After your first night in Selous, awake early to a dawn chorus and spectacular views from your room (“banda”). After a quick cup of tea or coffee, head into the reserve as dawn breaks for a full day game drive in a specially modified safari vehicle with a professional guide, in which you should see and learn much about a large number of animals, including all the great favourites – lion, elephant, giraffe, buffalo, zebra – and all the other major species including the now rare African hunting dog.

Great variety of bird species. Wonderful scenery, with varied topography: wetlands, dry grassland, light acacia forest and higher ground with long views to far-off mountains.

Packed lunch and time to rest. Your guide will select a location with shade and water nearby to watch animals coming to drink – a place with a clear view all round so that no predator can creep up unseen! Back to the lodge by 6.30 for sunset and dinner when you’re ready. Overnight at Selous River Camp (breakfast, lunch & dinner)