How to Plan Your Day Trip in Mikumi National Park, Dar Es Salaam

If you’re in Dar Es Salaam and have a day to spare, consider taking a day trip to Mikumi National Park, which offers an incredible safari experience. From watching large mammals roaming around to spotting hundreds of bird species, the park has something to offer for every nature enthusiast. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything from planning your trip to enjoying the day out in the park.

Overview of the Tour

The full-day tour includes both morning and afternoon game drives, a visit to Mikumi National Park, entrance fees, delicious lunch, and private transportation to and from your hotel in Dar Es Salaam or Morogoro. With one price for your group of up-to four people, it’s a great value for money.

Booking Your Tour

To book your spot, visit the Viator website and search for “Day Trip in Mikumi National Park”. Select the date and book the tour for your group. You’ll receive an email confirmation with your tour details and pickup time.

What to Expect on Your Tour

Your day trip to Mikumi National Park will begin with an early pickup at 5:30 in the morning from your hotel. After a 3-hour and 45-minute scenic drive, you’ll reach the park. The transport vehicle is private, so you don’t have to be worried about sharing it with other travelers.

Upon your arrival, you can expect to see rich flora and fauna. The park is the fourth-largest national park in Tanzania, covering an area of 3,230 sq km. It’s a habitat for large mammals such as elephants, lions, zebras, wildebeest, buffalo, and much more. There are also over 400 species of birds to spot in the park, so keep an eye out for them.

You’ll have two game drives during the day, one in the morning and one in the evening. Each drive lasts for around three hours, and you’ll have a chance to see different animals during each. Your driver will help you spot all the wildlife species, and you can also take photos or videos to make the experience memorable.

After the morning game drive, enjoy a tasty lunch and relax for a while. Then continue with an afternoon drive where you can spot more beautiful scenes and animals.

What’s Included in Your Tour

The tour includes several amenities to ensure your experience is comfortable and enjoyable.

Lunch and Refreshments

Lunch and refreshments are included in your tour package. The meals are tasty and include both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.

Hotel Pickup and Drop-off

The transportation is private, and the driver will pick you up from your hotel or residence in Dar es Salaam or Morogoro. At the end of the trip, you’ll be dropped at the same location.

Private Tour

The tour is arranged exclusively for your group of up to four people. It’s a great opportunity to have an intimate and personalized experience.

What’s Not Included

There are some things you’ll need to cover on your own:

Items of Personal Nature

Personal items such as alcohol, cigarettes, or phone calls are not included in this trip.

Visa Fees

You’ll need to pay visa fees to enter Tanzania if you are not a citizen of East African countries. Keep in mind that the immigration office at Mikumi National Park does not issue visas.

Departure Tax

If any departure tax is applicable, you’ll need to pay this on your own.

What to Pack for Your Tour

Here are some items you should pack to make your day trip comfortable:

• Comfortable walking shoes
• Lightweight clothing, preferably in neutral colors
• A hat or a cap
• Sunscreen lotion
• A good camera or binoculars
• Bug repellent
• A water bottle

Final Thoughts

Overall, your day trip to Mikumi National Park is going to be a memorable and unique experience. The park provides an opportunity to see Tanzania’s wildlife up close and in their natural habitat. Make sure to book the tour in advance and follow the guidelines mentioned above to make the most of your day trip. Enjoy the incredible scenery, rich cultural heritage, and natural wildlife that Tanzania has to offer.

Book the tour here to enjoy the best safari experience from Dar es Salaam.

The Ultimate Guide to Understanding Dar Es Salaam

Dar Es Salaam is the largest city and former capital of Tanzania, located on the eastern coast of Africa. Known for its bustling markets, lush beaches, and friendly people, it is a popular tourist destination for people from all over the world. However, with so much to see and do, many people have questions about visiting the city. In this article, we will answer some of the most frequently asked questions that travelers have about Dar Es Salaam.

1. What is the best time to visit Dar Es Salaam?

Dar Es Salaam experiences a tropical climate, with hot and humid weather year-round. The best time to visit the city is during the dry season, which runs from June to October. During this time, the weather is warm and sunny, with clear blue skies and a refreshing sea breeze. This is also the best time to go on safari in nearby national parks, such as the Selous Game Reserve.

2. What is the official language of Dar Es Salaam?

The official language of Tanzania is Swahili, which is widely spoken throughout the country, including in Dar Es Salaam. English is also commonly spoken, especially in tourist areas and by those in the hospitality industry.

3. What are the best things to see and do in Dar Es Salaam?

There are a variety of things to see and do in Dar Es Salaam, depending on your interests. For history buffs, there are several museums and historic sites to explore, such as the National Museum of Tanzania and the Askari Monument. Art lovers will enjoy visiting the Nyumba ya Sanaa art gallery, which showcases local Tanzanian art.

If you’re interested in nature and wildlife, you can visit the Kunduchi Wet ‘N’ Wild Water Park or take a day trip to nearby islands such as Bongoyo Island or Mbudya Island, which are home to beautiful beaches and coral reefs.

For those interested in shopping and nightlife, there are several markets and entertainment venues in the city. The Kariakoo Market is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the hustle and bustle of a typical Tanzanian market. The Slipway is a popular shopping and entertainment center that features a variety of shops, restaurants, and bars.

4. What is the currency used in Dar Es Salaam?

The currency used in Tanzania is the Tanzanian shilling (TZS). Credit cards are accepted at many hotels and restaurants in Dar Es Salaam, but it is recommended to carry cash for small purchases and market shopping.

5. Is Dar Es Salaam safe for tourists?

Like any big city, there are certain precautions that travelers should take when visiting Dar Es Salaam. It is recommended to avoid walking alone at night and to only take taxis from reputable taxi companies. It is also advised to be aware of your surroundings and to keep valuable items, such as cameras and wallets, hidden.

6. What is the food like in Dar Es Salaam?

Tanzanian cuisine is a mixture of African, Indian, and Arabic influences. Some popular dishes include ugali (a maize meal porridge), nyama choma (grilled meat), and chapati (a type of flatbread). Seafood is also plentiful in Dar Es Salaam, thanks to its proximity to the Indian Ocean. There are also a variety of international restaurants in the city, including Chinese, Indian, and Italian cuisine.

7. How do I get around Dar Es Salaam?

There are several options for getting around Dar Es Salaam, including taxis, daladalas (minibus taxis), and bajajis (three-wheeled motorized rickshaws). Taxis are the most convenient option, but can be expensive. Daladalas are the cheapest option, but can be crowded and uncomfortable. Bajajis are a fun and affordable option for shorter trips.

Conclusion

Dar Es Salaam is a vibrant and exciting city that has something to offer everyone. By following these tips and staying aware of your surroundings, you can have a safe and enjoyable experience while exploring all that this amazing city has to offer.