2 Days 1 nignt to mikumi national park from zanzibar

Contents show

Unearthing Tanzanian Wildlife: A 2-Day Safari from Zanzibar to Mikumi National Park

Planning a quick yet satisfying safari adventure from Zanzibar? This 2 Days 1 Night tour to Mikumi National Park offers a solid taste of Tanzanian wildlife and landscapes. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned safari enthusiast, this trip blends convenience with authentic safari experiences, making it a compelling choice.

We love the ease of travel from Zanzibar with ferry transfers, the chance to see large herds of wildlife, and the knowledgeable guides who bring Mikumi’s wilderness to life. The price of $530 per person seems reasonable given the included ferry tickets, park fees, accommodations, and guided game drives. That said, the six-hour drive from Dar es Salaam might be a long day for some, and travelers should be prepared for a packed schedule. This tour suits those short on time but eager to experience Tanzania’s rich wildlife without breaking the bank.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Convenient ferry transfer connects Zanzibar and Mikumi, saving travel time.
Large herds and diverse wildlife are easier to spot compared to some other parks.
Knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with expert insights.
Flexible accommodations include campsites, bandas, or lodges to suit different budgets.
Fairly priced considering all inclusions—ferry, park fees, meals, and game drives.
Limited time frame means a quick but intensive safari experience.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Dar Es Salaam

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Day 1: From Zanzibar to Mikumi National Park

Your adventure kicks off early in Zanzibar, where a driver will meet you at your hotel. The plan is to align your pickup with your ferry schedule—an important detail to keep in mind if you’re on a tight timeline or have a flight later. Once you’ve boarded the ferry, you’ll enjoy the scenic crossing from Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam, a journey that offers lovely views of the coast and ocean.

After arriving in Dar es Salaam, a six-hour drive awaits, taking you inland toward Mikumi National Park. This part of the trip is long but offers a chance to see some Tanzanian countryside and rural villages. The drive is in a premium vehicle, which makes the journey more comfortable, and the guides are praised for their professionalism and friendliness.

Arriving at Mikumi, you’ll settle into your chosen accommodation—whether that’s a campsite, bandas, or a lodge. Most reviews highlight the cozy, authentic vibe of staying at bandas or lodges, perfect for feeling immersed in the natural surroundings.

In the evening, you’ll embark on a game drive. The park is famous for its large herds, especially elephants, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests. The guides are quite experienced, often sharing interesting facts and spotting wildlife that might escape less attentive eyes. As one traveler put it, “The guides knew exactly where to look, and we managed to see a good variety of animals in a short time.”

Day 2: Mikumi to Zanzibar

Your second day begins with a hearty breakfast, fueling you up for a morning game drive that typically lasts around two hours. This is your chance to catch the animals active in the cooler morning hours and take some memorable photos. Many reviewers appreciated this early-morning window, noting that wildlife tends to be more visible before the sun gets too high.

Following the drive, you’ll leave the park, but not before doing an en-route game drive—an extra opportunity to spot animals in the park’s less trafficked areas. The guides’ expertise really shines here, often pointing out animals in tricky spots and offering insights into their behavior.

Later in the afternoon, you’ll board the ferry back to Zanzibar, arriving around 4:00 pm. While transportation back is straightforward, note that the pickup from the ferry terminal to your hotel isn’t included, so you might want to arrange that in advance or budget for a taxi.

More Great Tours Nearby

What Sets This Tour Apart?

There's plenty more to explore in Dar Es Salaam

Wildlife Viewing: Large Herds and Easy Sightings

One of the main highlights of Mikumi is its abundance of large herds of elephants, giraffes, zebras, and antelope. The park’s open landscape makes wildlife spotting easier than in denser parks, which is a real plus for photographers and casual observers alike. Several reviews mention how the guides excel at finding wildlife and sharing their knowledge, making the experience more meaningful.

Authentic Tanzania Experience

Staying in bandas or lodges offers a more traditional, down-to-earth vibe. It’s not glitzy, but it’s genuine—perfect for travelers seeking an authentic safari experience without the luxury price tag. Many reviewers appreciated the friendly atmosphere and the chance to connect with local staff and fellow travelers.

Scenic and Practical Travel Arrangements

The ferry transfer from Zanzibar is smooth and scenic, providing a comfortable start and finish to the trip. The 6-hour drive from Dar es Salaam, though long, is in a luxury vehicle and accompanied by engaging guides, making it manageable. The entire package is designed for convenience, especially for those short on time but wanting a taste of Tanzanian wildlife.

Guides and Local Expertise

Reviewers frequently praise the guides for their knowledge, friendliness, and ability to spot wildlife quickly. Their insights often turn a simple game drive into an educational and fun experience. This is a major plus for those who want more than just a photo opportunity—they want to learn about the animals and their environment.

Practical Details and Tips

Price and Value

At $530 per person, this tour offers solid value considering all inclusions—ferry tickets, park fees, accommodations, meals, and guided game drives. It’s a convenient way to experience Mikumi without the hassle of planning every detail. However, keep in mind that the long drive from Dar es Salaam means a full day spent in transit, which could feel tiring for some.

Accommodations

Options include campsites, bandas, or lodges. Reviewers highlight that bandas and lodges tend to be cozy and authentic, creating a genuine safari atmosphere. Campsites might be more budget-friendly but require more planning and outdoor readiness.

Meals and Refreshments

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included, with soft drinks available during game drives. Many travelers appreciate the generous portions and quality of meals, which help refuel for the next day’s adventures.

Timing and Group Size

The tour runs during daylight hours, with game drives scheduled in the morning and late afternoon—prime wildlife viewing times. The group size tends to be manageable, allowing for more personalized attention from guides.

Cancellation and Flexibility

If your plans change, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The “reserve & pay later” option offers flexibility, ideal for uncertain travel schedules.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

This 2-day safari from Zanzibar to Mikumi is perfect if you want a quick yet enriching glimpse of Tanzanian wildlife, especially if you’re short on time but eager for a genuine safari experience. The comfort of the ferry transfer, combined with the chance to see large herds of animals in open terrain, makes it attractive for first-timers and seasoned safari lovers alike.

Travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides, authentic accommodations, and straightforward arrangements will find this trip delivers on those fronts. It’s particularly suited for those who prioritize wildlife viewing over luxury, and who are comfortable with a full day of travel and a packed schedule.

While the long drive might be a consideration, many reviews highlight that the overall experience is rewarding and authentic. If your goal is to see big herds, learn about Tanzanian wildlife, and enjoy a hassle-free trip, this safari provides a solid option.

FAQ

Is ferry transfer included in the tour price?
Yes, ferry tickets go and return are included, making travel between Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam straightforward.

What accommodations are available?
Options include campsites, bandas, or lodges, allowing travelers to choose based on their budget and preference for comfort.

How long is the drive from Dar es Salaam to Mikumi?
The drive takes about 6 hours, providing a scenic but lengthy journey to the park.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are included in the tour package.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Mikumi is known for large herds of elephants, giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests, with opportunities for excellent wildlife photography.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While the tour is generally manageable for most travelers, families with young children should consider the long drive and schedule when planning.

This safari offers a taste of wilderness, convenience, and cultural authenticity all packed into just two days. If you’re after a memorable Tanzanian adventure that’s both practical and immersive, this Mikumi tour from Zanzibar might just be the perfect fit.