Experience the untamed beauty of southern Tanzania on this 5-day safari adventure. Explore the diverse wildlife of Mikumi National Park, often called “Little Serengeti,” and the vast wilderness of Ruaha National Park, known for its large elephant herds and predators. From tree-climbing lions to rare antelope species, this safari promises thrilling game drives, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable memories. Perfect for travelers seeking a serene escape into nature’s heart.
5-Day Mikumi & Ruaha National Park Safari
Explore two of Tanzania’s most iconic southern parks, Mikumi and Ruaha, on this immersive 5-day safari. These hidden gems offer abundant wildlife, stunning landscapes, and a serene experience away from northern Tanzania’s crowds.
Day 1: Dar es Salaam to Mikumi National Park
- Distance: Approximately 300 km
- Travel Time: 5–6 hours by road
- Morning: Depart early from Dar es Salaam for the scenic drive to Mikumi National Park. En route, you’ll pass through small villages and picturesque landscapes.
- Afternoon: Arrive at your lodge or camp, check in, and enjoy lunch. Embark on an afternoon game drive to spot elephants, giraffes, zebras, and Mikumi’s renowned tree-climbing lions.
- Evening: Return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 2: Full-Day Safari in Mikumi National Park
Distance Covered During Game Drives: Varies (approx. 50–80 km within the park)
- Morning: Set out on an early morning game drive across the Mkata Floodplain, often called “Little Serengeti,” home to large herds of buffalo, wildebeest, and elephants.
- Afternoon: Return to your lodge for lunch and a short rest. Continue with an afternoon game drive, where you may spot hippos, antelopes, and colorful bird species.
- Evening: Relax under the stars at your lodge after dinner.
Day 3: Mikumi to Ruaha National Park
Distance: Approximately 320 km
Travel Time: 4–5 hours by road
- Morning: Depart Mikumi after breakfast for the drive to Ruaha National Park. The journey offers scenic views of southern Tanzania’s diverse landscapes, including hills, plains, and baobab-studded savannahs.
- Afternoon: Check in at your lodge or camp, enjoy lunch, and embark on your first game drive in Ruaha, famous for its large elephant herds and vast wilderness.
- Evening: Return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 4: Full-Day Safari in Ruaha National Park
Distance Covered During Game Drives: Varies (approx. 70–100 km within the park)
- Morning: Start with an early morning game drive, where you might see lions, cheetahs, and rare antelope species such as the greater kudu and roan antelope.
- Afternoon: Enjoy lunch and relax at the lodge before heading out for another game drive. Visit the
- Great Ruaha River, a hotspot for wildlife gatherings like crocodiles, hippos, and elephants.
- Evening: Return to your lodge for dinner and relax. Optional: Night game drive for a chance to spot nocturnal animals (subject to lodge availability).
Day 5: Final Game Drive and Return to Dar es Salaam
Distance: Approximately 540 km (Ruaha to Dar es Salaam)
Travel Time: 9–10 hours by road or 1.5 hours by flight
- Morning: After breakfast, head out for a final game drive to soak in Ruaha’s beauty and wildlife.
- Late Morning: Check out of your lodge, enjoy brunch, and begin the return journey to Dar es Salaam by road. Alternatively, opt for a domestic flight for a quicker transfer.
Included:
-Transportation:
-Private 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for game viewing.
-Transfers between parks and to/from Dar es Salaam.
-Professional Guides:
-Experienced English-speaking safari driver-guide.
-Park Fees:
-All entrance fees for Mikumi and Ruaha National Parks.
-Conservation fees.
-Accommodation:
-4 nights’ stay in lodges or camps (based on your preference).
-Meals:
-Full-board meal plan (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) during the safari.
-Bottled drinking water throughout the trip.
-Game Drives:
-Morning, afternoon, and full-day game drives as per the itinerary.
-Optional night game drive in Ruaha (subject to lodge availability).
-Taxes:
-Government taxes and VAT.
Not Included:
-International and Domestic Flights:
-Flights to and from Tanzania.
-Optional domestic flight from Ruaha to Dar es Salaam.
-Travel Insurance:
-Comprehensive travel and medical insurance.
-Optional Activities:
-Night game drive in Ruaha (if not included in your lodge package).
-Personal Expenses:
-Alcoholic and soft drinks.
-Laundry services.
-Souvenirs or personal purchases.
-Tips:
-Gratuities for your safari guide and lodge staff.
-Visa Fees:
-Entry visa to Tanzania.
-Items of a Personal Nature:
-Anything not explicitly mentioned as included.
This itinerary balances extensive game drives with opportunities to relax, providing a well-rounded adventure through Tanzania’s beautiful southern circuit.
“Embark on a journey through Tanzania’s southern wilderness! Book your 5-Day Mikumi & Ruaha Safari today and create memories that will last a lifetime!”
