This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. Learn more

Skip to main content

Talk to an expert 1-800-242-2434 Lines open now

User menu
FROM US$4,110-US$5,060

Dwarf Mongoose Fly-in Safari

Stay in two eco-friendly, rustic bush camps in Nyerere National Park and Ruaha National Park. Remote wilderness, a diversity of habitats and a good range of activities are available in these two wildlife havens.

Dwarf Mongoose Fly-in Safari: Summary

Dwarf Mongoose safari in a nutshell

This fly-in safari includes eco-friendly camps, remote locations and a variety of activities within two of southern Tanzania’s diverse wildlife havens.

Beginning in the heart of Nyerere National Park, Lake Manze Adventure Camp occupies a prime location overlooking its namesake. From here, you can enjoy a range of activities from 4WD game drives and solar-powered boat trips along the Rufiji River to fishing and immersive bush walks. You are seldom likely to pass other visitors, enabling you to venture into the dense bush by foot or vehicle in relative isolation.

Mdonya River Camp is also centrally located in its area, in the heart of Ruaha National Park. With hot and arid landscape that contrasts with Nyerere National Park's often lush scenery, Ruaha offers an impressive variation in flora and fauna to that encountered in Nyerere National Park. As the camp is slightly further from the park’s best game-viewing areas, full-day safaris are available with the added bonus of a spotter as well as driver to optimise thrilling sightings.

These two sister camps aim consciously to be as sustainable as possible, and offer a consistency in comfort, quality and rustic style throughout. At both camps, the guest tents have no electricity and are lit by storm lanterns (charging batteries etc is done in the central area of camp). This creates a magical atmosphere for a truly authentic experience. An itinerary like this one is the perfect trip for if you're hoping to experience true wilderness in varied landscapes, with the potential for excellent game viewing.

At a glance

Starts: Dar es Salaam International Airport
3 nights Lake Manze Camp - Nyerere National Park, Tanzania Full Board & Activities
3 nights Mdonya Old River Camp - Ruaha National Park, Tanzania Full Board & Activities
Ends: Dar es Salaam International Airport

Lake Manze Adventure Camp

Days 1-4

Lake Manze Adventure Camp opened in 2007 on a prime location overlooking Lake Manze. One of the more northerly of a series of lakes and rivers, this lies within a rich alluvial floodplain of the Rufiji River. The camp itself, lies at the heart of Tanzania's Nyerere National Park (formerly the Selous Game Reserve), in a grove of borassus, doum and wild date palms. Deliberately rustic in style, it provides guests with simple comforts and a strong sense of wilderness.

View full itinerary

Mdonya Old River Camp

Days 4-7

Set in acacia woodland in the heart of Ruaha National Park, Mdonya Old River Camp is kept deliberately simple. It makes no apologies for sticking to safari basics – in fact it rather revels in the idea – and this results in a camp with a clear focus where you always know you're on safari and out in the wilds.

View full itinerary
Lake Manze Adventure Camp

Lake Manze Camp

Nyerere National Park, Tanzania

Mdonya Old River Camp

Mdonya Old River Camp

Ruaha National Park, Tanzania

About image

Highlights

Our thoughts on five of the top experiences of this Dwarf Mongoose Fly-in Safari.

  • Feeling lost in wilderness at truly remote camps
  • Exploring the Rufiji River by solar-powered boat
  • Relaxing by candlelight in the porch of your tent
  • Experiencing a new perspective on a walking safari
  • Hearing elephants browsing as they walk through camp

Activities

Some activities which can be included in the Dwarf Mongoose Fly-in Safari: talk to us about those which interest you.

  • 4WD Safari

  • Birdwatching

  • Boat trip

  • Fishing

  • Guided walking safari

  • Hot air ballooning

About image

Key species to see on the Dwarf Mongoose Fly-in Safari

Based on our travellers' observations, we’ve estimated the likelihood of seeing these species during the Dwarf Mongoose Fly-in Safari. Click on the animals and our wildlife surveys page for more info.


Buffalo

100% chance

Elephant

100% chance

Giraffe

100% chance

Hippo

100% chance

Spotted Hyena

100% chance

Wildebeest

100% chance

Zebra

100% chance

Lion

99% chance

Eland

92% chance

Leopard

78% chance

Wild dog

56% chance

Sable antelope

18% chance

Roan antelope

13% chance

Striped Hyena

12% chance

Cheetah

9% chance

Aardvark

0% chance

Black Rhino

0% chance

Pangolin

0% chance

Side-trips whilst on this safari

We may be able to build in some of these optional excursions from the Dwarf Mongoose Fly-in Safari. Talk to us: they’re usually best arranged when you book.


Balloon Safari over Ruaha

Balloon Safari over Ruaha

Three hours - one hour flight

Varied and scenically stunning, Ruaha National Park features rolling hills, woodlands, open plains and two wide meandering rivers: the Ruaha and the Mwagusi. What better way to view it than from the air, at sunrise? A balloon safari offers just this, the landscape unfolding below your basket as you float almost silently above.

More about Ballooning in Ruaha

Let us help you customise your trip

Like all of our holidays on this site, this is just an idea. All of our trips are tailor-made, so we'll always adapt them to suit you.


Talk to an Expert

Browse this Expert Africa website, then call us. We’ll match you with the Specialist in our team who is best suited to help you.

Set up your itinerary

Based on our experience and your ideas, your specialist will create a detailed, costed itinerary. We’ll refine it together, until we have a trip that you’re perfectly happy with.

Prepare for your trip

The same Specialist will make the seamless arrangements for your trip, send you detailed travel documents, and be available to answer any questions before you depart.

Travel with peace of mind

After you set off, you’ll be cared for by our partners in Africa, most of whom have worked with Expert Africa for decades. And if you ever need us urgently, we’re available 24/7.

When you return

We love to learn about your trip, and so will always be grateful if you’ve the time to give feedback to your Specialist when you return.

Inspire me

Need inspiration?

Let our trip chooser narrow down the options for you

Inspire me

Other ideas for Tanzania safaris

Look at these ideas in Tanzania: then talk to us. Will will design a trip that's perfect for you.


Map

Crowned Hornbill Guided Safari

6 days • 3 locations • 1 country
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT

Explore Tanzania’s renowned northern circuit with a private guide during this 4WD safari. Stay in three well-located yet economical lodges that provide easy access to fantastic wildlife viewing and cultural visits to local communities.

Visiting Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti

US$3,960 - US$5,540 per person

Read more about the Crowned Hornbill Guided Safari

Map

Lovebird Fly-in Safari

5 days • 2 locations • 1 country
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT

Visit two consistently impressive wildlife destinations during this excellent-value safari in northern Tanzania. Enjoy a range of walks and cultural visits from sister camps at the Ngorongoro Crater and in the heart of the Serengeti.

Visiting Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti

US$3,820 - US$5,960 per person

Read more about the Lovebird Fly-in Safari

Map

Hadeda Ibis Guided Safari

7 days • 3 locations • 1 country
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT

This great-value safari, in a private 4WD with your own driver-guide, journeys through the stunning landscapes of northern Tanzania’s Great Rift Valley, focusing on its three top national parks.

Visiting Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater and 1 other area

US$4,470 - US$5,650 per person

Read more about the Hadeda Ibis Guided Safari

Map

Suni Fly-in Safari

4 days • 1 location • 1 country
DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT

Experience a variety of safari activities from the comfort of a traditional tented camp overlooking a stunning stretch of the Rufiji River. Spectacular wildlife, immersive experiences and simple comforts await guests at Impala Camp.

Visiting Nyerere National Park

US$3,240 - US$4,210 per person

Read more about the Suni Fly-in Safari

Map

Bat-eared Fox Fly-in Safari

3 days • 1 location • 1 country
DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT

This is an ideal first-time safari and is the perfect add-on to a holiday in Zanzibar. Nyerere National Park is one of Africa’s biggest wildlife areas and is home to an abundance of animals.

Visiting Nyerere National Park

US$2,430 - US$3,030 per person

Read more about the Bat-eared Fox Fly-in Safari

Map

Topi Fly-in Safari

7 days • 2 locations • 1 country
DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT

Explore Nyerere National Park and Ruaha National Park from two luxurious, colonially styled camps. Chosen for their access to good game viewing and thrilling remoteness, these camps also offer a range of varied safari activities.

Visiting Nyerere National Park, Ruaha

US$6,540 - US$6,870 per person

Read more about the Topi Fly-in Safari

Map

Spotted Hyena Fly-in Safari

7 days • 2 locations • 1 country
DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT

Stay in one of Nyerere National Park's best safari camps before experiencing a truly authentic tented camp in Ruaha. Remote locations, superb guiding and a range of activities await guests during this comfortable fly-in safari.

Visiting Nyerere National Park, Ruaha

US$7,350 - US$9,360 per person

Read more about the Spotted Hyena Fly-in Safari

Map

Firefinch Drive-Fly Safari

9 days • 3 locations • 1 country
KILIMANJARO AIRPORT TO KILIMANJARO AIRPORT

Enjoy a combination of privately guided and shared game drives during this good-value exploration of northern Tanzania. Explore game-dense regions from three comfortable bases which offer a variety of activities.

Visiting Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater and 1 other area

US$7,440 - US$10,740 per person

Read more about the Firefinch Drive-Fly Safari

Map

Jackal Fly-in Safari

8 days • 2 locations • 1 country
DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT

Enjoy a range of activities on this luxury fly-in safari. Explore the remoter regions of Ruaha National Park and Nyerere National Park with phenomenal guides during stays at two impressively comfortable camps that remain perfectly in keeping with their surroundings.

Visiting Nyerere National Park, Ruaha

US$7,740 - US$9,960 per person

Read more about the Jackal Fly-in Safari

Map

Yellow Baboon Fly-In Safari

7 days • 2 locations • 1 country
DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT TO DAR ES SALAAM AIRPORT

Two authentic bushcamps offer access to Ruaha’s remote wildernesses through walking safaris, day and night 4WD drives and fly-camping. Explore in almost utter isolation, with superb guiding to heighten your immersion in nature.

Visiting Ruaha

US$7,950 - US$9,220 per person

Read more about the Yellow Baboon Fly-In Safari

Other safari ideas across Africa

Talk to us: help us to understand what you like and we can create a safari that will really suit you.


Itinerary image

Nile Monitor Safari

6 days • 2 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT

Great-value South Luangwa safari to two sister camps: a classic safari camp for 4WD safaris by day and night and its simpler sibling: a remote, seasonal bushcamp for expert-guided walking safaris.

US$4,110 - US$4,660 per person

Itinerary image

Wattled Crane Safari

5 days • 2 locations
MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT

A good-value Botswana safari staying at comfortable lodges in prime wildlife-viewing areas – Chobe National Park and the Moremi Reserve in the Okavango Delta.

US$4,200 - US$7,050 per person

Itinerary image

Aardwolf Safari

5 days • 2 locations
MAUN AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT

Two sister-camps within private concessions bordering Moremi Game Reserve offer access to excellent game, varied landscapes and a range of land and water-based safari activities. A great-value safari in one of Botswana’s best wildlife regions.

US$4,400 - US$7,660 per person

Itinerary image

Black-backed Jackal Safari

6 days • 2 locations
KASANE AIRPORT TO MAUN AIRPORT

A classic Botswana safari to Chobe National Park and the Okavango Delta. Staying at highly rated tented camps with strong guiding teams, this trip delivers game viewing and is excellent value.

US$4,920 - US$10,640 per person

Itinerary image

Golden Weaver Fly-In Safari

6 days • 2 locations
NAIROBI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT

A rustic, adventurous week on safari with great community involvement that offers incredible value for money in two very different locations – the Amboseli and Maasai Mara ecosystems.

US$3,280 - US$3,440 per person

Itinerary image

Fruit Bat Safari

6 days • 2 locations
LUSAKA AIRPORT TO LUSAKA AIRPORT

Offering a highly specialised experienced, this safari uses two simple bases for access to South Luangwa and Kasanka National Parks. Visit between October and December when you will witness the world’s largest mammalian migration of millions of fruit bats.

US$4,980 - US$5,530 per person

Itinerary image

Steppe Eagle Fly-in Safari

7 days • 2 locations
NAIROBI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT

Two comfortable tented camps overlooking the Ewaso Nyiro and Mara River put you at the heart of the action. Experience spectacular diversity in species and habitat with safari in Samburu and the Masaai Mara National Reserve.

US$5,000 - US$8,240 per person

Itinerary image

Wahlberg's Eagle Fly-in Safari

6 days • 2 locations
NAIROBI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT

A great value safari in Laikipia and the Maasai Mara that provides an immersive, authentic bush camp experience with activities for families of all ages.

US$5,000 - US$5,970 per person

Itinerary image

Side-striped Jackal Safari

6 days • 2 locations
VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT TO VICTORIA FALLS AIRPORT

Get an in-depth experience of Zimbabwe’s colossal Hwange National Park, staying at two experience-focused camps with excellent guiding in contrasting areas. An adventurous safari for the real enthusiast.

US$3,220 - US$4,840 per person

Itinerary image

Purple Grenadier Fly-In Safari

6 days • 2 locations
NAIROBI AIRPORT TO NAIROBI AIRPORT

Fantastic guiding from intimate, well-run mid-range tented camps, in superb conservancy locations: this safari is all about making the most of the incredible wildlife in Laikipia and the Maasai Mara.

US$5,010 - US$6,600 per person

Login to Expert Africa

Sign in with password

Sign in with email link


New to Expert Africa? Create an account

Forgotten your details?

It's free & quick to set up

  • Save your wish-list
  • Send us an enquiry
  • Pay online for your trip
  • Subscribe to our newsletter
  • Give us feedback on your trip
  • Full site benefits of the site

Need some help? Talk to our team

Africa