From Dar Es Salaam: Mikumi National Park 2 Nights and 3 Days

Contents show

From Dar Es Salaam: Mikumi National Park 2 Nights and 3 Days – An Authentic Safari Adventure

Travelers dreaming of a genuine African safari experience will find this 3-day tour to Mikumi National Park from Dar es Salaam both practical and exciting. With its balance of wildlife encounters, scenic views, and comfortable stays, this journey offers a taste of Tanzania’s rich biodiversity without the long, arduous trips often associated with more remote parks.

What draws us in are the chance to see iconic animals like elephants and lions, the chance to witness the park’s impressive buffalo herds, and the opportunity to soak in some breathtaking landscapes—especially the savannahs reminiscent of the Serengeti. The well-organized itinerary and the inclusion of a knowledgeable guide make this an appealing choice. A potential consideration? The 107 km drive from Dar es Salaam means some early mornings, but that’s part of the adventure.

This tour suits travelers who crave authentic wildlife encounters, value good logistics, and are looking for a hassle-free way to explore Tanzania’s wilderness. It’s perfect for first-timers or those short on time who want a comprehensive, well-rated safari experience without sacrificing comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Wildlife Highlights: Expect to see giraffes, elephants, lions, zebras, buffaloes, and crocodiles, with chances to observe the park’s unique subspecies.
Scenic Landscapes: Mikumi’s landscape features iconic baobabs, grassy plains, and mountains like Malundwe, offering stunning views at every turn.
Expert Guides & Comfortable Stay: Enjoy the company of an English-speaking driver-guide and stay at Camp Bastian, praised for its African charm and good amenities.
Full-Day Wildlife Encounters: A whole day dedicated to game drives maximizes your chances of spotting diverse animal species.
Early Mornings & Late Afternoons: Game viewing is best during these times, making the schedule lively and engaging.
Value for Money: The $899 package includes transport, park fees, guide, and most meals, representing good value for a well-organized safari.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Dar Es Salaam

A Closer Look at the Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Day 1: Departure and Initial Game Drive

Starting early from Dar es Salaam, you’ll meet your driver-guide at a designated spot for a quick briefing and to collect your packed lunch. The roughly 2-hour drive to Mikumi is straightforward, and the scenery along the way offers glimpses of rural Tanzania. You’ll stop en route for lunch, giving you a chance to stretch your legs and enjoy local flavors.

Arriving in Mikumi, the afternoon game drive begins. Mikumi’s location—bordered by mountains and part of the Selous ecosystem—means it has a high density of animals. Expect to see giraffes, zebras, and maybe even predators like lions and hyenas. The park’s terrain is often compared to the Serengeti, with expansive grassy plains dotted with acacia and iconic baobabs, making every drive scenic.

The evening concludes with dinner and an overnight stay at Camp Bastian, which offers a warm, welcoming base after an exciting day.

Day 2: Full Day of Wildlife Watching

After a hearty breakfast, the focus is on a full-day game drive. Mikumi is home to more than just the Big Five; it hosts a considerable population of elephants, hippopotamuses, crocodiles, and a unique giraffe subspecies—considered a bridge between Maasai and Somali giraffes.

The landscape here is dotted with vegetation including tamarinds, rare palms, and the towering Malundwe Mountain, whose highest peak reaches 1290 meters. These features make every view a postcard-worthy shot.

A highlight from traveler reviews is the experience of seeing animals up close, with one visitor praising the “keen-eyed guide” who never missed an animal sighting. Lunch will be at a scenic picnic site inside the park, allowing you to enjoy the wilderness while refueling.

More Great Tours Nearby

Day 3: Return Journey with En Route Game Viewing

On your final morning, after breakfast, you’ll check out and head back towards Dar es Salaam. En route, your guide will likely look for last-minute wildlife sightings, maximizing your chances of spotting animals before leaving the park.

The drive back offers more opportunities for photography and casual wildlife spotting, making the return a peaceful reflection on the trip. Upon arrival, you’ll be dropped at your hotel or airport, concluding your safari adventure.

There's plenty more to explore in Dar Es Salaam

Practical Details & What Sets This Tour Apart

Transportation & Comfort

Using a 4×4 safari vehicle, the tour ensures good visibility and access to various park terrains. The vehicles are designed for game drives, offering open sides for unobstructed views and plenty of space for passengers. According to reviews, the driver-guide is not just safe but attentive to wildlife sightings, with one traveler mentioning a “safe driver who always had something new to show.”

Accommodation & Meals

Staying at Camp Bastian offers a genuine African vibe—simple, comfortable, and well-rated for its hospitality. The full-board option means your meals are covered, and travelers can expect hearty, local-style dishes. One reviewer called the accommodation “African and excellent,” emphasizing its cozy atmosphere after long days of game viewing.

Pricing & Value

At $899 per person, this package covers park fees, guide services, accommodation, and transport, which is reasonable considering the comprehensive experience. The inclusion of a full-day game drive and expert guide adds significant value, especially for those seeking a hassle-free safari.

Best Time to Visit

Wildlife viewing is good year-round, but the dry season from late June to October tends to offer the best visibility. During this period, animals gather around waterholes, making sightings more predictable. September and October are especially rewarding, according to traveler insights, as animals come to drink at the last remaining water sources.

What Reviewers Say

Two recent travelers gave this experience a perfect 5-star rating, praising the expert guide and the ability to see animals up close. One comment highlighted the guide’s keen eyes, ensuring no animal was missed, making for an engaging and educational experience.

Another reviewer appreciated the authenticity of the stay and the well-organized schedule that maximizes wildlife encounters without feeling rushed. The consistency of positive reviews suggests this tour hits the right notes for most safari enthusiasts.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This safari suits those who want a full, authentic Tanzania experience with minimal fuss. It’s ideal for first-time safari-goers, wildlife lovers, and anyone eager to see big game in a setting that’s less crowded than more famous parks. The tour’s balance of comfort, adventure, and value makes it appealing even for travelers with a tight schedule.

The Sum Up

This 3-day Mikumi National Park safari from Dar es Salaam offers a well-rounded, budget-conscious way to experience Tanzania’s wildlife. With the chance to see iconic animals, enjoy scenic landscapes, and stay in comfortable accommodations, it provides excellent value for money. The knowledgeable guide and carefully planned itinerary ensure you maximize your chances of unforgettable sightings.

If you’re after an authentic, accessible safari that combines wildlife encounters with stunning scenery, this trip ticks all the boxes. It’s perfect for those new to African safaris or anyone keen on a quick but meaningful wilderness adventure without sacrificing comfort.

FAQ

What is included in the tour price?
The package covers park entry fees, accommodation at Camp Bastian, a 4×4 safari vehicle, an English-speaking driver-guide, full-board meals, and one bottle of mineral water per day.

Are flights included?
No, all domestic and international flights are not included. It’s up to you to arrange your transport to and from Dar es Salaam.

Can I customize the schedule?
The tour follows a set itinerary, but you can discuss any specific requests with the operator. Keep in mind that the schedule is designed to optimize wildlife sightings.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID card, comfortable clothing suitable for safaris, sun protection, and a camera. It’s also good to have some cash for personal expenses.

Is wildlife viewing possible throughout the year?
Yes, it’s possible year-round, but the best time is from late June to October when the vegetation is thinner and animals gather around water sources.

How long is the drive from Dar es Salaam to Mikumi?
Approximately 107 kilometers, which takes around two hours in good traffic conditions.

Is this tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s generally not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to the nature of game drives and accommodation.

How do I pay for the tour?
You can reserve your spot now and pay later—booking is flexible and allows you to secure your place without immediate payment.

What is the accommodation like?
Camp Bastian offers a comfortable, authentic African experience with positive reviews praising its hospitality and setting.

How do I cancel or reschedule?
Cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if plans change.

This Mikumi safari from Dar es Salaam promises a memorable, accessible journey into Tanzania’s wilderness, perfect for wildlife lovers and adventure seekers alike.