5-Day Mikumi & Ruaha Safari

Trip Overview

This 5-day safari isn’t just about seeing wildlife, it’s about feeling the pulse of two very different worlds within southern Tanzania. From the golden light that floods Mikumi’s open plains to the ancient baobabs standing guard over Ruaha’s rocky hills, each place tells its own story. Together, they reveal the incredible depth of Tanzania’s wilderness.

Start Easy in Mikumi

With its accessibility and reliable wildlife viewing, Mikumi is the perfect warm-up to safari life.

Rise into the Highlands

The journey through Iringa provides a scenic and cultural transition into Tanzania’s interior.

Go Deep in Ruaha

Far from the crowds, Ruaha offers a truly wild experience, where game drives feel like private expeditions.

Frequently Asked Questions about 5-Day Mikumi and Ruaha Safari

How long is the drive between Mikumi and Ruaha?

It takes about 7–8 hours total, usually broken up with an overnight stop in Iringa.

When is the best time for this safari?

June to October is ideal for game viewing, but Ruaha and Mikumi are rewarding year-round.

Is this a private or group safari?

All our safaris are private, meaning your vehicle and guide are exclusively yours.

What should I pack for this trip?

Light clothing, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, and a camera. We’ll send a full packing list upon booking.

What wildlife is most commonly seen?

In Mikumi: giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, elephants. In Ruaha: elephants, lions, kudu, buffalo, and sometimes cheetahs or wild dogs.

Can I fly back from Ruaha?

Yes. Charter flights are available from Msembe Airstrip in Ruaha to Dar or Zanzibar.

What’s special about Ruaha National Park?

It’s remote, less visited, and home to one of the largest elephant populations in East Africa, along with lions, leopards, and rare antelope species.

What kind of accommodation is used?

We use comfortable mid-range lodges and camps, all with private en-suite rooms and great views.

Is this safari suitable for children?

Yes, it’s family-friendly. We adjust activity timings to suit young travelers and ensure safety on all excursions.

Can this safari be customized?

Yes! We can adjust the number of days, route, or include flights depending on your schedule and interests.

Itinerary

We begin early with a road transfer from Dar es Salaam to Mikumi—about a 5–6 hour drive. Along the way, you’ll pass through rural Tanzania, with scenic views of farms, markets, and baobab trees. After a hot lunch at the lodge, enjoy an afternoon game drive across Mikumi’s wide-open plains. Expect to see elephants, giraffes, antelope, and possibly lions as the sun sets.

Overnight in Mikumi at a comfortable safari lodge.

After an early morning game drive and breakfast, we hit the road toward Iringa town, the halfway point to Ruaha National Park. This scenic drive climbs into the Southern Highlands, offering a shift in terrain and cooler air. You’ll reach Iringa by late afternoon—perfect for stretching out, enjoying the views, and relaxing before the next leg of the adventure.

Overnight in Iringa

After breakfast, we make our way to Ruaha, arriving in time for lunch at your lodge inside or near the park. In the afternoon, your first game drive in Ruaha National Park begins—a vast and wild place where baobabs tower above ancient landscapes and elephants roam in herds. Keep an eye out for kudu, roan antelope, lions, and if you’re lucky, wild dogs.

Overnight in Ruaha at a safari lodge or tented camp.

Spend the day exploring deeper into Ruaha. The park is rich in biodiversity and rewards patience—this is raw Africa at its best. Your guide will tailor the day’s game drives to your interests, with a packed picnic lunch allowing you to go further afield. Ruaha is known for its predator sightings and dramatic scenery.