Pemba Island Diving & Ruaha Safari – 12 Days - Budget Safari

Budget Safari | Southern Tanzania | Solo & Group Travel | Coral Reefs & Big Game

Introduction

This is a journey for those who crave both serenity and adrenaline. The Pemba Island Diving & Ruaha Safari is a 12-day budget-friendly adventure that takes you from the remote coral gardens of Pemba Island to the rugged wilderness of Ruaha National Park, Tanzania’s largest and most untouched safari destination.

Curated by Nile Abenteuer Safaris, this itinerary is ideal for solo explorers and small groups who value authenticity, affordability, and immersive travel. Whether you're diving among vibrant reefs or tracking lions across the savannah, every moment is designed to connect you deeply with nature and culture.

Destination Overview

Your journey begins on Pemba Island, a quiet, less-touristed gem off the coast of Zanzibar, known for its pristine coral reefs, rich Swahili heritage, and laid-back charm. After five days of marine exploration, you’ll fly inland to Ruaha National Park, where baobab forests, rocky escarpments, and vast plains host elephants, lions, leopards, and rare antelope species.

This itinerary offers a rare duality: underwater tranquility and terrestrial thrill, all wrapped in budget-conscious comfort.

Key Safari Highlights

• 🧜‍♂️ Scuba diving and snorkeling in Pemba’s coral reefs

• 🐋 Encounter reef sharks, turtles, and tropical fish

• 🐘 Game drives in Ruaha National Park

• 🚶 Walking safari with armed ranger

• 🛖 Cultural visit to Swahili villages and local markets

• 🌄 Sunset views over the Ruaha River

Destinations & Major Attractions

Accessibility Modes

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

• ✈️ Domestic Flights: Dar → Pemba, Pemba → Ruaha, Ruaha → Dar (included)

• 🚐 Local Transfers: Private vehicle and boat transfers on Pemba

Amenities

• Budget beachfront guesthouses on Pemba Island

• Midrange eco-lodges in Ruaha with en-suite bathrooms

• Locally prepared meals with fresh seafood and organic produce

• Snorkeling and diving gear provided

• Cultural hosts and English-speaking guides

• Wi-Fi available in select accommodations

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: Flight to Pemba Island

• Main Activities:

  • Scenic flight to Pemba Island

  • Beach check-in and relaxation

• Optional:

  • Sunset cocktail

  • Spa treatment

Day 3: Diving & Reef Walk

• Main Activities:

  • Guided scuba diving excursion

  • Reef walk with marine guide

• Optional:

  • Kayaking

  • Beach picnic

Day 4: Snorkeling & Village Visit

• Main Activities:

  • Snorkeling tour in Chake Chake Bay

  • Visit to Swahili village and handicraft market

• Optional:

  • Cooking class

  • Cultural dance performance

Day 5: Boat Trip & Conservation

• Main Activities:

  • Boat trip to Misali Island

  • Marine conservation talk with local NGO

• Optional:

  • Fishing demonstration

  • Photography session

Day 6: Flight to Ruaha National Park

• Main Activities:

  • Flight to Ruaha and lodge check-in

  • Evening relaxation and orientation

• Optional:

  • Campfire storytelling

  • Birdwatching

Day 7: Game Drive & Sundowner

• Main Activities:

  • Morning game drive to spot elephants and lions

  • Sunset drinks overlooking the Ruaha River

• Optional:

  • Visit to baobab forest

  • Night game drive (extra cost)

Day 8: Walking Safari & Bush Picnic

• Main Activities:

  • Guided walking safari with armed ranger

  • Bush picnic in scenic location

• Optional:

  • Visit to ranger station

  • Wildlife tracking workshop

Day 9: Full-Day Safari

• Main Activities:

  • Full-day game drive with packed lunch

  • Wildlife photography and interpretation

• Optional:

  • Leopard tracking

  • Riverbank relaxation

Day 10: Cultural Visit & River Walk

• Main Activities:

  • Visit to nearby village for cultural exchange

  • Guided walk along the Ruaha River

• Optional:

  • Traditional music session

  • Visit to local school

Day 11: Return to Dar es Salaam

• Main Activities:

  • Flight to Dar es Salaam

  • Farewell dinner and reflections

• Optional:

  • Visit to craft market

  • Group photo session

Day 12: Departure

• Main Activities:

  • Airport transfer and assistance

  • Final goodbye from your hosts

• Optional:

  • Late checkout (subject to availability)

  • Coffee tasting experience

✅ Inclusions

• 11 nights budget/midrange accommodation

• All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)

• Park fees and guided activities

• Domestic flights and transfers

• Snorkeling and diving excursions

• Cultural visits and conservation talks

• 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 Ruaha safari and dry conditions

• November to March: Best for diving and marine visibility

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

Packing Tips

• Lightweight, breathable 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

Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, Nile Abenteuer Safaris will tailor every detail to your vision - balancing affordability, realism, and cultural depth.

• 📞 Call Us: +256 393 000382

• 📧 Email: info@nileabenteuer.com

• 💬 WhatsApp: +256 752 397520