Dar es Salaam: 5-Day Selous and Mikumi National Park Tour

Planning a safari that balances adventure, comfort, and authenticity? This 5-day tour from Dar es Salaam offers a chance to witness Tanzania’s incredible wildlife and scenic landscapes, all while staying in well-rated accommodations. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply seeking a break from city chaos, this trip promises memorable encounters in some of the country’s most renowned parks.

What makes this tour appealing? First, the combination of game drives and boat safaris creates diverse opportunities for animal sightings and photo ops. Second, the comfortable lodges like Selous Kinga Lodge and Camp Bastian provide a welcome rest after busy days. Third, the tour offers a balanced itinerary that maximizes wildlife viewing while allowing time to relax and soak in the scenery. A potential challenge? The price point of $3,500 per person is on the higher side, but many find it justified given the inclusions and quality of experience. Overall, it suits travelers who value guided adventures, comfort, and a chance to see both big game and birdlife firsthand.

Key Points

• Wildlife Highlights: Elephants, giraffes, zebras, lions, and more in Selous and Mikumi.
• Activities: Game drives, boat safaris, and en-route wildlife viewing.
• Accommodations: Comfortable lodges with all meals included.
• Transportation: 4×4 safari vehicles with open roofs for optimal viewing.
• Guides: Services of experienced English-speaking safari guides.
• Duration & Flexibility: 5 days with options for flexible booking and cancellations.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Itinerary

Day 1: From Dar es Salaam to Selous with a River Adventure

The journey begins with a pickup from your hotel or airport in Dar es Salaam, setting the tone for an exciting escape. A scenic drive takes you south to the Selous Game Reserve, with a stop for lunch in Kibiti—an opportunity to stretch your legs and enjoy some local flavors. After arriving in the late afternoon, you’ll check into the Selous Kinga Lodge, a comfortable base that balances rustic charm with modern amenities.

The evening features a boat ride on the Rufiji River, one of the highlights of the trip. This safari by water offers a different perspective—expect to see hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species, all against the stunning backdrop of the river’s lush banks. Reviewers mention that this boat safari is a peaceful and revealing way to observe wildlife without the daytime hustle of land drives.

Day 2: Full Day of Game Viewing in Selous

A full day of game drives allows ample opportunity to spot big cats, elephants, buffalos, and more. Early mornings in Tanzania mean cooler temperatures and more active animals. Guides are praised for their knowledge—many reviewers have noted guides like “Mr. Juma” for their sharp eyes and storytelling skills, making each sighting more engaging.

You’ll stop for a packed lunch at a scenic spot, then continue exploring until sunset. The diversity here is striking; some reviewers have seen lions lounging, elephants bathing, and giraffes grazing—all within a few hours. The terrain varies from open plains to dense thickets, providing a range of wildlife habitats.

Day 3: Transition to Mikumi National Park

After breakfast, the journey continues northward to Mikumi National Park, often called the “Gem of Tanzania” due to its accessibility and variety. The en-route game drive means you might catch sight of zebras, impalas, and elephants along the way. The drive itself is scenic, with open vistas and occasional wildlife sightings that enrich the experience.

Arriving in the late afternoon or evening, you settle into Camp Bastian, a cozy lodge with a good reputation for hospitality. Reviewers mention that the lodge’s location is ideal for both relaxation and morning safaris.

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Day 4: Exploring Mikumi’s Wildlife

A full day of game viewing in Mikumi promises encounters with numerous species—zebras, giraffes, hippos, wildebeests, and a variety of birds. Guides often comment on the park’s diverse habitats, which support a broad spectrum of animals. Expect to cover different areas of the park, using open-roof 4×4 vehicles for optimal viewing.

Many travelers appreciate the birdlife here; Mikumi is known for over 400 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. The terrain includes grasslands, thick bushes, and rocky outcroppings, creating a dynamic landscape for wildlife photography.

Day 5: Final Game Drive and Return to Dar es Salaam

The last morning involves an en-route game drive as you make your way back toward Dar es Salaam. This is a chance for any missed sightings or last-minute photos. The return journey is scenic, with potential for more animal encounters before arriving back in the city in the late afternoon or early evening.

Inclusions & Value

The tour’s price of $3,500 per person includes airport transfers, accommodations, all meals, park entry fees, and game drives with professional guides. The open-roof 4×4 vehicles enhance the experience, making wildlife viewing more comfortable and immersive. The guide team is highly praised for their professionalism and local knowledge, often bringing a personal touch that elevates the trip.

Considerations and Practicalities

While the tour is well-organized, travelers should be prepared for early mornings—often starting before sunrise—to maximize wildlife sightings. The price is reflective of the inclusive nature and quality of lodges, but it’s worth noting that flights and personal expenses are extra. The group sizes tend to be small, which aids in a more personalized experience, though this depends on availability.

Reviewers have highlighted the importance of bringing essentials such as sunscreen, a hat, camera, and water. Mosquito repellent is advisable, especially in the evenings. As with all safaris, weather conditions can influence game drive timing and wildlife activity, but guides are adept at adjusting plans as needed.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Safari?

This 5-day tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and authentic wildlife encounters—perfect for travelers eager to see Tanzania’s iconic animals in their natural habitat without sacrificing quality. It suits those who appreciate guided tours, are comfortable with early mornings, and want a comprehensive experience including both land and water safaris.

If you’re looking for a safari that offers excellent value through carefully curated activities and comfortable stays, this trip is a strong contender. It’s especially suited for travelers who prefer a well-organized, guided experience where everything is taken care of, leaving you to simply enjoy the sights.

However, if budget is a concern or you prefer a more independent style of travel, you might find this tour at the higher end of the price spectrum. Still, many find that the quality of wildlife viewing and the professionalism of the guides make it worth every dollar.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $3,500 per person covers pickup and drop-off at the airport, accommodations, all meals, park entry fees, game drives in open-roof 4×4 vehicles, boat safaris on the Rufiji River, and the services of experienced English-speaking guides.

Are flights to Tanzania included?
No, international and local flight costs are not covered. You’ll need to arrange your own flights to Dar es Salaam.

What should I bring for this safari?
Bring essentials like a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothes. Mosquito repellent is recommended, especially for evenings.

Is there flexibility in the booking and cancellation?
Yes, you can reserve your spot with a “Reserve & Pay Later” option, and cancellations made up to 24 hours in advance qualify for a full refund.

How are the accommodations rated?
Both the Selous Kinga Lodge and Camp Bastian are praised for their comfort and hospitality. They offer a cozy atmosphere after busy days of game viewing.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
It’s not recommended for people with back problems or those over 70/95 years old, due to the physical nature of game drives and early starts.

This safari offers a well-rounded, enriching experience for those eager to observe Tanzania’s wildlife in comfort and style. With expert guides, diverse activities, and carefully chosen lodges, it’s an opportunity to truly connect with the natural beauty of Tanzania’s parks.

You can check availability for your dates here: