Overview & Summary
Discover a side of Tanzania few travelers ever see the lush, rolling highlands of the Southern Highlands, where Kitulo National Park, known as the "Garden of God," bursts into color with over 350 species of wildflowers, rare orchids, and montane grasslands. This is a paradise for botanists, birders, and hikers, where endemic birds and the rare Kipunji monkey roam. Then journey to Ruaha National Park, Tanzania's largest wilderness, where the Great Ruaha River draws massive herds of elephants, buffalo, and lions. With fly in convenience, expert BMC TOURS & SAFARIS guides, and a pace that lets you savor both the delicate beauty of the highlands and the raw power of the savannah, this is a safari of remarkable contrast.
Full Itinerary
Gateway Flight to the Scenic Southern Highlands
Your safari begins with a scenic flight from Dar es Salaam to Mbeya, the gateway to the Southern Highlands. Upon arrival, your BMC TOURS & SAFARIS guide welcomes you and escorts you to your comfortable lodge nestled in the cool, green hills. The afternoon is yours to relax and acclimate to the higher altitude take a gentle walk through the surrounding countryside, enjoy views of the Livingstone Mountains, or simply unwind at the lodge. In the evening, your guide shares insights on the days ahead, including the wildflower meadows of Kitulo and the wildlife of Ruaha. A delicious dinner awaits, setting the tone for the journey to come.
Dinner and overnight at a Comfortable Lodge in the Southern HighlandsGuided Walk through Wildflowers & Montane Meadows
After breakfast, drive to Kitulo National Park, a unique plateau known as the "Garden of God" for its spectacular displays of wildflowers. During the rainy season (November to April), over 350 species of wildflowers and rare orchids carpet the grasslands in vibrant colors. Embark on an afternoon walk through the montane meadows, accompanied by a park ranger who shares knowledge of the flora, including endemic species found nowhere else. Keep your binoculars ready for the rare Kipunji monkey, discovered only in 2003, and endemic birds such as the mountain marsh widowbird. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the meadows, surrounded by the beauty of this botanist's paradise. Return to your lodge near the park for dinner and overnight.
Dinner and overnight at a Comfortable Lodge near Kitulo National ParkNhumbe Valley Waterfall Hike & Highland Vistas
After breakfast, return to Kitulo National Park for a full day of exploration. Today you trek to the Nhumbe Valley, a remote area with stunning vistas and quieter trails. The hike takes you through rolling grasslands, past waterfalls, and along the edge of the plateau, with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Your ranger points out the park's diverse plant life from delicate orchids to giant lobelias and shares stories of the area's ecological importance. Enjoy a picnic lunch in a scenic spot, surrounded by the colors and scents of the highland meadows. The afternoon continues with more exploration, perhaps spotting eland, zebra, or the rare Denham's bustard. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.
Dinner and overnight at a Comfortable Lodge near Kitulo National ParkScenic Highlands Drive to the Baobab Plains of Ruaha
After breakfast, depart the Southern Highlands and journey toward Ruaha National Park. The drive takes you through the scenic highlands, with changing landscapes of rolling hills, tea plantations, and remote villages. Your guide shares stories of the region as you travel. Stop for a picnic lunch at a scenic viewpoint, then continue toward Ruaha. Upon arrival at your camp or lodge in the late afternoon, settle in and take in the views of the baobab dotted plains. Enjoy a delicious dinner, preparing for tomorrow's full day of game drives in Tanzania's largest National Park.
Dinner and overnight at Ruaha River Lodge
Riverbank Wildlife Viewing, Giant Elephants & Big Cat Tracking
Wake before dawn for an early morning game drive as the light spreads across Ruaha's rugged landscape. The Great Ruaha River is the lifeblood of the park, and during the dry season (June to October), it draws one of Africa's greatest concentrations of wildlife. Your guide positions you along the riverbanks, where elephants drink, hippos wallow, and crocodiles bask in the morning sun. Ruaha is home to over 10% of the world's lion population, and sightings are frequent. Look also for leopards, cheetahs, and the endangered African wild dog. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush, then continue your exploration through acacia woodlands and baobab dotted plains. As the afternoon light softens, return to the river for one last game drive before heading back to camp for dinner and overnight.
Dinner and overnight at Ruaha River LodgeScenic Flight & Afternoon Beach Relaxation on the Indian Ocean
After a final morning game drive in Ruaha, capture any last wildlife sightings before the day heats up. Return to your camp for breakfast and time to refresh. Transfer to the airstrip for your flight back to Dar es Salaam. Upon arrival, your BMC TOURS & SAFARIS driver meets you for transfer to your beach hotel. Settle into your comfortable accommodation and enjoy a relaxing afternoon by the Indian Ocean swim in the turquoise waters, stroll along the white sand beaches, or simply unwind with a book. As the sun sets, enjoy a delicious dinner at your hotel, reflecting on the contrast between the highland meadows and the savannah plains.
Dinner and overnight at Whitesands Hotel
Leisurely Beach Morning & Airport Transfer
Enjoy a final leisurely breakfast at your beach hotel, soaking in the views of the Indian Ocean one last time. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for a last swim, a stroll along the shore, or some final souvenir shopping. Your BMC TOURS & SAFARIS driver meets you for transfer to the airport for your departure. As your Southern Highlands and Ruaha safari concludes, you carry memories of Kitulo's wildflower meadows, Ruaha's great herds, and the timeless beauty of Tanzania's diverse landscapes.
END OF OUR SERVICESInclusions & Exclusions
Included
- Domestic flights: Dar es Salaam to Mbeya, Ruaha to Dar es Salaam/Zanzibar
- Private transfers from arrival airport
- Accommodations as listed (1 night Southern Highlands, 2 nights Kitulo, 2 nights Ruaha, 1 night beach)
- All meals: 6 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 6 dinners
- Guided walks in Kitulo National Park with park ranger
- Nhumbe Valley trek
- Game drives in Ruaha with expert BMC guide
- Park entry fees for Kitulo and Ruaha National Parks
- Bottled drinking water
- All government taxes
Excluded
- International flights
- Travel and medical insurance
- Tanzania visa fees
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry, spa)
- Tips for guides, rangers, and lodge staff
- Accommodation before or after safari
Optional Activities
Optional add-on activities for this package are coming soon. Contact our team to request custom modifications to your itinerary.
