Experience the perfect mix of wildlife and nature on this 3-day adventure to Mikumi National Park and Udzungwa Mountains National Park from Zanzibar. This short safari combines exciting game drives in Mikumi’s open savannah with a scenic hiking experience in the lush Udzungwa Mountains, known for waterfalls and unique primates.
Ideal for travelers with limited time, t offers a balance of wildlife viewing, adventure, and relaxation, making it one of the best short safaris in Southern Tanzania.
This affordable 3-day unforgettable budget safari will take you from Zanzibar to Mikumi National Park.
Start your journey with a morning flight to Mikumi. On arrival, meet your guide and begin a game drive across open plains. Spot elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and buffalo.
After lunch, continue with an afternoon game drive when wildlife is most active. In the evening, transfer to your lodge for dinner and an overnight stay near or inside the park.
Start your day with an early sunrise game drive in Mikumi National Park. Wildlife is most active in the cool morning light. Spot elephants, giraffes, lions, and zebras.
After breakfast, continue with a scenic 1.5–2 hour drive to Udzungwa Mountains National Park. On arrival, enjoy a guided hike through dense tropical rainforest rich in biodiversity.
Look out for rare primates like the Sanje mangabey and Iringa red colobus. Then visit the Sanje Waterfalls. Relax, swim, and enjoy the views. Finally, transfer to your lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
This will be the last day of your affordable 3-day unforgettable luxury safari.
After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning near Udzungwa Mountains National Park. Take a short nature walk or spot wildlife.
Later, transfer to the airstrip for your flight to Zanzibar. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel. This marks the end of your safari combining wildlife and nature exploration.
Our trips are unashamedly high-end but always deliver excellent value for money. Our guide price covers the majority of trip costs upfront, on a per person basis, including all transfers.
Most affordable packages involve taking the early morning ferry from Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam, followed by a drive to Mikumi. However, for a 3-day trip, we recommend the Fly-in option (a 45-minute flight) to maximize your time viewing wildlife instead of traveling.
The best time is during the dry season from June to October. The animals in Mikumi congregate around water holes, making them easier to spot, and the hiking trails in Udzungwa are less slippery.
Yes! A 3-day itinerary is perfect for these two parks because they are close to each other. You can enjoy full game drives in Mikumi on Day 1 and 2, and dedicated hiking in Udzungwa on Day 3.
Mikumi is famous for its Big Four (lions, leopards, elephants, and buffalo). You will also likely see giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and the unique Lichtenstein’s hartebeest.
The hike to Sanje Waterfalls is moderately challenging but manageable for most people with basic fitness. It takes about 3–4 hours round-trip and offers stunning views and a chance to swim in natural plunge pools.
Pack light, breathable clothing in neutral colors (khaki/green), a warm jacket for cool mornings, comfortable hiking shoes for Udzungwa, swimwear for the waterfalls, and high-SPF sunscreen.
Most of our affordable packages are all-inclusive, covering park entry fees, professional guide fees, meals, and accommodation. We recommend double-checking your specific booking to see if drinks or tips are included.
No. Since Zanzibar is part of the United Republic of Tanzania, you do not need a separate visa or passport check to travel to the mainland (Mikumi/Udzungwa) if you already have a valid Tanzanian tourist visa.
Tell us your outline travel plans and one of our experts will be in touch within one working day.
Share your details and we’ll craft your perfect safari experience
