2 Day safari to Mikumi departure from Zanzibar

Exploring Mikumi on a 2-Day Safari from Zanzibar: An Honest Review

Traveling from Zanzibar to Mikumi National Park for a quick safari is an appealing way to combine beach relaxation with a taste of Tanzania’s incredible wildlife. This particular tour, offered by Experience Zanzibar Tours & Safaris, promises a private, guided adventure with all meals included, making it quite an attractive package for those short on time but eager to see Africa’s big game.

What we love about this experience? First, the professional guides who seem genuinely knowledgeable and eager to share their passion for wildlife. Second, the value for money—considering the transportation, park entry, and meals, it’s a comprehensive package. Third, the customized private experience that allows your group to enjoy the safari without the chaos of big tours.

However, a key consideration is the long travel time—roughly six hours each way by road—which might be tiring for some travelers, especially with limited time or for those who prefer flying. This tour is best suited for travelers who want a genuine safari experience without breaking the bank, and who are comfortable with a bit of a journey to see Tanzania’s wildlife.

Key Points

• Authentic Safari Experience: Guided by knowledgeable locals with a personal touch.
• All-Inclusive Package: Meals, park entry, transportation—all covered.
• Private Group: No crowded vehicles, just your party.
• Travel Logistics: Combines flight or ferry from Zanzibar with road transfer; consider the travel time.
• Wildlife Encounters: Expect elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and more, with some reviews highlighting the potential for exciting sightings.
• Mixed Reviews: While many praise the guides and scenery, some travelers experienced logistical issues or no-shows.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Day 1: From Zanzibar to Mikumi

Your adventure kicks off early, with pickup from your hotel in Zanzibar. The tour includes a transfer to the airport or ferry terminal, depending on your preference or flight schedule. The journey to Mikumi involves either a flight to Dar es Salaam or a ferry, followed by a roughly 6-hour drive in a 4×4. This part of the trip is quite a commitment, but it’s also part of the adventure—expect scenic views of Tanzanian countryside and perhaps some wildlife grazing near the road.

Once you arrive in Morogoro for a late lunch, the real safari begins. The drive into Mikumi Park offers a good chance to start spotting wildlife, including elephants, lions, cheetahs, leopards, zebras, and buffalos. One reviewer mentioned that with a bit of luck, the sighting of big cats like lions and even cheetahs is very possible. The park’s diverse landscape and abundant animals make it a favorite for those wanting a true wilderness experience.

The evening is spent at a lodge, with dinner included. The reviews reveal that guides like Godfrey and Nestor make the game drives engaging, sharing insights that help you recognize various species and understand their behaviors.

Day 2: Mikumi Game Drive and Return

Early mornings at Mikumi are a highlight, with a 6am breakfast fueling you for the day ahead. The second day involves more game drives, focusing on spotting giraffes, impalas, warthogs, and more elusive animals like wildebeests and elands. The park’s birdlife is also notable—many reviewers have mentioned seeing remarkable numbers of bird species, which adds another layer of interest.

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll head back on a game drive en route to Dar es Salaam for your afternoon or evening transfer back to Zanzibar, either by flight or ferry. The return trip is about 6 hours, giving you some time to reflect on the sights and sounds of the park.

Transportation and Logistics: What You Should Know

The tour offers round-trip transportation from Zanzibar—either via flight or ferry—making it flexible for travelers with different preferences or schedules. The flight option is quicker, saving around 6 hours of road travel, but it’s essential to confirm flight availability since the tour relies on these scheduled flights or ferries.

Once on the ground in Tanzania, you’ll transfer to Mikumi by 4×4 vehicle, which is well-suited for game viewing, especially since this is a private tour. The small group size ensures a more personalized experience, which some reviewers describe as “treated like royalty.”

Timing-wise, the early morning start and late return mean you’ll be in the vehicle for much of the day, but this allows for maximum wildlife sightings, especially during the cooler hours of dawn and dusk.

Wildlife and Sightings: What’s Possible?

While no safari can guarantee specific animals, the reviews suggest that Mikumi is often reliable for seeing a good variety. Expect elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffalos, and hippos, with the chance of spotting predators like lions and cheetahs—especially if the guide spots animal tracks or signs early.

One traveler highlighted that the park’s ecosystems support remarkable bird species, which adds to the appeal for birdwatchers. The diversity of wildlife is complemented by the landscape—vast open plains, dense bush, and rocky outcrops—all of which make for stunning photo opportunities.

Authentic Experiences and Guide Insights

A standout feature of this safari is the guides’ expertise. Ryan, who left a glowing review, praised the guides for their attentiveness and knowledge: “We was also treated like royalty the moment we was picked up.” Several reviewers mention guides like Godfrey and Jimmy, describing them as “super” and “very attentive.” This personal touch can make a big difference in spotting animals and understanding their habits.

However, some reviews reveal logistical hiccups—like no-shows or delays—which highlight the importance of clear communication and flexible expectations. One reviewer, Claire, shared a frustrating experience with a no-show, but that was an isolated incident.

Value for Money

At around $690.90 per person, this tour offers good value, considering the included meals, park entry fees, private transportation, and guiding services. For a two-day safari with all logistics handled, it’s a compelling option, especially for those who want a private experience without the high costs of luxury lodges and flights.

It’s worth noting that some travelers have expressed that the long road trip might be tiring, but the opportunity to see the wildlife in a relatively short timeframe compensates for the travel time.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This 2-day safari from Zanzibar to Mikumi is ideal for adventurous travelers who don’t mind a bit of a journey to unlock Tanzania’s wildlife treasures. It suits those looking for a private, guided experience with all meals included, making planning straightforward.

While the long travel hours and occasional logistical issues are considerations, most reviews indicate that the wildlife sightings and guides’ expertise make it worth the effort. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want a cost-effective way to experience safari-style wildlife viewing without the hassle of organizing everything independently.

If you’re after a personalized adventure with reliable guides, and you’re comfortable with a full day in the vehicle, this safari offers a solid blend of value, authenticity, and memorable wildlife encounters.

FAQ

How do I get to Mikumi from Zanzibar?
You can choose between a flight or ferry to Dar es Salaam, followed by a 6-hour road transfer in a 4×4 vehicle to Mikumi National Park.

Are meals included during the tour?
Yes, all meals are included in the package, which helps simplify planning and ensures you’re well-fed for long game drives.

Is this a private tour?
Yes, the experience is private, meaning only your group will participate, providing a more personalized and less crowded safari.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
You’ll likely see elephants, lions, zebras, antelopes, buffalos, hippos, and possibly cheetahs or leopards, depending on luck and guide spotting.

What is the best time of day for game drives?
Early morning drives around 6 am are recommended for the best wildlife sightings and cooler temperatures.

What are some potential drawbacks?
The main consideration is the lengthy travel time—about 6 hours each way—which can be tiring, especially if you’re short on time or prefer flying directly to the park.

This tour balances adventure with convenience, offering a window into Tanzania’s wildlife while keeping logistics in check. Perfect for wildlife lovers eager to combine a safari with their Zanzibar holiday without breaking the bank.