5-DAY FLY-IN SAFARI EXPERIENCE – RUAHA AND MIKUMI NATIONAL PARKS
Fly into the heart of Tanzania’s untamed wilderness and explore two of its most iconic national parks in just five exhilarating days. This seamless fly-in safari transports you from the exotic island of Zanzibar to the remote, wildlife-rich terrain of Ruaha National Park—Tanzania’s largest. After an unforgettable immersion in Ruaha’s rugged beauty, continue overland to Mikumi National Park, celebrated for its vast open plains and accessible game viewing. With minimal transit time, handpicked mid-luxury lodges, and expertly guided safari drives, this itinerary is ideal for travelers seeking the Big Five, sweeping landscapes, and authentic safari comfort.
DAY ONE: ZANZIBAR TO RUAHA (FLY-IN & FULL-DAY GAME DRIVE)
Your safari adventure begins with a scenic morning flight from Zanzibar to Ruaha National Park. Upon arrival, meet your dedicated safari guide and embark on a full-day game drive through Ruaha’s dramatic landscapes. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants, lions, kudu, giraffes, and more as you explore riverbanks and rocky hills. Enjoy a bush picnic lunch before continuing your wildlife exploration.
Accommodation: Ruaha River Lodge
Meal Plan: All Meals Included
DAY TWO: FULL-DAY GAME DRIVE IN RUAHA NATIONAL PARK
Immerse yourself in the raw beauty of Ruaha with a full-day game drive into its untouched wilderness. Traverse varying habitats in search of elusive species such as cheetahs, leopards, and African wild dogs. With fewer tourists in this park, you’ll enjoy a truly private and uninterrupted safari experience.
Accommodation: Ruaha River Lodge
Meal Plan: All Meals Included
DAY THREE: SCENIC DRIVE TO MIKUMI (EVENING CITY TOUR & RELAXATION)
After breakfast, depart on a scenic overland journey to Mikumi National Park (approx. 6 hours), passing through picturesque villages and the Iringa Highlands. Upon arrival in the evening, enjoy a short city tour of Mikumi Town before unwinding with a delicious dinner at your serene lodge.
Accommodation: Chambo Villas – Mikumi
Meal Plan: All Meals Included
DAY FOUR: FULL-DAY GAME DRIVE IN MIKUMI NATIONAL PARK
Embark on a full-day game drive across Mikumi’s sweeping savannahs, part of the greater Selous ecosystem. Spot zebras, buffaloes, giraffes, wildebeests, elephants, and possibly lions resting near the Mkata floodplains. Stop for a bush lunch in the heart of the park before resuming your adventure into the golden afternoon light.
Accommodation: Mikumi Wildlife Camp
Meal Plan: All Meals Included
DAY FIVE: HALF-DAY GAME DRIVE & FLY OUT
Begin your final day with a morning game drive, catching the wildlife at its most active. After a hearty brunch, transfer to the local airstrip for your return flight to Zanzibar or Dar es Salaam, where you may connect with your international departure or continue your journey with a beach holiday extension.
This marks the end of your unforgettable fly-in safari through Ruaha and Mikumi National Parks.
We wish you safe travels and say Karibu Tena! (You're Always Welcome Back!)
What's Included & Excluded
| Inclusions | Exclusions |
|---|---|
| Domestic flights: Zanzibar ⇌ Ruaha ⇌ Mikumi/Dar | International flights |
| All national park entry and conservation fees | Alcoholic beverages & soft drinks |
| Guided game drives in Ruaha & Mikumi with professional guides | Gratuities ($25–$50 per group/day) |
| Private ground transfers and airstrip pick-ups | Personal travel insurance |
| 4 nights full-board accommodation (all meals included) | Optional activities not listed |
| Bottled mineral water during game drives | Souvenirs and personal expenses. |
| Onboard medical kit |

