While most travelers crowd the northern parks, the true soul of Tanzania lies in the South. A 6-day safari to Mikumi and Ruaha National Park is designed for the traveler who wants fewer crowds and more predators. At Kanuth Adventures, we specialize in this “Southern Circuit,” combining raw wilderness with deep Maasai cultural immersion.
6 Days & 5 Nights at Mikumi & Ruaha National Park Safari Overview: Why This Itinerary?
| Feature | Mikumi National Park | Ruaha National Park |
|---|---|---|
| Vibe | “Mini-Serengeti” – Easy wildlife viewing. | “Untamed Africa” – Rugged and remote. |
| Best For | Lions, giraffes, and Maasai culture. | 10% of Africa’s lions, wild dogs, and elephants. |
| Landscape | Open Mkata Floodplain. | Great Ruaha River and giant baobabs. |
| Activity Highlight | Night game drives & cultural boma visits. | Walking safaris & riverbank sightings. |
Your 6 Days & 5 Nights at Mikumi National Park Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Dar es Salaam to Mikumi (The Maasai Welcome)
Your adventure begins with a drive from Dar es Salaam to Mikumi. Before entering the park, we visit an authentic Maasai Boma. This isn’t just a photo op—you will learn about their traditional medicine, see their intricate beadwork, and participate in a welcoming dance.
- Stay: Camp Bastian or Stanley’s Kopje.
Day 2: Full Day in Mikumi National Park
Spend the day exploring the Mkata Floodplain. Mikumi is famous for its “Tree-climbing Lions” and the massive Eland (the world’s largest antelope).
Pro Tip: In 2026, we highly recommend the Night Game Drive in Mikumi to see aardvarks and hunting leopards!
Day 3 & 4: Into the Wilds of Ruaha
On Day 3, we travel deeper into the heart of Tanzania to Ruaha National Park. Ruaha is the largest park in the country and feels like a prehistoric world. You will spend two full days tracking the park’s legendary lion prides and the rare Greater Kudu.
Key Sight: The Great Ruaha River, where crocodiles and hippos battle for space.
Day 3 & 4: Into the Wilds of Ruaha
On Day 3, we travel deeper into the heart of Tanzania to Ruaha National Park. Ruaha is the largest park in the country and feels like a prehistoric world. You will spend two full days tracking the park’s legendary lion prides and the rare Greater Kudu.
Key Sight: The Great Ruaha River, where crocodiles and hippos battle for space.
Day 5: The Walking Safari & Evening Game Drive
Experience the bush on foot. A walking safari in Ruaha allows you to smell the wild sage and see the “Little Five” that you miss from a vehicle. Finish the day with a sundowner overlooking the rift valley escarpment.
Day 6: Final Morning & Return to Dar es Salaam
After a final bush breakfast, we begin our journey back to Dar es Salaam, arriving in the evening with memories that last a lifetime.
FAQ: People Also Ask
Is Mikumi better than Ruaha? Mikumi is better for seeing many animals quickly. Ruaha is better for a remote, exclusive experience with more predators.
Can I see the Big Five in the South? You can see Lions, Leopards, Elephants, and Buffalo easily. Rhinos are rarely seen in these specific parks.
How long is the drive? The drive from Dar to Mikumi is about 6 hours. From Mikumi to Ruaha is another 6 hours.
