Mikumi National Park Day Trip from Zanzibar & 2-Night/3-Day Safari by Train
Mikumi National Park is one of Tanzania’s most accessible wildlife destinations, offering incredible safari experiences just a short flight or train ride away from Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam. Whether you’re looking for a quick day trip from Zanzibar by flight or a more immersive 2-night/3-day adventure by train, Mikumi promises breathtaking wildlife encounters, stunning landscapes, and an unforgettable Tanzanian safari experience.
Explore Mikumi National Park on a day trip from Zanzibar by flight or a 2-night/3-day train safari from Dar es Salaam. Best wildlife, lodges & costs!
Why Visit Mikumi National Park?
• Close Proximity to Dar es Salaam & Zanzibar – Easily accessible by flight or train.
• Abundant Wildlife – Home to lions, elephants, zebras, giraffes, and more.
• Affordable Safari Option– Less crowded and more budget-friendly than Serengeti or Ngorongoro.
• Scenic Landscapes – Open grasslands (similar to Serengeti) and the Mkata Floodplain.
Option 1: Mikumi National Park Day Trip from Zanzibar by Flight
Itinerary Overview
• Morning: Flight from Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam, then to Mikumi.
• Mid-Morning: Game drive through Mikumi’s best wildlife spots.
• Afternoon: Lunch at a lodge, followed by another game drive.
• Evening: Return flight to Zanzibar.
Flight Details
• Zanzibar → Dar es Salaam: 20-30 min (Auric Air, Coastal Aviation, or Precision Air).
• Dar es Salaam → Mikumi Airstrip: 1-hour flight (charter or scheduled flights).
• Total Travel Time:~2 hours (one way).
What to Expect on a Day Trip
• Morning & Afternoon Game Drives – Spot the Big 4 (no rhinos).
• Wildlife Sightings – Elephants, buffaloes, hippos, crocodiles, and bird species.
• Lunch at a Lodge – Options include Vuma Hills Tented Camp or Mikumi Wildlife Camp.
Cost Estimate (Per Person)
• Flights: $300–$500 (round trip).
• Park Fees: $50 (foreign adult).
• Safari Jeep & Guide: $150–$250.
• Lunch: $20–$40.
Total: ~$500–$800 per person.
Option 2: 2-Night/3-Day Mikumi Safari by Train from Dar es Salaam
Itinerary Breakdown
Day 1: Dar es Salaam to Mikumi by Train
•Evening Train Departure: 3:30 PM from Dar es Salaam (TAZARA train).
• Arrival in Mikumi: ~9:00 PM (transfer to lodge).
• Overnight: Mikumi Wildlife Camp or Tan-Swiss Lodge.
Day 2: Full-Day Game Drive in Mikumi
• Morning Safari (6:30 AM – 11:30 AM): Explore Mkata Floodplain.
• Lunch Break: At the lodge.
• Afternoon Safari (3:00 PM – 6:30 PM): Sunset wildlife viewing.
• Overnight: Same lodge.
Day 3: Return to Dar es Salaam
• Early Morning Game Drive (Optional).
• Train Departure: 11:00 AM (arrive in Dar by 5:00 PM).
Train Details
• Dar es Salaam → Mikumi: ~5-6 hours.
• Cost: $10–$30 (economy to first class).
Safari Cost Estimate (Per Person)
• Train Tickets: $20–$60 (round trip).
• Park Fees: $50/day.
• Accommodation: $80–$150/night.
• Safari Jeep & Guide: $100–$200/day.
Total: ~$600–$800 per person.
Best Time to Visit Mikumi National Park
• Dry Season (June–October): Best wildlife viewing (animals gather near waterholes).
• Wet Season (November–May): Lush greenery, birdwatching, fewer tourists.
Where to Stay in Mikumi
Luxury Options
• Vuma Hills Tented Camp – Stunning views, luxury tents.
• Stanley’s Kopje Camp – Exclusive, intimate safari experience.
Mid-Range Lodges
• Mikumi Wildlife Camp – Great value, pool, great food.
• Tan-Swiss Lodge – Comfortable, near the park gate.
Budget Campsites
• Public Campsites– Basic facilities inside the park.
Final Tips for Your Mikumi Safari
✔ Book flights/train tickets in advance.
✔ Carry binoculars & a good camera.
✔ Wear neutral-colored clothing.
✔ Bring sunscreen, a hat, and enough water.
Conclusion
Whether you choose a day trip from Zanzibar by flight or a 2-night/3-day train safari from Dar es Salaam, Mikumi National Park offers an incredible Tanzanian wildlife experience without the crowds of more famous parks. Book your adventure today and witness the beauty of Tanzania’s wild heart!