Embark on the ultimate southern Tanzania safari adventure, combining the best of the region's national parks. Mikumi National Park teems with an abundance of wildlife, including the famed 'Big Five,' with a unique chance to witness lions scaling trees—a spectacle rarer here than in other reserves. Udzungwa National Park offers glimpses of the elusive Iringa red colobus monkey and the majestic Sanje crested mangabey, species exclusive to this biodiverse haven, boasting Africa's second-largest biodiversity in a national park. Venture into the expansive Selous Game Reserve, Tanzania's largest, celebrated for its unparalleled wildlife diversity and pristine wilderness, earning it the prestigious designation as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Upon arrival at Dar Airport, you will be picked up by your personal driver guide who will take you straight to your accommodation for relaxation, dinner and overnight.
Accommodation: Sea Cliff Hotel
Embark on an unforgettable African safari adventure as you depart from Dar
Es Salaam after breakfast, bound for the majestic Selous Game Reserve.
Covering a staggering 55,000 sq km, Selous dwarfs even the renowned
Serengeti to the north, occupying a remarkable 5% of Tanzania's landmass.
Within this vast expanse lies an ecosystem of unparalleled beauty, spanning
over 90,000 sq km of unspoiled wilderness, untouched by human influence.
Delve into the heart of Selous aboard sturdy metal boats propelled by
powerful outboard motors, guided by experienced boatmen intimately familiar
with the river's every twist and turn. These seasoned guides navigate the
waterways with ease, revealing hidden corners teeming with wildlife. As you
glide along, marvel at the myriad water birds that call this place home, and
observe hippos and crocodiles in their natural habitat, whether submerged in
the river or sunning themselves on the banks.
After a scenic journey through suburban landscapes, arrive at the camp for a
delectable hot lunch before setting out for an afternoon game drive.
Traverse the reserve, crisscrossed by the mighty Rufiji River, the lifeblood
of this vast wilderness. Encounter a plethora of wildlife, from the majestic
elephant to a myriad of other large animals, as Selous boasts over 1,000,000
of them, including more than half of Tanzania's elephant population.
Return to camp as the sun sets, where a sumptuous dinner awaits, followed by
a restful overnight stay, allowing you to recharge for another day of
adventure in the heart of Selous.
Meal plan: Full Board (B, L & D)
Accommodation: Selous Kulinda Camp
Today begins with a satisfying and nutritious breakfast at the lodge, setting the stage for a Full Day Game Drive adventure. Departing from the lodge, we immerse ourselves in the untamed beauty of Selous (pronounced "Seloo"), a revered World Heritage Site offering a safari experience in its purest form. The landscape unfolds in a mosaic of rolling grassy woodlands, expansive plains, and rugged rocky outcrops carved by the Rufiji River. Selous is a sanctuary for the endangered wild dog population, boasting a third of the world's total. Here, these magnificent creatures roam freely, unhindered by the constraints of human development, showcasing their formidable hunting prowess in the boundless woodlands and savannahs. Upon our return to the lodge in the afternoon, a warm lunch awaits to replenish our energy reserves. Following this rejuvenating break, we resume our Game Drive, delving deeper into the wilderness. During the dry season from June to October, the riverbanks teem with an astonishing concentration of wildlife. Linked to the Rufiji River is Lake Tagalala, a gathering place for Waterbuck, Reedbuck, and Bushbuck, while the grasslands and wooded areas harbor magnificent Sickle-Horned Sable and Curly-Horned Greater Kudu. After a day brimming with excitement and exploration, we retreat to the lodge for a well-deserved rest. As evening falls, a delicious hot dinner is prepared and served at your convenience, providing the perfect conclusion to an unforgettable day in the bush.
Meals: Full Board (B, L & D)
Accommodation: Selous Kulinda Camp
Our day begins with a hearty breakfast at the lodge, setting the stage for our adventure to Mikumi National Park. Accompanied by our experienced Safari Driver Guide, we embark on our journey, where you'll receive essential insights about the park and its treasures. Nestled 300 km west of Dar es Salaam, Mikumi National Park spans a modest 3,230 sq. km, making it the closest park to the capital. Situated between the majestic Uruguru Mountains to the East and the sweeping Rift Valley escarpments to the Southwest, Mikumi's small size belies its rich biodiversity. Linked to the expansive Selous Game Reserve, Mikumi boasts the highest game density in the region while remaining easily accessible. The park's landscape is dominated by the Mkata River floodplain, enveloped by gentle hills adorned with Miombo woodland. En route to Mikumi, we pause at a local restaurant for lunch, where the tantalizing aromas and flavors of authentic Tanzanian cuisine await. Delight in the spices and culinary craftsmanship, immersing yourself in a true gastronomic experience. Refreshed and reenergized after our savory meal, we resume our journey towards Mikumi National Park, eager to explore its natural wonders and encounter its diverse wildlife.
Meal plan: Full Board (B, L & D)
Accommodation: Camp Bastian
After breakfast, continue with your game drive in Mikumi. Mid-morning and
afternoon program:
Embark on an exciting game drive within Mikumi National Park, renowned for
its diverse wildlife. You can spot lions, elephants, giraffes, and various
antelope species, among other animals. Enjoy a packed lunch in the park's
scenic surroundings, depending on your safari package.
Meal plan: Full Board (B, L & D)
Accommodation: Camp Bastian
Following a nourishing breakfast at the lodge, we embark on an adventure to
explore the nearby waterfall nestled within Udzungwa National Park. Renowned
as a haven for hikers and backpackers, Udzungwa offers an array of
captivating trails, from enchanting day hikes to immersive excursions into
the lush rainforest and expansive high plateau.
Our trek leads us to the awe-inspiring Sanje River Waterfall, cascading
majestically for 170 meters through the verdant forest to the valley below.
The panoramic vista from the summit is nothing short of breathtaking,
offering a glimpse into nature's grandeur.
Udzungwa National Park is home to a rich and diverse array of wildlife,
including iconic species such as Elephant, Buffalo, Lion, Leopard, and
African Wild Dog. Six species of primates inhabit this pristine habitat, two
of which are endemic—the Iringa (Uhehe) Red Colobus monkey and the Sanje
Crested Mangabey, discovered in 1979. Additionally, a vibrant community of
small bovids, including Red, Blue, and Abbots Duikers, and Bushbuck, thrives
within the park's boundaries.
Boasting the richest forest bird habitat in Tanzania, Udzungwa is a
birdwatcher's paradise, with several endemic species recently discovered,
including a new species of Francolin and the Rufus-winged Sun Bird.
After reveling in the splendor of the mountains, we return to the lodge for
a delightful lunch, fueling up for the next leg of our journey. In the
afternoon, we resume our adventure with exhilarating game drives aboard our
4x4 Safari Vehicle, immersing ourselves in the wonders of Udzungwa's
wilderness.
Meal plan: Full Board (B, L & D)
Accommodation: Udzungwa Falls Lodge
After breakfast you will leave the camp and begin the drive back to Dar. Enjoy the ride arriving in Dar for dinner and overnight.
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