6-Day Mikumi, Udzungwa & Ruaha
A varied southern Tanzania safari: open savannah in Mikumi, a rainforest hike to Sanje Waterfalls in Udzungwa, and big-game action along the Ruaha River. Private 4×4 with an experienced guide. Start and finish in Dar es Salaam (you can also fly from Zanzibar to join). To save time, you can fly out of Ruaha at the end.
Itinerary
Day 1: Dar es Salaam → Mikumi
Morning pickup and drive (or short flight) to Mikumi National Park.
Afternoon game drive for elephants, giraffes, zebras, and lions.
Dinner and overnight in/near Mikumi.
Day 2: Mikumi — full day
Sunrise and afternoon game drives on the Mkata floodplain.
Look for big cats, hippos, and large antelope herds.
Overnight in/near Mikumi.
Day 3: Mikumi → Udzungwa Mountains
Short drive to Udzungwa Mountains National Park.
Ranger-guided hike to Sanje Waterfalls (great views; moderate fitness).
Forest wildlife: colobus and vervet monkeys, birds, butterflies.
Overnight near Udzungwa (or return to Mikumi if you prefer lodge comfort).
Day 4: Udzungwa → Ruaha
Scenic drive via Iringa to Ruaha National Park.
Enter the park and, time allowing, short evening game drive.
Overnight in Ruaha.
Day 5: Ruaha — full day
Full-day or split game drives along the Ruaha River and baobab hills.
Strong chances for elephants, lions, and large buffalo herds.
Sunset and overnight in Ruaha.
Day 6: Ruaha → Dar es Salaam (or Zanzibar)
Short morning game drive if time allows.
Fly from Msembe Airstrip to Dar/Zanzibar (recommended) or start the road journey back.
Trip ends with drop-off at hotel or airport.
Private 4×4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
English-speaking driver-guide
Park and conservation fees (Mikumi, Udzungwa, Ruaha)
5 nights in mid-range lodges/tented camps (private ensuite)
Meals as per itinerary (breakfast, lunch, dinner)
Bottled drinking water in the vehicle
Transfers in Dar es Salaam and to/from airstrips if flying
International flights
Domestic flights (optional Dar/Zanzibar ↔ Ruaha; can be arranged on request)
Visas and travel insurance
Optional activities (night drive or walking safari where offered), spa, and personal expenses
Drinks at lodges/camps other than drinking water
Tips for guide and lodge staff
Season note: Best wildlife viewing is June–October (dry season). Green months (November–May) are lush with great birding; some trails can be slippery during rains.