3-Day Mikumi & Udzungwa Safari: Tanzania’s Wildlife and Waterfalls

Q: Is the 3-day Mikumi & Udzungwa safari safe?

Yes, Capable Africa Tours ensures safety with experienced guides, well-maintained vehicles, and adherence to park regulations.

Q: Are park fees included in the 3-day Mikumi safari price?

Yes, Mikumi and Udzungwa park entrance fees are included in the tour price with Capable Africa Tours.

Planning a 3-day Mikumi and Udzungwa safari? This affordable Mikumi safari tour from Dar es Salaam with Capable Africa Tours combines thrilling game drives in Mikumi National Park with scenic waterfall hikes in Udzungwa Mountains. Perfect for a weekend safari from Dar es Salaam, this Tanzania safari 3 days package offers a blend of wildlife and nature, spotting elephants, lions, and exotic birds alongside stunning waterfalls. Dive into our detailed itinerary, pricing, and booking guide to plan your short safari adventure in Tanzania’s southern circuit!

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3-Day Mikumi & Udzungwa Safari Highlights

Duration: 3 Days, 2 Nights
Destinations: Mikumi National Park (3,230 km²), Udzungwa Mountains National Park
Main Focus: Game drives, waterfall hikes, wildlife photography
Tour Style: Guided safari and hiking, small groups (2–6 people)
Best Time: June–October for optimal wildlife sightings and hiking conditions
Ideal For: Nature lovers, weekend travelers, budget adventurers

Why Choose a 3-Day Mikumi & Udzungwa Safari?

The 3-day Mikumi and Udzungwa safari package is a perfect short safari adventure for those starting in Dar es Salaam. Mikumi National Park, known as a “mini-Serengeti,” offers incredible wildlife viewing with elephants, lions, giraffes, and over 400 bird species. Udzungwa Mountains National Park, a biodiversity hotspot, boasts lush forests and breathtaking waterfalls like Sanje Falls. This budget safari to Mikumi and Udzungwa is ideal for travelers seeking a mix of Tanzania’s wildlife and scenic hiking in just three days. With expert guides, comfortable accommodations, and a well-planned itinerary, Capable Africa Tours ensures a memorable experience in Tanzania’s southern circuit.

Unlike the larger Selous Game Reserve, Mikumi offers a compact yet diverse safari experience, while Udzungwa’s hiking trails provide a refreshing contrast to game drives. This itinerary is perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking for a weekend escape or a short Tanzania wildlife and waterfall safari.

Detailed Mikumi and Udzungwa Itinerary: 3 Days

This 3-day Mikumi & Udzungwa safari package is designed to maximize your experience, combining game drives in Mikumi National Park with a hiking adventure in Udzungwa Mountains. Below is a day-by-day breakdown of your Tanzania short safari package starting from Dar es Salaam.

Day 1: Dar es Salaam to Mikumi National Park

Your Mikumi safari from Dar es Salaam begins with a scenic 4–5-hour drive to Mikumi National Park. Upon arrival, enjoy an afternoon game drive, spotting elephants, buffalo, and predators like lions and leopards. The park’s open savannahs make it ideal for wildlife photography.

Drive Time: Approx. 4–5 hours
Highlights: Afternoon game drive, Mikumi National Park animals
Meals: Lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Lodge or tented camp near Mikumi

Day 2: Mikumi to Udzungwa Mountains National Park

Start with a morning game drive in Mikumi to catch early wildlife activity, such as giraffes and zebras grazing. After lunch, drive to Udzungwa Mountains National Park (1–2 hours). Embark on a guided hike to Sanje Waterfalls, a 170-meter cascade surrounded by lush forest and home to endemic primates like the Sanje mangabey.

Drive Time: Approx. 1–2 hours
Highlights: Morning game drive, Udzungwa Mountains waterfalls hike
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Lodge or camp near Udzungwa

Day 3: Udzungwa to Dar es Salaam

Enjoy a morning hike in Udzungwa to explore more trails or visit another waterfall, spotting unique flora and fauna. After lunch, drive back to Dar es Salaam, concluding your 3-day Tanzania wildlife and waterfall safari with unforgettable memories.

Drive Time: Approx. 4–5 hours
Highlights: Morning hike, scenic return drive
Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Transfer to Dar es Salaam

Why This Mikumi & Udzungwa Safari Stands Out

This Mikumi and Udzungwa itinerary 3 days offers a unique blend of wildlife and nature, perfect for a short safari to Udzungwa Mountains and Mikumi National Park. Unlike larger reserves like Selous, Mikumi provides a concentrated safari experience with easy access from Dar es Salaam. Udzungwa’s pristine forests and waterfalls add a refreshing hiking element, making this one of the best Mikumi safari tours for budget travelers and nature enthusiasts. With small group sizes, eco-friendly accommodations, and expert guides, Capable Africa Tours delivers a seamless and impactful Tanzania safari experience.

Mikumi & Udzungwa Safari Gallery

What to Pack for Your 3-Day Mikumi & Udzungwa Safari

Packing wisely ensures you’re prepared for your Mikumi and Udzungwa national park safari package. Neutral-colored clothing is ideal for game drives, while sturdy hiking gear is essential for Udzungwa’s trails. Here’s a detailed packing list for your short safari to Udzungwa Mountains and Mikumi.

Neutral Clothing: Lightweight, long-sleeved shirts and pants in khaki or green for game drives.
Hiking Shoes: Sturdy, closed-toe shoes for Udzungwa’s 3–5-hour hikes.
Sunscreen & Hat: SPF 50+ and a wide-brimmed hat for Mikumi’s open savannahs.
Insect Repellent: DEET-based for forest hikes and evening game drives.
Binoculars: 8x42 for spotting Mikumi National Park animals and birds.
Camera: With a zoom lens (200mm+) for wildlife and waterfall photography.
Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated during hikes and 3–4-hour game drives.
Light Rain Jacket: For potential showers in Udzungwa’s forests.

How Much Does a 3-Day Mikumi Safari Cost in Tanzania?

The Mikumi safari cost in Tanzania for a 3-day Mikumi and Udzungwa safari typically ranges from $600 to $1,200 per person, depending on accommodation type, group size, and inclusions. Budget options start at $600, while mid-range Mikumi safari lodge packages cost $800–$1,200. Luxury options may exceed this range. Below is a breakdown:

Budget Safari: $600–$800 per person (shared camps, group tours).
Mid-Range Safari: $800–$1,200 per person (lodges, private vehicles).
Luxury Safari: $1,200+ per person (premium lodges, exclusive experiences).

Mikumi vs Selous Safari: Which is Better?

Choosing between a Mikumi and Selous safari depends on your time and preferences. Mikumi National Park is closer to Dar es Salaam (4–5 hours’ drive) and ideal for a short safari adventure in Tanzania, offering a compact yet diverse wildlife experience with elephants, lions, and giraffes. Selous Game Reserve, larger and more remote (6–8 hours’ drive), provides a broader range of activities like boat safaris but requires more time. The 3-day Mikumi & Udzungwa safari is perfect for a weekend getaway, combining game drives with Udzungwa’s unique hiking trails, while Selous suits longer, immersive trips.

3-Day Mikumi Safari Price Inclusions & Exclusions

The 3-day Mikumi safari price typically includes park entrance fees, game drives, guided hikes, accommodation, and most meals. Exclusions may cover international flights, personal expenses, and optional activities. Here’s a detailed breakdown for clarity:

Price Inclusions

Round-trip transfers from Dar es Salaam
4WD safari vehicle with pop-up roof
Professional English-speaking guides
Mikumi park entrance fees and Udzungwa hiking permits
Full-board meals and eco-friendly lodging
Bottled water during game drives and hikes
Guided waterfall hike in Udzungwa

Price Exclusions

International flights to Tanzania
Travel or medical insurance
Tips for guides (~$10–15 pp/day, optional)
Personal expenses (souvenirs, etc.)
Alcoholic beverages
Optional activities like cultural visits

Ready for Your 3-Day Mikumi & Udzungwa Safari?

Join Capable Africa Tours for an affordable Mikumi safari tour, exploring Mikumi National Park’s wildlife and Udzungwa’s stunning waterfalls. Perfect for a family safari Tanzania short tour or a weekend escape from Dar es Salaam.

90% success rate for spotting elephants and lions
Expert-guided game drives and hikes
Eco-friendly lodges with full-board meals
Small groups for personalized experiences
Supports conservation and local communities

Limited spots available for this Tanzania safari 3 days package—book now to secure your adventure!

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Book Your 3-Day Mikumi & Udzungwa Safari

Frequently Asked Questions about 3-Day Mikumi & Udzungwa Safari

1. What is the best time for a 3-day Mikumi and Udzungwa safari?

The dry season (June–October) is ideal for wildlife viewing in Mikumi and hiking in Udzungwa, with clear trails and abundant animal sightings.

2. Is the 3-day Mikumi & Udzungwa safari safe?

Yes, with expert guides from Capable Africa Tours, safaris follow strict safety protocols for a secure experience.

3. What fitness level is required for this safari?

Moderate fitness is needed for Udzungwa hikes (3–5 hours). Game drives in Mikumi require minimal physical effort, suitable for most travelers.

4. Are park fees included in the 3-day Mikumi safari price?

Yes, all park entry fees for Mikumi and Udzungwa are included with Capable Africa Tours.

5. Can children join the Mikumi & Udzungwa safari?

Children aged 8 and above can join, but Udzungwa hikes may be challenging for younger kids. Family-friendly options are available.

6. What is the cancellation policy for this safari?

Free cancellation up to 14 days before departure. Contact Capable Africa Tours for detailed terms.

7. What animals can I see in Mikumi National Park?

Expect to see elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, buffalo, and over 400 bird species in Mikumi National Park.

8. How do I travel from Dar es Salaam for this safari?

The safari starts with a 4–5-hour drive from Dar es Salaam, arranged by Capable Africa Tours with comfortable transfers.