Overview

The 2 Day Mikumi Safari is one of the most convenient and rewarding short safari options in Tanzania, designed specifically for travelers departing from Dar es Salaam.

Mikumi National Park offers wide open savannah landscapes that resemble the Serengeti ecosystem, making it an excellent destination for quick wildlife encounters without long travel times or complex logistics.

This safari is ideal for weekend travelers, business visitors, cruise passengers, and anyone looking for an affordable and accessible wildlife experience within a short timeframe.

Despite its proximity to the city, Mikumi provides genuine safari encounters with large mammals, predators, and diverse birdlife.

Why Choose This 2-Day Safari?

Mikumi is one of Tanzania’s easiest parks to access, yet it still delivers a rich safari experience.

Close to Dar es Salaam

Only a few hours’ drive via a good highway makes it ideal for short trips.

Open Savannah Wildlife Viewing

The Mkata floodplain allows for excellent visibility of animals.

Reliable Wildlife Sightings

Frequent encounters with elephants, lions, and large herbivores.

Budget-Friendly Safari Option

One of the most cost-effective safari experiences in Tanzania.

Perfect Weekend Escape

Ideal for short breaks and quick wildlife adventures.

Safari Highlights

• Open savannah game drives in Mikumi National Park
• Lions in natural habitats
• Large elephant herds
• Giraffes and zebras in open plains
• Buffalo and wildebeest herds
• Hippos and crocodiles in water pools
• Scenic African landscapes
• Professional safari guide

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Dar es Salaam → Mikumi National Park

05:00 AM – Pick-Up from Dar es Salaam

Early morning pick-up from your hotel or residence.

Begin the drive toward Mikumi National Park via the main highway.

10:00 AM – Arrival at Mikumi National Park

Enter the park and begin your game drive immediately.

Mikumi is known for its expansive Mkata floodplain and open visibility.

Morning Game Drive

Explore the savannah ecosystem with high chances of wildlife sightings.

Wildlife You May See

• Elephants grazing in herds
• Lions resting or hunting
• Giraffes feeding on acacia trees
• Zebras and wildebeest
• Buffalo and antelope species

12:30 PM – Picnic Lunch

Enjoy lunch at a designated picnic site inside the park.

Surroundings often include active wildlife and birdlife.

Afternoon Game Drive

Continue exploring deeper into the park.

Additional Wildlife

• Hippos in pools
• Crocodiles near water channels
• Warthogs and impalas
• Bird species including eagles and hornbills

04:30 PM – Exit Mikumi

Leave the park and proceed to lodge or accommodation near the park.

06:30 PM – Dinner & Overnight Stay

Relax at lodge or camp near Mikumi.

Day 2: Mikumi National Park → Return to Dar es Salaam

06:30 AM – Breakfast

Early breakfast at the lodge.

07:30 AM – Morning Game Drive

Short morning safari focusing on early animal activity.

Wildlife You May See

• Predators returning from night hunts
• Herbivores grazing in open plains
• Birdlife activity increasing

10:00 AM – Exit Park

Begin return journey to Dar es Salaam.

03:00 PM – Arrival in Dar es Salaam

Drop-off at your hotel or residence.

End of safari.

Wildlife You May See

Mammals

• Lions
• Elephants
• Giraffes
• Zebras
• Buffalo
• Wildebeest
• Hippos
• Crocodiles
• Warthogs

Birds

• Eagles
• Hornbills
• Secretary birds
• Kingfishers
• Storks

About Mikumi National Park

Mikumi is part of the larger southern Tanzania ecosystem and is often compared to the Serengeti due to its open plains and wildlife density.

Key features include:

• Mkata floodplain ecosystem
• Easy accessibility from Dar es Salaam
• Reliable wildlife viewing
• Large herbivore populations
• Predator presence

Best Time to Visit

June – October

Best wildlife visibility due to dry season conditions.

November – May

Green season with lush scenery and excellent birdlife.

Year-Round Destination

Wildlife is present throughout the year.

Estimated Safari Price

Safari Inclusions

• Park entry fees
• Professional safari guide
• 4×4 safari vehicle
• 1-night accommodation
• Meals as per itinerary
• Bottled drinking water
• Hotel pick-up and drop-off (Dar es Salaam)
• Government taxes

Safari Exclusions

• International flights
• Travel insurance
• Personal expenses
• Alcoholic beverages
• Tips and gratuities

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mikumi good for a short safari?

Yes. It is one of the best short safari destinations in Tanzania.

Can I see lions in Mikumi?

Yes. Lions are commonly seen in the park.

Is this safari suitable for weekends?

Yes. It is designed specifically for weekend and short-stay travelers.

How far is Mikumi from Dar es Salaam?

Approximately 4–5 hours by road.