Dar es Salaam: 2-Day Safari to Mikumi National Park and

Thinking about a quick getaway from Dar es Salaam that combines wildlife spotting with a touch of mountain adventure? This 2-day tour offers just that—an immersive experience exploring Mikumi National Park with thrilling game drives, followed by a trek in the Uluguru Mountains ending at the scenic Choma Waterfalls. It’s perfect for those craving a compact, authentic Tanzanian adventure that balances nature and activity.

What really makes this tour appealing is how it packs a lot into just two days: you’ll see classic African wildlife—elephants, giraffes, zebras—and then switch gears with a scenic mountain hike leading to a refreshing waterfall swim. The feedback highlights the stunning views and close encounters with wildlife, along with a well-organized schedule.

However, keep in mind that the tour involves some early mornings, potentially long drives, and a hike that might challenge less mobile travelers. It’s best suited for active travelers with a sense of adventure and a love for both safaris and physical activity. If you’re after a balanced mix of game viewing and mountain scenery, this trip could be a great fit.

Key Points

• Wildlife encounters in Mikumi include elephants, giraffes, and zebras.
• Hiking the Uluguru Mountains offers stunning vistas and the chance to swim at Choma Waterfalls.
• The train ride from Dar es Salaam enhances the journey, giving a local travel feel.
• The small group size (limited to 10 participants) allows for personalized experiences.
• The cost of $423 offers good value considering transportation, park fees, meals, and activities.
• Flexibility in meals includes packed lunches and local African cuisine, adding cultural flavor.

An Authentic 2-Day Safari: From Dar es Salaam to Mikumi

This tour starts with a convenient pickup from your hotel or ferry terminal in Dar es Salaam, making it accessible and straightforward. The journey begins with a train ride to Morogoro, a classic Tanzanian experience that adds a layer of adventure even before you reach the park. The train tickets are included, which means you won’t need to worry about extra transportation arrangements—a tidy detail that travelers appreciate.

Day 1: From City to Savanna

Once you arrive in Morogoro, a short drive transports you into the heart of Mikumi National Park. Here, your guide will lead you on a late morning game drive. Mikumi is a well-preserved park known for its diverse animal populations. You can expect to see elephants, giraffes, zebras, possibly lions, and if you’re lucky, predators stalking prey in the distance. The park’s landscape, with its flat plains and scattered acacia trees, provides a classic African safari backdrop.

Lunch is typically served at the park or nearby lodge, giving you a chance to relax and soak in the wilderness atmosphere. Some reviews mention the dinner and overnight stay at Camp Bastian, which offers comfortable accommodations close to the park. The camp’s setting is quiet, with a chance to spot nocturnal animals or simply enjoy the sounds of the bush.

Day 2: Mountain Trekking & Waterfall Refresh

The morning begins early with breakfast at the camp before heading to Morogoro town for your mountain hike. The trail to Morningside takes approximately 2.5 hours, ascending through lush scenery and offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It’s a steady climb, but travelers note that comfortable shoes and a good hat are essential.

From Morningside, the walk to Choma Waterfalls takes around an hour. The waterfall itself is a picture-perfect spot—crystal-clear water cascading into a pool, perfect for a refreshing swim, which many reviewers found to be a highlight. A packed lunch or local African food is available at this scenic stop, adding a cultural layer to the experience.

The return hike is an opportunity to reflect on the day’s sights and sounds, with many commenting on the stunning views and peaceful surroundings. Afterward, your driver will meet you for the journey back to Dar es Salaam, completing your 2-day adventure.

What We Love About This Tour

First, the combination of wildlife and mountains sets this tour apart. The game drives in Mikumi give you a real chance to see animals in their natural habitat—something that’s increasingly rare in smaller parks or city tours. The park’s open plains and variety of species make for engaging sightings, especially if you’re into photography or just love the thrill of spotting animals.

Second, the hiking to Choma Waterfalls offers a refreshing change of pace. It’s not just a walk—it’s an immersive experience in Tanzanian nature, with the reward of cooling off in the waterfall’s waters and enjoying the lush scenery. The views from Morningside are among the best parts—vast, sweeping vistas that make every step worthwhile.

Third, the train ride adds an authentic local flavor, giving travelers a glimpse into how Tanzanians move around and adding a relaxed rhythm to the trip. Plus, the small group size ensures you get more personalized attention from guides, making it easier to ask questions and enjoy a more intimate experience.

Finally, the inclusion of meals and accommodations makes this a convenient package—no hidden costs or scrambling for food or lodging, which is a bonus when traveling in a foreign country.

Considerations and Possible Drawbacks

While the tour offers a rich experience, some travelers note that the early start and long drives can be tiring, especially if you’re not a morning person or dealing with jet lag. The train ride, while scenic, may be slow or crowded at times, depending on the day, so it’s worth packing patience.

The hiking portion, though scenic, requires a reasonable level of fitness and comfortable shoes. Those with mobility issues or back problems might find the hike challenging, and the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women.

Pricing at $423 per person is fair considering all inclusions—train tickets, park fees, meals, and guided activities—but it’s always good to compare with similar safaris to gauge value. Many reviews emphasize how the quality of wildlife viewing and the authentic mountain experience justify the cost.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Transportation: The tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel or the ferry terminal, plus train tickets to Morogoro. The vehicle transfer from Mikumi to the mountain trail is straightforward, and the return journey is by road.

Group Size: Limited to 10 participants, which helps keep the experience intimate and flexible. You’ll likely have plenty of opportunities to interact with your guide and fellow travelers.

Meals: Breakfasts, lunches, and dinners are included. The options range from packed lunches to local African dishes, providing a taste of Tanzanian cuisine.

What to Bring: Comfortable hiking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, swimwear (for the waterfall), camera, and water are recommended. Remember, no smoking is allowed during the activities, and travelers should respect the environment.

Tour Duration: 2 days, with availability to check for specific start times. The tour is designed for active travelers who enjoy adventure and nature.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day safari from Dar es Salaam strikes a nice balance between wildlife viewing and mountain scenery. It’s a practical choice for those short on time but still eager to experience some of Tanzania’s best natural sights. The combination of game drives, scenic hikes, and waterfall swimming offers a well-rounded adventure that appeals to nature lovers and active explorers alike.

The tour’s value is reinforced by inclusions like train tickets, meals, and accommodations, making it a stress-free way to explore. Its small group size and flexible itinerary are ideal for travelers who prefer a more personalized experience.

If you’re after stunning views, close wildlife encounters, and a taste of mountain wilderness, this tour is a solid pick. It’s especially suited for those seeking an authentic, active adventure in Tanzania without the extensive time commitment of a longer safari trip.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes pick-up and drop-off at your hotel or ferry terminal in Dar es Salaam, as well as train tickets from Dar es Salaam to Morogoro.

What animal wildlife can I expect to see?
You’ll likely see elephants, giraffes, zebras, and possibly predators like lions, depending on sightings during the game drives.

Is the hike to Choma Waterfalls difficult?
The hike involves about 2.5 hours to Morningside and then an hour walk to the waterfall. It’s suitable for most active travelers, but comfortable shoes and a reasonable fitness level are recommended.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring comfortable hiking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, swimwear for the waterfall, a camera, and water. Packing light but prepared is best.

Are meals included?
Yes, meals are included, ranging from packed lunches to local African cuisine, offering a good taste of Tanzanian flavors.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
The tour is best suited for active travelers and older children who can handle hiking and early mornings. It’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with back problems.

How many people are in each group?
Limited to 10 participants, providing a small-group experience with personalized attention.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans shift unexpectedly.

This safari provides an authentic taste of Tanzania’s diverse landscapes, blending the thrill of wildlife with the serenity of mountain waterfalls. A trip like this leaves you with lasting memories of the country’s natural beauty and a few stories to tell about spotting that elusive giraffe or taking a refreshing dip in scenic waters.