Arrive at Mikumi National Park, easily accessible by road from Dar es Salaam (approximately 4-5 hours drive).

Check into your safari lodge or tented camp.

Embark on an exciting afternoon game drive in Mikumi.

Mikumi Highlights: Known for its open Mkata Floodplains, often compared to the Serengeti. You'll likely see large herds of elephants, buffalo, zebra, wildebeest, and impala. Lions are common, often seen surveying the plains, and you might also spot giraffes, warthogs, waterbucks, and a variety of antelopes. The park is home to over 400 bird species, especially around the two artificial hippo pools near the main gate. Keep an eye out for rare species like the sable antelope, Lichtenstein's hartebeest, and the endangered African wild dog

Enjoy a full day of game drives exploring different sectors of Mikumi.

Venture towards the Miombo woodlands and Vuma hills for a chance to spot species like kudu and eland.

Consider a guided nature walk for a closer look at the smaller flora and fauna.

Optional activities: Night game drives are sometimes available, offering a chance to spot nocturnal creatures like leopards, hyenas, and bushbabies.

After an early breakfast, begin your journey to Ruaha National Park. This is a longer travel day, often involving a scenic drive

Arrive at your lodge or camp in Ruaha, renowned for its remote and wild feel. Head out for an initial afternoon game drive, immersing yourself in Ruaha's unique wilderness.

Ruaha Highlights: Tanzania's largest national park, characterized by rugged landscapes, ancient baobab trees, and the life-giving Great Ruaha River. It boasts the largest elephant population in East Africa and an impressive number of predators, including nearly 10% of Africa's lion population, leopard, cheetah, and the highly endangered African wild dog. You'll also encounter diverse antelope species, including greater and lesser kudu, sable, and roan

Dedicate the entire day to exploring the vast wilderness of Ruaha.

Focus on areas along the Great Ruaha River, where wildlife concentrates, especially during the dry season.

Enjoy exceptional big cat sightings and the opportunity to witness wild dog packs.

Optional activities: Consider a walking safari with an armed guide for an intimate bush experience, or a night game drive to observe nocturnal predators. Fly camping is also an option for those seeking an even deeper wilderness immersion.

Enjoy a final morning game drive in Ruaha, soaking in the last moments of this incredible wilderness.

Have breakfast back at the lodge.

Transfer to the airstrip for your onward flight, or begin your road journey back to Dar es Salaam, concluding your Southern Tanzania safari adventure.