Wild Wonders of Southern Tanzania: Off-the-Beaten-Path Safari Adventures - 10 Days

Day 2: Transfer to Morogoro, Udzungwa National Park Half-Day Tour

Your very own Great Migration through southern Tanzania begins early with the 4.5-hour transfer by private vehicle inland to the Morogoro region. This area is 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 stay near the edge of the park at the comfortable Tan-Swiss Lodge, where private bungalows surround a tranquil pool and garden area.

You won't wait long to see the area's natural wonders because after checking in, you'll meet a guide for a journey into 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. On this half-day driving tour, you'll explore Udzungwa's unspoiled wilderness, stopping at viewpoints to admire its misty peaks and cascading waterfalls.

Day 3: Full-Day Guided Udzungwa Nature & Waterfall Hike

Udzungwa was made for nature hikes, and this morning, you'll set off on a full-day exploration of the park's highlights. After meeting your guide and gathering your gear, you'll trek to Udzungwa's premier landmark, Sanje Falls. This spectacular waterfall cascades 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.

The rest of the day will be spent on trails beneath the verdant forest canopy. The habitats and ecosystems here support a rich tapestry of wildlife, and the area is particularly famous for its rare primate species. Spotting one or more of these charismatic monkeys in their natural habitat is a highlight of any African safari adventure. At the end of the afternoon, you'll return to your hotel.

Day 4: Half-Day Udzungwa Rare Primate Safari & Hike, 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 of these primates. Don't worry—you'll observe the animals from a safe distance to ensure you don't upset their habitat. You'll return to the lodge at the end of this half-day hike.

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 fixture on the safari circuit and will be your base for excursions to more natural wonders. Upon arrival, you'll check into your hotel and have the evening free. If you like, venture out on a self-guided tour to discover the town's German/British colonial history.

Day 5: Iringa Culture Tour, Visit Isimila Stone Age Site, Transfer to Ruaha

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 outside 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 on, enjoy an afternoon stroll along Iringa's colorful streets. Mingle with friendly locals at the bustling Mlandege Market, where the air is fragrant with spices and the aisles overflow with colorful textiles. End the day with a 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. Upon arrival, you'll check into your riverfront Ruaha River Lodge, where you can relax after your journey and spot big game from the comfort of your veranda.

Day 7: Ruaha Morning Game Drive, Transfer to Iringa

Day 8: Transfer to Mikumi National Park, Afternoon Game Drive

After an early wake-up call, meet your driver for the five-hour drive back toward Morogoro and Mikumi National Park. It's a long but scenic drive, as along the way, you'll pass sprawling savanna grasslands where elephants and giraffes roam free. The route also offers glimpses into rural Tanzanian life while showcasing the natural splendor of the southern highlands.

Eventually, you'll arrive in Mikumi. This renowned wildlife destination covers 1,250 square miles (3,230 sq km) of riverine, grassland, and forest habitats. These are home to diverse wildlife species, including zebras and wildebeests, as well as predators like lions and leopards. Over 400 bird species are recorded here, including dazzling and colorful specimens like the African fish eagle and lilac-breasted roller.

You'll be staying just outside the park's gates at Camp Bastian Mikumi, an authentic family-run lodge with private guest cottages. After dropping off your bags, you'll hop back in a 4WD vehicle for an afternoon game drive in Mikumi. The route will take you deep into the park to the open grasslands of the Mkata Floodplain, which is one of the best spots to view big game, as well as elephants, giraffes, and many more species. After this half-day safari, you'll return to the lodge, where you can cool off with a dip in the pool.

Day 9: Mikumi Dawn & Evening Game Drives

It's a full day as you set off at dawn for the first of two game drives. The early hour allows you to capitalize on the fact the animals are more active during these cooler hours. You'll likely spot African elephants bathing in watering holes and big cats taking their morning drink. If you're lucky, you might spot the elusive leopard, which typically spends its days relaxing in trees. 

Return to the lodge for lunch, then leave on an afternoon game drive. As you explore the savanna and follow the Mkata River and other waterways, you'll see plenty of animals up close, including hippos, Nile crocodiles, antelope, wildebeests, zebras, giraffes, buffalo, and others. A little while after sunset, you'll return to the lodge. 

Day 10: Transfer to Dar es Salaam, Depart