Dar Es Salaam: Day Trip Safari to Mikumi National Park by Train

Exploring the Dar es Salaam: Day Trip Safari to Mikumi National Park by Train

If you’re visiting Tanzania’s bustling city of Dar es Salaam and craving a true wildlife adventure, a day trip to Mikumi National Park offers a fantastic escape. This tour combines scenic train travel, exciting game drives, and the chance to spot Africa’s iconic animals—all in one well-organized package. While long travel times are part of the experience, the value and authentic feel of this safari make it worth every minute.

What stands out for us are the personalized private tour setting, the inclusion of train transport, and the opportunity to see a diverse array of wildlife and bird species. The fact that the tour is designed for small groups (up to four people) adds a more intimate, flexible experience. However, keep in mind that the long journey from Dar es Salaam, which can take up to 6.5 hours each way, requires patience and a love for scenic drives.

This trip is best suited for adventurous travelers who love wildlife, are comfortable with long travel times, and want a more exclusive, tailor-made safari experience without the crowds. It’s a great choice for those wanting to maximize their Tanzania time with an active, engaging day out.

Key Points

• Convenient door-to-door pickup and drop-off simplifies logistics.
• Train travel adds a unique, scenic element to your safari adventure.
• Two game drives provide ample wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Includes lunch and park entrance fees for straightforward budgeting.
• Private tour for up to 4 people delivers a more personalized experience.
• Long travel times are a consideration but part of the adventure.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

This tour kicks off early, with a 5:30 am pickup from your hotel or residence in Dar es Salaam or Morogoro. You’ll be driven to the train station in Dar es Salaam, where you board the 0600 hours Express train heading to Morogoro. The scenic 3-hour, 45-minute ride offers glimpses of the Tanzanian countryside—think rolling hills, lush farmland, and local life passing by.

Travel tip: Many reviewers mention that the train ride is a highlight for its relaxed pace and views, but be prepared for the possibility of a long day that starts early and involves a lot of sitting. One reviewer noted, “The long way from DAR to Mikumi was worth it, especially with our friendly driver explaining Tanzanian culture and animals along the way.”

Once in Morogoro, you’ll be picked up and transferred to Mikumi National Park. This segment involves a drive of around 2 hours through scenic landscapes before arriving at the park’s entrance. Along the way, you might stop briefly for coffee in Chalinze, which helps break up the long journey.

What Makes Mikumi National Park Special?

Covering approximately 1247 square miles (3230 sq km), Mikumi is often called the “little Serengeti” because of its vast floodplains and open savannahs. You’ll find yourself immersed in a landscape bordered by the Uluguru, Rubeho, and Lumango mountains, creating a stunning backdrop for game viewing.

Wildlife Highlights: Expect to see giraffes, elephants, zebras, buffalo, hippos, impalas, and wildebeests during your game drives. One reviewer recalls seeing “a lot of animals during our two drives,” including lions, buffalos, and even tree-climbing lions—rare sightings that add an extra thrill to the day.

The park’s diverse terrain hosts various wildlife habitats, from floodplains to hippo pools, where you’ll observe enormous creatures wallowing in mud. Bird lovers will also appreciate the over 300 bird species, which makes for a birdwatching paradise.

The Game Drives: What to Expect

Your first game drive begins after arrival, lasting a few hours of active wildlife spotting. A knowledgeable guide—possibly someone like James or George, according to reviews—will explain animal behaviors and help spot elusive creatures. Many guests mention that guides are friendly and informative, enhancing the experience with their insights.

Lunch is served within the park, giving you a chance to rest and refuel before your second game drive in the afternoon. This latter session explores different parts of the park, with varied terrain including the floodplain, the ‘little Serengeti,’ and the iconic hippo pools.

Reviewers note that the second drive is equally rewarding, with sightings of tree-climbing lions, a rare bonus, and abundant wildlife such as kudu, impala, and warthogs. The afternoon game drive wraps up around 4 pm, after which you’ll head back to the park entrance.

Logistics and Practicalities

The tour’s price of $300 per person is reasonable considering the inclusions: entrance fees, lunch, hotel pickup and drop-off, and two game drives. The private setting means you won’t share your experiences with large crowds, which is often a concern in popular parks.

Travel time: The journey itself is a significant part of the experience, with some reviews mentioning that it can take up to 6.5 hours each way. While this may seem long, most travelers agree that the scenery and wildlife sightings make it worthwhile.

Comfort: The train ride is generally praised for its relaxed vibe, but be prepared for a basic experience and bring snacks or reading material. The road transfer from Morogoro to Mikumi is straightforward, and the park’s facilities are functional for your game drives.

Flexibility: The tour operates as a private experience, so you can expect a flexible schedule and personalized attention from your guides. The tour is suitable for children (accompanied by adults) and most travelers who can manage a full, active day.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

One reviewer summed it up by saying, “Our driver was very friendly and explained us a lot about Tanzania, their culture, and animals.” This highlights the value of knowledgeable guides who help deepen your understanding of the environment.

Plus, many note that long travel times are the main drawback, but the overall experience is worth it. As one person shared, “Be aware that one way can take up to 6.5 hours,” so packing patience and entertainment is advisable.

The Sum Up

This Dar es Salaam day trip to Mikumi National Park by train offers a compelling blend of scenic travel, wildlife encounters, and personalized service. It’s especially appealing for those who want to avoid crowded group tours and enjoy a more intimate safari experience. The inclusion of train travel adds a special flavor, making the journey just as memorable as the game viewing.

While the long hours on the road and train are a consideration, the chance to see Africa’s iconic animals and diverse landscapes in a single day makes this tour a worthwhile adventure. It’s best suited for energetic travelers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone eager to make the most of their Tanzanian trip with a meaningful, well-organized day out.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup and drop-off included? Yes, the tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics easier and more comfortable.

What is the duration of the whole trip? Expect the trip to last approximately 12 to 16 hours, depending on travel times and park activities.

Are meals provided? Yes, lunch and refreshments are included in the tour package.

Can I participate with children? Yes, children are welcome if accompanied by an adult, but note the minimum drinking age is 18 years.

What kind of vehicle is used for transfers? The tour provides door-to-door transport, typically a comfortable private vehicle suited for a small group.

Is this tour suitable for solo travelers? It’s designed as a private experience for up to four people, so solo travelers might need to book accordingly or join as part of a small group.

What wildlife might I see? Expect to see giraffes, elephants, zebras, buffalo, hippos, impalas, wildebeests, and possibly rare tree-climbing lions.

What should I pack? Bring essentials like sun protection, water, binoculars, and perhaps a camera to capture wildlife moments—be prepared for a long, active day.

This safari offers a balanced mix of adventure, comfort, and authentic wildlife encounters. If you’re ready for a full day of exploration and don’t mind the travel time, it’s a fantastic way to experience Mikumi’s wilderness.