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

Discovering Tanzania’s Hidden Gems: A 2-Day Safari from Dar es Salaam to Mikumi National Park and Choma Waterfalls

Taking a safari often conjures images of vast plains and endless wildlife, but this 2-day adventure from Dar es Salaam offers a refreshingly diverse blend of game viewing and mountain hiking. It’s perfect for travelers craving a quick yet enriching escape into nature without venturing too far from the city.

What makes this trip commendable? We love the chance to see elephants, giraffes, and zebras in their natural habitat during thrilling game drives, the opportunity to hike through the Uluguru Mountains with stunning views, and the chance to take a refreshing swim at the Choma Waterfalls. Plus, the experience is well-rounded with comfortable overnight stays, meals, and guided hikes.

On the flip side, some might find the schedule a bit packed, especially with early mornings and short lounging periods. Still, for those looking for an authentic Tanzanian adventure that combines wildlife, scenic landscapes, and a touch of adventure, this tour hits the mark.

This experience is best suited for active travelers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those with limited time who want a taste of Tanzania’s natural beauty without the lengthy safaris. It’s also great for those who appreciate a small group setting, ensuring a more personalized touch.

Good To Know

• Wildlife Encounters: Witness elephants, giraffes, zebras, and more during game drives in Mikumi.
• Scenic Hikes: Trek the Uluguru Mountains for panoramic views and waterfall swims.
• Authentic Experience: Includes local meals, overnight camping, and guided hikes.
• Well-Organized: Pickup, transfers, and train journey included for seamless travel.
• Value for Money: At $423, it combines wildlife, adventure, and scenic beauty in just 2 days.
• Limited Group Size: Small groups, with a maximum of 10 participants, ensure individual attention.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Itinerary: Breaking Down the Adventure

Day 1: From Dar es Salaam to Mikumi National Park

Your journey kicks off with a pickup from your hotel or ferry terminal in Dar es Salaam, providing a smooth start without stress. From there, it’s a short drive to the SGR train station, where you’ll board a train heading towards Morogoro. The train ride, roughly 1-2 hours, offers a chance to relax and enjoy views of the Tanzanian countryside—an underrated part of the experience.

Once in Morogoro, you’re transferred to Mikumi National Park for the first game drive. Mikumi’s landscape is a tapestry of open plains dotted with acacia trees, providing the perfect backdrop for spotting wildlife. The guided game drives are generally conducted in open-roof vehicles, giving unobstructed views of animals in action. Expect to see elephants, giraffes, zebras, and perhaps lions or buffalos, depending on the day’s luck. Reviewers consistently mention the thrill of seeing these animals in their natural environment, with some noting, “we saw a herd of elephants and giraffes right in front of us, it was surreal.”

After a late morning start, you’ll enjoy a hearty lunch—either packed or local African cuisine—at the park. The afternoon game drive continues into the evening, offering different animal sightings and breathtaking sunset views over the plains. The day wraps up with an overnight stay at Camp Bastian Mikumi, known for its comfortable tents and friendly staff, making it a cozy base after a day of adventure.

Day 2: Mountain Trek and Waterfalls

The morning begins early with a breakfast at 7:00 AM before heading to Morogoro. The highlight of the day is a 2.5-hour hike to Morningside in the Uluguru Mountains. This part of the tour is perfect for those who enjoy physical activity and want to witness spectacular mountain scenery. The trail is well-trodden, but sturdy shoes and a good level of fitness are recommended.

From Morningside, it’s an additional hour’s walk to Choma Waterfalls—a stunning natural feature where you can cool off with a swim. Many reviews highlight the refreshing waters and peaceful surroundings as a highlight, with one reviewer noting, “swimming in the waterfalls was such a relief after the hike, and the scenery is simply gorgeous.” You can also enjoy a packed lunch or traditional African food here, making the experience more leisurely.

After some time at the waterfalls, you’ll retrace your steps back to the vehicle and begin the trip back to Dar es Salaam, filled with memories of wildlife encounters and mountain views.

What’s Included and What to Expect

Included in the Price ($423 per person) are essential elements that create a hassle-free experience:

• Pickup and drop-off at your hotel or ferry terminal
• Train tickets to Morogoro, saving you the trouble of arranging transportation
• Game drives in Mikumi, led by experienced guides who know the park’s habits and spots for wildlife
• Overnight stay at Camp Bastian Mikumi, which offers comfortable tents and a communal atmosphere
• Meals as per the itinerary, including lunch and dinner
• Hiking to Morningside and Choma Waterfalls, with all guiding included

Not included are personal expenses, so souvenirs, extra drinks, or tips are on you.

The tour is designed with a small group limit of 10 participants, which enhances the experience by allowing more personalized attention and flexible scheduling.

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Transport and Logistics: Making It Smooth

The train journey is a real plus, providing a scenic and relaxed mode of transport that breaks up the drive. The vehicle used for game drives and transfers is typically an open-sided 4×4, ideal for wildlife viewing. The timing is structured to maximize sightings—early morning and late afternoon drives are when animals tend to be most active.

Hiking & Waterfall Experience

The trek is moderate, but sturdy shoes are recommended because of uneven terrain. Guides, like the well-rated staff at Camp Bastian, are friendly and knowledgeable, often sharing insights about local flora and fauna. The waterfalls are accessible after a brief walk, and the opportunity to swim is a definite highlight, especially for those wanting a cool-off after the hike.

Authenticity and Local Flavor

While the safari is well-organized, it also offers authentic moments, like tasting traditional African dishes and interacting with local guides who share stories of the park and mountains. The experience isn’t just about ticking wildlife sightings off a list but also about soaking in the natural beauty and local culture.

The Value of the Experience

For $423, this adventure offers a surprisingly comprehensive package. You get two days filled with wildlife, mountain scenery, and waterfalls—plus transport, guiding, and accommodations. Compared to longer safaris, it’s a cost-effective way to see key highlights of Tanzania’s wilderness without the commitment of more extensive trips.

The reviews reinforce that this tour provides good value. Guests appreciated the well-paced schedule, the quality of the guides, and the chance to see elephants, giraffes, and zebras up close. One review noted, “The park was stunning, and the guides really knew where to find the animals,” emphasizing the quality of the wildlife viewing.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip is perfect for active travelers who want a balanced mix of wildlife and hiking in a short timeframe. It suits those interested in seeing Africa’s iconic animals and experiencing mountain scenery without the need for a lengthy safari. It’s also ideal for couples or small groups seeking a more intimate, guided experience.

However, travelers should be prepared for an early start, some physical activity, and a schedule that’s quite full. It’s not recommended for pregnant women or people with back problems due to the hiking and vehicle rides.

Final Thoughts

This 2-day safari from Dar es Salaam offers a dynamic experience of Tanzania’s wildlife and natural beauty. Combining game drives in Mikumi with a mountain trek to see waterfalls provides a well-rounded adventure that appeals to both nature lovers and active explorers.

The trip’s value lies in its ability to pack wildlife sightings, scenic hikes, and authentic local experiences into just two days, all while maintaining a reasonable price point. The small group size and knowledgeable guides ensure a personalized touch, making it ideal for travelers who want more than just a touristy day trip.

It’s a fantastic option for those short on time but eager to connect with Tanzania’s wilderness in a meaningful way. Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a hiker, or just someone craving a scenic escape, this tour offers a memorable taste of the country’s natural treasures.

FAQs

How do I get to the starting point?
Your tour begins with a pickup from your hotel or ferry terminal in Dar es Salaam, making it convenient to start the adventure without extra planning.

Is the train ride included?
Yes, your train tickets from Dar es Salaam to Morogoro are included, providing a relaxed way to travel and enjoy the scenery.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
You’ll have the chance to see elephants, giraffes, zebras, and possibly lions or buffalos during the game drives in Mikumi.

Is there any physical activity involved?
Yes, the hiking to Morningside and Choma Waterfalls involves walking on uneven terrain, so comfortable shoes and a decent fitness level are recommended.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, swimwear if you want to swim at the waterfalls, and a camera for capturing memories.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
It’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with back problems due to the physical demands and vehicle rides.

Embark on this 2-day safari if you’re eager to explore Tanzania’s wild side, enjoy scenic mountain views, and experience authentic local moments. It’s a well-rounded, value-packed adventure designed to leave you with lasting memories of Tanzania’s remarkable landscape.

You can check if your dates are available here: