One Day Safari from Zanzibar to Mikumi National Park

Summary

Mikumi Safari Day Trip: Wildlife Adventure from Zanzibar

If you want to see wild Tanzania in just one day from Zanzibar, this trip packs it in—lions, elephants, giraffes, and more than 300 bird species await. You’ll get real close to nature (and maybe even closer to an elephant than you expected). It’s easy, guided by locals who know every track and call.

What’s the experience like?

We landed at the tiny airstrip just after sunrise—the air still cool, with that earthy scent you only get after a night of rain. Our guide, Musa, was already waiting by the jeep, grinning and waving us over. Within minutes, we were bumping along red-dirt tracks, eyes peeled for movement in the tall grass. First up: a herd of elephants lumbering across the road, so close you could see the dust on their backs. Musa pointed out fresh lion prints in the mud—he said they’d passed through just before dawn.

It’s not just about the big animals here. We watched giraffes nibbling on acacia trees and caught a glimpse of hippos half-submerged in a muddy pool—one let out a snort that made us all laugh. The park is alive with birds too; I lost count after spotting my fifth kind of hornbill. There was this moment when we stopped near a cluster of sausage trees and heard nothing but cicadas and distant wildebeest calls—felt like time slowed down for a bit.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Safari in Mikumi National Park

• Explore Mikumi National Park wildlife

Top questions

How long is the flight from Zanzibar to Mikumi?

The flight usually takes about an hour each way, depending on weather and schedules.

Is lunch provided during the safari?

Yes, lunch is included—you’ll have it at a picnic spot inside Mikumi National Park.

Can I bring young children on this tour?

Infants are welcome but must sit on an adult’s lap during transport and flights.

Will I see all of the Big Five animals?

You’ll likely spot lions, elephants, buffaloes, and leopards here—rhinos aren’t found in Mikumi.

What’s included

Your day includes private transfers between airport and park, return flights from Zanzibar to Mikumi, plus lunch inside the park. Local guides handle everything so you can focus on spotting wildlife—not logistics.