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

Traveling to Tanzania often involves more than just ticking off the Big Five or ticking boxes on a bucket list. For those craving a genuine mix of wildlife encounters and outdoor adventures, this 2-day safari from Dar es Salaam offers a compelling combination. It promises not only the thrill of spotting elephants, giraffes, and zebras in Mikumi National Park but also the chance to stretch your legs hiking up the Uluguru Mountains to reach the stunning Choma Waterfalls.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the variety of activities—from game drives to mountain hikes—keeps the trip engaging and diverse. Second, the well-rounded experience balances wildlife viewing with scenic adventures, giving you a taste of Tanzanian nature’s many faces. Third, the value for the price seems quite reasonable considering the included train rides, accommodations, and meals. The only potential downside? The schedule might be a bit fast-paced for those seeking a more relaxed, laid-back pace.

This tour is best suited for travelers who want a quick but immersive safari experience without sacrificing outdoor activity. If you’re keen on wildlife, scenic hikes, and exploring beyond the usual safari, this package could be a perfect fit.

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Key Points

Balanced itinerary with game drives and mountain hikes
Includes train journey, adding a unique local touch
Small group size enhances personalized attention
Professional guides are multilingual and knowledgeable
Comfortable overnight stay at Camp Bastian Mikumi
Cost-effective considering the variety of included activities and transport

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An Authentic 2-Day Tanzanian Safari Experience

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Getting to Know the Itinerary

The adventure kicks off with a pick-up from your Dar es Salaam hotel or ferry terminal, ensuring convenience from the start. From there, you’ll travel to Morogoro by train, which is a highlight in itself. The train ride offers a chance to see rural Tanzanian life and landscapes, setting the tone for the journey ahead. The approximately 1-2 hour journey is both practical and scenic, especially if you’re a fan of train travel or want to experience local transport.

Upon arrival in Morogoro, your driver-guide will escort you to Mikumi National Park. The first game drive begins late morning, giving ample time to relax and prepare. The game drives in Mikumi are often cited as the real highlight. You’re likely to see elephants, giraffes, zebras, and possibly lions—an impressive array considering the park’s accessibility and the reasonable cost. One traveler noted, “The wildlife sightings were surprisingly abundant, and the guides knew all the best spots.”

Mikumi National Park: Wildlife & Scenery

The park itself is a vast expanse of open plains and acacia trees, making it easy to spot animals from the vehicle. The morning drive offers a fresh perspective, with the landscape bathed in soft daylight. After a picnic or local Tanzanian meal, you’ll have some downtime before heading out for another drive in the late afternoon or early evening.

The overnight stay at Camp Bastian Mikumi adds a rustic charm—think comfortable tents and a friendly atmosphere. It’s a good balance of adventure and comfort, and reviews mention the staff’s warmth and the quality of the meals. Some travelers appreciate the small-group setting, which allows for more interaction and personalized attention from guides.

The Mountain Hike & Waterfalls

Day 2 shifts gears from wildlife to scenery—an aspect many find unexpectedly rewarding. Starting early, you’ll head towards Morogoro to begin your hike up the Uluguru Mountains. The walk to Morningside takes about 2.5 hours, offering lush views and a chance to stretch your legs after the previous day’s drives. This part of the tour is valued for its moderate difficulty—not too strenuous but enough to get your heart pumping.

From Morningside, it’s about an hour’s walk to reach the Choma Waterfalls. Here, the cool water provides a refreshing break, and many enjoy taking a swim. A packed lunch or traditional African fare can be enjoyed by the waterfalls, making this a true picnic with a view. Reviewers loved the stunning scenery at the waterfalls, describing it as a “hidden gem” and a peaceful spot away from the typical safari crowds.

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Practical Details & What to Pack

The trip involves a mix of transportation—train, safari vehicle, and on-foot hiking—so comfortable shoes are essential. The best time to go is during dry seasons when the trails are easier to navigate, and wildlife sightings are more predictable.

Bring a hat, sunscreen, water, and a camera—this is a trip that demands capturing the breathtaking landscapes and animals. Swimming at the waterfalls is optional, so if you plan to take a dip, don’t forget your swimwear. Since smoking is prohibited during activities, you may want to avoid bringing cigarettes along.

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Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adventure lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those eager to see Tanzania’s countryside beyond typical safaris. It’s perfect if you want a short, well-rounded trip that combines wildlife, outdoor activity, and scenic beauty. The group size is limited to 10, providing a more intimate atmosphere, and multilingual guides make communication smooth for international travelers.

What Could Be Improved?

While the itinerary offers a good variety of activities, some might find the schedule a bit tight. The long days and constant moving may not suit those seeking a more relaxed pace. Also, the price—$423 per person—includes train travel, meals, and accommodation, which is reasonable, but travelers should consider the additional personal expenses not covered, such as souvenirs or extra snacks.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day safari from Dar es Salaam to Mikumi National Park and Choma Waterfalls is a solid choice for travelers who want to explore diverse aspects of Tanzania in a short timeframe. The combination of game drives and hiking offers a well-rounded adventure, appealing to both wildlife lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

The inclusion of train travel and local meals enhances the immersive experience, giving you a taste of Tanzanian life and landscapes. The small-group setting and knowledgeable guides ensure you get personalized attention, while the scenic waterfalls provide a peaceful respite from the safari excitement.

If you’re looking for a value-packed trip that balances wildlife, scenery, and outdoor activity, this tour offers a compelling package. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy a dynamic, active itinerary with authentic touches and a chance to see the diverse beauty of Tanzania in just two days.

FAQs

Is the train ride included in the tour?
Yes, train tickets to Morogoro are part of the package, making the journey both convenient and scenic.

What animals can I expect to see in Mikumi National Park?
You’re likely to see elephants, giraffes, zebras, and possibly lions, with plenty of opportunities for wildlife photography.

How strenuous is the mountain hike?
The hike to Morningside and the waterfalls is considered moderate, suitable for most travelers with average fitness levels. It involves about 2.5 hours to Morningside and an extra hour to the waterfalls.

What should I bring for this tour?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, camera, and swimwear (if you plan to swim) are recommended.

Is accommodation included?
Yes, you’ll stay overnight at Camp Bastian Mikumi, which offers comfortable tents and a friendly environment.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind if your plans are flexible.

This tour offers a fantastic mix of wildlife, scenic hikes, and local experiences all packed into a manageable two days. Whether you’re a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned traveler seeking a quick adventure, it promises memorable moments and a taste of the best Tanzania has to offer.