6 Days Saadani, Mikumi & Beach Safari Itinerary

Overview

This 6-day safari takes you through Tanzania’s hidden gem—Saadani National Park, the only wildlife park bordering the Indian Ocean—before heading inland to the wild savannahs of Mikumi National Park. Finally, unwind on a pristine beach where the turquoise waters meet white sandy shores. It’s a blend of bush and beach—wildlife adventure and barefoot relaxation in one seamless journey.

Safari Highlights

• Game drives in Saadani National Park, where lions roam near the ocean.

• Classic big-game viewing in Mikumi National Park (elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and more).

• Sunset views over the savannah and Indian Ocean.

• Relaxation at a beach resort with sun, sand, and sea breeze.

• Combination of wildlife, culture, and coastal charm in one trip.

Belief Itinerary at a Glance

• Day 1: Arrival in Dar es Salaam – Transfer to Saadani

• Day 2: Full Day Safari in Saadani

• Day 3: Saadani – Mikumi National Park

• Day 4: Game Drives in Mikumi

• Day 5: Mikumi – Beach Retreat

• Day 6: Beach Relaxation & Departure

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival Dar es Salaam – Transfer to Saadani

Meet your driver-guide on arrival in Dar es Salaam. Drive north along the coast to Saadani National Park, where the wilderness meets the sea. Evening game drive followed by dinner.

• Accommodation: Saadani Safari Lodge (Mid-range) / Saadani River Lodge (Luxury)

• Meals: Dinner

Day 2: Full Day Safari in Saadani National Park

Enjoy morning and afternoon game drives in Saadani. Spot elephants, giraffes, lions, and hippos, with unique sightings of wildlife along the Indian Ocean shoreline. Option for a boat safari on the Wami River.

• Accommodation: Saadani Safari Lodge / Saadani River Lodge

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 3: Saadani – Mikumi National Park

After breakfast, depart for Mikumi National Park. Arrive for an afternoon game drive. The park is rich in wildlife and offers stunning baobab-dotted landscapes.

• Accommodation: Mikumi Safari Lodge / Vuma Hills Tented Camp

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4: Full Day Safari in Mikumi

Morning and afternoon game drives in Mikumi. The Mkata Floodplain offers open views where herds of buffalo, elephants, and wildebeest roam. With luck, spot lions lounging or hunting.

• Accommodation: Mikumi Safari Lodge / Vuma Hills Tented Camp

• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 5: Mikumi – Beach Retreat

Drive towards the coast and check in at your beach resort. Spend the evening relaxing with sea breezes and a quiet dinner by the shore.

• Accommodation: Ras Kutani / Lazy Lagoon Island Lodge (Beach Resort)

• Meals: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 6: Beach Relaxation – Departure

Enjoy a leisurely morning at the beach—swimming, sunbathing, or optional water sports—before your transfer back to Dar es Salaam for departure.

• Meals: Breakfast

Inclusions

• Accommodation as per itinerary

• Meals as stated (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner)

• Professional English-speaking driver-guide

• 4×4 Safari vehicle with pop-up roof

• Park entry fees

• Game drives and activities as mentioned

• Airport transfers

Exclusions

• International flights & visas

• Travel insurance

• Personal expenses (tips, laundry, drinks)

• Optional activities (boat safari, cultural visits)

What to Pack

• Light cotton clothes for daytime

• Warm sweater/jacket for cool evenings

• Comfortable safari shoes

• Sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen

• Camera & binoculars

• Swimwear for the beach

• Personal medication

Travel Guidelines & Important Notes for Tanzania Safaris

We want your Tanzania safari experience to be smooth, safe, and memorable. To help with planning, please take note of the following guidelines and conditions:

1. Flexibility of the Itinerary

• The program provided is a sample itinerary, tailored to showcase Tanzania’s highlights. It can always be adjusted according to your preferences—whether you wish to extend your stay, change activities, or upgrade accommodations.

• While we always strive to follow the planned schedule, changes may occur due to weather, road conditions, government regulations, or operational requirements. In such cases, the route or order of activities may be adjusted for your comfort and safety.

2. Seasonal Activities & Advance Booking

• Some experiences, such as Serengeti Great Migration crossings, depend heavily on seasonal animal movements and cannot be guaranteed.

• Peak seasons (Christmas, Easter, and school holidays) see high demand, so early booking is strongly recommended to secure preferred lodges, flights, and activities.

3. Accommodation Options

• For most of our itineraries, we can provide luxury, midrange, or budget accommodation depending on your preferences and budget.

• All accommodation is carefully selected for comfort, location, and service standards. Availability may vary, but we will always offer the best alternatives.

4. Park Rules & Respect for Nature

• Tanzania’s national parks have strict conservation guidelines. Guests are required to respect wildlife and follow their guide’s instructions at all times.

• Feeding or disturbing animals is prohibited. Always maintain a safe distance when viewing wildlife.

• Park opening hours and regulations must be observed for the safety of both travelers and wildlife.

5. Health & Safety Guidelines

• A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate may be required if you are traveling from or transiting through a Yellow Fever risk country.

• We recommend being up-to-date with routine vaccinations (such as tetanus and hepatitis A/B).

• Malaria prevention is strongly advised—please consult your doctor for medication.

• Carry a personal medical kit and sufficient supply of prescription medicines.

6. Travel Documents & Visa Requirements

• A valid passport with at least 6 months validity from your date of entry into Tanzania is required.

• Most visitors need a tourist visa, which can be obtained online (e-visa) or on arrival at the airport/entry border.

• Ensure you also carry a copy of your travel insurance policy.

7. What to Pack

• Light, breathable clothing in neutral colors (avoid bright colors during game drives).

• Warm sweater/jacket for early morning and evening drives.

• Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

• Insect repellent.

• Comfortable walking shoes and sandals.

• Swimwear for lodges with pools or Zanzibar extensions.

• Camera/binoculars for wildlife photography.

• A reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste.

8. Money & Payments

• The official currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), but US Dollars are widely accepted in lodges, camps, and parks.

• Carry small denominations in clean, newer USD notes (issued after 2006).

• Credit cards are accepted in most lodges, but surcharges may apply. ATMs are available in major towns.

9. Responsible Travel

• We encourage sustainable tourism. Please respect local cultures and communities, ask before taking photos, and support local businesses where possible.

• Reduce plastic use by carrying a reusable water bottle or shopping bag.

• Tipping is customary in Tanzania, with guidelines available from your safari consultant.

10. Terms & Conditions

• By booking a safari, clients accept Pillars of Africa Safaris’ Terms & Conditions of business. These include details on cancellations, payments, liabilities, and service provisions.