SOUTHERN CIRCUIT

MIKUMI & UDZUNGWA DESTINATION

Destination overview

The Mikumi & Udzungwa safari combines the big game plains of Mikumi National Park with the scenic forests and waterfalls of Udzungwa Mountains National Park. Often called the “mini Serengeti”, Mikumi is one of the most accessible wildlife parks in Tanzania, while Udzungwa is known as the “African Galápagos” for its unique flora and fauna. Together, they offer a diverse short safari that blends classic game drives with adventurous trekking, making it ideal for travelers with limited time.

Why Mikumi & Udzungwa is a Great Safari Destination

Why Choose Mikumi & Udzungwa?

  • Convenient Location: Easily accessible from Dar es Salaam, making it perfect for a long weekend or a short safari add-on.

  • Two Experiences in One: Classic savannah game drives + lush mountain trekking.

  • Unique Wildlife: See both African big game and rare primates found only in Udzungwa.

  • Variety of Activities: Game drives, walking safaris, hiking, birding, and cultural visits.

  • Affordable Safaris: More budget-friendly than longer Northern or Southern Circuit trips.

Safari Highlights

  • Mikumi National Park

    • Easy to reach from Dar es Salaam (about 4–5 hours by road).

    • Large populations of elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, lions, and buffalo.

    • Open floodplains similar in look to Serengeti great for photography.

    • Hippos and crocodiles in natural pools.

  • Udzungwa Mountains National Park

    • Rich rainforest with spectacular waterfalls, such as Sanje Falls (over 170 meters high).

    • Home to rare primates, including the Udzungwa red colobus and Sanje crested mangabey, found nowhere else on earth.

    • Excellent birdwatching, with many endemic species.

    • Trekking and hiking experiences in pristine forest landscapes.

  • Variety in a short trip – game drives, nature walks, hiking, waterfalls, and cultural encounters.

  • Both parks are around 4–5 hours’ drive from Dar es Salaam, making them very accessible for a short safari.

    • Most travelers choose a 3–4 day safari: two days in Mikumi for game drives and one day in Udzungwa for trekking.

  • Expect elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, buffalo, hippos, lions, leopards (with some luck), and many antelope species. Mikumi is often compared to a smaller version of Serengeti.

  • Udzungwa is unique because it’s a rainforest park with waterfalls, trekking, and rare primates found nowhere else in the world, such as the Udzungwa red colobus monkey.

  • The popular Sanje Waterfalls trek is moderate and can be done by most visitors with average fitness. Longer treks are available for experienced hikers.

  • The dry season (June–October) is best for game drives, while the green season (November–April) is excellent for lush scenery and birdwatching.

What Makes Ruaha National Park Unique

All you need to know about Ruaha national park 

Best Time to Visit

  • Dry Season (June – October):

    • Best for game drives in Mikumi; wildlife is concentrated around water sources.

    • Trekking in Udzungwa is easier with less slippery trails.

  • Green Season (November – April):

    • Udzungwa is lush and waterfalls are at their most powerful.

    • Excellent birdwatching with migratory species.

  • April – May: Some rains may make trekking more challenging, but the scenery is spectacular.

What to Pack

  • Lightweight, breathable clothing for hot Mikumi game drives.

  • Sturdy hiking boots for Udzungwa trekking.

  • Rain jacket or poncho (especially in Udzungwa).

  • Daypack for hikes.

  • Swimwear and towel (some waterfalls have natural swimming pools).

  • Sun hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

  • Insect repellent and a reusable water bottle.

Why Choose Mikumi & Udzungwa?

  • Convenient Location: Easily accessible from Dar es Salaam, making it perfect for a long weekend or a short safari add-on.

  • Two Experiences in One: Classic savannah game drives + lush mountain trekking.

  • Unique Wildlife: See both African big game and rare primates found only in Udzungwa.

  • Variety of Activities: Game drives, walking safaris, hiking, birding, and cultural visits.

  • Affordable Safaris: More budget-friendly than longer Northern or Southern Circuit trips.

Best For

  • Travelers with limited time who still want both wildlife and adventure.

  • Families and groups combining safari with an active holiday.

  • Nature lovers interested in primates, birds, and unique ecosystems.

  • People looking for an easy add-on to a Tanzania beach holiday in Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar.

BOOK YOUR SAFARI TODAY

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RUAHA NATIONAL PARK
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