Embark on an extraordinary 9-day safari adventure through Tanzania’s southern circuit with Bakia Africa Safaris. This meticulously crafted journey offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the diverse ecosystems and abundant wildlife of Mikumi National Park, Ruaha National Park, and Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve). Each destination presents unique landscapes and wildlife encounters, ensuring an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Itinerary Overview:

• Day 1: Arrival in Dar es Salaam
• Day 2: Transfer to Mikumi National Park
• Day 3: Full-Day Safari in Mikumi National Park
• Day 4: Journey to Ruaha National Park
• Day 5: Exploring Ruaha National Park
• Day 6: Continue Safari in Ruaha National Park
• Day 7: Transfer to Nyerere National Park
• Day 8: Safari and Boat Excursion in Nyerere National Park
• Day 9: Departure from Dar es Salaam

Day 1: Arrival in Dar es Salaam

Upon your arrival at Julius Nyerere International Airport, a representative from Bakia Africa Safaris will warmly welcome you. After a brief introduction, you will be transferred to your selected accommodation in Dar es Salaam. Take this opportunity to relax and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.

Meal Plan: Dinner

Accommodation Options:

• Budget: Transit Motel Airport
• Midrange: Hotel Slipway
• Luxury: Hyatt Regency Dar es Salaam

Day 2: Transfer to Mikumi National Park

After an early breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Mikumi National Park, approximately 283 kilometers from Dar es Salaam. The journey offers glimpses of rural Tanzanian life and picturesque landscapes. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and enjoy a leisurely lunch. In the afternoon, set out for your first game drive, where you may encounter elephants, giraffes, zebras, and the elusive tree-climbing lions.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation Options:

• Budget: Mikumi Wildlife Camp
• Midrange: Vuma Hills Tented Camp
• Luxury: Stanley’s Kopje

Day 3: Full-Day Safari in Mikumi National Park

Dedicate the entire day to exploring Mikumi’s diverse habitats. The Mkata Floodplain is renowned for its rich wildlife, including large herds of buffalo and wildebeest. Bird enthusiasts will delight in spotting species such as the lilac-breasted roller and bateleur eagle. A picnic lunch will be provided to maximize your time in the wild.

Optional Activity: Visit the nearby Maasai village to learn about their culture and traditions.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation Options:

• Budget: Mikumi Wildlife Camp
• Midrange: Vuma Hills Tented Camp
• Luxury: Stanley’s Kopje

Day 4: Journey to Ruaha National Park

Depart Mikumi and head towards Ruaha National Park, Tanzania’s largest national park. The drive, though lengthy, is filled with scenic vistas and potential wildlife sightings. Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation and unwind after the day’s journey.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation Options:

• Budget: Tandala Safari Camp
• Midrange: Ruaha River Lodge
• Luxury: Jabali Ridge

Day 5: Exploring Ruaha National Park

Spend the day traversing Ruaha’s rugged terrain, home to a significant population of elephants and predators such as lions and leopards. The park’s baobab-studded landscapes and the Great Ruaha River provide a stunning backdrop for photography enthusiasts.

Optional Activity: Guided walking safari to explore the park’s flora and smaller fauna.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation Options:

• Budget: Tandala Safari Camp
• Midrange: Ruaha River Lodge
• Luxury: Jabali Ridge

Day 6: Continue Safari in Ruaha National Park

Another day to delve deeper into Ruaha’s wilderness. Venture into different areas of the park to increase your chances of spotting diverse wildlife, including kudu, sable antelope, and a myriad of bird species.

Optional Activity: Night game drive to observe nocturnal animals.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation Options:

• Budget: Tandala Safari Camp
• Midrange: Ruaha River Lodge
• Luxury: Jabali Ridge

Day 7: Transfer to Nyerere National Park

After breakfast, embark on a journey to Nyerere National Park, formerly known as Selous Game Reserve. Upon arrival, check into your lodge and enjoy the serene surroundings.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation Options:

• Budget: Selous Mapumziko Lodge
• Midrange: Selous Riverside Safari Camp
• Luxury: Siwandu Camp

Day 8: Safari and Boat Excursion in Nyerere National Park

Experience a unique combination of land and water-based safaris. In the morning, embark on a game drive to spot wildlife such as wild dogs, hippos, and crocodiles. In the afternoon, enjoy a boat safari on the Rufiji River, offering a different perspective of the park’s ecosystems.

Optional Activity: Fishing excursion on the Rufiji River, where you can try your luck catching catfish and tigerfish while enjoying the stunning scenery.

Meal Plan: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation Options:

• Budget: Selous Mapumziko Lodge
• Midrange: Selous Riverside Safari Camp
• Luxury: Siwandu Camp

Day 9: Departure from Dar es Salaam

After a leisurely breakfast, enjoy your final moments in the wilderness before embarking on your journey back to Dar es Salaam. Depending on your schedule, you will either take a domestic flight or a scenic drive back to the city. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to Julius Nyerere International Airport for your onward flight, marking the end of an unforgettable 9-day safari adventure with Bakia Africa Safaris.

Optional Activity: Shopping tour in Dar es Salaam before your flight, where you can purchase local crafts and souvenirs.

Meal Plan: Breakfast

Inclusions & Exclusions

• Price Includes:
• Airport transfers (to and from Julius Nyerere International Airport)
• Transport in a comfortable 4×4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof for game viewing
• A Professional English / Spanish / French / German / Italian – speaking Safari guide
• Accommodation for 8 nights in Budget, Midrange, or Luxury lodges/camps
• All meals as per itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)
• Game drives in Mikumi, Ruaha, and Nyerere National Parks
• Park entrance fees for all mentioned parks
• Boat safari on the Rufiji River in Nyerere National Park
• Bottled drinking water during the safari
• Domestic flight from Nyerere National Park to Dar es Salaam (if applicable)

Price Excludes:

• International flights to and from Tanzania
• Visa fees for Tanzania ($50 per person, $100 for US citizens)
• Travel insurance (highly recommended)
• Personal expenses (laundry, phone calls, beverages, etc.)
• Tips for guides and lodge staff (recommended $10–$15 per day per person)
• Optional activities (hot air balloon safari, cultural village visits, night game drives, fishing excursions, etc.)
• Alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks not included in meal plans