6 Days Safari to Udzungwa Mountain NP, Ruaha NP and Mikumi NP

Travelers looking to explore Tanzania’s diverse wilderness can’t go wrong with a 6-day safari that covers three iconic parks: Udzungwa Mountains, Ruaha, and Mikumi. This tour offers a balanced mix of pristine mountain forests, epic game drives, and walking safaris that put you face-to-face with Africa’s wildlife and landscapes.

What we love about this experience? First, the variety of landscapes—from lush mountain forests to expansive savannahs and rocky kopjes. Second, the expert guides who are praised for their knowledge and friendliness. Third, the well-structured itinerary that packs in highlights without feeling rushed.

One thing to consider: the full days of game drives and walking safaris mean you’ll need a moderate level of physical fitness. This trip is best suited for travelers eager for an active adventure, wildlife enthusiasts, and those interested in getting a real feel for Tanzania’s wild heart.

Key Points

• Diverse ecosystems from mountains to savannahs provide a well-rounded safari experience.
• Expert guides enhance your understanding and appreciation of wildlife and landscapes.
• Full-day game drives and walking safaris offer immersive encounters with nature.
• Value for money at around $1,656 per person, considering park fees, accommodations, and activities.
• Carefully curated itinerary balances adventure, wildlife viewing, and cultural insights.
• Small group/private tour ensures personalized attention and flexibility.

An In-Depth Look at the 6-Day Tanzanian Safari

How the Tour Starts: Udzungwa Mountains

The journey kicks off early, with pickup from Dar es Salaam at 6:00 am. Traveling to Udzungwa Mountains National Park, known for its astonishing biodiversity and highest altitudinal range of forest in Tanzania, is quite the scenic drive. We loved the way the tour incorporates a hot lunch en route, giving you time to relax before arriving at the peaceful Udzungwa Twiga hotel where the adventure begins.

In the late afternoon, there’s an optional village walk in Mwaya. This adds a cultural flavor, giving travelers a glimpse of local life amid lush scenery. The park itself is praised for being one of Tanzania’s most pristine wilderness areas, and the excellent choice of accommodations makes for a comfortable start.

Exploring Udzungwa’s Natural Marvels: Day 2

The next morning, after an early breakfast, you’ll head out to explore the park on foot. The highlight here is the Sanje waterfall, a towering 170 meters, where you can even take a dip in the plunge pools—a refreshingly wild experience. The park is home to six monkey species, including the endemic Sanje crested mangabey and Iringa red colobus monkeys.

A notable review describes this day as “an experience filled with stunning natural beauty” and highlights the “friendly, knowledgeable guides” who make all the difference. Expect a 3-4 hour trek, with plenty of opportunities for wildlife sightings and photos. A picnic lunch in the bush ensures you stay energized amid the lush surrounds.

Transition to Ruaha: The Largest Tanzania National Park

After two days of mountain forest, the adventure continues with a drive to Ruaha National Park, Tanzania’s largest park, covering over 20,000 square kilometers. The drive takes about two and a half hours from Iringa, giving you time to settle into your accommodation at New Tourist Cottage before heading out for a full-day game drive.

The game viewing in Ruaha is highly praised for its abundance of elephants, buffaloes, and predators. The park’s unique ecosystem, centered around the Ruaha River, attracts hippos and crocodiles, creating excellent opportunities to see large wildlife congregations. Reviewers consistently mention the knowledgeable guides who help spot elusive animals and share fascinating insights.

Wildlife Encounters in Ruaha

Day 4 is dedicated to another full day of game drives. The rocky kopjes, ancient baobab trees, and open plains make for stunning scenery. The day is long but rewarding, with the chance to observe predators stalking prey or elephants gathering at water sources. Many reviewers rave about the friendly guides and the panoramic views that make every moment special.

Walking Safari and Moving to Mikumi

On Day 5, you’ll have a wilderness walking safari, guided by an armed ranger. Walking safaris offer a rare, close-up perspective of the bush—many say it’s more intimate than vehicle safaris. One reviewer remarked, “You get an especially tactile feel for Africa’s wild side during the walking safari.”

After breakfast, you’ll drive to Mikumi National Park, arriving late evening. The park is known for its easy wildlife sightings—almost guaranteed to see elephants, lions, zebras, and wildebeest. Staying at Mikumi Tourist Cottage or Bastian Camp provides a comfortable base after a day of adventure.

Final Game Drive and Return: Mikumi to Dar es Salaam

The last day involves an early morning game drive in Mikumi, followed by lunch and the drive back to Dar es Salaam. This final stretch is a good chance to reflect on the trip’s highlights and the diverse wildlife you’ve encountered. The tour ends with a drop-off at your hotel or the airport, making it a smooth conclusion.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Expert Guides and Authentic Encounters

Multiple reviews highlight the guides’ deep knowledge of the parks and wildlife, making each game drive both educational and exciting. Guests often mention that guides, like Yunus, are friendly, helpful, and eager to share insights, which enhances the overall experience.

Value for Money

At $1,656 per person, this tour provides all park fees, accommodations, and activities—including walking safaris and mountain treks. Reviewers note the price-to-value ratio is excellent, especially given the quality of wildlife sightings and the diversity of parks visited.

Well-Structured Itinerary

The schedule balances adventure and relaxation, with enough time in each park to see the highlights. The inclusion of a village walk and cultural insights in Udzungwa adds a meaningful touch beyond just wildlife.

Diverse Landscapes and Wildlife

You’ll experience Tanzania’s mountain forests, savannahs, rocky kopjes, and river ecosystems, making this a perfect choice for travelers wanting a rundown of the country’s natural beauty.

Physical Activity and Unique Experiences

Walking safaris and mountain treks are highlights, giving a more personal connection with nature. Many reviewers remark on how these activities make the safari feel more authentic and memorable.

Practical Travel Details

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses private transport, ensuring comfort and flexibility. The reviews mention small group sizes or private options, which mean more personalized attention and a relaxed pace.

Timing and Duration

With six days (plus travel time), the itinerary is efficiently packed but not overly rushed. The early start on Day 1 and long days of game viewing mean you’ll experience the parks at optimal times for wildlife activity.

Accommodation and Meals

Accommodations are positioned conveniently near each park, providing comfort after full days. Meals are included, with options for vegetarians if requested—reviewers appreciated the thoughtfully prepared food.

Fitness Level

While the tour involves walking safaris and treks, reviewers say a moderate fitness level is sufficient. The activities are designed for those who are comfortable with physical activity but not overly strenuous.

The Sum Up

This safari offers a compelling blend of wildlife viewing, mountain adventures, and cultural insights, all wrapped into a well-organized 6-day package. The combination of parks ensures you get a balanced picture of Tanzania’s habitats and animals, making it ideal for first-time visitors or seasoned safari-goers alike.

The knowledgeable guides and authentic experiences make every moment meaningful. Whether you’re gazing at a herd of elephants in Ruaha or swimming beneath a waterfall in Udzungwa, this journey is packed with memorable encounters.

Priced reasonably for what it offers, this tour is a fantastic choice for those wanting a comprehensive Tanzanian safari without sacrificing comfort or depth.

If you’re looking for a diverse, well-paced, and guided safari that showcases some of Tanzania’s best parks, this tour delivers in spades.

FAQ

What parks are included in this safari?
The tour covers three parks: Udzungwa Mountains National Park, Ruaha National Park, and Mikumi National Park.

How long are the game drives?
Each full day involves around 12 hours of game viewing, giving ample opportunity to spot wildlife.

Are walking safaris safe?
Yes, they are guided by armed rangers, and the tours are designed for those with moderate physical fitness.

What kind of wildlife can I expect?
You’ll likely see elephants, buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, lions, and several species of antelopes and monkeys.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Children must be accompanied by an adult and are subject to a child rate. The physical activities suggest a moderate fitness requirement.

What’s included in the price?
Accommodation, park fees, bottled water, guides, meals, and activities like walking safaris and trekking are covered.

Can I customize the tour?
It’s a private tour, so adjustments may be possible; discuss with your guide or tour operator beforehand.

What should I pack?
Light, comfortable clothing, sturdy shoes, sun protection, insect repellent, and a camera are recommended.

In all, this safari manages to strike a balance between adventure, comfort, and authentic wildlife encounters—making it a compelling choice for your Tanzanian adventure.