Highlights
- See colobus monkeys and other creatures on a primate safari
- Marvel at ancient history on a tour of Iringa's archaeological sites
- Cruise the plains of Ruaha National Park and see big cats, giraffes, and more
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Morogoro, Half-Day Hike in the Udzungwa Mountains | Morogoro |
| Day 2 | Morning Primate Safari, Transfer to Iringa | Iringa |
| Day 3 | Iringa Culture Tour, Transfer to Ruaha National Park | Ruaha National Park |
| Day 4 | Morning & Afternoon Game Drives | Ruaha National Park |
| Day 5 | Morning Game Drive, Transfer to Dar es Salaam, Depart |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Morogoro, Half-Day Hike in the Udzungwa Mountains
Welcome to Tanzania! There's no time to spare, which is why you'll hit the ground running upon arrival in Tanzania's eastern highlands. Your destination is the Morogoro region, home to Mikumi National Park, one of Tanzania's lesser-known gems that protects rare species like sable antelopes and African hunting dogs. You'll be staying just outside the park's gates at Camp Bastian Mikumi, an authentic family-run lodge with comfortable guest cottages.
After checking in, you'll meet a guide for a half-day hike in the adjacent Udzungwa Mountains National Park. The park's 796 square miles (1,990 sq km) of rainforest-covered mountains are part of the Eastern Arc range, a biodiversity hotspot home to over 400 bird species and rare primates. Explore park highlights like Sanje Falls, where spectacular cascades tumble 557 feet (170 m) over a series of rocky ledges, creating a mesmerizing spectacle against the backdrop of lush rainforest. Once there, you'll have time to hike around the falls and snap plenty of photos.
Day 2: Morning Primate Safari, Transfer to Iringa
Leave early with your guide and return to the park to view more exotic primates. You'll hike through the forest from a trailhead to specific areas and habitats where the endemic monkeys reside. Not only will you be able to witness entire families of colobus monkeys and mangabeys, but you'll also spend time observing their behavior. It's a great way to learn about the social structure and hierarchy these primates create in the forest. Don't worry—you'll observe the animals from a safe distance to ensure you don't upset their habitat. At the end of this half-day hike, you'll return to the hotel.
Then, you'll meet your driver and leave the misty mountains of Udzungwa on a four-hour trip to Iringa. Nestled amid the rolling hills of Tanzania's southern highlands, this city is another firm fixture on the safari circuit and will be your base for excursions to more natural wonders. Upon arrival, you'll check into the Mount Royal Villa Hotel and have the evening free. Relax around the inner courtyard and pool, or venture out on a self-guided tour to discover the town's German/British colonial history.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 3: Iringa Culture Tour, Transfer to Ruaha National Park
Start the day with a visit to the Iringa Boma Regional Museum and Cultural Centre. Housed in a historic German fort, here, you'll find that echoes of the past meet the pulse of the present. The museum portion preserves the history of the Iringa region through cultural artifacts, archaeological finds, and exhibits detailing colonial history. Additionally, there are educational programs and tours aimed at promoting cultural awareness and community engagement.
After a couple of hours at the museum, you'll continue walking in the footsteps of history at the Isimila Stone Age Site. Located just northwest of the city, this 1.2-square-mile (3 sq km) archaeological site is estimated to be over 60,000 years old, dating to the Middle Stone Age. During a walk around the ruins of sandstone pillars, you'll see its famous collection of ancient stone tools, artifacts, and fossilized remains, which offer a window into the lives and behavior of early human inhabitants of the region.
Later, you'll meet your driver for the two-hour ride west to Ruaha National Park. Covering 7,809 square miles (20,225 sq km), this is one of the largest national parks in East Africa. Needless to say, there's a vast and diverse wilderness to explore, home to large populations of elephants, lions, leopards, African wild dogs, buffalo, and various antelopes. Upon arrival, you'll get settled at Ruaha River Lodge, which sits on a bend of the winding Ruaha River. Relax on the veranda after your journey and watch for the animals and birdlife that frequent the shores around dusk.
Day 4: Morning & Afternoon Game Drives
The first of two half-day game drives begins at dawn as you venture into the park. In a 4WD vehicle, traverse its vast savannas and rugged miombo forests in search of Big Five animals like lions, elephants, and buffalo as they congregate at water sources. You'll also spot zebras, giraffes, hippos, and crocodiles, among other majestic species.
After a break for lunch at the lodge and some time to relax, you'll head out for a late afternoon game drive. It showcases the fascinating behavior of big cats (like leopards) and other animals as they recover from their afternoon malaise. As the sun sets, you'll also witness nocturnal and crepuscular species, like genets, honey badgers, and African wildcats. Even at night, this is an excellent opportunity to do some wildlife photography.
Day 5: Morning Game Drive, Transfer to Dar es Salaam, Depart
Hit the trail one last time this morning to see Ruaha's residents as they awaken from their slumber or return from a night of hunting. It's also an excellent time for bird-watching. With over 570 avian species on record, ranging from raptors and waterfowl to hornbills and secretary birds, the park is a birder's paradise.
In the afternoon, you'll transfer to the airport for the 2.5-hour flight to Dar es Salaam in time for your connecting flight or onward journey. Safe travels!
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