10 Days - Mafia Island Marine & Selous Wilderness – Midrange Safari

Midrange Safari | Southern Tanzania | Solo & Group Travel | Marine Magic & Wild Savannah

Introduction

This is a journey for those who crave contrast: the pulse of Africa’s largest game reserve and the tranquility of a coral-fringed island. The Mafia Island Marine & Selous Wilderness Safari is a 10-day midrange adventure curated by Nile Abenteuer Safaris to offer both thrill and stillness. From boat safaris on the Rufiji River to snorkeling with whale sharks in the Indian Ocean, this itinerary is a celebration of nature’s diversity and cultural depth.

Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, this safari promises meaningful encounters, seamless logistics, and unforgettable moments.

Destination Overview

Your journey begins in Dar es Salaam, then heads into the heart of Selous Game Reserve (now part of Nyerere National Park)- a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its vast landscapes and rich biodiversity. After your safari, you’ll fly to Mafia Island, a hidden gem off Tanzania’s southern coast, famed for its marine park, coral reefs, and laid-back charm.

This itinerary blends land and sea, wildlife and culture, adventure and relaxation.

Key Safari Highlights

• Game drives in Selous Game Reserve

• 🛶 Boat safari on the Rufiji River

• 🚶 Walking safari with armed ranger

• 🧜 Snorkeling and diving in Mafia Island Marine Park

• 🐋 Whale shark encounter (seasonal)

• 🏝️ Sunset cruise and beach relaxation

• 🛖 Village visits and cultural exchanges

Destinations & Major Attractions

Accessibility Modes

• ✈️ International Arrival: Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR)

• 🚙 Safari Transfers: Private 4x4 safari vehicles

• ✈️ Domestic Flight: Selous to Mafia Island (included)

• 🚐 Mafia Transfers: Private vehicle and boat transfers

Amenities

• Midrange tented camps and lodges in Selous with en-suite bathrooms

• Beachfront eco-lodges in Mafia Island with ocean views

• Locally sourced meals and fresh seafood

• Wi-Fi in select accommodations

• Cultural hosts and English-speaking guides

• Snorkeling and diving gear provided

Day-by-Day Activities

Day 1: Arrival in Dar es Salaam

• Main Activities:

  • Airport pickup and hotel check-in

  • Welcome dinner and safari briefing

• Optional:

  • Visit to local art gallery

  • Evening walk along the waterfront

Day 2: Selous Game Reserve

• Main Activities:

  • Morning game drive through baobab forests

  • Boat safari on the Rufiji River

• Optional:

  • Sundowner by the riverbank

  • Campfire storytelling

Day 3: Full-Day Safari in Selous

• Main Activities:

  • Full-day game drive with picnic lunch

  • Wildlife tracking with expert guide

• Optional:

  • Birdwatching session

  • Photography workshop

Day 4: Walking Safari & Village Visit

• Main Activities:

  • Guided walking safari with armed ranger

  • Visit to Mloka village for cultural exchange

• Optional:

  • Market tour

  • Traditional cooking demo

Day 5: Flight to Mafia Island

• Main Activities:

  • Scenic flight to Mafia Island

  • Beach check-in and relaxation

• Optional:

  • Spa treatment

  • Sunset cocktail

Day 6: Chole Bay Snorkeling

• Main Activities:

  • Snorkeling tour in Chole Bay

  • Coral reef exploration with marine guide

• Optional:

  • Kayaking

  • Beach picnic

Day 7: Whale Shark Safari or Diving

• Main Activities:

  • Whale shark encounter (Oct–Mar) or diving in Marine Park

  • Marine conservation briefing

• Optional:

  • Introductory dive course

  • Poolside relaxation

Day 8: Kilindoni Cultural Tour

• Main Activities:

  • Visit to Kilindoni town and local market

  • Swahili lunch and cultural storytelling

• Optional:

  • Visit to historical sites

  • Handicraft shopping

Day 9: Jibondo Island Excursion

• Main Activities:

  • Boat trip to Jibondo Island

  • Visit to fishing village and boat-building workshop

• Optional:

  • Picnic lunch on the beach

  • Photography session

Day 10: Departure

• Main Activities:

  • Farewell breakfast at the lodge

  • Transfer to Mafia Island Airport

• Optional:

  • Final swim or beach walk

  • Late checkout (subject to availability)

✅ Inclusions

• 9 nights midrange accommodation

• All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)

• Park fees and guided activities

• Domestic flight from Selous to Mafia Island

• Snorkeling and boat excursions

• Airport transfers and in-country transport

• Bottled water during excursions

❌ Exclusions

• International flights

• Travel insurance

• Alcoholic beverages

• Optional diving certification

• Tips and personal expenses

Best Time to Travel

• June to October: Ideal for Selous safari and dry conditions

• October to March: Best for whale shark sightings and marine activities

• Avoid April–May due to heavy rains and limited access

Packing Tips

• Neutral-colored safari clothing

• Swimwear and light beachwear

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Sun hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen

• Light jacket for cool evenings

• Camera and binoculars

• Reusable water bottle

Requirements

• Valid passport (6+ months)

• Tanzanian visa (available online or on arrival)

• Yellow fever vaccination certificate

• Travel insurance recommended

• 📞 Call Us: +256 393 000382

• 📧 Email: info@nileabenteuer.com

• 💬 WhatsApp: +256 752 397520