5 Days Mikumi & Ruaha National Park
Safari Overview
This 5-day safari adventure takes you deep into Tanzania’s stunning wilderness, exploring the diverse landscapes and incredible wildlife of Mikumi National Park and Ruaha National Park. Mikumi, known for its vast savannahs and easy wildlife spotting, is often compared to the Serengeti, while Ruaha offers a more rugged, less crowded safari experience with dramatic landscapes and exceptional predator sightings. During this journey, you will embark on thrilling game drives, witness the Big Five and other iconic African wildlife, and experience breathtaking scenery. Whether it’s the open plains of Mikumi or the remote wilderness of Ruaha, this safari provides an unforgettable adventure.
Day 1: Dar es Salaam → Mikumi National Park
Depart Dar es Salaam early in the morning for a 5-hour drive (280 km) to Mikumi National Park. Enjoy a scenic drive through the Tanzanian countryside. Arrive at Mikumi National Park in time for lunch at the lodge. In the afternoon, set off on a game drive, where you will spot elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, buffaloes, lions, and a variety of antelope species. Dinner and overnight stay at a lodge/camp inside the park.
Day 2: Full-Day Game Drive in Mikumi National Park
After an early breakfast, embark on a full-day game drive in Mikumi. Visit the Mkata floodplain, an area teeming with wildlife, often compared to the Serengeti. Spot predators such as lions, leopards, and hyenas as they roam the park. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush, surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of the park. Continue your game drive in the afternoon, searching for hippos, crocodiles, and diverse bird species near the waterholes. Return to your lodge/camp for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 3: Mikumi → Ruaha National Park
After breakfast, depart Mikumi and embark on a 5 to 6-hour drive towards Ruaha National Park. Enjoy stunning landscapes as you travel through Baobab Valley and the Rift Valley escarpments. Stop for lunch in Iringa, a historic town in southern Tanzania. Arrive at Ruaha National Park in the afternoon, check in at your lodge, and enjoy a sunset game drive. Dinner and overnight stay at a lodge/camp in Ruaha.
Day 4: Full-Day Game Drive in Ruaha National Park
Start the day with an early morning game drive to witness the African sunrise and catch predators in action. Return to the lodge for breakfast, then continue with a mid-morning game drive. Ruaha is famous for its large elephant population, as well as lions, cheetahs, leopards, and African wild dogs. Lunch at the lodge/camp, followed by some time to relax and enjoy the stunning views. Depart for an evening game drive, capturing the park’s beauty at sunset. Return to the lodge for dinner and an overnight stay.
Day 5: Ruaha → Dar es Salaam
Enjoy one last early morning game drive, then return to the lodge for breakfast. Begin the 8-hour journey back to Dar es Salaam, with lunch en route. Arrive in Dar es Salaam in the evening, marking the end of your unforgettable safari.
Why Choose This Safari?
✅ Diverse Destinations – Explore a mix of savannah, wetlands, and tropical rainforests.
✅ Exclusive Wildlife Experiences – Visit less crowded parks with abundant game.
✅ Variety of Activities – Enjoy game drives, boat safaris, walking safaris, and trekking.
✅ Breathtaking Scenery – Experience open plains, river systems, and mountain landscapes.
This itinerary offers an authentic and immersive Tanzanian safari, perfect for wildlife lovers, adventure seekers, and those looking to explore off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Included Packages
Excluded Packages
Packing List
Safari Activities
Best Time For Safari
The dry season (June–October and January–February) offers clear skies and is ideal for wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources. Avoid the rainy season (March–May and November–December).
Ensure you're fully equipped for the adventure. Key items include:
