7 Days Wildlife Safari with Mikumi & Ruaha National Park

Tour Code: SA-EN-029
Number of Pax 2 Adults 4 Adults 6 Adults
Price PP in USD $ $ 4,828 pp $ 3,190 pp $ 3,978 pp

The tour price includes everything except international flights, visas, and travel insurance. Accommodation is based on standard/midrange options, with flexibility to upgrade or downgrade to match your budget and style. Click the button below to book or customize this tour. Our experts will be ready to help you tailor your perfect journey.

BOOK THIS TOUR NOW

 

All safari trips can be combined according to your preferences. You may choose one of our suggested itineraries or allow us to design a tailor-made safari in Tanzania that matches your interests and travel budget.

Our safari journeys in Tanzania can also be extended with additional nights in Arusha and combined with a relaxing beach holiday on the paradise island of Zanzibar, located in the Indian Ocean off the east coast of the country, or combined with Kenya’s Masai Mara and other national parks. For added convenience, we also arrange domestic flights for travelers who prefer to fly between Nairobi and Arusha, and Serengeti to Zanzibar.

All safari packages are organized into four accommodation categories to suit different budgets and travel styles. You can also mix accommodation levels throughout your itinerary, allowing you to customize your experience until it perfectly matches your budget and personal preferences. Below is our accommodation categories:

  • Luxury


This category includes only the very best hotels and lodges, designed for travelers who wish to indulge in premium comfort and experience the highest standards of accommodation available in Tanzania. It is ideal for those who want exceptional service, exclusive locations, and a truly luxurious safari experience.

  • Standard (Mid-range)


This is our most common safari option, featuring comfortable hotels and well-selected lodges at affordable prices. It is ideal for travelers who do not wish to pay for luxury but still want good-quality accommodation and a pleasant, comfortable stay during their safari experience.

  • Budget


This option is designed for travelers whose budget does not extend to the “Standard” category, but who still want to experience as many national parks as possible at an affordable price. Budget travelers place less emphasis on hotel quality and are comfortable staying in simple, clean, and basic accommodations with fewer facilities. This option is often ideal for young travelers or experienced adventurers, such as former backpackers, who prioritize experiences over luxury and comfort.

DAY BY DAY ITINERARY:

DAY 1: DAR ES SALAAM TO MIKUMI NATIONAL PARK

Your safari begins with a morning departure from Dar es Salaam, travelling through the scenic landscapes of southern Tanzania towards Mikumi National Park. The journey provides an opportunity to experience the beauty of the region, passing through rural villages, farmlands, and changing landscapes as you approach this remarkable wildlife destination. Upon arrival, lunch will be served either at the lodge or as a picnic lunch depending on the arrival time and Safari schedule, usually between 12:30 PM and 1:30 PM. After lunch, proceed for your first safari experience in Mikumi, exploring the renowned Mkata River Floodplain, a wildlife-rich area characterized by open savannah and diverse habitats. During the afternoon game drive, you will have the opportunity to observe elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, antelopes, and other wildlife species while enjoying the spectacular scenery of the park. As the day comes to an end, return to Mikumi Safari Lodge to relax and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the African wilderness, followed by dinner served between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM and overnight accommodation.

Accommodations:

🥈 Budget: Camp Bastian Mikumi
🥇 Mid-Range: Mikumi Safari Lodge
💎 Luxury: Mikumi wildlife Camp

DAY 2: GAME DRIVE IN MIKUMI NATIONAL PARK

After breakfast at the Lodge between 6:30 AM and 7:30 AM, depart for a full-day safari adventure through the diverse habitats of Mikumi National Park. The morning will be dedicated to exploring the park’s open savannahs, woodland areas, and seasonal water sources, where wildlife often gathers during the cooler hours of the day. Your safari will take you through the Mkata Chamgore and Mkata Flood Plain, offering opportunities to observe the natural behaviour of wildlife in their undisturbed environment. As you explore the park, you may encounter elephants moving through the grasslands, buffaloes grazing in herds, giraffes browsing among the trees, and zebras, wildebeests, impalas, and other antelope species spread across the plains. The morning game drive will continue until approximately 12:30 PM, when you will stop for a picnic lunch in a designated area within the park, enjoying your meal surrounded by the peaceful atmosphere of the African wilderness. After lunch, resume the safari with an afternoon exploration of different sections of the park, taking time to appreciate the changing landscapes, observe birdlife, and search for additional wildlife encounters as the day progresses. In the late afternoon, begin the return journey to Mikumi Safari Lodge, arriving in time to relax and refresh after a rewarding day in the bush. Dinner will be served between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM, followed by overnight accommodation at the Lodge.

Accommodations:

🥈 Budget: Camp Bastian Mikumi
🥇 Mid-Range: Mikumi Safari Lodge
💎 Luxury: Mikumi Wildlife Camp

DAY 3: MIKUMI NATIONAL PARK TO RUAHA NATIONAL PARK

After breakfast at the camp between 6:30 AM and 7:30 AM, depart from Mikumi National Park and begin the journey to Ruaha National Park. The drive takes up most of the day and offers the opportunity to enjoy the changing landscapes of southern Tanzania, including rural villages, farmlands, and scenic countryside along the route. Lunch will be served between 12:30 PM and 1:30 PM, either as a packed lunch enjoyed along the way or at a selected restaurant, depending on the day’s schedule and travel arrangements. Continue the journey to Ruaha National Park and, upon arrival, proceed to Ruaha Hilltop Lodge for check-in and time to relax after the long drive. Depending on the arrival time and road conditions, a short evening activity may be arranged; otherwise, the remainder of the afternoon will be spent relaxing at the lodge. Dinner will be served between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM, followed by overnight accommodation at the lodge.

Accommodations:

🥈 Budget: Tanapa Public Campsites
🥇 Mid-Range: Ruaha Hilltop Lodge
💎 Luxury: Jabali ridge

DAY 4: GAME DRIVE IN RUAHA NATIONAL PARK

After breakfast at the lodge between 6:30 AM and 7:30 AM, depart for a full-day game drive through the remarkable wilderness of Ruaha National Park. The safari will take you through the park’s vast savannahs, woodland areas, and diverse wildlife habitats, including areas around the Great Ruaha River, an important source of water and a key wildlife area within the park. During the morning game drive, you may encounter large herds of elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, greater kudu, impalas, and other wildlife, while enjoying opportunities for birdwatching and photography. A picnic lunch will be served in the park between 12:30 PM and 1:30 PM, allowing you to enjoy a meal in the wilderness before continuing with the afternoon safari. After lunch, resume the game drive through different areas of the park, taking advantage of the afternoon hours for further wildlife viewing and photography before returning to Ruaha Hilltop Lodge in the late afternoon. Dinner will be served between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM, followed by overnight accommodation at the lodge.

Accommodations:

🥈 Budget: Tanapa Public Campsites
🥇 Mid-Range: Ruaha Hilltop Lodge
💎 Luxury: Jabali ridge

DAY 5: EXTENDED GAME DRIVE IN RUAHA NATIONAL PARK

After breakfast at the lodge between 6:30 AM and 7:30 AM, embark on an extended full-day game drive through the vast wilderness of Ruaha National Park. The day’s safari will focus on exploring different sections of the park, including its expansive savannahs, woodland areas, and riverine ecosystems, offering a deeper appreciation of Ruaha’s diverse landscapes and rich wildlife. Throughout the drive, you may encounter elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, greater kudu, impalas, and other wildlife, as well as a variety of bird species. A picnic lunch will be served in the park between 12:30 PM and 1:30 PM, allowing you to remain within the wilderness and maximize the time available for exploration. After lunch, continue the extended game drive through additional areas of the park, with further opportunities for wildlife viewing, photography, and observing the natural behaviour of the animals in their surroundings. In the late afternoon, return to Ruaha Hilltop Lodge to relax after the day’s safari. Dinner will be served between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM, followed by overnight accommodation at the lodge.

Accommodations:

🥈 Budget: Tanapa Public Campsites
🥇 Mid-Range: Ruaha Hilltop Lodge
💎 Luxury: Jabali ridge

DAY 6: RUAHA NATIONAL PARK TO MIKUMI NATIONAL PARK

After breakfast at the lodge between 6:30 AM and 7:30 AM, depart from Ruaha National Park and begin the journey back to Mikumi National Park. The return journey will take you through the scenic landscapes of southern Tanzania, offering views of rural communities, farmlands, and changing countryside along the route. Lunch will be served between 12:30 PM and 1:30 PM, either as a packed lunch enjoyed along the way or at a selected restaurant, depending on the day’s schedule and travel arrangements. Continue the journey to Mikumi National Park, and upon arrival, proceed to Mikumi Safari Lodge for check-in and time to relax after the day’s travel. The remainder of the evening will be at leisure, allowing you to unwind and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the camp. Dinner will be served between 7:00 PM and 9:00 PM, followed by overnight accommodation at the Lodge.

Accommodations:

🥈 Budget: Camp Bastian Mikumi
🥇 Mid-Range: Mikumi Safari Lodge
💎 Luxury: Mikumi wildlife Camp

DAY 7: MIKUMI NATIONAL PARK TO DAR ES SALAAM

After breakfast at Camp Bastian between 6:30 AM and 7:30 AM, depart for a final morning game drive in Mikumi National Park. The early morning hours provide an excellent opportunity for one last wildlife experience, as many animals are active during the cooler part of the day. Continue exploring the park’s savannah landscapes and wildlife-rich areas, with opportunities to observe species such as elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, antelopes, and various bird species before exiting the park at approximately 11:00 AM. Thereafter, begin the journey to Dar es Salaam, travelling through the scenic landscapes and rural communities of southern Tanzania. Lunch will be served between 12:30 PM and 1:30 PM, either as a packed lunch enjoyed along the way or at a selected restaurant, depending on the day’s schedule and travel arrangements. Continue the journey to Dar es Salaam, where you will arrive later in the day and be transferred to your preferred location, marking the conclusion of your safari adventure.

 


~ End of Tour ~


 

TOUR RATES


Tour Code: SA-EN-029
Number of Pax 2 Adults 4 Adults 6 Adults
Price PP in USD $ $ 4,828 pp $ 4,190 pp $ 3,978 pp

The tour price includes everything except international flights, visas, and travel insurance. Accommodation is based on standard/midrange options, with flexibility to upgrade or downgrade to match your budget and style. Click the button below to book or customize this tour. Our experts will be ready to help you tailor your perfect journey.

BOOK THIS TOUR NOW

 

Payment:

  • 30% is paid in advance, and the remaining 70% is due no later than 14 days before the safari starts.
  • It typically takes up to 5 banking days for the payment to reach our bank in Tanzania.
  • Please email contact@safariasap.com as soon as the payment has been made.
  • Use your name as the reference for the payment/bank transfer.

Travel Condition:

INCLUDES:

  • All activities unless indicated as optional
  • 4×4 Safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for the best wildlife viewing
  • Meals as specified in the day-by-day section
  • All park fees
  • All accommodation during the safari (As specified in the itinerary)
  • Drinking water (on all days)
  • Taxes/VAT
  • Professional guide
  • Electricity Sockets and refrigerators on our Safari Vehicle
  • All transportations unless labeled as optional
  • Government taxes
  • Transfer to, and from Kilimanjaro international airport or Arusha airport

EXCLUDES:

  • International and Domestic Flights
  • Flying Doctors Coverage (Optional @ US$50 per person for a period of 14 days)
  • Personal items (Souvenirs, Insurances, Visa fees etc.)
  • Travel insurance, cancellation protection, vaccinations, and personal equipment
  • Tips for the driver who is also the guide or a translator (recommended tip 20–30 US dollars per day)
  • Alcoholic and Soft drinks
  • Optional Activities
  • Shopping

Frequently Asked Questions About Safari

What is the best time to go on safari in Tanzania?

The best time to visit Tanzania is during the main dry season, from June to October. During this period, rainfall is minimal, making travel across national parks easier and ensuring excellent wildlife viewing as animals gather around remaining water sources. While the rainy seasons bring lush green landscapes, they can also make some roads and trekking trails more challenging due to mud and slippery conditions, especially in remote areas.

How many days do I need for a safari in Tanzania?

The ideal number of days for a safari in Tanzania depends on the experience you want, but here is a clear guide:

A minimum of 3–4 days is enough for a short safari, usually covering one or two parks such as Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater. This is suitable for travelers with limited time. However, a more complete and rewarding safari experience is 6–10 days, which allows you to explore Tanzania’s top destinations at a relaxed pace, including Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and sometimes Lake Manyara.

If you want to experience the Great Wildebeest Migration or go deeper into remote areas of the Serengeti, a longer itinerary of 10–12 days or more is highly recommended.

What Animals will I see on safari?

On a Tanzania safari, you can expect to see an incredible variety of wildlife, including the famous Big Five: lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo, and rhinoceros. In addition to these iconic animals, you will often encounter giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, crocodiles, cheetahs, hyenas, and jackals roaming freely in their natural habitats. Tanzania is also a paradise for bird enthusiasts, with over 1,000 species recorded, including flamingos, eagles, ostriches, and brightly colored kingfishers. The exact sightings depend on the park and season, but destinations such as the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park consistently offer some of the best and most diverse wildlife viewing experiences in Africa.

Is Tanzania safe for safari travel?

Yes, Tanzania is generally very safe for safari travel, especially when you book with a reputable tour operator like Safari ASAP and travel with experienced guides. Tourism is one of the country’s most important industries, and national parks are well managed with trained rangers and regulated visitor access. During game drives and lodge stays, safety standards are high, and guides are always there to ensure you follow park rules and stay safe around wildlife. As with any travel destination, it is always recommended to take normal precautions, but overall Tanzania is considered one of the safest and most rewarding safari destinations in Africa.

What should I pack for a safari?

For a safari in Tanzania, it’s best to pack light, practical, and comfortable clothing suited for changing temperatures. Neutral-colored clothes such as beige, khaki, green, and brown are ideal, as they help you blend into the environment and avoid attracting insects, especially tsetse flies. You should also bring comfortable walking shoes or boots, a wide-brim hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for protection during game drives. A light jacket or fleece is important for early morning and evening drives, as it can get chilly. Other essentials include insect repellent, binoculars for wildlife viewing, a good camera, and personal medications. It’s also advisable to pack a small backpack for daily safari use and avoid heavy luggage due to vehicle space limitations.

Are Safari Asap safaris private or shared??

All Safari Asap safaris are private. We specialize in personalized experiences with dedicated guides, private vehicles, and itineraries tailored to your interests and pace. We do not offer shared or joining safaris, as they can be difficult to coordinate in Tanzania due to different accommodation choices, budgets, and travel preferences. Shared safaris often involve multiple hotel pick-ups, reducing valuable game-viewing time and affecting the overall experience. With a private safari, you enjoy greater flexibility, comfort, and a smoother, more rewarding wildlife experience.

Do I need a visa to visit Tanzania?

Yes, most international travelers need a visa to visit Tanzania. The visa can be obtained either online through the official e-visa system before arrival or on arrival at major entry points such as airports and border crossings, depending on your nationality. A standard tourist visa usually costs USD$ 50, and it is valid for up to 90 days and is suitable for safari and holiday travel. It is always recommended to check the latest visa requirements based on your nationality before traveling, as rules may change.

Can I see the Great Wildebeest Migration?

Yes, you can see the Great Wildebeest Migration in Tanzania or the Masai Mara in Kenya, and it is one of the most spectacular wildlife experiences in the world. The migration is a continuous movement of over a million wildebeest, along with zebras and gazelles, traveling through the Serengeti ecosystem in search of fresh grazing and water.

The exact location of the herds changes throughout the year, so different regions of the Serengeti offer different highlights depending on the season. For example, the southern Serengeti is famous for the calving season between January and March, while the western and northern Serengeti are known for dramatic river crossings around the Grumeti and Mara Rivers between June and October. Because the migration is year-round and always moving, with the right timing and planning, it is possible to witness this natural wonder in Tanzania at different stages throughout the year.

Is tipping expected on safari in Tanzania?

Yes, tipping is customary and appreciated in Tanzania’s safari industry, as it is a way to show gratitude for good service. While it is not compulsory, it is a widely accepted practice for guides, drivers, and lodge staff who work hard to make your experience enjoyable. As a general guide, many travelers tip their safari guide at the end of the trip, 20 USD per person per day for the guide, and smaller amounts are also often given to lodge or camp staff through a shared tipping box. The exact amount depends on the level of service and your satisfaction, but your tour operator can always advise you on appropriate and fair tipping guidelines.

What are safari vehicles like during a safari in Tanzania?

Our safari vehicles are 4×4 Toyota Land Cruisers equipped with charging sockets for phones and cameras, air conditioning for comfort, and a built-in cool box stocked with free drinking water for guests throughout the safari.

How can I personalize my Tanzania trip with your services?

At Safari Asap, every trip is tailor-made to match your interests, travel style, and budget. Whether you are interested in wildlife safaris, the Great Migration, cultural experiences, hiking, beach relaxation in Zanzibar, or a combination of activities, we can design an itinerary specifically for you. You can choose your preferred accommodation standard, travel pace, activities, and destinations, while our experienced local team takes care of all the logistics to create a seamless and memorable Tanzania experience.

What can I expect from a safari in Tanzania with Safari Asap?

Expect unforgettable wildlife encounters, breathtaking landscapes, and expert guidance throughout your journey. Your safari will include game drives in Tanzania’s famous national parks, opportunities to see the Big Five and other incredible wildlife, comfortable accommodations, and a private guide dedicated to your experience. At Safari Asap, we focus on personalized service, flexible itineraries, and authentic local knowledge to ensure your safari is both seamless and memorable from arrival to departure.

How sustainable is safari travel with Safari Asap?

At Safari Asap, sustainability is at the heart of every safari experience. We are committed to responsible tourism that protects Tanzania’s wildlife, preserves natural habitats, and supports local communities. Our safaris are designed to minimize environmental impact by working with eco-friendly lodges, reducing unnecessary waste, and encouraging respectful wildlife viewing practices. We also actively support community-based projects, cultural experiences, and local employment, ensuring that tourism directly benefits the people living near the parks. By traveling with Safari Asap, guests are not only experiencing the beauty of Tanzania but also contributing to conservation and long-term sustainability efforts.

What is a typical day like on safari?

A typical safari day in Tanzania follows the rhythm of nature. In the morning, you start early with a game drive when animals are most active, and the light is perfect for photography. Around noon, you can return to the lodge or camp for lunch and some rest or continue with a game drive. In the afternoon, you head back into the park for another game drive, exploring different areas and spotting more wildlife. In the evening, you enjoy sunset views over the savannah before returning to camp. At night, you have dinner and relax around the campfire or in your lodge, often listening to the sounds of the African bush under the stars.

Can I combine a Tanzania safari with Kenya’s Maasai Mara?

Yes, you can easily combine a Tanzania safari (Serengeti) with Kenya’s Maasai Mara in one trip. Both parks are part of the same Serengeti–Maasai Mara ecosystem, so wildlife, especially the Great Wildebeest Migration, moves between them depending on the season. Travelers usually connect the two destinations by flight between Serengeti airstrips and the Maasai Mara, or by road through the Isebania border. This combination offers a richer safari experience with diverse landscapes, cultures, and incredible wildlife sightings in both countries.

Which airport should I use to land for a safari in Tanzania?

The main airport to start your safari in Tanzania is Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), located between Arusha and Moshi. It is the most convenient gateway for safaris to Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara.

Alternatively, you can also fly into Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam or Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) in Zanzibar, depending on your travel route. From these airports, you can connect to safari destinations via domestic flights or road transfers. For most safari itineraries, Kilimanjaro Airport is the best and most recommended entry point for a smooth and efficient start to your Tanzania adventure.

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