Discover Mikumi and Uluguru: A 2-Day Safari from Dar es Salaam
If you’re after an adventure that combines wildlife viewing, mountain hiking, and a splash of waterfalls, this 2-day safari from Dar es Salaam hits the spot. For $423 per person, you get to visit Mikumi National Park—home to elephants, giraffes, and zebras—and hike through the Uluguru Mountains to enjoy the cool waters and scenic vistas of Choma Waterfalls.
What we particularly love about this trip is how it balances thrilling game drives with refreshing hikes—giving you a taste of Tanzania’s diverse landscapes in just a couple of days. Plus, the chance to swim in waterfalls adds a lovely touch of local charm. Another highlight is the train ride to Morogoro, which offers a relaxed way to start the adventure and see some local countryside.
On the flip side, the itinerary’s packed pace might feel a bit rushed for those who love slow travel or more time in each location. Also, the trip involves a fair amount of physical activity—so it’s best suited for those in decent shape and ready for some hiking. This tour is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, adventure seekers, or anyone wanting a quick but comprehensive taste of Tanzania’s natural beauty.
If you enjoy a mix of wildlife, mountain scenery, and waterfalls—all bundled into a well-organized itinerary—you’ll find this safari a worthwhile adventure. It’s especially good if you want a value-packed experience that offers diversity without the long travel days.
Key Points
- Wildlife Encounters: Enjoy game drives with a good chance of spotting elephants, giraffes, zebras, and more in Mikumi National Park.
- Mountain Adventure: Hike through the Uluguru Mountains, culminating in a swim at Choma Waterfalls.
- Transportation: Includes train tickets, making the journey both scenic and relaxing.
- Accommodations: Overnight stay at Camp Bastian Mikumi provides a comfortable base with good access to the park.
- Activities: Combines safari game drives with hiking, offering a well-rounded experience.
- Flexibility: Option to bring your own swimwear or enjoy local African cuisine at the waterfalls.
A Detailed Look at the 2-Day Safari Experience
Day 1: From Dar es Salaam to Mikumi National Park
The adventure begins with a hotel or ferry terminal pickup in Dar es Salaam. From there, you’re transferred to the SGR station to board a train heading towards Morogoro. This train journey, lasting about 1-2 hours, is a comfortable way to see some of Tanzania’s countryside in a relaxed setting. Many travelers appreciate the scenic views and the chance to sit back before the more active parts of the trip.
Once you arrive in Morogoro, your driver-guide takes over, whisking you to Mikumi National Park for your first game drive. Mikumi is Tanzania’s fourth-largest national park and is renowned for its large herds of elephants, giraffes, zebras, and various antelopes. Many guests comment on the unexpectedly scenic landscape, with open plains and distant mountains providing a stunning backdrop for wildlife sightings.
The game drives here are generally late morning and afternoon, giving you a good chance to see various animals in different lighting. We loved how the guides are attentive, sharing insights about animal behaviors and park ecology. “The guides really knew their stuff,” said one traveler, “and we saw so many elephants close up.”
After a hearty lunch (either packed or at a local spot), you can unwind at Camp Bastian Mikumi, which offers a cozy and practical place to rest before the next day’s activities. The camp’s location near the park boundary makes early morning game drives feasible and convenient.
Day 2: Mountain Trekking and Waterfalls
The highlight of the second day is the hike through the Uluguru Mountains, starting early with a 7:00 AM breakfast. Your transfer takes you to Morogoro town, where the hike begins. The trek to Morningside takes about 2.5 hours, winding through lush scenery and offering excellent views of the surrounding landscape.
Hikers often remark on the beautiful scenery and fresh mountain air, making the effort well worth it. Once at Morningside, it’s about an hour’s walk to Choma Waterfalls—a perfect spot for a break and a refreshing swim. The waterfalls are genuinely picturesque, with clear, cool waters that provide a natural respite from the heat.
Many guests find the swimming at Choma Waterfalls to be a delightful way to cool off after the hike. You can bring your own swimwear, or simply soak your feet in the refreshing water if preferred. A packed lunch or local African food can be enjoyed here, adding a communal feeling to the experience.
After the waterfall visit, the group begins the walk back to the meeting point and drives back to Dar es Salaam, often arriving in the evening. The day’s activities are quite physically demanding but rewarding, especially for those who love outdoor pursuits.
What’s Included and What to Bring
The package includes hotel or ferry terminal pickup, train tickets, game drives, overnight stay, and hiking to Morningside and Choma Waterfalls. Meals are provided as per the itinerary—usually breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the camp.
You’ll want to bring comfortable shoes suitable for hiking, a hat, sunscreen, a camera to capture wildlife and waterfalls, and water to stay hydrated. Swimwear is optional but highly recommended if you wish to take a dip at the waterfalls.
Smoking is not permitted during activities, which keeps the environment pleasant for everyone. Since the tour involves physical activity and outdoor elements, it’s best suited for those in reasonable health and not pregnant or with back issues.
More Great Tours NearbyWho Is This Tour Best For?
This safari beautifully balances adventure, wildlife, and natural beauty, making it ideal for travelers who want a short but diverse experience. It’s perfect for nature lovers, photographers, or anyone eager to see big game and mountain scenery in a manageable timeframe. The mix of game drives and hiking offers a comprehensive look at Tanzania’s landscapes without long, tiring travel days.
If you’re after authentic wilderness encounters, enjoy active outdoor pursuits, and want to maximize your time in Tanzania’s natural settings, this trip is a solid choice. It also offers good value considering the inclusion of train travel, guides, and accommodations.
The Sum Up
This 2-day safari from Dar es Salaam is a smart way to experience both the diversity of Tanzanian wildlife and the beauty of its mountainous terrain. It combines exciting game drives with a refreshing mountain hike, making it a dynamic and fulfilling short escape. The inclusion of train travel and a comfortable camp stay helps keep the experience practical and relaxed, rather than overly hectic.
For travelers who appreciate seeing wildlife, loves hiking, or simply want a taste of Tanzania’s stunning landscape in a short time, this tour offers remarkable value. It’s especially suitable for those who don’t mind a bit of physical activity and are eager to explore beyond the usual tourist spots.
This safari offers a well-rounded look at Mikumi and the Uluguru Mountains, giving you enough adventure and beautiful scenery to make your trip memorable. It’s a great option for your Tanzania itinerary—fun, authentic, and packed with genuine experiences.
FAQ
Is transportation included?
Yes, this tour includes train tickets to Morogoro, plus pick-up and drop-off at your hotel or ferry terminal in Dar es Salaam.
How physically demanding is the hike?
The hike to Morningside takes about 2.5 hours, and the walk to Choma Waterfalls is around an hour. Bring comfortable shoes and be prepared for some moderate effort, but it’s manageable for most healthy travelers.
Can I swim at Choma Waterfalls?
Yes, swimming in the cool waters of the waterfalls is optional. Many enjoy a dip or just relax and enjoy the scenery.
What wildlife might I see?
Your game drives provide opportunities to see elephants, giraffes, zebras, and other plains animals typical of Mikumi National Park.
Are meals included?
Meals are included as specified—breakfast, lunch, and dinner at the camp, with options for packed lunches or local African cuisine at the waterfalls.
Is this tour suitable for children?
The physical aspects and outdoor nature mean it’s best for older children or teenagers in good health. Check with the provider if traveling with young kids.
Can I customize the trip?
The itinerary is fixed, but you can discuss specific needs or preferences with the tour operator when booking.
What should I pack?
Bring comfortable hiking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, water, a camera, swimwear, and any personal essentials.
Is there a chance to see rare animals?
While wildlife sightings aren’t guaranteed, Mikumi’s open plains offer a good chance to spot recognizable animals like elephants and giraffes.
What is the best time of year to go?
Though not specified, Tanzania’s dry season (June to October) generally offers the best wildlife viewing conditions.
This detailed review paints a clear picture of what awaits you on this 2-day safari — a well-organized, active, and scenic escape into Tanzania’s wild and mountainous landscapes.
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