2 Days safari to Mikumi National Park from Dar es salaam

Review of the 2 Days Safari to Mikumi National Park from Dar es Salaam

Setting out on a two-day safari to Mikumi National Park from Dar es Salaam promises an adventure packed with wildlife sightings, scenic landscapes, and memorable moments. This private tour is designed for those who want a quick, immersive experience with the African wilderness without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

What makes this safari stand out are the inclusive park fees and meals, the personalized attention of a private guide, and the opportunity to see a broad range of animals in their natural habitat. However, with a seven-hour drive on the first day, it’s not for the faint of heart or those seeking a more relaxed pace. This tour suits travelers who value authentic encounters and are eager to explore Tanzania’s wildlife hotspots in a compact, comfortable package.

Key Points

• Private, tailored experience with only your group
• All-inclusive package covering park fees and meals
• Long travel day on the first day with approximately 7 hours’ drive
• Early starts maximize animal sightings, especially on Day 2
• Stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife make it worthwhile
• Flexible cancellation policy ensures peace of mind

Why This 2-Day Safari to Mikumi Is Worth Considering

This tour offers a practical way to experience Tanzania’s wildlife without committing to a longer, more expensive safari. The convenience of door-to-door pickup means you don’t need to worry about transportation logistics—your private driver handles everything from your hotel, port, or airport in Dar es Salaam. The price, around $470 per person, might seem steep at first glance, but when you factor in park entry fees, meals, and the personalized service, it offers good value for a quick escape into nature.

The reviews highlight the authenticity and immersive nature of the safari. One traveler described it as “Very good experience, being with wild animals in a wild environment was like being in a documentary” – and that’s exactly what you’re signing up for. Plus, reviews mention excellent communication from guides, like Isaac, who made guests feel welcome and tuned in to their needs. That personal touch can make all the difference in how meaningful your trip feels.

One potential consideration is the long travel day on the first day, with a 7-hour journey from Dar es Salaam to Mikumi. While this means a later arrival and a sunset game drive, it also maximizes your time in the park and your chances of seeing wildlife at their most active. If you’re comfortable with long drives, this tour offers a rewarding, compact experience packed into just two days.

This safari is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, couples, or small groups seeking a well-organized, authentic Tanzanian adventure. It’s equally suitable for those who want a hassle-free trip with all logistics taken care of, and who appreciate the chance to spot animals in a stunning landscape.

Detailed Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: The Journey & Sunset Safari

The adventure kicks off early at 5:00 am, with your private guide collecting you from your hotel, airport, or port. The drive to Mikumi National Park stretches about 7 hours, giving you a chance to see Tanzania’s countryside, dotted with farms, villages, and open plains. Your guide shares insights into local culture and history, enriching the ride with stories and context.

Reaching Mikumi, you’ll check into your accommodation inside the park (which adds to the authentic feel), then head straight into a sunset safari. This is a prime time for wildlife activity, and you’ll likely encounter buffaloes, lions, elephants, giraffes, crocodiles, zebras, and hippos. One reviewer described the sunset experience as “next to the hippo dam,” capturing the peaceful yet lively ambiance of Mikumi’s evening scene.

Staying overnight inside the park means you’re immersed in wildlife, waking up to the sounds of nature rather than city noise. Expect a hot dinner and a good night’s rest, ready to start early again the next day.

Day 2: Morning Game Drive & Return

The second day begins at 6:30 am, when early mornings are best for spotting animals before the heat of midday. Your game drive lasts up to 5 hours, allowing you to cover significant ground and potentially see more elusive animals. The advantage of starting early is that you’ll be out when wildlife is most active—think lions lounging in the shade or elephants foraging.

Around 12 pm, you’ll leave Mikumi, taking a relaxed route back through Morogoro for a lunch stop. This break offers a chance to enjoy local cuisine and reflect on your morning sightings before the final stretch back to Dar es Salaam, arriving late evening.

The reviews note the enjoyment of this journey, highlighting the opportunity for “slow driving so you can take pictures,” which adds a personal, relaxed touch to the experience. The drive back is also a good time to process your favorite sightings and plan your next adventure.

Transportation & Comfort

Transportation is by private vehicle, ensuring a comfortable and flexible journey. The tour’s timing and private nature mean you can set your own pace, with the driver knowledgeable about the terrain and wildlife behavior. While the drive is long, most travelers find it manageable, especially with the promise of wildlife encounters and scenic views along the way.

Staying inside the park on the first night enhances the experience, immersing you in the sounds and sights of the wilderness, rather than being confined to a hotel outside the park.

Cost & Value Analysis

At $470 per person, this package includes all park fees and meals, making it a straightforward option for travelers who prefer an all-in-one experience. Considering the costs of individual park entries, meals, and transportation separately, this tour represents good value, particularly given the private, tailored service.

The reviews reinforce the value, with guests appreciating guides like Isaac for their friendly and attentive service. The inclusion of meals means you won’t need to worry about finding food in remote parts of the park, which can be a concern on longer trips.

Authentic Wildlife Encounters

One reviewer shared, “Being in wild,” which perfectly captures the core appeal of this safari. Watching animals in their natural environment, especially with the chance to see lions, elephants, and giraffes up close, offers an experience that’s difficult to replicate elsewhere.

The sunset safari specifically enhances the chance of seeing animals in the softer evening light—a time when many species are most active and visible. Many guests find that this time of day offers the most stunning views and the best photo opportunities, especially around the hippo dam.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This private 2-day safari is ideal for those seeking a quick but comprehensive wildlife experience without the pressure of longer trips. It’s perfect for first-time visitors to Tanzania, wildlife lovers, or small groups looking for a personalized adventure.

If you’re comfortable with a long drive on the first day and prefer a more intimate experience with expert guides, this safari will meet your needs. The inclusion of all costs and flexible cancellation policy adds to its appeal, offering peace of mind for travelers on a tighter schedule or budget.

The Sum Up

This 2-day safari to Mikumi National Park offers a well-rounded, authentic experience for wildlife enthusiasts eager to see Tanzania’s diverse animals and landscapes in a short time. The private nature of the tour, combined with comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guides, and all-inclusive pricing, makes it a practical choice for those who want a hassle-free adventure.

You’ll love the chance to spot lions, elephants, giraffes, and hippos in their natural habitat, especially during the early morning and sunset game drives. The overnight stay inside the park heightens the sense of immersion, and the included meals remove the stress of meal planning.

While the long drive on day one requires some patience, the payoff is a memorable, close-up wildlife encounter that many reviews describe as “like being in a documentary.” This tour is best for travelers who prioritize genuine experiences, value personalized service, and want to make the most of their brief time in Tanzania’s wilderness.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this tour is designed for just your group, offering a personalized experience without sharing with strangers.

Are park fees and meals included?
Absolutely. The price covers all park entry fees as well as all meals, making it a seamless, all-in-one package.

What is the duration of the drive from Dar es Salaam?
The drive takes about 7 hours each way, with a stop for lunch in Morogoro on the return journey.

What should I expect during the game drives?
You can anticipate seeing a wide variety of animals such as buffaloes, lions, elephants, giraffes, crocodiles, zebras, and hippos, especially during early morning and sunset drives.

Is accommodation included in the park?
Yes, you’ll stay overnight inside Mikumi National Park, which enhances the wildlife experience and allows for early morning game viewing.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, it offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start, providing flexibility and peace of mind.

Who would enjoy this safari most?
It’s perfect for wildlife lovers, first-time visitors to Tanzania, small groups, or anyone seeking a guided, all-inclusive adventure with authentic encounters.

With its combination of convenience, authenticity, and value, this Mikumi safari provides a fantastic snapshot of Tanzania’s wildlife for a memorable short trip. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned safari-goer, this tour is a practical, enjoyable way to connect with nature.