Tanzania · Safari

6-Day Southern Tanzania Safari through Mikumi, Udzungwa and Ruaha

6 Days Round trip from Mikumi Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Explore the wildlife-rich plains of Mikumi National Park on exciting game drives
  • 02 Hike through rainforest trails in Udzungwa Mountains to reach the spectacular Sanje Waterfalls
  • 03 Discover diverse wildlife in Ruaha National Park, including elephants, lions, and rare African wild dogs
  • 04 Enjoy birdwatching and scenic landscapes across rivers, mountains, and open savannah

Discover Southern Tanzania on a six-day safari through Mikumi National Park, Udzungwa Mountains National Park, and Ruaha National Park. Enjoy exciting game drives across open plains in search of lions, elephants, giraffes, buffalo, and other wildlife. Hike through lush rainforest trails to the spectacular Sanje Waterfalls and admire panoramic mountain views. This journey combines classic wildlife safari adventures with tropical forest exploration in some of Tanzania's most remarkable and less crowded destinations.

Start early with a guided hike to the spectacular Sanje Waterfalls.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 6 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access No
Cities Dar es Salaam, Mikumi National Park, Ruaha National Park, Udzungwa Mountains National Park
Languages English, French, German, Italian, Spanish

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Dar es Salaam to Mikumi National Park Safari

  • Begin with morning pickup from your hotel or airport in Dar es Salaam and drive to Mikumi National Park through the Tanzanian countryside.

  • Arrive in time for lunch at the lodge.

  • Enjoy an afternoon game drive exploring the open plains and the Mkata Floodplain, where wildlife such as lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and buffalo can often be seen.

2
Day 02

Full-Day Game Drive in Mikumi National Park

  • Depart after breakfast for a full-day game drive in Mikumi National Park with a picnic lunch.

  • Explore different areas of the park, including the hippo pools and open plains, while searching for wildlife such as lions, hyenas, buffalo, and elephants.

  • Return to the lodge in the late afternoon.

3
Day 03

Mikumi to Udzungwa Mountains National Park

  • After breakfast, drive to Udzungwa Mountains National Park.

  • Discover the lush rainforest landscapes and learn about the endemic primates found in the park.

  • Relax at the lodge or enjoy a short nature walk near the forest.

Dinner and overnight at Udzungwa Forest Lodge.

4
Day 04

Udzungwa Hike to Sanje Waterfalls and Transfer to Ruaha

  • Start early with a guided hike to the spectacular Sanje Waterfalls.

  • Enjoy panoramic views and the opportunity for swimming in the natural pools near the waterfall.

  • Drive to Ruaha National Park and arrive in the evening.

Dinner and overnight at Ruaha River Lodge.

5
Day 05

Full-Day Game Drive in Ruaha National Park

  • Enjoy a full-day game drive in Ruaha National Park after breakfast.

  • Observe large elephant herds, predators, and possibly rare African wild dogs while exploring the park's landscapes with baobab trees.

  • Enjoy a picnic lunch inside the park.

Dinner and overnight at Ruaha River Lodge.

6
Day 06

Final Game Drive in Ruaha and Departure

  • After an early breakfast, enjoy a final morning game drive in Ruaha National Park, when wildlife is most active during the cool morning hours.

  • Look out for elephants gathering along the Great Ruaha River, predators returning from a night hunt, and antelope grazing in the golden sunrise light.

  • Return to the lodge after the game drive for a short rest and refreshments before check-out.

  • Conclude your safari experience and depart after your stay.

Mkata Floodplain, Mikumi National Park plains, Sanje Waterfalls rainforest pools, Great Ruaha River

Where this trip takes you

Mkata Floodplain, Mikumi National Park plains, Sanje Waterfalls rainforest pools, Great Ruaha River

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Mikumi 4 cities · 6 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Lodge safari according to the itinerary
  • Transportation in a 4x4 safari vehicle
  • Professional, English-speaking guide
  • Overnight accommodation according to the itinerary
  • Mineral water and meals according to the itinerary
  • All mentioned activities
  • All national park fees

What's Not Included

  • Flights
  • Optional activities
  • Alcoholic and soft drinks
  • Visa fees
  • Tips
  • Personal spending money for souvenirs, etc.
  • Travel insurance

What to bring

  • Light, comfortable clothing in neutral colors (khaki, green, brown)
  • Hat and sunglasses for sun protection
  • Sunscreen and insect repellent
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Camera or smartphone for wildlife photography
  • Binoculars for better wildlife viewing
  • Personal medications and toiletries
  • Light jacket or sweater for early morning and evening game drives
  • Reusable water bottle

Know before you go

  • The best time for wildlife viewing is during the dry season (June-October).
  • Ruaha can be reached by domestic flight or road transfer.
  • Accommodation options range from budget to luxury lodges and camps.
  • Travel insurance and recommended vaccinations are advised.
  • Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed, as animals move freely.
  • A deposit is usually required to confirm the booking.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Mikumi, Tanzania
Tour start
Mikumi, Tanzania
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 6 days finish where they began, in Mikumi.

Watch the tourHQ film Watch the film

Create your own adventure

Can't find the perfect tour? Tailor your dream trip.

  • Tell us your destination, dates and group size.
  • Our travel experts and local guides design a tailored itinerary, just for you.
  • Enjoy your trip with peace of mind, knowing everything is taken care of.
Plan my holiday

Say goodbye to travel stress.

Starting from

USD 2,866 /person
Book This Tour

Estimated room rates

Single Room $2,866.00 — $3,754.00
Double Sharing $2,866.00

When

Travellers

Total