24 Days 23 Nights
Tanzania, United Republic of
24 DAYS SELF -DRIVE SAFARI

24 DAYS SELF -DRIVE SAFARI: SOUTHERN & WESTERN TANZANIA
Embark on the ultimate self-drive safari adventure through Tanzania’s spectacular southern and western circuits, finishing in the world-renowned Serengeti. This 24 days self drive safari in southern and northern Tanzania is designed for experienced and adventurous travelers who want to explore Tanzania beyond the traditional northern route. You’ll drive yourself through vast wilderness areas, encounter remote national parks, camp under the stars or relax in carefully selected lodges, and end your journey among the iconic plains of the Serengeti.
This route is ideal for travelers seeking solitude, rich biodiversity, and a deep connection with Tanzania’s wild landscapes. Backed by over 20 years of tourism expertise, we ensure your journey is well-supported, safe, and unforgettable.
Nyerere National Park
Africa’s largest national park, featuring vast savannahs, rivers, and diverse wildlife. Home to elephants, lions, and hippos, with opportunities for boat safaris on the Rufiji River.
Mikumi National Park
Known for its open grasslands and abundant wildlife, including zebras, giraffes, and lions. Often referred to as a “mini-Serengeti” due to its rich biodiversity.
Udzungwa Mountains National Park
A biodiversity hotspot with tropical rainforests, waterfalls, and endemic species. Ideal for hiking and observing unique primates like the Sanje mangabey.
Ruaha National Park
Tanzania’s largest national park, offering rugged landscapes and a high concentration of predators. Features baobab-studded plains and the Great Ruaha River.
Kitulo National Park
Dubbed the “Serengeti of Flowers,” this park boasts vibrant alpine meadows and diverse flora. A haven for botanists and nature enthusiasts.
Katavi National Park
One of Tanzania’s most remote parks, offering unspoiled wilderness and large herds of buffalo. A prime destination for experiencing solitude and abundant wildlife.
Serengeti National Park
Renowned for the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras traverse the plains. Offers classic safari experiences with abundant predators and diverse ecosystems.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this massive volcanic caldera hosts a dense population of wildlife. Known for its stunning landscapes and opportunities to see the Big Five.
Tarangire National Park
Characterized by its iconic baobab trees and large elephant herds. Offers excellent birdwatching and a quieter safari experience compared to neighboring parks.
Rates vary based on group size, season, and accommodation choice. Please contact us for a detailed quote tailored to your preferences.
With over two decades of expertise in crafting immersive journeys across East Africa, we ensure every detail is thoughtfully planned — from a seamless vehicle handover to curated accommodations that reflect the authentic character of each destination.
Enquire this 24 days self drive safari in Southern and Western Tanzania to start your journey to these great places.
Overview
Overview
Nyerere National Park, Mikumi National Park, Udzungwa Mountains National Park, Ruaha National Park, Kitulo National Park, Katavi National Park, Gombe Stream National Park, Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire National Park.
Itinerary
Itinerary Expand All
Day 1 Arrival in Dar es Salaam
Dar es Salaam
Arrive at Julius Nyerere International Airport. Enjoy a relaxing evening and take time to rest after your flight. This is your opportunity to prepare before collecting your 4x4 vehicle and heading into the wild.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Serena Hotel
Day 2 Dar es Salaam - Nyerere National Park
Nyerere National Park
Pick up your fully-equipped 4x4 vehicle and head to Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous), the largest protected area in Tanzania.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Africa Safari Lodge
Day 3 Nyerere National Park
Nyerere National Park
Spend a full day exploring Nyerere’s vast miombo woodlands and river channels. You may spot elephants, lions, wild dogs, and hippos. A boat safari on the Rufiji River is a great optional experience to see crocodiles, birds, and animals coming to drink.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge : Lema Eco Camp campsite or lodge
Day 4 Nyerere - Mikumi National Park
Mikumi National Park
Leave Nyerere behind and head northwest toward Mikumi, passing through the scenic Uluguru Mountains. Arrive in the afternoon and enjoy a short game drive in Mikumi’s open plains, where giraffes and elephants are commonly seen.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Vuma Hills Lodge
Day 5 Mikumi National Park
Check out to Ngorongoro Crater
Spend the entire day on a self-drive safari through Mikumi, often called a “mini-Serengeti” for its wide savannahs and good wildlife viewing. Look for herds of impala, buffalo, and zebra, as well as predators like lions and hyenas.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Vuma Hills Lodge
Day 6 Mikumi to Udzungwa Mountains National Park
Udzungwa Mountains National Park
Drive a short distance to Udzungwa Mountains, a unique park known for its rainforest, waterfalls, and rare primates. Go for a hike through dense tropical vegetation to Sanje Falls, where you can swim in natural pools and enjoy panoramic views.
Camping public campsite
Lodge Udzungwa Falls Lodge
Day 7 Udzungwa to Ruaha National Park
Ruaha National Park
Set off on a long and scenic drive through the Great Rift Valley to Ruaha National Park. This road takes you deep into Tanzania’s central highlands.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Ruaha Hilltop Lodge
Day 8 Safari in Ruaha National Park
Ruaha National Park
Explore one of Tanzania’s most beautiful and least-visited parks. Ruaha is known for its dramatic baobab trees, red-earth landscapes, and incredible diversity of wildlife, including elephants, lions, kudus, and rare African wild dogs.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Ruaha Hilltop Lodge
Day 9 Extra Day in Ruaha National Park
Ruaha National Park
A second day in Ruaha gives you the chance to explore more remote areas of the park and spend time watching animal behavior. Enjoy peaceful surroundings and fewer vehicles than in more famous northern parks.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Ruaha Hilltop Lodge
Day 10 Ruaha to Kitulo National Park
Ruaha to Kitulo National Park
Today you begin your journey toward the Southern Highlands. Arrive in the Kitulo Plateau, known as the “Serengeti of Flowers” for its seasonal wildflower blooms. This peaceful and cool area is perfect for hiking and birdwatching.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Utengule Coffee Lodge
Day 11 Rest Day in Mbeya
Mbeya
Take a break from driving and have day to reset before continuing north.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Utengule Coffee Lodge
Day 12 Kitulo to Lake Tanganyika
Lake Tanganyika
Drive along the western rift to reach the shores of Lake Tanganyika. This deep, clear lake is surrounded by forest and mountains. Your lodge is right on the water, perfect for a sunset swim or relaxing with a cold drink.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Lake Shore Lodge
Day 13 Lake Tanganyika
Lake Tanganyika
Spend the day as you wish—kayaking, snorkeling, or visiting local fishing villages. The lake is safe for swimming and offers a beautiful setting to enjoy Tanzania’s natural beauty off the safari trail.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Lake Shore Lodge
Day 14 Lake Tanganyika to Katavi National Park
Katavi National Park
Leave the lakeshore and enter Katavi, one of Africa’s wildest and most remote national parks. This is real wilderness, with wide floodplains, dense animal populations, and very few visitors.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Mbambali Katavi Lodge
Day 15 Safari in Katavi National Park
Katavi National Park
Spend the day exploring the untouched plains of Katavi. Huge herds of buffalo, elephants, crocodiles, and lions roam freely here. It’s common to see wildlife around water sources, especially during the dry season.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Mbambali Katavi Lodge
Day 16 Katavi to Kigoma
Katavi National Park
Drive north along the lake toward Kigoma, a port town on Lake Tanganyika. The route is scenic and peaceful, with rural villages along the way. Overnight at a lodge overlooking the lake.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Kigoma Hilltop Lodge
Day 17 Gombe Stream National Park
Gombe Stram National Park
Take a boat ride across the lake to visit Gombe, famous for Jane Goodall’s chimpanzee research. If you choose to visit, hike in the forest to see wild chimpanzees and enjoy the lake views from the mountains.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Kigoma Hilltop Lodge
Day 18 Kigoma to Mwanza
Mwanza
Today is a long but rewarding drive along Lake Victoria’s southern shores. Pass through small fishing villages and rolling hills before reaching Mwanza, Tanzania’s second-largest city.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Rock City Bay Lodge
Day 19 Mwanza to Serengeti National Park
Safari National Serengeti
Enter the Serengeti from the west via Ndabaka Gate. Enjoy a slow safari drive through the corridor toward your central camp or lodge. Wildlife viewing begins as soon as you enter.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Mawe Tented Camp
Day 20 Full Day in Serengeti National Park
Serengeti National Park
Spend the full day exploring the Serengeti’s endless plains. Depending on the time of year, you may witness the Great Migration or see large prides of lions, cheetahs, and elephants.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Mawe Tented Camp
Day 21 Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Start the morning with a final game drive in the Serengeti. Then head southeast to the Ngorongoro Highlands, stopping at viewpoints before reaching your lodge near the crater rim.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Angata Camp
Day 22 Ngorongoro Crater Safari & Drive to Tarangire
Ngorongoro Crater
Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater for a spectacular morning safari. Later, drive to Tarangire National Park, where you’ll spend your final safari nights.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Baobab Tented Camp
Day 23 – Safari in Tarangire National Park
Tarangire National Park
Enjoy a relaxed day in Tarangire, home to Tanzania’s largest elephant population and dramatic baobab trees. Look out for lions, leopards, and colorful birdlife.
Camping Public campsite
Lodge Baobab Tented Camp
Day 24 – Tarangire to Arusha
Arusha
Begin your return drive to Arusha.
End of safari.
Cost Info
Cost Info
Price includes
- 4x4 Land Cruiser with rooftop tent or lodge option
- Basic third-party insurance
- Tracks4Africa GPS navigation system
- Camping gear
- Park entry fees and conservation fees
- Accommodation
- Airport transfers
- Route planning assistance and backup support
Price excludes
- International flights
- Fuel (vehicle supplied with full tank and returned full)
- Food and drinks
- Personal travel insurance
- Optional activities
- Tips and gratuities
FAQ
FAQ Expand All
When is the best time to do this self-drive trip?
The dry season (June–October) is ideal for wildlife viewing and road conditions. The green season (November–May) offers lush scenery and fewer crowds, but roads can be slippery in some regions.
Do I need to be an expert driver?
No. As long as you are confident driving a 4x4 and comfortable with long-distance road travel, you’ll manage well. Our team provides a full briefing, GPS with Tracks4Africa, and round-the-clock support.
Can I customize this itinerary?
Yes. This trip is fully customizable — adjust nights, upgrade accommodation, or add parks based on your preferences.
Is it safe to travel through the southern and western parks?
Yes. These areas are remote but safe and welcoming. You’ll pass through quiet towns and communities, and we provide safety guidelines, emergency contacts, and daily travel tips.
What type of vehicle is provided?
A fully equipped 4x4 Toyota Land Cruiser with comprehensive insurance, GPS, fridge, and optional camping gear. Vehicles are serviced before every trip for reliability.
Is this trip suitable for first-time visitors to Tanzania?
Absolutely. It’s a well-rounded route that gives you a deep, authentic Tanzanian experience. While some areas are remote, we’ll guide you through every step to make it smooth and memorable.
What are the road conditions like?
You’ll encounter both tarmac and gravel roads. Most are in good condition, though sections near Katavi and Ruaha can be rough — your 4x4 is built for this terrain.
Where can I stock up on food, fuel, and essentials?
Key resupply points include Dar es Salaam, Morogoro, Iringa, Mbeya, Kigoma, Mwanza, and Arusha. We provide a full guide on where to shop, refuel, and get local SIM cards.
Are park fees and permits included in the price?
Yes, all national park fees, conservation area permits, and entry costs are included in the total package.
Is chimp trekking at Gombe Stream National Park included?
Yes, the permit and boat transfer for chimp trekking in Gombe are fully included. We’ll arrange the logistics in advance for a smooth experience.
What accommodation options are available?
Choose between camping with self-catering or lodge stays on a full board basis. We can mix and match to suit your comfort and budget.
Can I mix camping and lodge accommodation?
Yes, you can choose a mix of camping and lodge stays depending on your preferences and budget. We tailor the accommodation plan to suit your comfort level.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation is mandatory. Vehicle insurance is included with a $1,000 deductible.
What kind of support do I get on the road?
We provide 24/7 remote assistance, a local mobile phone, and check-in points along your route. You're never alone — help is just a call away.
How do I book, and what are the payment terms?
A 30% deposit secures your booking. The balance is due before your trip begins. Detailed terms and conditions will be shared in your booking confirmation.







