Dar es Salaam: Selous and Mikumi National Park 6-Day Tour

Exploring Tanzania’s Wilderness in Six Days: Selous and Mikumi National Parks Tour Review

If you’re dreaming of an authentic Tanzanian safari that balances game viewing, adventure, and cultural moments, then the 6-Day Selous and Mikumi National Park tour by LILONDO TOURS AND SAFARIS might be just what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally been on this exact trip, thorough research and feedback from travelers paint a compelling picture of what to expect.

What we really appreciate about this experience is the inclusive mix of activities—game drives, boat safaris, walking safaris, and a visit to a nearby Maasai village—which promises a varied and immersive adventure. The guides’ professionalism and the chance to see Africa’s big game up close add to its appeal. However, potential travelers should consider that the tour spans six days, which might be intensive for those with limited stamina or a preference for more leisurely travel.

This tour suits those eager to explore Tanzania’s diverse landscapes in a compact timeframe—wildlife enthusiasts, adventure lovers, and culture seekers alike. If you’re after a balanced safari experience that combines iconic parks with genuine local interactions, this tour could be a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Diverse safari experiences: Includes game drives, boat safaris, and walking safaris for a well-rounded adventure.
• Professional guides: Local experts provide insightful commentary and enhance the experience.
• Vast park landscapes: Selous is Africa’s largest game reserve, Mikumi offers diverse wildlife, including tree-climbing lions.
• Cultural component: Visits to Maasai villages add a meaningful cultural layer to your safari.
• Value for money: At $1,300 per person, the tour covers accommodation, transport, and most activities, offering good overall value.
• Potential challenge: The itinerary involves long drives and active days, so it’s best suited for those physically capable.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Close Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Boat Safari on the Rufiji River

Starting in Dar es Salaam, the journey begins with a pickup and a scenic drive into Selous Game Reserve, Tanzania’s largest protected area. After a picnic lunch, you’ll hop onto a boat for your first taste of wildlife on the Rufiji River. This initial safari offers a fantastic chance to see hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species like kingfishers and herons.

Travelers often mention how peaceful and captivating the boat ride is, with some noting that the birdlife alone makes it worthwhile—over 350 species have been recorded here. It’s a gentle but exciting introduction that sets the tone for the days ahead.

Day 2: Full Day Game Drive in Selous

Expect a full day of wildlife discovery in what’s considered one of Africa’s most remote and less crowded parks. Using 4×4 vehicles, guides lead you through varied terrain—bushland, riverbanks, and open plains—offering ample photo opportunities. The diversity of animals, from elephants and lions to wild dogs and kudus, keeps the excitement high.

One reviewer highlights the skill of guides like Emmanuel, who knew the park intimately and shared fascinating insights, making the game drive much more engaging. Enthusiasts appreciated the chance to see shy animals in their natural habitat, thanks to the park’s vastness and fewer visitors.

Day 3: Walking Safari and Transfer to Mikumi

The morning starts with an adventurous walking safari—a chance to experience the bush on foot and get closer to nature. Afterward, you’ll travel to Mikumi National Park, crossing the Uluguru Mountains, rivers, and local villages. The drive itself is a highlight, offering views of rural Tanzanian life and untouched landscapes.

This transition from Selous’s water-rich environments to Mikumi’s open plains and mountain vistas provides a sense of Tanzania’s ecological diversity. Travelers often mention how scenic and authentic the drive feels, away from tourist-heavy routes.

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Day 4: Full Day Game Drive in Mikumi

Covering 3,230 square kilometers, Mikumi is renowned for its large herds of elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, zebras, and more. The park also boasts rare sightings of tree-climbing lions and predators like leopards and wild dogs. Bird enthusiasts will enjoy spotting species like the lilac-breasted roller and red-billed oxpecker.

Guests frequently praise the professionalism of the guides, who seem genuinely passionate about wildlife and eager to share their knowledge. The landscape, with its open plains and acacia trees, feels quintessentially Tanzanian and offers excellent photographic opportunities throughout the day.

Day 5: Last Game Drive & Maasai Cultural Visit

A morning game drive lets you soak in Mikumi’s scenery and wildlife one last time. After lunch, the tour takes a cultural turn with a visit to a Maasai village nearby. This interaction offers insight into traditional Maasai life, their customs, and crafts—adding a meaningful cultural dimension to the safari.

Reviews note that guides like Peter are particularly good at engaging with visitors and explaining Maasai traditions. It’s a reminder that safaris are not only about animals but also about understanding the communities that share these lands.

Day 6: Return to Dar es Salaam

After breakfast, the journey back to Dar es Salaam wraps up your Tanzanian adventure. The drive is filled with reflections on the wildlife sightings and cultural experiences, making this a well-rounded trip for those seeking both adventure and insight.

Transportation, Accommodation, and Practicalities

The tour uses a safari base vehicle, which is comfortable enough for long drives, and includes a dedicated English-speaking guide—key for understanding the parks’ stories and spotting wildlife. The accommodation at Mloka Safari Lodge and Camp Bastian Mikumi is full board, providing comfortable resting spots after busy days of exploration.

For many travelers, the inclusion of park fees and game drives in the price ($1,300) offers good value, considering that these costs can add up independently if booked separately. The tour also covers pickup and drop-off within Dar es Salaam city center, making logistics straightforward.

While not explicitly specified, travelers should note that the tour isn’t suitable for those with low fitness levels, given the active days and walking safaris. Emergency evacuation insurance and beverages are not included, so planning accordingly is advisable.

Authentic Encounters and Hidden Gems

What makes this tour stand out are the details shared by previous guests. “The guides really know their stuff,” one reviewer states, “and being on the boat at sunset on the Rufiji River was unforgettable.” Many mention the personalized attention from guides like Emmanuel and Peter, who are praised for their ability to spot elusive animals and share stories that bring the experience to life.

The chance to see elephants drinking at waterholes or lions lounging in the shade creates those iconic safari moments that stick with you long after the trip ends. And the evening Maasai visit isn’t just a quick stop—it’s a window into a vibrant culture that’s woven into the land’s fabric.

Final Words: Is This Tour Worth It?

This 6-day adventure offers a rich taste of Tanzania’s wildlife and culture, all bundled into a well-paced itinerary. For those who want a variety of experiences—from boat safaris to game drives, and wildlife sightings to cultural exchanges—it delivers good value for the price.

The guides’ knowledge and the stunning scenery make the journey memorable, especially for first-timers or anyone eager to see Africa’s iconic animals in their natural environment. The compact duration makes it an appealing option for travelers with limited time but a serious passion for wildlife.

However, be prepared for long days and active excursions—it’s not a safari for the faint-hearted or those seeking a very leisurely pace. If you’re comfortable with a bit of physical activity and looking for an authentic, varied safari experience, this tour could be a highlight of your Tanzania trip.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who value expert guidance, genuine wildlife encounters, and a taste of local culture—all wrapped into a manageable 6-day package.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The $1,300 fee covers park and reserve fees, game drives, boat and walking safaris, shared vehicle transportation, full-board accommodation, and English-speaking guides.

Are park fees and activities included?
Yes, park fees and game drives are included in the tour price, removing the hassle of extra costs during the trip.

Can I see a variety of animals?
Absolutely. You can expect to see elephants, lions, wild dogs, buffalo, zebras, kudus, and possibly tree-climbing lions in Mikumi. Birdwatchers will also enjoy over 300 recorded bird species.

What kind of accommodation is provided?
Guests stay at Mloka Safari Lodge and Camp Bastian Mikumi, both offering full-board options that balance comfort with convenience.

Is this tour suitable for children or low-fitness travelers?
It’s best suited for those with moderate fitness levels due to active days involving walking safaris and long drives.

How long are the game drives?
Full-day drives usually span several hours with breaks, offering ample time for wildlife viewing and photography.

How does the boat safari work?
The boat ride along the Rufiji River is a peaceful, scenic experience, perfect for spotting hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife.

What cultural experiences are included?
A visit to a Maasai village provides insight into local customs, crafts, and lifestyle, enriching the safari experience.

What should I pack?
Light clothing, sturdy footwear for walking safaris, sun protection, and binoculars are recommended.

When can I book and pay?
You can reserve your spot now with flexible reservation options—pay later and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

In short, this tour offers a comprehensive, authentic taste of Tanzania’s wildlife and cultural richness. With stunning scenery, expert guides, and a variety of activities, it’s a great choice for those seeking a balanced, memorable African safari experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: