3-Day Trip to Mikumi and Udzungwa National Parks

Overview

Your 3-day journey begins in Dar es Salaam, the coastal heart of Tanzania, and takes you inland to two of the country's most distinct natural wonders. This professionally curated expedition is designed for those who want to maximize their time by combining a classic wildlife safari in Mikumi National Park with a physical, rewarding trek through the Udzungwa Mountains. In just three days, you will transition from tracking lions across open floodplains to standing beneath a 170-meter waterfall in a lush rainforest.

The first part of your adventure focuses on Mikumi, Tanzania’s fourth-largest park, where the Mkata Floodplain offers sightings so spectacular they are often compared to the Serengeti. The second half elevates the experience literally as you hike into the Udzungwa Mountains National Park, a global biodiversity hotspot home to rare primates and exotic plant life.

With Macpace Tours and Safaris, we ensure your transition from the city to the wilderness is seamless and professional. Whether you are a photography enthusiast or an active traveler seeking a unique challenge, this "Savanna and Spirit" safari delivers the very best of Southern Tanzania in one action-packed trip.

Safari Highlights

The Mini-Serengeti: Explore the Mkata Floodplain in Mikumi, famous for its high concentration of lions, elephants, and giraffes.
Sanje Waterfall Trek: Challenge yourself with a guided hike to the stunning 170-meter Sanje Waterfalls.
Primate Paradise: Search for endemic species found nowhere else on earth, such as the Udzungwa red colobus and the Sanje mangabey.
Rainforest Immersion: Experience the cool, lush greenery and diverse birdlife of the Udzungwa Mountains.
Natural Pools: Enjoy a refreshing swim in the cool, clear waters at the base of the waterfalls.
Accessibility: Perfect for those starting from Dar es Salaam who want deep wilderness without long-haul travel times.

The 3-Day Mikumi & Udzungwa Safari Itinerary

Day 1: Dar es Salaam to Mikumi National Park – Into the Wild We begin with an early morning pickup from your hotel for a scenic 4–5 hour drive to Mikumi. After arriving and checking in, we head straight into an afternoon game drive in the Mkata Floodplain. Here, the horizon feels endless as you track large herds of zebras, buffalos, and the predators that follow them. We conclude the day at a comfortable lodge, surrounded by the sounds of the African night.

Highlights: Wildlife tracking in the floodplain and the first sightings of Mikumi's famous elephants.
Accommodation: Camp Bastian, Mikumi Resort, or similar.
Meal Plan: Lunch and Dinner.

Day 2: Udzungwa Mountains – The Great Waterfall Hike After breakfast, we take a short drive to Udzungwa Mountains National Park for a guided hiking adventure. We trek through ancient rainforests toward the Sanje Waterfalls, climbing to reach incredible panoramic views of the valley below. You will have time to enjoy a picnic lunch and a swim in the natural pools before we descend and return to Mikumi for your second night.

Highlights: A 4–5 hour guided hike to the 170-meter Sanje Waterfalls and primate spotting.
Wildlife Focus: Endemic primates, butterflies, and tropical bird species.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

Day 3: Morning Game Drive & Return to Dar es Salaam We take one final early morning game drive in Mikumi to catch the predators while they are still active in the cool air. After a mid-morning breakfast at the lodge, we begin our return journey, arriving in Dar es Salaam by late afternoon.

Highlights: Golden hour photography and a final search for lions.
Transfer Time: 4–5 hours back to the city.
Meal Plan: Breakfast.

Know Before You Go: Essential Safari Tips

When to Visit

Best Time: The dry season (June–October) is the gold standard for wildlife viewing in Mikumi, as animals gather around water sources.
Hiking Note: While the waterfalls flow year-round, the trails can be slippery during the rainy season.

What to Pack

Footwear: Good walking shoes or hiking boots with a strong grip are essential for the Udzungwa trek.
Sun & Bug Protection: Bring insect repellent and sunscreen for both the open savanna and the forest.
Gear: Don't forget your camera, binoculars, and a lightweight rain jacket for the mountain mist.

Safari Logistics & Accommodations

Transport: You will travel in a professional 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for the best viewing.
Meals: All trips are full board, including breakfast, lunch (often picnic-style in the park), and dinner.
Maasai Visit: If time permits, we can arrange a visit to a local Maasai village for a unique cultural exchange.

Ready to climb the mountains and roam the plains?

Get a free quote for your 3-Day Mikumi & Udzungwa Safari

To secure your 3-Day Mikumi & Udzungwa Safari, contact Macpace Tours and Safaris via WhatsApp or email. We look forward to showing you the best of Tanzania.

📞 WhatsApp: +255 755 355 071