Private 3-Day Mikumi Safari from Dar es Salaam: Wildlife & Game Drives

Summary

Mikumi National Park Safari: Wildlife Encounters Near Dar es Salaam

If you want real wildlife close to Dar es Salaam but don’t have much time, this private Mikumi safari is perfect. You’ll get up close with elephants and lions on guided drives, eat local food along the way, and sleep under African skies—all without needing weeks off work.

What’s the experience like?

The drive out of Dar es Salaam started just after sunrise—city sounds fading behind us, replaced by the hum of the highway and the occasional shout from roadside fruit sellers. Our guide, Joseph, kept us entertained with stories about the region and pointed out villages as we passed. By midday, we stopped for a hot lunch at a small roadside spot—rice, beans, and grilled chicken that tasted smoky from the open fire. The air felt warmer as we neared Mikumi; you could almost smell the dry grass before seeing it. Entering the park in late afternoon, we caught our first glimpse of giraffes moving slowly through the acacia trees. That night at camp, I fell asleep to distant animal calls—honestly, it was hard to tell if they were hyenas or just some noisy birds.

Next morning, breakfast was simple—eggs, chapati, strong coffee—and then we set off for a full day’s game drive. The sun climbed fast; by 10am it was already hot enough to make me wish I’d packed an extra hat. We saw elephants dust-bathing near a waterhole and watched a group of zebras crossing right in front of our vehicle. Joseph knew exactly where to look for lions; he spotted fresh tracks before any of us did. Around lunchtime, we parked under a big baobab for shade and ate sandwiches while listening to cicadas buzzing like crazy. Back at camp that evening, everyone swapped stories over dinner—there’s something about being out there that makes even strangers feel like friends.

The last morning felt slower somehow—maybe because nobody really wanted to leave yet. After breakfast, we loaded up and headed back toward Dar es Salaam. The return drive gave us time to watch the landscape shift again—from wild savannah back to busy roads and city life. Joseph dropped us right at our hotel door; I still had dust on my shoes and way too many photos on my phone.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Drive to Mikumi National Park

• Pick up and drive to Mikumi National Park with lunch stop
• Evening safari and overnight at camp or lodge

Day 2 — Full Day Game Drive

• Full-day game drive
• Return to camp for dinner and overnight

Day 3 — Drive Back to Dar es Salaam

• Drive back to Dar es Salaam and drop off at hotel

Top questions

Is this Mikumi safari suitable for families with kids?

Yes, families are welcome! Just let us know if you need infant seats or special arrangements—we can help make it comfortable for all ages.

What kind of animals will we see in Mikumi National Park?

You’re likely to spot elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, buffaloes—and if you’re lucky—lions or leopards during game drives.

Can I choose between camping or staying in a lodge?

Absolutely! You can pick either camping or lodge accommodation depending on your preference—we’ll arrange everything in advance.

How long is the drive from Dar es Salaam to Mikumi?

The drive usually takes about 5–6 hours each way depending on traffic and road conditions.

What’s included

Your tour covers all national park entrance fees, guided game drives with an experienced local guide, accommodation (camp or lodge), meals as mentioned in the itinerary, plus hotel pickup and drop-off in Dar es Salaam.