9 Days Mikumi & Mafia Island Safari Adventure

Experience the best of Tanzania with our 9-day safari combining wildlife encounters in Mikumi National Park and serene island escapes on Mafia Island. This journey blends thrilling game drives, stunning landscapes, rich culture, and pristine beaches, offering a perfect balance between adventure and relaxation. Ideal for wildlife lovers, photographers, and anyone seeking a memorable Tanzanian safari.

Safari Highlights

• Game drives in Mikumi National Park spotting elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and buffalo.

• Cultural visit to local villages near Mikumi.

• Relaxing on the white sandy beaches of Mafia Island.

• Snorkeling and diving among vibrant coral reefs and marine life.

• Boat trips to explore the mangroves and dolphin-spotting excursions.

• Sunset experiences over the Indian Ocean.

Belief Itinerary

• Inclusive: Accommodation, meals as stated, park entry fees, game drives, airport transfers, guided tours, snorkeling gear, boat trips.

• Exclusive: International flights, personal travel insurance, visa fees, gratuities, alcoholic beverages, optional activities not mentioned in itinerary.

What to Pack:

• Lightweight, breathable safari clothing in neutral colors.

• Sunhat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

• Comfortable walking shoes and sandals.

• Swimwear, snorkel gear (optional), and beachwear.

• Binoculars and camera with extra memory cards.

• Light jacket for early morning game drives.

9-Day Tanzania Safari & Beach Adventure Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Dar es Salaam

Activities:
Arrive at Julius Nyerere International Airport, where your friendly local guide will meet you and assist with luggage. Transfer to your hotel in Dar es Salaam. Depending on your arrival time, you can take a short city orientation tour to see the vibrant markets, local streets, and the waterfront. Relax and unwind from your journey, and enjoy a welcome dinner at the hotel while discussing the exciting adventure ahead.

Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Dar es Salaam
Meals: Dinner included
Highlights: Arrival, cultural introduction, evening relaxation

Day 2: Dar es Salaam – Mikumi National Park

Activities:
After an early breakfast, depart by comfortable 4×4 vehicle for Mikumi National Park (approx. 4–5 hours’ drive). Along the way, admire the scenic landscapes, passing villages, farms, and the picturesque Udzungwa foothills. Upon arrival at your safari lodge, check in and enjoy a hearty lunch. In the afternoon, embark on your first game drive in Mikumi, where you may spot elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and impalas. Return to the lodge in the evening for a sundowner and dinner under the African skies.

Accommodation: Safari lodge or tented camp in Mikumi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included
Highlights: First wildlife sightings, sunset photography, evening relaxation

Day 3: Mikumi Full-Day Safari Adventure

Activities:
Wake up early for a sunrise game drive, when wildlife is most active. Track lions resting in the savannah, watch elephants drinking at waterholes, and spot giraffes grazing in open plains. Pause mid-morning for tea or coffee while taking in the sounds and sights of the African bush. Return to the lodge for brunch and some rest. In the afternoon, head back for a second game drive, exploring deeper parts of the park. Capture wildlife on camera, enjoy birdwatching, and experience the magical African landscapes. Optional walking safaris may be arranged under the guidance of your ranger. Evening return for dinner and relaxation at the lodge.

Accommodation: Safari lodge or tented camp in Mikumi
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included
Highlights: Big Five sightings, bush photography, optional guided walk

Day 4: Mikumi – Udzungwa Mountains National Park

Activities:
After breakfast, depart for Udzungwa Mountains National Park (approx. 4 hours). Arrive and check in at a charming eco-lodge surrounded by lush rainforest. Enjoy a guided afternoon hike through forest trails to waterfalls, streams, and scenic viewpoints. Spot rare and endemic primates such as the Udzungwa red colobus and diverse birdlife. Learn about the unique flora, trees, and medicinal plants of this biodiversity hotspot. Return to the lodge for dinner and share stories from the day.

Accommodation: Eco-lodge near Udzungwa Mountains
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included
Highlights: Rainforest exploration, endemic wildlife, hiking and photography

Day 5: Udzungwa Exploration – Travel to Selous Game Reserve

Activities:
Early morning guided forest walk to capture the morning wildlife activity and sunrise over the forest canopy. After breakfast, transfer to Selous Game Reserve (approx. 5–6 hours drive), passing scenic countryside and rivers. Check into your safari lodge in Selous and relax. In the evening, embark on a short game drive near the lodge to observe hippos, elephants, and other wildlife gathering along riverbanks. Dinner at the lodge and overnight stay.

Accommodation: Safari lodge in Selous Game Reserve
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included
Highlights: Scenic drive, wildlife spotting en route, evening game drive

Day 6: Selous Game Reserve Safari

Activities:
Spend a full day exploring Selous, one of Africa’s largest and least visited reserves. Begin with a morning game drive to see lions, leopards, elephants, giraffes, and large herds of buffalo. Stop for photography and birdwatching along the Great Rufiji River. In the afternoon, enjoy an optional boat safari along the river, witnessing hippos, crocodiles, and water birds up close. Learn from your guide about the ecosystem, conservation efforts, and the history of the reserve. Return to the lodge for dinner and storytelling under the stars.

Accommodation: Safari lodge in Selous Game Reserve
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included
Highlights: Boat safari, predator sightings, wildlife education

Day 7: Selous – Return to Dar es Salaam

Activities:
After an early breakfast, enjoy a final morning game drive in Selous, capturing last images of wildlife. Begin the drive back to Dar es Salaam (approx. 5–6 hours), stopping at scenic locations and local villages for cultural insight and photography. Upon arrival, check in at a hotel for overnight stay. Evening at leisure with dinner.

Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Dar es Salaam
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included
Highlights: Farewell safari drive, cultural insights along the journey

Day 8: Dar es Salaam – Mafia Island

Activities:
Transfer to Dar es Salaam airport for a domestic flight to Mafia Island. Upon arrival, transfer to a beachfront lodge or resort. Spend the afternoon relaxing on white sandy beaches or swimming in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Optional guided beach walks or snorkeling excursions. Dinner at the lodge and evening leisure by the ocean.

Accommodation: Beach lodge/resort on Mafia Island
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included
Highlights: Tropical beaches, ocean relaxation, water activities

Day 9: Mafia Island – Departure

Activities:
Enjoy a final morning on the beach or optional snorkeling/dolphin spotting. Transfer to the airport for your flight back to Dar es Salaam and onward international departure. Depart Tanzania with memories of safari, wildlife, culture, and pristine beaches.

Meals: Breakfast included
Highlights: Morning beach relaxation, farewell to Tanzania

Safari Inclusions

• Domestic flights (Dar es Salaam – Mafia Island – Dar es Salaam)

• Accommodation as per itinerary with all meals specified

• All game drives in 4×4 vehicles with professional guides

• Park entry fees for Mikumi, Udzungwa, and Selous

• Guided bush walks, forest hikes, and cultural visits

• Bottled water during safari drives

Safari Exclusions

• International flights to/from Tanzania

• Travel insurance and visa fees

• Tips and gratuities for guides and lodge staff

• Personal expenses, souvenirs, and optional activities

• Alcoholic beverages not included

• Optional night drives or excursions not mentioned

Travel & Safety Advisory

• Health: Ensure routine vaccinations are current; malaria prophylaxis recommended. Carry personal medication and first-aid kit.

• Sun & Heat: Wear sunscreen, hats, and light clothing; drink plenty of water.

• Wildlife Safety: Stay inside vehicles unless guided; maintain safe distances.

• Water & Beach Activities: Follow all safety instructions for swimming, snorkeling, or boating.

• Local Culture: Be respectful in villages; ask before photographing people.

• Nighttime: Avoid walking alone; rely on guides for safety.

What to Pack

• Lightweight, breathable safari clothing in neutral colors

• Comfortable walking shoes and sandals

• Sunhat, sunglasses, sunscreen

• Swimsuit and beachwear

• Binoculars and camera with extra batteries

• Light jacket or sweater for mornings/evenings

• Insect repellent and personal medications

• Reusable water bottle