10 Days Mikumi Immersive Safari

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Overview

This 10-day safari offers an in-depth exploration of Mikumi National Park, combining thrilling wildlife encounters, cultural immersion, and tranquil relaxation. Perfect for travelers seeking a rich, unhurried safari experience.

Day by day Itinerary

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Day 1 - Arrival and Sunset Game Drive

Morning to Afternoon: Arrive in Mikumi after a scenic drive from Dar es Salaam. Check into your lodge surrounded by the wilderness and unwind with a welcome drink. Evening: Embark on your first game drive during sunset, when the park comes alive with activity. Spot lions resting in the shade, giraffes gracefully moving across the savannah, and zebras grazing in groups. The warm hues of the setting sun create perfect photo opportunities. Night: Return to the lodge for a delightful bonfire dinner. Enjoy traditional Tanzanian dishes under the stars as the sounds of nocturnal animals echo in the background.

Day 2 - Full-Day Game Drive

Morning: After an early breakfast, set off on a full-day safari. Begin with a tour of the Mkata Floodplain, home to large herds of elephants and the elusive African wild dog. Lunch: Enjoy a picnic under the iconic Baobab trees, surrounded by stunning savannah landscapes. Afternoon: Head to the northern parts of the park, where predators like lions and leopards can often be seen hunting. Your guide will share fascinating insights about animal behavior and conservation. Evening: Relax at the lodge with a hearty meal and storytelling around the fire.

Day 3 - Walking Safari

Morning: Experience Mikumi from a new perspective with a guided walking safari. Walk through the savannah while expert guides teach you about the park's ecosystem, animal tracks, and local plant species used in traditional medicine. Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll along the riverbanks, where you might encounter crocodiles basking in the sun or hippos cooling off in the water. Evening: Return to the lodge for relaxation and a delicious dinner.

Day 4 - Bird Watching and Hippo Pools

Morning: Mikumi is a birdwatcher’s paradise. Spend your morning spotting exotic species such as malachite kingfishers, African fish eagles, and lilac-breasted rollers. Afternoon: Visit the famous Hippo Pools to watch hippos wallowing and playing. Capture mesmerizing moments of these giants coexisting with other animals like antelopes and monkeys. Evening: Enjoy a tranquil evening at your lodge.

Day 5 - Cultural Immersion

Morning: Visit Maasai and Hehe communities near Mikumi. Participate in traditional dances and learn about their way of life, including their strong connection to nature and livestock. Afternoon: Engage in crafts-making workshops where you can create your own beadwork or carvings as souvenirs. Evening: Relish a meal prepared using traditional Maasai recipes, offering a taste of the local culture.

Day 6 - Udzungwa Mountains Hike

Morning: Depart early for the Udzungwa Mountains, a lush rainforest offering spectacular biodiversity. Hike through verdant trails leading to the Sanje Waterfalls, where you can take a refreshing dip. Afternoon: Learn about the unique plants and animals found in the area, including rare primates like the Iringa red colobus. Evening: Return to your lodge in Mikumi for a relaxing evening.

Day 7 - Leisure Day

Morning: A free day to unwind. Spend time lounging by the pool, reading a book, or enjoying photography within the lodge premises. Afternoon: Optional activities include a yoga session, spa treatments, or a guided nature walk around the lodge. Evening: Enjoy a quiet dinner as you reflect on your journey so far.

Day 8 - Scenic Safari

Morning: Explore the lesser-traveled southern regions of Mikumi. These areas, away from the main tourist routes, offer untouched landscapes and opportunities to spot rare species like sable antelopes and African wild cats. Afternoon: Have a picnic in a secluded spot, soaking in the peaceful ambiance. Evening: Return to your lodge for dinner and relaxation.

Day 9 - Night Game Drive

Evening: Experience a night safari, a thrilling adventure to observe nocturnal animals. Spot hyenas prowling in search of food, bush babies leaping between trees, and the elusive aardvark. Your guide will use a spotlight to reveal animals hidden in the dark. Late Night: Conclude your adventure with stargazing, where you can learn African constellations and myths.

Day 10 - Morning Safari and Departure

Morning: A final early morning safari to bid farewell to Mikumi. Witness the park awakening as animals like giraffes and elephants begin their day. Afternoon: After breakfast, check out and begin your journey back to Dar es Salaam, taking home unforgettable memories of Mikumi National Park.

Trip Highlights

Wildlife Encounters: Lions, leopards, giraffes, elephants, zebras, hippos, and more. Cultural Insights: Hands-on experience with Maasai and Hehe traditions. Nature Immersion: Walking safaris, birdwatching, and Udzungwa hikes. Unique Activities: Night game drives, scenic safaris, and stargazing. Relaxation: Leisure days with optional spa and nature walks.

Trip inclusions

  • All activities (unless labeled as optional)
  • All accommodation as stated in the itinerary
  • A professional driver/guide
  • All transportation (unless labeled as optional)
  • All Taxes/VAT
  • All Meals (as specified in the day-by-day section)

Trip exclusions

  • Personal items (souvenirs, travel insurance, visa fees, etc.)
  • Services not mentioned in the program
  • Travel insurance and medical repatriation