Dar es Salaam: 2-Day Safari to Mikumi National Park and

Discover the wilds of Tanzania on a 2-day safari from Dar es Salaam to Mikumi National Park, including game viewing and a scenic mountain hike.

This tour offers a balanced mix of bush adventure and mountain exploration, making it a compelling choice for those wanting a quick yet fulfilling Tanzanian experience. What we love about this trip includes the chance to see diverse wildlife in Mikumi, the stunning hike to Choma Waterfalls, and the intimate, small-group feel. A possible drawback is the tight schedule—some travelers might wish for more time at each stop. This tour is perfect for nature lovers, adventurers, and anyone eager to see Tanzania’s wilderness without a week-long commitment.

Key Points

• Wildlife encounters: Enjoy game drives where elephants, giraffes, and zebras are almost guaranteed sights.
• Scenic hiking: Trek through the Uluguru Mountains to reach the Choma Waterfalls, with opportunities to swim in cool waters.
• Comfortable logistics: Travel includes train rides, game drives, and overnight stays, offering a seamless travel experience.
• Value for money: At $423, the package covers transportation, guides, meals, and accommodations—offering a lot of value.
• Authentic experiences: Not just touristy safaris, but a chance to connect with local landscapes and wildlife.
• Limited time?: The itinerary is packed, so expect a full schedule—some may prefer extra time at each location.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Practical Guide to the 2-Day Mikumi Safari

If you’re considering this tour, here’s what you can realistically expect, and why it’s worth your attention. This isn’t a luxury escape with days of leisure, but rather a dynamic, engaging adventure that packs in highlights with a focus on value and genuine experiences.

Day 1: From Dar es Salaam to Mikumi National Park

The journey begins with a pick-up from your hotel or the ferry terminal in Dar es Salaam—an easy start that sets the tone for a hassle-free trip. From there, you’ll head to the SGR (Standard Gauge Railway) station, hopping onto a train that promises comfortable, scenic travel towards the Morogoro region. The train ride, roughly 1-2 hours, offers travelers a chance to relax and enjoy views of Tanzanian countryside before arriving in Morogoro.

Once in Morogoro, your driver-guide will take the wheel and whisk you off to Mikumi National Park. The game drive starts late morning, giving you the chance to see some of Africa’s iconic wildlife. Mikumi is known for animals like elephants, giraffes, zebras, and antelopes, often seen grazing peacefully in the open plains. As one reviewer noted, “The game drives felt very authentic—seeing elephants so close really made it memorable.”

After a hearty lunch at the park or nearby lodge, you’ll have some downtime to relax and prepare for the afternoon game drive. Mikumi’s landscape is impressive—vast, open, and dotted with acacia trees, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife photography. The guides are knowledgeable and passionate, often sharing interesting facts about the animals and ecosystem. Evening drives tend to be quieter, as animals settle down, but the chance to see nocturnal creatures or predators returning remains high.

Dinner is served at Camp Bastian Mikumi, a cozy base that combines comfort with a true bush vibe. Many reviews highlight the friendly staff and the authentic feel of the camp, which enhances the overall experience.

Day 2: Mountain Hiking and Waterfalls

A 7:00 AM breakfast kicks off the second day, before you transfer to Morogoro town for the highlight—hiking the Uluguru Mountains. The hike to Morningside takes roughly 2.5 hours; this is a moderate trek that offers a fantastic way to see more of the local scenery and get some exercise. We loved the way the trail weaves through lush greenery, with panoramic views emerging as you ascend. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain can vary from rocky to muddy depending on recent weather.

From Morningside, it’s about an hour’s walk to the Choma Waterfalls—a stunning cascade where the water plunges into a natural pool. Here, you’ll have the chance to swim in the cool waters, a refreshing break after the hike. Many travelers find this spot to be a real highlight, not only for the scenery but also for the peaceful vibe. One reviewer described it as “a perfect combination of adventure and relaxation,” noting that the waterfall’s surroundings feel untouched and authentic.

A packed lunch or local African food is typically served at the falls, allowing you to relax and soak in the peaceful environment. After lunch, you’ll retrace your steps back to Morogoro to meet your driver and head back to Dar es Salaam, completing your adventure in roughly 8-10 hours total.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price of $423 per person covers essential logistics: hotel or ferry terminal pick-up and drop-off, train tickets to Morogoro, game drives in Mikumi, and overnight accommodation at Camp Bastian Mikumi. Meals during the trip are included, covering breakfast, lunch, and dinner, making it easier to focus on the experience without extra expenses. The hike to Morningside and Choma Waterfalls is also part of the package, giving you an active, outdoor element.

On the flip side, personal expenses like souvenirs, additional drinks, or optional extras are not included. It’s worth budgeting for these if you want to buy a wildlife photo or a snack during the day.

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Transportation & Comfort

Travel is smooth with the combination of train rides and private transfers, which is a significant plus for those who dislike long, unpredictable drives. The train provides a comfortable, scenic journey, and your guide will handle the logistics, so you don’t need to worry about navigation or timing. The game drives are in well-equipped vehicles, and the overnight stay at Camp Bastian is simple but cozy, with a focus on authenticity rather than luxury.

Practical Tips

Bring comfortable shoes for hiking, a hat and sunscreen for sun protection, and your camera to capture wildlife and waterfalls. Swimmers should pack swimwear if they want to cool off at Choma Waterfalls. Smoking isn’t allowed during activities, and pregnant women or those with back problems may want to consider the physical demands of the hike.

Authentic Experiences and Unique Highlights

What makes this tour special is the combination of safari adventure with mountain hiking—something not all short trips offer. The game drives give you a genuine opportunity to see Tanzanian wildlife in a relatively accessible setting, often with sightings of elephants and giraffes in their natural habitat. Many reviewers appreciated how close they got to animals—one even mentioned that “the elephants felt like they were part of the group,” emphasizing the authentic feeling of the experience.

The hike to Choma Waterfalls, with its lush scenery and the chance to swim in cool mountain waters, is a rare find in a quick safari package. It offers a sense of connection to the landscape that many touristy safaris lack. Travelers also enjoy the knowledgeable guides, who often share insights into local flora, fauna, and culture, enriching the trip beyond just wildlife viewing.

On top of that, the overall value is notable—covering transport, guide, meals, and accommodation for the price—especially considering the diversity of experiences packed into two days. This tour is a good choice for those seeking a balance of adventure, wildlife, and outdoor activity without a long-term commitment.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This safari is ideal for travelers with limited time but a desire for an authentic Tanzanian experience. Nature lovers who want to combine wildlife viewing with a scenic mountain hike will find it particularly rewarding. It’s also suitable for adventurous families, small groups, and solo travelers who appreciate guided experiences and small-group intimacy.

However, it’s less suitable for pregnant women or anyone with mobility issues due to the physical demands of the hike. If you prefer a leisurely pace or more comfortable luxury, you might want to consider other options.

FAQs

How long is the train ride from Dar es Salaam to Morogoro?
The train takes approximately 1-2 hours, offering a relaxed way to travel with scenic views of the countryside.

Is the accommodation comfortable?
The overnight stay is at Camp Bastian Mikumi, which offers basic but cozy accommodations with a focus on authentic bush camp experience.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Elephants, giraffes, zebras, and various antelopes are common sightings during the game drives.

Can I swim at Choma Waterfalls?
Yes, swimming is optional and there’s a natural pool at the waterfall where you can take a refreshing dip.

What should I pack for this trip?
Bring comfortable shoes for hiking, a hat, sunscreen, camera, swimwear, and water.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It depends on the child’s age and physical ability. The hike is moderate, so younger children might find it tiring.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast, lunch, and dinner are covered, with options for packed lunches or local African cuisine.

What’s the maximum group size?
The tour is designed for small groups, ensuring a personalized experience with knowledgeable guides.

Can I book this tour with flexible payment options?
Yes, you can reserve your spot and pay later, which adds flexibility for your travel plans.

What if I need to cancel?
Cancellation is possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day safari from Dar es Salaam offers a quick yet satisfying glimpse into Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes. The combination of game drives and mountain hikes provides a well-rounded experience—one that’s both active and relaxing. It’s a smart choice for those eager to explore the country’s natural treasures without dedicating an entire week.

You’ll love the chance to see elephants and giraffes up close, enjoy the serenity of Choma Waterfalls, and experience Tanzanian hospitality in cozy lodges and camps. The efficiency of the logistics and the authenticity of the scenery make this tour stand out for value and genuine adventure.

While the itinerary is packed, the variety of experiences ensures you’ll return home with stories and photos that truly capture the essence of Tanzania’s wilderness. For travelers craving a mix of wildlife, scenery, and outdoor activity, this safari offers an engaging taste of the country’s natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: