Is this safari suitable for children?

Yes, this trip is designed with families in mind. The itinerary includes a mix of game drives, scenic travel, and a lighter walking experience in Udzungwa, making it suitable for children who enjoy outdoor adventure.

What kind of accommodation is included?

Accommodation is in budget lodges or tented camps that offer basic comfort, private or shared facilities depending on availability, and a good location for safari access.

Will we see a lot of wildlife?

Wildlife sightings are very likely in Mikumi and Ruaha, including elephants, giraffes, zebras, lions, buffalo, and many antelope species. As with all safaris, sightings depend on season and animal movement.

Is Udzungwa a game drive destination?

No, Udzungwa is mainly for forest walks, waterfall hikes, and nature experiences. It provides a beautiful contrast to the safari plains of Mikumi and Ruaha.

Are meals included during the trip?

Yes, the package includes meals as outlined in the itinerary, typically full board while on safari. Drinking water is also provided during game drives and transfers.

How long are the driving distances?

This safari includes some longer road transfers, especially between the parks. The route is planned to be manageable, but travelers should be prepared for scenic drives as part of the experience.

8 Days Safari Mikumi + Udzungwa + Ruaha

This 8-day family safari combines three of southern Tanzania’s most rewarding wilderness areas in one affordable adventure: Mikumi National Park, Udzungwa Mountains National Park, and Ruaha National Park. Designed for budget-conscious travelers, the trip balances classic game drives with light adventure, scenic landscapes, and family-friendly pacing.

Mikumi offers excellent chances to spot elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, lions, and hippos across open plains that are easy to explore. Udzungwa adds a refreshing change of scenery with forest walks, waterfalls, and the chance to stretch your legs in a lush mountain environment. Ruaha, Tanzania’s largest national park, delivers a more remote safari feel with big skies, baobab-dotted scenery, and strong wildlife viewing, especially elephants, predators, and large herds around the Great Ruaha River.

The itinerary is crafted to keep travel days manageable for families while still covering a diverse range of habitats and experiences. Accommodation is in simple, comfortable budget lodges or tented camps with practical amenities, making it ideal for parents traveling with children or extended family groups. Meals are typically included, and transportation is by private safari vehicle, allowing flexibility for wildlife viewing and rest stops.

This trip is perfect for travelers who want a genuine Tanzanian safari experience without the high cost of luxury packages. Expect early starts for the best game viewing, relaxed afternoons, and memorable moments in some of the most scenic and wildlife-rich parts of southern Tanzania.

Accomodation
Budget lodges and tented camps
Trip Type
Family safari
Duration
8 days / 7 nights
Difficulty
1
Departure City
12
Transportation
Private safari vehicle
Insurance Coverage
Full board
Guide
Mikumi, Udzungwa, Ruaha
Group Size
Game drives and nature walks
Group Type
Families and budget travelers
Tour Availability
English-speaking driver-guide
Meeting Point
Budget

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Enjoy an affordable 8-day family safari through southern Tanzania, combining the open plains of Mikumi, the forested beauty of Udzungwa, and the wild, remote landscapes of Ruaha. This budget-friendly trip offers a great mix of game drives, nature walks, waterfalls, and scenic road travel, with comfortable lodges and tented camps along the way. It is ideal for families seeking a balanced safari with wildlife, adventure, and plenty of memorable moments.

Trip Highlights

Game drives in Mikumi National Park with excellent chances to see elephants, lions, giraffes, and hippos.
A refreshing nature experience in Udzungwa Mountains National Park with waterfalls and forest trails.
Explore Ruaha National Park, one of Tanzania’s best parks for a remote and authentic safari.
Family-friendly pacing with a mix of wildlife viewing, scenic drives, and light adventure.
Budget accommodation in simple lodges and tented camps with practical comfort.
Private safari vehicle and experienced guide for flexible and personalized travel.

Day 1 :

Arrival and transfer to Mikumi

Arrive in Tanzania and meet your safari guide for a road transfer to Mikumi National Park. The drive offers a first look at rural landscapes, villages, and changing scenery along the way. Check in at your budget lodge or camp near the park, settle in, and enjoy a relaxed evening with dinner and a briefing about the days ahead.

Day 2 :

Full-day game drive in Mikumi

Spend the day exploring Mikumi on a full game drive. The park is known for its open plains, making wildlife easy to spot. Look for elephants, zebras, giraffes, buffalo, wildebeest, impalas, and predators such as lions. Stop at viewpoints and picnic areas, and enjoy a family-friendly safari day with plenty of time for photos and observation.

Day 3 :

Morning safari and transfer toward Udzungwa

Enjoy an early morning drive in Mikumi for another chance to see active wildlife before leaving the park area. After breakfast, continue to Udzungwa Mountains National Park. The journey is scenic and gives you a change from savannah to lush highland environment. Arrive at your simple lodge and relax for the evening.

Day 4 :

Udzungwa forest walk and waterfall hike

Today is dedicated to Udzungwa’s natural beauty. Take a guided forest walk or a family-friendly hike to one of the park’s waterfalls, enjoying birds, butterflies, and rich tropical vegetation along the way. The cooler mountain air and green scenery create a nice contrast to the safari plains. Return to your lodge for dinner and overnight.

Day 5 :

Transfer to Ruaha National Park

After breakfast, travel onward to Ruaha National Park. This is a longer but rewarding journey into one of Tanzania’s most remote and wildlife-rich parks. Arrive in time to check in, rest, and perhaps enjoy a short afternoon drive if timing allows. The evening is spent at your budget camp or lodge near the park.

Day 6 :

Full-day safari in Ruaha

Spend the day on game drives in Ruaha, where baobab trees, rocky hills, and the Great Ruaha River create a dramatic safari backdrop. The park is famous for large elephant populations and good predator sightings, including lions and sometimes leopards or cheetahs. Enjoy a picnic lunch in the bush and continue exploring different areas of the park.

Day 7 :

Second safari day in Ruaha

Another full day in Ruaha gives your family more time to search for wildlife and enjoy the park’s quiet, uncrowded atmosphere. Your guide may focus on river areas, open plains, or woodland habitats depending on animal movement. This extra day increases the chances of memorable sightings and a relaxed safari experience.

Day 8 :

Return transfer and departure

After breakfast, begin your return journey or transfer to your onward destination. Depending on your schedule, you may make a final stop for lunch or a short break along the way. Your 8-day safari ends with wonderful memories of Tanzania’s diverse landscapes, wildlife, and family adventure.