A self-emulsifying drug delivery system (SEDDS) containing tacrolimus has been developed to enhance the bioavailability and lymphatic delivery of tacrolimus. Solubility tests, combination tests, and phase diagrams were constructed for different sorts and ratios of oils, surfactants, and cosurfactants to identify optimal formulation. Optimized SEDDS was assessed for droplet size, zeta potential, stability in various media, and in vitro release. The tacrolimus-loaded SEDDS and commercial capsule (Prograf®) were orally administered (5 mg/kg) to rats. Whole blood, and mesenteric and axillary lymph node samples were taken and the concentrations of tacrolimus were measured to evaluate pharmacokinetic characteristics and the lymphatic delivery effects. The optimized SEDDS droplets were approximately 40 nm in size and stable enough to endure gastric pH environments. The release rate of tacrolimus from SEDDS was significantly higher than that from the commercial capsule. The bioavailability of tacrolimus in SEDDS after oral administration was significantly improved versus that of Prograf®. The lymphatic targeting efficiency of the prepared SEDDS formulation showed significantly greater than that of Prograf®. Our research indicates that prepared SEDDS can be an alternative to the conventional oral formulation of tacrolimus. Furthermore, SEDDS should be explored as a potential drug carrier for other lipophilic drugs.