Overview & Summary
Embark on an extraordinary 4-day journey through two of Tanzania's most captivating southern parks, each offering a distinct wilderness experience. Begin in Mikumi National Park, often called "Little Serengeti" for its vast Mkata Floodplain teeming with elephants, lions, giraffes, and zebras against the dramatic backdrop of the Uluguru Mountains. Then venture to Ruaha National Park, Tanzania's largest and most untamed wilderness, where the Great Ruaha River carves through baobab-studded landscapes and predators including lions, leopards, and endangered African wild dogs roam freely. From open savannahs to remote riverine forests, your BMC TOURS & SAFARI guide ensures seamless travel and unforgettable wildlife encounters in these uncrowded, pristine landscapes.
Full Itinerary
Dar SGR Express Train, Uluguru Mountains Drive & Mkata Floodplain Game Drive
Your adventure begins with an early morning pickup from your Dar es Salaam hotel or agreed location and transfer to the SGR Station for your express train to Morogoro (departing @ 06:00 / 07:40h). Upon arrival in Morogoro, meet your BMC TOURS & SAFARIS guide for a short breakfast before taking a scenic drive to Mikumi National Park through the foothills of the Uluguru Mountains.
Enjoy mid-morning and afternoon game drives across Mikumi's vast savannahs and famous Mkata Floodplain ("Little Serengeti"). Watch for elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and lions beginning their evening hunt before returning to your lodge for dinner.
Dinner and overnight at Camp Bastian
Mkata Floodplain Predator Tracking & Hippo Pools Picnic Lunch
After early breakfast, venture into Mikumi National Park for a full day of unhurried game viewing across diverse habitats—from open grasslands to acacia woodlands. Search for lions, elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and impalas.
Stop for a peaceful picnic lunch near hippo pools while watching these enormous creatures wallow in shallow waters. Enjoy gentle afternoon exploration before returning to camp for dinner and evening relaxation.
Dinner and overnight at Camp BastianSouthern Highlands Drive, Great Ruaha River Baobab Gateway & Sunset Safari
After breakfast, depart Mikumi for a 5-6 hour scenic drive through changing southern landscapes toward Ruaha National Park, enjoying a picnic lunch en route. Arrive in Ruaha in the late afternoon and embark immediately on your first game drive.
The Great Ruaha River winds through baobab-studded hills attracting elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, and predators including lions and leopards. With far fewer visitors than northern parks, enjoy exclusive, uncrowded wilderness encounters before dinner at your lodge.
Dinner and overnight at Ruaha Safari Lodge
Dawn Wild Dog & Big Cat Tracking, Riverine Forest Drive & Dar Drop-off
Wake before dawn for an early morning game drive in golden light—the best time for tracking lions, leopards, cheetahs, and endangered African wild dogs that thrive in Ruaha. Explore riverine forests along the Great Ruaha River watching hippos and crocodiles.
Return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast before beginning your return journey to Dar es Salaam. Arrive in the late afternoon for flexible drop-off at your hotel or airport, marking the end of your unforgettable southern Tanzania safari.
END OF OUR SERVICESInclusions & Exclusions
Included
- Professional English-speaking BMC TOURS & SAFARI guide
- Private 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
- SGR train transfers & hotel pickup/drop-off in Dar es Salaam
- All park entry fees for Mikumi and Ruaha National Parks
- Game drives as described in the itinerary
- 3 nights' accommodation (2 nights Camp Bastian, 1 night Ruaha Safari Lodge)
- Meals: 3 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners
- Bottled drinking water throughout your safari
- All government taxes and levies
Excluded
- International and domestic flights
- Tanzania visa fees
- Travel and medical insurance
- Tips for your guide and lodge staff
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Personal expenses such as souvenirs and laundry
- Accommodation in Dar es Salaam before or after the safari
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
Optional Activities
