Summary: What Are the Key Facts at a Glance?
- Route: Dar es Salaam → Morogoro → Mikumi National Park → Dar es Salaam
- Duration: 2 days / 1 night
- Price: From US$ 430 per adult (Option E1)
- Best time: June to October, when the dry season concentrates wildlife
What Makes This 2 days Mikumi safari Special?
Mikumi National Park is the closest major safari park to Dar es Salaam and can be reached by paved road, so it is a practical way to see big wildlife without a flight. This 2-day safari drives from Dar es Salaam past the Uluguru Mountains to the Mkata floodplain, with an afternoon game drive and a morning game drive among elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, hippos and lions. It suits travelers based in Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar, families, couples and first-time visitors who want a short, affordable bush break.
What Does the Safari Itinerary Include?
2 Days Detailed Trip Itinerary
What Is the Safari Route at a Glance?
Day-by-day route overview at a glance.
Arrival in Dar es Salaam & overnight (optional)
Dar es Salaam to Mikumi game drive & overnight
Mikumi morning game drive & return to Dar es Salaam
Arrival in Dar es Salaam, Airport Pickup and Hotel Stay
On arrival at Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR), a Macpace Tours representative meets you and transfers you to your Dar es Salaam hotel. This optional day suits late flights and lets you start the safari rested. Repack into a soft bag and meet your guide for a short briefing on the early pickup time, park rules and dietary needs.
Dar es Salaam to Mikumi Game Drive and Overnight
Leave Dar es Salaam early, around 6:30 AM, and drive about 4 to 5 hours west along the paved highway through Morogoro, with the Uluguru Mountains in view. Arrive near Mikumi for lunch, then set out on an afternoon game drive across the Mkata floodplain, looking for elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, hippos and lions. Return to your lodge for dinner and rest.
Mikumi Morning Game Drive and Return to Dar es Salaam
After an early breakfast, enjoy a final morning game drive when animals are active, visiting the hippo pools and open plains and watching for lions, wildebeest, eland and birds. Return to your lodge for lunch, then drive 4 to 5 hours back to Dar es Salaam, arriving in the evening for drop-off at your hotel or the airport. Please book flights no earlier than about 9:00 PM.
Ngorongoro Crater tour and go back Arusha/Moshi.
We will have an early drive from your accommodation after breakfast to Ngorongoro Crater through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Because of the crater's elevated landscape, animals cannot frequently come in and out, which gives you a good chance of spotting members of the Big Five, including buffalo, elephants, rhinos, lions and leopards. Other wildlife you may see includes zebras, hippos, wildebeest and hyenas. The crater also has an extensive bird population, including geese, storks, vultures and flamingos on the soda lake. Your safari trip will end in the late afternoon, when we drive back to Moshi or Arusha.
Price Options
er adult, safari with Land Cruiser double or twin room. Option E1 is selected by default. Choose another option to update your price
What Is Included and Excluded in This Safari?
Below is a clear breakdown of what is included and excluded in your Tanzania safari package. This helps you understand exactly what to expect before your journey.
What’s Included in Your Safari
What’s Not Included
Why Book This Safari with Macpace Tours?
- The closest major safari park to Dar es Salaam, reached by road.
- No domestic flight needed, which keeps the cost down.
- Two game drives on the open Mkata floodplain.
- Good for travelers based in Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar.
- A short, affordable first safari for families and couples.
- Scenic drive past Morogoro and the Uluguru Mountains.
- Professional English-speaking driver-guide.
- 4x4 Land Cruiser with pop-up roof for clear views and photos.
- Airport pickup and drop-off from Julius Nyerere International Airport.
- Easy to extend with Udzungwa Mountains or Nyerere National Park.
What Should You Know Before This Safari?
| Location | Distance & Travel Time |
|---|---|
| Dar es Salaam to Mikumi National Park | Approximately 280 km | About 4 hours |
| Dar es Salaam to Morogoro | Approximately 195 km | About 3 hours drive |
| Mikumi National Park to Dar es Salaam | Approximately 280 km | About 4 hours drive |
| Mikumi National Park to Dar es Salaam | Approximately 280 km | About 4 hours |
| Julius Nyerere International Airport to Dar es Salaam city | Approximately 12 km | About 20 minutes |
| Kilimanjaro International Airport to Arusha | Approximately 50 km | About 1 hour drive |
| Arusha Airport to Arusha City | Approximately 8 km | About 15 minutes drive |
Which Wildlife Can You See on This Safari?
This Tanzania safari combines wildlife-rich landscapes with remarkable concentrations of animals. During your game drives, you may encounter elephants, lions, buffaloes, zebras, wildebeest, giraffes, hippos and many other species in their natural habitats.
Elephants
Known for magnificent herds moving through woodland, grazing near open areas or gathering around rivers.
Lions
Lions can be encountered resting under acacia shade, moving through grasslands or stalking potential prey.
African Buffaloes
Large buffalo herds seen in grasslands and swamps, powerful members of the Big Five.
Giraffes
Commonly browsing high acacia trees and moving gracefully across savannah landscapes.
Zebras
Frequently seen grazing in open plains together with wildebeest and antelopes.
Wildebeest
Iconic savannah herbivores roaming open landscapes in large social groups.
Hippos
Plentiful in lakes, rivers and natural pools across Northern Tanzania.
Antelopes & Gazelles
Gazelles, impalas, waterbucks, and dik-diks feeding across diverse safari habitats.
Look Out for Predators
Depending on season, location and animal movements, you may also encounter leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas with your experienced safari guide.
Ready to Discover Tanzania's Wildlife?
Explore top safari destinations on a carefully planned journey with Macpace Tours.
Plan This SafariWhere Will You Stay During This Safari?
Your accommodation is selected for comfort, convenience and easy access to Mikumi National Park. Depending on the package selected, you may stay in a safari lodge or tented camp near the park. The exact accommodation will be confirmed before your safari.
Near Mikumi National Park
After your afternoon game drive, you stay in a lodge or tented camp close to the park, depending on the selected comfort level, so you can start your morning game drive early.
Karatu / Ngorongoro Area
Your second overnight stay is arranged around the Karatu or Ngorongoro area, providing convenient access to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area and the following day's crater experience.
What Are the Key Safari Details?
Everything you need to know about this 2 Days / 1 Night Tanzania Safari — pricing, booking, what to pack, transfers, flights and the places you will visit.
Safari Price Guide & What Affects the Cost
This 2 Days / 1 Night Tanzania Safari starts from US$430 per adult with the default option (Option E1(Entry)). The final price depends on the option you choose, group size and travel season.
| Option | Accommodation | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Option E1(Entry) | Day 1: Budget lodge or tented camp near Mikumi | From US$430 / adult |
| Option M1(Midrange) | Day 1: Midrange lodge near Mikumi | From US$570 / adult |
| Option L1 (Luxury) | Day 1: Upper-grade lodge or tented camp near Mikumi | From US$730 / adult |
Includes park fees, licensed guide, 4x4 vehicle, fuel, meals, accommodation and airport transfers. International flights, visas, insurance, tips and personal items are excluded.
Booking, Payment & Cancellation
How to book: send your travel dates and group size through the booking form or WhatsApp. We confirm availability within 24 hours.
- Deposit: 30% of the safari cost confirms your booking.
- Balance: payable on arrival in Arusha before departure.
- Payment methods: bank transfer, credit card and cash in USD.
- Cancellation: free up to 14 days before departure, 50% charged 7–13 days before, and 100% within 7 days.
What to Pack for Your Safari
- Neutral-coloured clothing (khaki, olive or beige), light long sleeves and trousers.
- A fleece or warm jacket for cool early mornings in the highlands.
- Comfortable walking shoes, a sun hat, sunglasses and high-SPF sunscreen.
- Binoculars, a camera with zoom lens, spare batteries and memory cards.
- Insect repellent, a refillable water bottle, personal medication and travel insurance documents.
- Passport and a yellow fever certificate if you arrive from an endemic country.
Health, Safety & Responsible Travel
- Drink only bottled or filtered water; lodges provide safe drinking water.
- Take malaria prophylaxis as advised by your doctor.
- All game drives are led by licensed TANAPA guides who keep a safe distance from wildlife.
- Tanzania bans single-use plastic bags; carry a reusable bag.
- Respect local cultures — ask before photographing people and dress modestly in villages.
- 24-hour emergency contact: Macpace Tours on +255 755 355 071.
Transfers Details
This tour starts from Dar es Salaam. Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) is the nearest international airport.
Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) ↔ Dar es Salaam hotel: USD 80 per vehicle
Dar es Salaam ↔ Morogoro: USD 150 per vehicle
Dar es Salaam ↔ Arusha: From USD 90 (Morning flight) Arusha ↔ Dar es Salaam: From USD 110 (Afternoon flight) Dar es Salaam ↔ Zanzibar: From USD 150
Flights Details
We do not book international flights. We assist with local flights based on availability.
Dar es Salaam ↔ Arusha: From USD 90 (Morning flight) Arusha ↔ Dar es Salaam: From USD 110 (Afternoon flight) Dar es Salaam ↔ Zanzibar: From USD [INSERT]
Which Places Will You Visit on This Safari?
Dar es Salaam Tanzania's Coastal Gateway
Dar es Salaam is Tanzania's largest city and main port, with the country's busiest international airport. Mikumi is reachable by road from here, so no domestic flight is needed.
Travelers who arrive a day early can rest here, repack their luggage and meet the safari team before the trip begins.
View on Google MapsMorogoro and the Uluguru Mountains
A Scenic Drive Description & Highlights: Morogoro is the main town on the road to Mikumi, set below the green slopes of the Uluguru Mountains. The drive passes farmland, markets and mountain views, which makes the journey part of the experience.
Your guide can make a short stop for photos and refreshments.
View on Google MapsMikumi National Park Wildlife on the Mkata Floodplain
Mikumi National Park is known for its open Mkata floodplain, where elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, wildebeest and lions can be seen in a wide, easy-to-watch landscape. Hippo pools and acacia woodland add variety, and the Uluguru and Rubeho mountains form the backdrop.
The main highway passes along the park, so animals are sometimes seen from the road. Sightings vary and are never guaranteed.
View on Google MapsNgorongoro Crater – A Natural Wildlife Sanctuary
Ngorongoro Crater is one of the most famous wildlife destinations in Tanzania. It was formed millions of years ago after a large volcano collapsed, creating a huge natural caldera filled with wildlife.
The crater floor has grassland, forest, swamp, and lake areas, making it home to many animals throughout the year. During your game drive, you may see lions, elephants, buffaloes, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, hyenas, gazelles, and the rare black rhino if lucky.
Because many animals live inside the crater, Ngorongoro offers one of the best chances to see a lot of wildlife in a short time.
View on Google MapsWhat Accommodation, Add-ons and Meals Are Available?
Pre- and post-safari hotels, optional add-on tours and meal arrangements for this 2 Days / 1 Night Tanzania Safari.
Pre & Post Tour Hotels (Pricing in Dar es Salaam)
Dar es Salaam is the base for safari tours in Tanzania. If you need accommodation in Dar es Salaam before/after your safari tour you can check some popular hotel prices on bed and breakfast basis below.
- Dar es Salaam hotel - USD 200
- Dar es Salaam hotel- USD 150
- Dar es Salaam hotel - USD 100
- Dar es Salaam hotel - USD 220
- Dar es Salaam hotel- USD 190
- Dar es Salaam hotel - USD 200
- Dar es Salaam hotel - USD 250
- Dar es Salaam hotel- USD 220
- Dar es Salaam hotel - USD 200
Add-on Tours in Mikumi
- Mikumi add-on tours and prices, e.g. night game drive, village visit
Add-on Tours in Ngorongoro
- Masai Village Tour: USD 25 per person
- Olduvai Gorge museum visit: USD 35 per person
- Ngorongoro Crater Rim Hike: USD 35 per person
Add-on Tours in Karatu
- Coffee Plantation Tour: USD 20 per person
- Iraq Village Tour: USD 25 per person
- Endoro Falls & Elephant Caves visit: USD 35 per person
Meals
- Day 1 - Lunch & Dinner
- Day 2 - Breakfast & Lunch
What Are the Most Asked Questions About This Safari?
Find answers to common questions about departure, accommodation, wildlife, meals, transportation and booking.
Yes, for a short bush break. The long drive from Dar es Salaam takes most of day one, but you still get an afternoon and a morning of game drives on the Mkata floodplain. If you want a more relaxed pace or more wildlife time, a 3-day Mikumi safari gives you a full extra day.
The safari starts and ends in Dar es Salaam. We collect you from your Dar es Salaam hotel or from Julius Nyerere International Airport, normally around 6:30 AM. A pre-safari hotel night can be arranged if your flight lands late. Tell us your plans when you book so we can set the pickup time.
Mikumi is about 280 km from Dar es Salaam and the drive takes roughly 4 to 5 hours on a paved highway through Morogoro. Traffic leaving Dar es Salaam can add time, so we start early. The same drive is needed on the way back on day two.
Mikumi is known for elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, wildebeest, hippos and lions, plus eland, impalas, warthogs, baboons and many birds. The open Mkata floodplain makes animals easy to spot. Sightings vary by season, so your guide will adjust the route to current conditions.
No. Mikumi is reachable entirely by paved road from Dar es Salaam, so no domestic flight is needed. This keeps the cost lower than fly-in safaris in southern Tanzania. If you are arriving from elsewhere, you can fly into Dar es Salaam and start the safari the next morning.
June to October is the dry season, when animals gather near water and game viewing is at its best. January and February can also be good. The long rains from March to May bring greener scenery and fewer visitors, but some tracks can be muddy, and the trip still runs.
You spend one night in a lodge or tented camp near Mikumi National Park. Options range from budget to midrange, depending on the price option you choose. The exact property will be confirmed before your safari, and you can request a specific lodge subject to availability and your budget.
Yes. Meals follow the schedule in the itinerary: lunch and dinner on Day 1, and breakfast and lunch on Day 2. You also receive about 2 liters of bottled drinking water per person per day during safari activities. Alcohol and other extra drinks are not included. Tell us about dietary needs when you book.
Yes. Mikumi works well before or after a Zanzibar beach stay, because both start from Dar es Salaam. You can fly or take the ferry between Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar. Tell us your dates and we can quote a combined trip that fits your schedule and budget.
Yes, with patience for the long drives. The road trip from Dar es Salaam takes 4 to 5 hours each way, so please bring games, snacks and books for younger children. The open plains make animals easy to see. Tell us your children's ages when booking so we can arrange suitable rooms and seating.
Yes. Many travelers add Udzungwa Mountains or Nyerere National Park to make a longer southern circuit. Our 3-day Mikumi safari is also a popular upgrade. Tell us how many days you have and we will design a trip that suits your budget and your transport preferences.
Yes. Private departures can be arranged for couples, families, friends and small groups. A private safari gives you more flexibility with the pickup time, pace and photo stops, and the vehicle is for your party only. Because vehicle and guide costs are shared among fewer people, the price per person may be higher than on a shared trip.
Ready to Explore Tanzania?
Plan your Tanzania safari with Macpace Tours and experience iconic wildlife destinations.
Book This SafariWhere Does This Safari Go?
Follow the full safari route from Dar es Salaam, Tanzania through 3 destinations.
Related Packages
2 Days / 1 Night Tanzania Safari
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