8 Days Safari to Mikumi NP, Ruaha NP and Nyerere NP + Isimila Stone Age Site

8 Days Safari to Mikumi NP, Ruaha NP, Nyerere NP + Isimila Stone Age Site

Planning a safari that combines Tanzania’s most impressive parks with a touch of history? This 8-day adventure offers just that—covering vast landscapes, incredible wildlife, and fascinating archaeological sites. It’s a well-crafted journey perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, history lovers, and those craving an authentic African experience.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the chance to explore Africa’s largest game reserve, Selous, alongside the largest national park in Tanzania, Ruaha. Second, the inclusion of the Isimila Stone Age Site, offering a glimpse into early human history. Lastly, the tour’s focus on experienced guides and authentic game drives.

A potential consideration? The long travel days, especially during the journey to Selous, which might be tiring for some. But if you’re okay with a bit of road time, the rewards are well worth it.

This safari best suits travelers who want a comprehensive experience combining wildlife viewing with cultural and archaeological insights, and those who appreciate guided interactions with knowledgeable local experts.

Key Points

• Vast landscapes and wildlife on both game reserves and national parks
• Expert guides with local knowledge enhance the experience
• Diverse activities, including game drives, boat safaris, and walking tours
• Long travel days are part of the adventure, but the scenery compensates
• Authentic encounters with Africa’s flora and fauna
• Historical exploration at Isimila adds a different dimension to your trip

An In-Depth Look at the 8-Day Safari Experience

The Balance of Wildlife and Cultural Exploration

This tour offers a well-rounded look at southern Tanzania’s natural beauty and history. Over eight days, you’ll visit top parks, see a variety of animals—lions, cheetahs, wild dogs, hippos—and explore ancient stone tools at Isimila. It’s a combination designed to satisfy wildlife lovers while adding an educational twist.

Transportation and Comfort

Traveling between parks involves comfortable private 4×4 vehicles with open roofs for optimal game viewing. According to reviews, guides are knowledgeable, often sharing in-depth insights about the animals, ecosystems, and history. Expect early mornings and late evenings during game drives, which maximize your chances of spotting elusive wildlife.

Day 1: Mikumi National Park

Your adventure begins with a 5-hour drive from Dar es Salaam, including a stop in Morogoro for a hot lunch. Mikumi is a popular first stop, thanks to its proximity and variety of animals. The afternoon game drive offers a chance to see elephants, buffalo, and graceful antelopes, with sunset views at Hippo Pool—an iconic Tanzania scene.

Reviewers appreciate the scenic drives and the flexibility of the afternoon game drive, often noting guides like “John” or “Peter” as well-informed and passionate. The park’s accessible roads mean good chances of animal sightings even in a short time.

Day 2: Mikumi and Iringa

The morning continues with more game viewing, giving you a chance to observe Mikumi’s wildlife in different lighting conditions. After lunch, you’ll head towards Iringa for the night, an ideal spot to experience local Tanzanian hospitality and prepare for the next day’s journey.

Day 3 & 4: Ruaha National Park

The highlight of this trip is Ruaha, Tanzania’s largest national park. The drive from Iringa takes about two and a half hours, and from there, you’re immersed in a landscape of kopjes, ancient baobab trees, and a thriving population of predators.

Expect full-day game drives, exploring the park’s diverse habitats. The park’s size means it’s often less crowded, making animal sightings more peaceful and personal. The network of roads, combined with the guides’ expertise, allows you to track lions, leopards, cheetahs, and wild dogs—some of the park’s most notable residents.

One reviewer mentioned how their guide, James, was exceptionally skilled at spotting elusive leopards resting in the trees. The abundance of predators, especially during the dry season, makes Ruaha ideal for spotting big cats and wild dogs in action.

Day 5: Isimila Stone Age Site

Switching gears, you visit the Isimila Stone Age Site, about two hours from Iringa. The site features fascinating fossils and tools that tell stories of early humans. The guide at the little museum offers a concise overview before leading you through a scenic canyon, teeming with birdlife and striking earth formations.

According to a review, the walk is scenic, with “a warm reddish earth tone” that makes for great photos. This stop adds a meaningful cultural dimension to your safari, giving insight into Africa’s deep history.

Day 6 & 7: Selous Game Reserve

The journey to Selous is extensive—about 18 hours of travel—but it takes you through some of Tanzania’s most untouched scenery. Expect rivers, small villages, and lush farmland along the way.

Once in Selous, you’ll partake in afternoon game drives and a morning walking safari—a rare chance to see wildlife on foot. One review highlighted the “knowledgeable guides” who made all the difference during these walks, helping guests identify footprints and animal signs.

The boat safari along the Great Rufiji River is a real highlight. Expect close encounters with hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species, all while enjoying the peaceful river ambiance at sunset.

Day 8: Final Morning and Return

Your last morning involves a walking safari with an armed ranger, offering an intimate connection to nature. Afterward, a final breakfast, packed lunch, and the drive back to Dar es Salaam conclude your adventure.

Practical Tips and Insights

Lengthy drives between some locations are unavoidable, especially traveling to Selous. While this might be tiring, it’s also part of the adventure—passing through rural landscapes and seeing local villages adds authenticity to your trip.

The private transportation and guided game drives ensure personalized attention, with many reviewers praising their guides’ local knowledge and friendliness. Expect early mornings and late nights, but with ample opportunities to see wildlife and scenery in the best light.

Accommodation varies, but most stays are comfortable, with some reviews mentioning the quality of lodges and the welcoming atmosphere. The inclusion of meals—breakfast, lunch, and dinner—means you can focus on the experience rather than logistics.

Authenticity and Value

For $2,500.62 per person, this tour offers a comprehensive package. It includes all fees, taxes, park entrance tickets, and meals, which means little extra expense during the trip. The value is high when you consider the diversity of parks, activities, and the expert guidance. Plus, the inclusion of the historic Isimila site broadens the experience beyond just wildlife.

What’s Not Included?

Travelers should budget for personal expenses, tips, and any additional activities outside the itinerary. The tour is designed to be all-inclusive, making it straightforward for those wanting a hassle-free adventure.

Who Should Consider This Safari?

This tour is ideal for adventure travelers eager to see a wide range of African wildlife, history enthusiasts interested in early human artifacts, and those comfortable with some long hours on the road. It’s perfect for travelers who want a balanced mix of nature, history, and culture with guides who genuinely know their stuff.

If you’re after premium comfort or a more relaxed pace, you might want to consider other options. But if you’re keen for a full, authentic Tanzanian experience that covers major parks and historical sites, this safari is a strong choice.

The Sum Up

This 8-day Tanzanian safari delivers a well-rounded experience combining stunning wildlife viewing, cultural history, and scenic drives. The inclusion of Africa’s largest game reserve and national park, along with the fascinating Isimila Stone Age Site, makes it stand out.

The tour’s value lies in its comprehensive coverage, knowledgeable guides, and authentic encounters, making it ideal for travelers wanting to see the best of southern Tanzania without sacrificing depth or quality. While the long travel days require patience, they also provide an immersive journey through some of the most beautiful and untouched parts of Tanzania.

This safari is a fantastic choice for those who want a combination of adventure, education, and genuine wildlife encounters in an expertly curated package.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this safari?
Yes, private transportation in 4×4 vehicles with open roofs is included, ensuring comfortable and optimal game viewing during drives.

Are all park fees and taxes covered?
Absolutely. All fees and taxes are included in the price, making the trip straightforward without hidden costs.

What kind of accommodations can I expect?
Accommodation details aren’t specified in the overview, but most stays are arranged as part of the package, with a focus on comfort and convenience.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are provided for all seven days, allowing you to focus on the adventure without worrying about food logistics.

How long are the game drives?
Game drives vary from half-day to full-day, typically starting early in the morning and continuing into late afternoon or sunset.

Is this tour suitable for families?
The tour is private and usually flexible, but travelers should consider the long travel days and early mornings when planning for children or older travelers.

What is the guide’s role during the trip?
Guides are highly praised for their knowledge and ability to spot wildlife, as well as their friendly and informative approach.

Can I customize this tour?
Since it’s a private tour, you may have some flexibility to tailor certain parts, but confirm with the provider beforehand.

This safari provides a well-balanced blend of Tanzania’s natural beauty and rich history, all wrapped in a thoughtfully designed itinerary. It’s a trip that promises memorable wildlife encounters, stunning landscapes, and a peek into early human life—an adventure not to be missed for those eager to experience the true essence of Tanzania.