2 Days Mikumi national park comfortable safari from Dar

Traveling from Dar es Salaam to Mikumi National Park offers an exciting chance to see Tanzania’s wildlife in comfort and style. This 2-day safari, provided by Mmary Wild Expedition, combines the thrill of game viewing with cultural experiences—all without sacrificing ease or convenience.

What we love about this tour? First, the comfortable transportation makes the long drive more relaxed. Second, the full-day game drive promises the chance to spot big game like lions, elephants, and giraffes. Third, the bush lunch offers a unique dining experience right in the heart of the wilderness. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that the long travel time from Dar es Salaam might be tiring for some travelers. This tour is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, those seeking a hassle-free safari, or anyone wanting a quick escape into Tanzania’s bushland.

Contents show

Key Points

Comfortable transportation from Dar es Salaam makes the journey smooth
Full-day game drives offer chances to see a variety of wildlife
Cultural visit to a Maasai village adds an authentic local experience
Bush lunch provides an unforgettable dining experience amidst nature
Accommodation at Mikumi Resort ensures restful nights after busy days
Flexible booking options with pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Mikumi Safari Experience

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

Seamless Transport and Convenient Pickup

The journey begins with a pickup from Mlimani City in Dar es Salaam, making it easy to start without any fuss. The tour uses a private vehicle, which isn’t just about comfort but also about flexibility in timing and stops. The drive to Mikumi takes approximately 4 hours, covering the scenic route along the highway from Dar es Salaam to Zambia, passing through the lush Morogoro Region.

Travelers often comment on the smooth ride; the vehicle is clean, spacious, and well-maintained, which matters when covering over 300 km. A reliable guide from Mmary Wild Expedition, such as Robert or Grace, often accompanies the group, adding local insights and ensuring the journey is engaging rather than monotonous.

The Magnificent Mikumi Landscape

Once in Mikumi, you’ll notice the park’s distinctive landscape. It’s often compared to the Serengeti, thanks to the vast savannah dotted with acacia and iconic baobab trees. The park’s geography is dramatic, with the Uluguru Mountains to the northeast and the Rift Valley escarpment to the southwest. Malundwe Mountain, the highest point in the park at 1,290 meters, provides stunning panoramic views.

Travelers frequently mention the beautiful scenery and how it enhances the game viewing experience. The combination of plains, mountains, and varied vegetation creates a natural backdrop that keeps your camera busy.

Cultural Encounter at Maasai Village

On your first afternoon, after settling into the Mikumi Resort, a short trip to a Maasai village awaits. It’s a chance to meet local Maasai people and learn about their traditional way of life — from their colorful attire to their cattle herding practices. Reviewers appreciate the authenticity of this experience, describing it as a “heartwarming peek into Maasai culture.” It’s a worthwhile addition, giving context to the land and its people beyond just wildlife.

More Great Tours Nearby

Day 2: Full-Day Game Drive and Wildlife Encounters

The highlight for many is the full-day game drive through Mikumi National Park. You’ll wake up early for breakfast and then head into the park with a professional guide, often someone with years of experience like Peter or Grace.

The park boasts a high density of animals, including Lions, Elephants, Buffaloes, Hippopotamuses, Crocodiles, and many more. One of the standout features is the subspecies of giraffe considered a link between the Masai giraffe and the reticulated giraffe — a fascinating detail for wildlife fans.

Travelers describe Mikumi as “a smaller Serengeti,” with endless plains that stretch out in every direction, perfect for spotting wildlife. The guides are skilled at spotting animals hidden in the bush, and some reviews mention sightings of lion prides and herds of elephants, making the game drive well worth the early start.

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

The Unique Landscape and Vegetation

The park’s vegetation includes savannah grasslands, interspersed with rare palms, tamarinds, and acacia. The landscape, especially with Malundwe Mountain as a backdrop, offers stunning vistas. The vegetation plays a crucial role in supporting the diverse animal populations, and the park’s ecosystems are lively and thriving.

The Bush Picnic Experience

A special feature of this safari is the picnic lunch inside the park, served at a carefully selected spot. Many travelers rave about the experience of eating in the wild, with some describing it as “a surreal moment to enjoy a sandwich while watching elephants graze nearby.” The driver-guide usually picks a safe, scenic location in the middle of the park, adding to the adventure.

Returning to Dar and Final Thoughts

After a full day of wildlife sightings, you’ll head back to the park’s entrance in the late afternoon, then begin the return drive to Dar es Salaam. Expect to arrive in the city by evening, completing a well-rounded safari experience.

What’s Included and What Not

Included:

Transport (private car)
Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) on days 1 and 2
Soft drinks and water
Park entrance fees
Transfer and guide services
Accommodation at Mikumi Resort

Not Included:

Alcoholic drinks
Travel insurance
Flight tickets
Items not specified in the itinerary

Practical Tips for Travelers

Bring your passport, as it’s required for park entry, and dress comfortably for game drives—layers are best for early mornings and afternoons. Since the tour isn’t suitable for people with back problems or wheelchair users, consider your mobility before booking. Booking is flexible with a “pay later” option, and cancellations are possible up to 24 hours before the trip.

Who Will Love This Safari?

This tour caters best to wildlife lovers eager for a well-rounded, comfortable safari experience without the fuss of camping or multi-day logistics. It’s perfect if you’re short on time but want a meaningful encounter with Tanzania’s wildlife and culture. Families, photographers, and first-time safari-goers will appreciate the ease and quality of the experience, while seasoned travelers will enjoy the chance to see Mikumi’s diverse animals.

FAQs

How long is the drive from Dar es Salaam to Mikumi?
The journey takes approximately 4 hours by private vehicle, offering a comfortable ride with scenic views along the way.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
You’ll have chances to spot Lions, Elephants, Buffaloes, Hippopotamuses, Crocodiles, and a unique subspecies of giraffe, among others.

Is the safari suitable for children or older travelers?
The tour is generally comfortable but may not be suitable for those with back problems or wheelchair users due to the nature of the vehicle and terrain.

What does the bush lunch involve?
It’s a picnic-style meal served at a scenic spot inside the park, allowing you to dine surrounded by nature and wildlife.

Can I customize the itinerary?
While the standard tour is set, you can contact the provider for flexible booking options, including paying later and canceling with 24 hours’ notice.

What is the accommodation like?
You’ll stay at Mikumi Resort, which offers comfortable rooms after a day of adventure, ideal for relaxing before the next day’s game drive.

Do I need a visa or special documents?
Bring your passport, as it might be required for park entry and regional travel documentation.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day Mikumi safari from Dar es Salaam offers a fantastic blend of wildlife encounters, cultural insights, and comfortable logistics. It’s an excellent choice for those looking to maximize wildlife viewing without sacrificing comfort or convenience. Whether you’re a first-time safari traveler or simply seeking a quick escape, this tour balances the thrill of the wild with the ease of professional organization.

The value at $380 per person—covering transport, meals, park fees, and accommodation—makes it a tempting option. The inclusion of a cultural visit and bush lunch adds richness to the experience, making it more than just a typical game drive.

If you’re after a hassle-free, well-rounded safari that offers authentic encounters and beautiful landscapes, this Mikumi tour is hard to beat. It’s especially suited for travelers who want a taste of Tanzania’s natural beauty without the complexity of multi-day logistics or camping.

You can check availability for your dates here: