If you’re short on time but still want to experience the magic of a true African safari, this day trip to Mikumi National Park is your perfect escape. Known for its vast open plains and incredible wildlife visibility, Mikumi offers a rewarding safari experience that rivals some of Tanzania's bigger national parks—without the long journey.

This full-day itinerary is carefully crafted to maximize your wildlife viewing, cultural encounters, and scenic appreciation—all in just one unforgettable day.

05:30 AM – Pick-up & Departure from Dar es Salaam / Morogoro

Your journey begins bright and early with pick-up from your hotel in Dar es Salaam (or Morogoro for closer departures). Settle into your 4x4 safari jeep for a scenic drive through the Tanzanian countryside. You’ll pass through local villages, sisal plantations, and sweeping valleys with beautiful morning light—a photographer’s dream. A breakfast box will be provided en route.

09:30 AM – Arrive at Mikumi National Park & Begin Game Drive

Upon arrival at the park gate, your professional guide will handle entry formalities as you stretch and prepare for adventure. Your game drive begins immediately, exploring the Mkata Floodplain, where animals roam freely across golden savannah. Common sightings include elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, impalas, elands, and lions. The flat terrain makes wildlife viewing exceptionally easy.

12:00 PM – Visit the Hippo Pools & Birdwatching Stop

Head to the park’s famous hippo pools, where dozens of hippos wallow and grunt in muddy waters. Around the pools, you may spot crocodiles sunbathing and colorful birds like kingfishers, fish eagles, and bee-eaters hovering nearby. Mikumi is a paradise for bird lovers, with over 400 species recorded.

01:00 PM – Picnic Lunch at a Scenic Spot

Break for lunch at a designated picnic site overlooking the plains or nearby hills. Enjoy a hot lunch box, fresh seasonal fruits, and chilled bottled water while taking in the peaceful wilderness setting. You might even see wildlife pass by as you eat.

02:00 PM – Afternoon Game Drive & Search for Big Cats

After lunch, continue deeper into the park for a second round of wildlife spotting. This is the best time to look for predators like lions, leopards, and spotted hyenas, which tend to emerge as the sun begins to dip. Keep an eye out for giraffes gracefully browsing the acacia trees or elephants heading to waterholes.

03:45 PM – Begin Drive Back to Your Hotel

Begin your leisurely drive out of the park and head back toward your accommodation. The journey offers one last opportunity to take in the vast beauty of Mikumi’s open landscape and surrounding mountains.

07:00 PM – Drop-off at Your Hotel

Arrive back at your hotel in Dar es Salaam or Morogoro, filled with incredible memories of a day well spent in the heart of Tanzania’s southern safari circuit.