero is situated far to the South of the park and it feels like we have all of Africa to ourselves as we roam the riverine areas and hills. Birding is quite spectacular, with the park boasting some 500 different species of birds, including the Ruaha Red-billed hornbill which is unique to the park. Ruaha is an ecological convergence for Northern and Southern species of mammal and is also one of the few areas where Greater and Lesser Kudu can be seen. Game drives in Ruaha are unique and cater for the safari connoisseur, and with the bush luxury of Jongomero as our base, we can enjoy a most exclusive and rewarding safari experience. Dawn game walks are an absolute must; experience the warmth of the African sun warming your back as you navigate the dry river beds and listen to your expert guide tell you fascinating and often bizarre stories of the local flora, fauna, insects, birds and animals.
Booked in advance, we offer Walking Safaris in Ruaha, the authentic African experience. Arrive at the exclusive wilderness camp either by road or by foot and settle in with a hot bucket showers, before meeting around the camp fire for a sundowner and dinner. After sampling our bush cuisine, sleep under the stars of a small dome star gazer tent with a basin and hand towel outside. The next morning make your way back to camp having experienced a true African camping safari in the mighty Ruaha for one night.
Day 4
Depart Jongomero after breakfast for your flight to Selous Game Reserve. The schedule flight departs Jongomero at 11h45 and lands in Selous at 13h05 – there might be a few stops in between – you will only get off at Siwandu airstrip. Here you will be met by our driver guide and taken back on a short safari to Siwandu, in time for lunch.
Selous is Africa’s largest Game Reserve, the size of Switzerland and one of the last great wilderness areas on the continent. You will spend three unforgettable nights here as well as taking full advantage of viewing the abundant wildlife, either by boat, vehicle or on foot.
After lunch and a rested, there will be the opportunity to choose your first activity and begin to explore the Reserve, returning in time for sunset and dinner.
Day 5-6
An early morning tea or coffee will be served in your luxury tent before breakfast and heading out, with a choice of the following activities:
By boat, either by following the course of the mighty Rufiji River or exploring Lake Nzerakera;Â weave amongst the pods of hippo and crocodile lining the bank and observe game coming down to drink.
Or
Start the day earlier on a game walk, heading out on Selous’ most privileged of experiences. Accompanied by our experienced guide and an armed ranger, walk out into Africa’s largest wilderness, learn about the complex eco-system that it embraces, encounter the thrills and be enthralled at the wonder of being at the heart of nature.
Or
Explore the game in the surrounding areas, from your seat on an open-sided vehicle, a comfortable and privileged journey through the wild African bush. You can expect to see any of the major African mammals, including elephant, giraffes, lions, leopard and even the rare African Wild Dog.
Return to camp for a splendid lunch, then a difficult decision between a siesta or a dip in the swimming pool whilst waiting for the heat of the day to subside. Mid afternoon meet for a cup of tea or cooling lemonade and scrumptious cakes under the Jackel Berry tree, and then move onto your second safari of the day – slowly meandering along the Rufiji River or perhaps tracking a leopard and her cub through the woodland.
Again, as in Ruaha, there is an opportunity for a Walking Safari; if you are interested please book in advance.
Day 7
Early morning tea or coffee in bed overlooking Lake Nzerakera is a fine start to your last day here, and before travelling take an early boat or game drive, or lie in and meet for a leisurely breakfast. After bidding farewell to camp managers and staff, take a slow drive to the airstrip to have your last viewings of the great Maasai giraffe and perhaps their new born babies along the way.
Depart at 09h00 for a short game drive to the airstrip for the flight to Dar es Salaam. Flight leaves Siwandu at 12h50 and lands Dar at 14h00. Â Connect onto a flight from Dar to Songo Songo airstrip (departs 15h30 to arrive 16h35 approx). Met and transferred to the lodge to dinner and overnight.
Day 8-9
Days at leisure whilst enjoying snorkeling off the beach, kayaking, stand up paddleboarding (SUP) and island walks.
Day 10
On your final day, pack and enjoy your last few hours of tropical sunshine before flying back to Dar es Salaam to meet your international flight back home.
Tour Experiences
Day 1
Welcome to Dar es Salaam! From the International terminal, you will take a transfer to the Domestic terminal. Your flight leaves Dar 08h30 and the flying time is about 3hrs but there might be some stops in between, you will only get off at Jongomero airstrip. On arrival you will be met by one of the guides and driven the short distance to Jongomero, in time for a traditional safari communal lunch.
Ruaha has gained a reputation amongst safari connoisseurs for its unique ecological and geographical character, offering a cross-section of species and a climate that is unique to the country. It is the largest National Park in Africa, and the feeling of remoteness and the spirit of adventure are immense. After afternoon tea, set out on a game drive in our open-sided vehicle, following the course of the Great Ruaha River in search of wildlife. Perhaps find elephants digging for water in the dry river bed, or catch a rare sighting of the African Wild Dog. As the sun sets, stop to admire the scenery and sip on a sundowner, before heading back to camp for hot showers and convivial drinks before dinner, discussing the day’s events and swapping safari stories.
Day 2-3
Wake up to early morning tea or coffee in your luxury tent and look forward to another wonderful day exploring Ruaha National Park.
Jongomero is situated far to the South of the park and it feels like we have all of Africa to ourselves as we roam the riverine areas and hills. Birding is quite spectacular, with the park boasting some 500 different species of birds, including the Ruaha Red-billed hornbill which is unique to the park. Ruaha is an ecological convergence for Northern and Southern species of mammal and is also one of the few areas where Greater and Lesser Kudu can be seen. Game drives in Ruaha are unique and cater for the safari connoisseur, and with the bush luxury of Jongomero as our base, we can enjoy a most exclusive and rewarding safari experience. Dawn game walks are an absolute must; experience the warmth of the African sun warming your back as you navigate the dry river beds and listen to your expert guide tell you fascinating and often bizarre stories of the local flora, fauna, insects, birds and animals.
Booked in advance, we offer Walking Safaris in Ruaha, the authentic African experience. Arrive at the exclusive wilderness camp either by road or by foot and settle in with a hot bucket showers, before meeting around the camp fire for a sundowner and dinner. After sampling our bush cuisine, sleep under the stars of a small dome star gazer tent with a basin and hand towel outside. The next morning make your way back to camp having experienced a true African camping safari in the mighty Ruaha for one night.
Day 4
Depart Jongomero after breakfast for your flight to Selous Game Reserve. The schedule flight departs Jongomero at 11h45 and lands in Selous at 13h05 – there might be a few stops in between – you will only get off at Siwandu airstrip. Here you will be met by our driver guide and taken back on a short safari to Siwandu, in time for lunch.
Selous is Africa’s largest Game Reserve, the size of Switzerland and one of the last great wilderness areas on the continent. You will spend three unforgettable nights here as well as taking full advantage of viewing the abundant wildlife, either by boat, vehicle or on foot.
After lunch and a rested, there will be the opportunity to choose your first activity and begin to explore the Reserve, returning in time for sunset and dinner.
Day 5-6
An early morning tea or coffee will be served in your luxury tent before breakfast and heading out, with a choice of the following activities:
By boat, either by following the course of the mighty Rufiji River or exploring Lake Nzerakera;Â weave amongst the pods of hippo and crocodile lining the bank and observe game coming down to drink.
Or
Start the day earlier on a game walk, heading out on Selous’ most privileged of experiences. Accompanied by our experienced guide and an armed ranger, walk out into Africa’s largest wilderness, learn about the complex eco-system that it embraces, encounter the thrills and be enthralled at the wonder of being at the heart of nature.
Or
Explore the game in the surrounding areas, from your seat on an open-sided vehicle, a comfortable and privileged journey through the wild African bush. You can expect to see any of the major African mammals, including elephant, giraffes, lions, leopard and even the rare African Wild Dog.
Return to camp for a splendid lunch, then a difficult decision between a siesta or a dip in the swimming pool whilst waiting for the heat of the day to subside. Mid afternoon meet for a cup of tea or cooling lemonade and scrumptious cakes under the Jackel Berry tree, and then move onto your second safari of the day – slowly meandering along the Rufiji River or perhaps tracking a leopard and her cub through the woodland.
Again, as in Ruaha, there is an opportunity for a Walking Safari; if you are interested please book in advance.
Day 7
Early morning tea or coffee in bed overlooking Lake Nzerakera is a fine start to your last day here, and before travelling take an early boat or game drive, or lie in and meet for a leisurely breakfast. After bidding farewell to camp managers and staff, take a slow drive to the airstrip to have your last viewings of the great Maasai giraffe and perhaps their new born babies along the way.
Depart at 09h00 for a short game drive to the airstrip for the flight to Dar es Salaam. Flight leaves Siwandu at 12h50 and lands Dar at 14h00. Â Connect onto a flight from Dar to Songo Songo airstrip (departs 15h30 to arrive 16h35 approx). Met and transferred to the lodge to dinner and overnight.
Day 8-9
Days at leisure whilst enjoying snorkeling off the beach, kayaking, stand up paddleboarding (SUP) and island walks.
Day 10
On your final day, pack and enjoy your last few hours of tropical sunshine before flying back to Dar es Salaam to meet your international flight back home.
What Our Clients Say About Us
In our commitment to excellence, we not only strive to exceed our clients’ expectations but also value their feedback. We are proud to present our clients’ feedback.
Talk to a Specialist
Choose a Safari Specialist in your time zone and start planning your tailor-made safari to Tanzania.
Rick McIntyre
Hello, I'm Rick, based in Ontario, Canada, with over 15 years in the travel industry and a passport filled with stamps from over 70 countries. My heart was captured by Africa during my first visit to Kenya, and since then, I've journeyed back repeatedly, exploring the diverse landscapes and wildlife of Kenya, Tanzania, Rwanda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa. Whether you're dreaming of a "once in a lifetime" vacation or you're a seasoned safari traveler, I'm here to assist in planning your perfect African adventure.
You can contact me at rick@gamewatchers.com or give me a call at +1-877-710-3014.
Rachel Chambers
Rachel Chambers
Rachel resides on the vibrant West Coast of Canada, specifically on Vancouver Island. She has a profound love for travel, having explored nearly 30 countries. However, it was a solo journey to Africa that truly ignited her passion. Upon stepping foot in Botswana for the first time, Rachel was captivated and knew she needed to explore more of the continent. Since then, she has ventured solo to Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mauritius, South Africa, Uganda, and Kenya, where she traveled with Gamewatchers Safaris and Porini Camps.
It was during these experiences that Rachel realized her desire to be a part of the Gamewatchers team.Â
You can contact Rae at rae@gamewatchers.com or WattsApp +1-250-588-9112
Julie Roggow
Julie Roggow
Greetings, I'm Julie Roggow, and I come to you with over two decades of immersion in the world of travel. My journey into the heart of safari adventures began as I traversed Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Rwanda, Botswana, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, capturing the essence of these mesmerizing landscapes through my lens. Among these remarkable destinations, Kenya and the Porini safari camps hold a special place in my heart. Their unique blend of wilderness and conservation resonates deeply with me.
My passion for travel is matched only by my dedication to sharing that passion with others. I'm here to ensure that planning your safari vacation is an enjoyable and seamless experience.
Feel free to reach out to me by email at julie@gamewatchers.com or through our toll-free telephone line at +1-877-710-3014.Â
Sally Wanjau
Hello, I am Sally Wanjau, and I have been travelling to Kenya on safari since the 1980’s which led to me living and working there for several years. Married to a Kenyan, it is a place that I now call home. I currently live in the UK with my husband. For a number of years, I ran my own safari business as an agent working closely with Gamewatchers Safaris creating unique and tailor-made holidays for my clients, and in 2017 I joined Gamewatchers Safaris full-time as one of their dedicated team of Safari Advisers.
Having travelled extensively throughout East, South and Southern Africa, I remain passionate about Kenya, my love of which is fed by my many fantastic wildlife experiences at the Porini Camps.
You can contact me at sallywanjau@gamewatchers.com or call me at +44 7546 433 250
Wayne Hammond
Wayne Hammond
Hello, I'm Wayne Hammond, and I'm fortunate to have embarked on over 30 incredible journeys to the enchanting continent of Africa. It's a place that has captured my heart time and time again. My travels have taken me to Kenya, which I've had the pleasure of visiting far more times than I can recall, as well as to Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Botswana, Rwanda, Uganda, South Africa, and Mozambique. Among my cherished bush haunts, I hold dear the Masai Mara in Kenya, the mesmerizing Mana Pools in Zimbabwe, and the wondrous South Luangwa National Park in Zambia. I'm not just a passionate traveler but also an avid amateur wildlife photographer and an occasional travel writer. Â
If you're ready to embark on your own African adventure, don't hesitate to reach out to me at wayne@gamewatchers.com or give me a call at +44 7986 978 985.Â
Andrea Landaeta
Hola, I’m Andrea and my love affair with the captivating world of safaris began during my teenage years when I embarked on my very first safari in Kenya. There, amidst the awe-inspiring wildlife and expansive plains, I found my true passion. Over the years, Kenya has called me back time and time again, leading me to explore its myriad camps, conservancies, and renowned parks. More recently, I've had the privilege of staying at all the Porini Camps, where the spotlight shines on wildlife conservation—a cause close to my heart as I traverse the globe. While Kenya holds a special place in my wanderlust-filled heart, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda have also woven their magic into my soul. If you're eager to embark on your own safari adventure or share your passion for conservation, please feel free to contact me at andrea@gamewatchers.comÂ
Let's connect and embark on a journey through Africa's wild wonders together.
Pranay Chandra
Hello, I’m Pranay Chandra, a veteran of the Indian Armed Forces whose profound passion for nature and wildlife led me to the world of wildlife photography. My lens has captured the essence of the wild, earning recognition in esteemed competitions like the Sanctuary Asia annual wildlife awards and the Natural History Museum’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year awards. Beyond photography, I’ve dedicated myself to conservation efforts, collaborating with Ecological Task Forces and supporting WWF India’s training initiatives in tiger reserves. In the realm of education, I’ve partnered with CEC, New Delhi, to create informative video programs on Human-Wildlife Conflicts. I’ve ventured to Kenya, embracing the splendours of Africa while staying at Porini camps and other renowned lodges.
You can connect with me via email at pranay@gamewatchers.com or by phone at +91 801 788 5256
Talk to a Specialist
Choose a Safari Specialist in your time zone and start planning your tailor-made safari to Kenya.
Hola, I’m Andrea and my love affair with the captivating world of safaris began during my teenage years when I embarked on my very first safari in Kenya. There, amidst the awe-inspiring wildlife and expansive plains, I found my true passion. Over the years, Kenya has called me back time and time again, leading me to explore its myriad camps, conservancies, and renowned parks. More recently, I’ve had the privilege of staying at all the Porini Camps, where the spotlight shines on wildlife conservation—a cause close to my heart as I traverse the globe. While Kenya holds a special place in my wanderlust-filled heart, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda have also woven their magic into my soul. If you’re eager to embark on your own safari adventure or share your passion for conservation, please feel free to contact me at andrea@gamewatchers.com
Let’s connect and embark on a journey through Africa’s wild wonders together.
Andrea Landaeta
Hello, I’m Pranay Chandra, a veteran of the Indian Armed Forces whose profound passion for nature and wildlife led me to the world of wildlife photography. My lens has captured the essence of the wild, earning recognition in esteemed competitions like the Sanctuary Asia annual wildlife awards and the Natural History Museum’s Wildlife Photographer of the Year awards. Beyond photography, I’ve dedicated myself to conservation efforts, collaborating with Ecological Task Forces and supporting WWF India’s training initiatives in tiger reserves. In the realm of education, I’ve partnered with CEC, New Delhi, to create informative video programs on Human-Wildlife Conflicts. I’ve ventured to Kenya, embracing the splendors of Africa while staying at Porini camps and other renowned lodges. I’m based in Bangalore, India, and you can connect with me via email at pranay@gamewatchers.com or reach me by phone at +91 801 788 5256, including WhatsApp. Let’s embark on a journey to celebrate the beauty and conservation of our natural world together.
Pranay Chandra
Hello, I’m Kristy, your Australian-based Safari Advisor with Gamewatchers Safaris and Porini Camps. My background in ecology and conservation management, combined with a deep passion for nature and the great outdoors, led me to Kenya where I instantly fell in love with its spectacular wildlife and warm-hearted people. Having spent significant time at our Porini Camps and explored other camps we offer, I bring intricate knowledge to help craft your ultimate wildlife safari adventure. Whether you’re seeking the thrill of the savannah or the serenity of the wilderness, I’m here to make your safari dreams a reality.
Feel free to reach out to me on the Gold Coast, Australia, at kristy@gamewatchers.com or call +61 419 175 672
Kristy Thomson