Dar es Salaam: Mikumi National Park 3-Day Safari Tour

Experience a 3-Day Safari from Dar es Salaam to Mikumi National Park

Planning a safari in Tanzania is an exciting adventure, but finding an experience that balances value, authenticity, and comfort can be a challenge. The Dar es Salaam: Mikumi National Park 3-Day Safari Tour by TIEM TOURS AND SAFARIS offers just that—a well-rounded journey into the wild with plenty of opportunities to see iconic African wildlife, all while enjoying comfortable accommodations and expert-guided game drives.

What makes this tour stand out? We particularly love the night safari experience, the chance to see animals after dark, the diverse wildlife sightings, including lions and elephants, and the comfortable stay at Camp Bastian Mikumi. The only consideration is the long drive from Dar es Salaam—about 6 hours—which might be tiring for some travelers. This tour suits those who want an in-depth, authentic safari experience with a good mix of adventure and relaxation, especially if you’re eager to explore Tanzania’s premier national parks without sacrificing comfort.

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Key Points

Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and possibly wild dogs in their natural environment.
Night Safari: Unique opportunity to observe nocturnal animals and experience the park come alive after dark.
Comfort & Convenience: Stay at Camp Bastian Mikumi, with meals included, making logistics manageable.
Full-Day Game Drives: Packed with sightings during the daytime, covering key areas like Mkata Plain and Hippo Dams.
Transport & Timing: 6-hour drive from Dar es Salaam, with early morning departures and late-night safaris.
Value for Money: At $2,006, this package offers comprehensive experiences, including multiple game drives, guiding, and accommodation—an excellent choice for serious wildlife enthusiasts.

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An In-Depth Look at the 3-Day Mikumi Safari

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Starting Point: Dar es Salaam to Mikumi National Park

The adventure kicks off early in the morning with a pickup from your Dar es Salaam hotel or accommodation. The drive to Mikumi takes approximately six hours, giving you a chance to enjoy the changing scenery of Tanzania’s Morogoro region. The journey is mostly on well-maintained roads, but the length means it’s worth bringing some snacks and entertainment.

A highlight during this transfer is the chance to see local life, farmlands, and rural villages, setting the scene for your safari experience. Many reviews mention the driver’s professionalism and punctuality, ensuring a smooth start. Once you arrive in Morogoro for a quick lunch, you’ll be ready for your first game drive in the late afternoon.

First Game Drive: Exploring Mikumi’s Iconic Spots

Arriving in the park by mid-afternoon, your first game drive introduces you to Mikumi’s varied landscape: open plains, dense bush, and waterholes. The Mkata Plain, a famous spot, often yields sightings of giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests grazing in the vast openness. The Hippo Dams are another favorite, where hippos and crocodiles might be spotted lounging in the water.

Guides tend to be very knowledgeable about animal behavior, sharing insights on each sighting. The reviews suggest the guides, like Hassan and Peter, are attentive, making sure everyone gets a chance for good photos and clear views. The evening drive is often quiet, but occasionally you may spot predators like lions, which adds a thrill to the experience.

Day 2: Full-Day Game Drive & Night Safari

The second day is packed with activities. After a hearty breakfast, you head out for a full-day game drive, equipped with a packed lunch. Expect to see a wide array of wildlife: lions, elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, hartebeests, and zebras are common sightings. Several reviewers appreciated the diverse wildlife densities, mentioning sightings of wild dogs, which are only occasionally seen in Mikumi.

The landscape varies from open grassy plains to shady woodland, providing great photo opportunities. The guides are praised for their patience and storytelling skills, which enrich the experience.

In the afternoon, you get some time to relax at the lodge before the highlight of the trip: the night game drive. Starting around 8:00 PM, this adventure takes you back into the park under a star-lit sky. The sounds of the night—hooting owls, distant lions, and rustling bushes—bring a new dimension to the safari, according to reviews. Many guests mention how seeing animals like lions and leopards after dark adds a memorable thrill.

This nocturnal exploration is often described as a must-do by travelers, with some saying it’s “a completely different perspective of the park’s wildlife.” Expect a return to the lodge around 11:30 PM, tired but exhilarated.

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Final Day: Returning to Dar es Salaam

After an early breakfast, you’ll pack up and begin the return journey to Dar es Salaam, stopping briefly in Morogoro for a quick refreshment or shopping. The drive back provides a chance to reflect on your wildlife sightings, the landscape, and the overall experience.

Upon arrival, you’re dropped off at your hotel, the ferry for Zanzibar, or the airport—convenient options for wrapping up your trip.

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What’s Included & What’s Not

This tour provides excellent value considering what’s on offer. For $2,006 per person, you get transportation, accommodation at Camp Bastian Mikumi, meals, and multiple game drives—including the unique night safari. The guided nature of the trip ensures expert insights, increasing your chances of spotting elusive animals.

However, drinks and personal expenses aren’t included. Travelers should plan for additional costs for souvenirs, extra drinks, or tips for guides. The tour also emphasizes bringing essentials like cameras, binoculars, sunscreen, and water; the guide’s advice is to be prepared for varying weather and wildlife encounters.

Accommodation at Camp Bastian Mikumi

Guests describe the lodge as comfortable and clean, with a welcoming atmosphere. While not over-the-top luxury, the lodge offers a good balance of comfort and authenticity, with the bonus of being close to the park’s main wildlife areas. Many reviewers appreciate the friendly staff and the chance to hear animal sounds during the night, adding to the safari ambiance.

Timing & Practical Tips

The drive from Dar es Salaam is roughly 6 hours, so expect some road time.
Morning departure is recommended to maximize your time in the park.
Night safaris are a highlight, but they do run late into the night, so be prepared for a full day.
The tour isn’t suitable for children under 6 or those with mobility issues, due to the nature of the game drives and the vehicle setup.

Why This Tour Works for You

If you’re serious about wildlife and want to see some of Tanzania’s most iconic animals in a relatively short time, this safari delivers. The combination of daytime game drives and a night safari provides a comprehensive view of animal behaviors—day and night—something you won’t find on many shorter trips.

The comfortable accommodation and inclusive meals make logistics easier, especially for travelers who prefer to focus on the safari rather than planning every detail. Whether it’s your first safari or you’re a return visitor craving new perspectives, this tour offers both excitement and authenticity.

The Sum Up

This 3-day Mikumi safari from Dar es Salaam is a solid choice for travelers looking for a balanced, immersive wildlife experience in Tanzania. With knowledgeable guides, diverse wildlife sightings, and the adventure of a night safari, it promises memorable moments. The inclusions of transport, accommodation, and meals mean you can focus on the experience without worrying about logistics.

While the long drive might be a consideration, the sheer variety of animals and the chance to see them in their natural environment make it worth the journey. It’s especially suited for those eager to explore Tanzania’s national parks without opting for longer, more expensive options.

If you’re after a well-organized, authentic safari experience that combines adventure, comfort, and excellent wildlife viewing, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

FAQ

How long is the drive from Dar es Salaam to Mikumi National Park?
The drive takes about six hours, so it’s a good idea to start early and bring snacks or entertainment to pass the time.

What wildlife can I expect to see during the game drives?
Expect to see lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, buffaloes, and hartebeests. Wild dogs might also be spotted, depending on the day.

Is the night safari worth doing?
Yes, many reviews highlight the night game drive as a unique experience, offering a chance to see nocturnal animals and observe the park after dark.

What accommodation is provided?
You’ll stay at Camp Bastian Mikumi, which is described as comfortable and well-managed, with many guests appreciating the friendly staff.

Are meals included?
Yes, meals as per the itinerary are included, which helps streamline the trip and reduces additional expenses.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 6 years or travelers with mobility issues, given the nature of game drives and vehicle rides.

Can I book this tour with flexible payment options?
Yes, you can reserve your spot and pay later, offering flexibility to plan your trip without immediate financial commitment.

This safari offers a fantastic opportunity to witness Tanzania’s wildlife in a well-organized, enjoyable package. Whether you’re after the thrill of seeing lions in the wild or the serenity of a night under the stars, it’s a trip that’s likely to leave lasting memories.