Charlie's Travels Africa

5.0/5 – 35 Reviews

$4,781 to $5,227 pp (USD)
This tour is offered in EUR. Show rate in EUR

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*This tour does not accept children under 12.
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Arrival (See Getting There for more details)

Arrival (See Getting There for more details)

  • You'll be collected from the airport.
  • Accommodation before the tour starts can be arranged for an extra cost.

Day 1

Arrival in Dar es Salaam

Arrival in Dar es Salaam

Welcome to Tanzania! Upon arrival at the airport in Dar es Salaam, you will be warmly welcomed by your driver and transferred to your first accommodation. Dar es Salaam is the former capital and still the beating heart of Tanzania, feeling like an energetic melting pot where Africa, Arab influences, India, and Europe blend seamlessly together.

You will check in at the Mediterraneo Boutique Hotel, which immerses you in a wonderful Mediterranean atmosphere right by the sea. The cozy rooms resemble Italian cottages and feature private verandas where you can enjoy views of the ocean or the lush tropical gardens. Take a refreshing dip in the swimming pool, sip a cocktail overlooking the water, and relax after your flight. This is the perfect, peaceful start to your off-the-beaten-track adventure in Southern Tanzania!

Main Destination:
Dar Es Salaam (City)
Accommodation:
Mediterraneo Hotel & Restaurant
  • Mid-range hotel located in Dar es Salaam (City)
Meals & Drinks:
  • Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
  • Drinks not included

Day 2

Journey to Morogoro & Local Motorbike Tour

Journey to Morogoro & Local Motorbike Tour

Today, your off-the-beaten-track adventure truly begins as you leave Dar es Salaam in a Toyota Prado 4x4 with an experienced driver-guide. The five-hour drive takes you to Morogoro, a charming and vibrant town located at the foot of the lush Uluguru Mountains.

Upon arrival, you will hop on the back of a motorbike with a local guide for a special two-hour tour through the city. You will visit the old train station, the lively central market, and the Commonwealth War Graves, eventually ending at a breathtaking viewpoint overlooking the mountains.

Afterwards, you will check in at the tranquil Simbamwenni Tented Lodge, a green oasis hidden right in the city. You will sleep in a comfortable safari tent surrounded by tall trees and tropical nature. Relax with a cold drink at the bar or go out to discover a local restaurant for dinner.

Main Destination:
Morogoro (City)
Accommodation:
Simbamwenni Lodge
  • Budget lodge located near Morogoro (City)
Meals & Drinks:
  • Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
  • Drinks not included

Day 3

Overnight Hike on the Bondwa Trail

Overnight Hike on the Bondwa Trail

Early in the morning, you and your guide will leave Morogoro and head towards the lush green hills embracing the city. As soon as you leave the asphalt behind, you enter a world of dense vegetation. Walking along small fields and winding paths, you will be greeted by smiling locals.

After a three-hour hike, you will reach Morning Site, an old German colonial building with stunning valley views where you will enjoy a tasty lunch. Next, the exciting climb to Bondwa Peak begins.

The landscape slowly transforms as open fields make way for a cool, tropical forest filled with exotic bird sounds. Upon reaching the summit, you are rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view of the Morogoro Mountains.

You will then descend to your camp, where a freshly prepared meal awaits as the sun sets. Under an impressive starry sky, you will experience a true wild camping adventure. Clean camping gear, including a tent, mattress, and sleeping bag, will be provided for you.

Main Destination:
Uluguru Mountains (Mountain Range)
Accommodation:
Budget camping
Meals & Drinks:
  • All meals included
  • Drinking water (Other drinks not included)

Day 4

Choma Waterfall & Descent to Morogoro

Choma Waterfall & Descent to Morogoro

Today, you wake up to a stunning view over Morogoro and continue your hike through local villages, getting a true taste of daily mountain life.

By now, you will have mastered basic Swahili greetings, as everyone you meet will warmly greet you with ‘Habari!’ and ‘Mambo!’. Your trek ends at the beautiful Choma Waterfall, a refreshing highlight where the cool mist is highly appreciated after your two-day adventure. Afterwards, you will peacefully descend back to the lively city of Morogoro.

Located at the foot of the lush Uluguru Mountains, this vibrant city of about 210,000 inhabitants has plenty to offer. It is the perfect place for an afternoon stroll with spectacular mountain views or a visit to the bustling local market. Finally, you will return to the familiar green oasis of Simbamwenni Tented Lodge for a well-deserved rest.

Main Destination:
Morogoro (City)
Accommodation:
Simbamwenni Lodge
  • Budget lodge located near Morogoro (City)
Meals & Drinks:
  • Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
  • Drinks not included

Day 5

Drive to the Lush Udzungwa Mountains

Drive to the Lush Udzungwa Mountains

Today, your adventure continues as you travel to the lush Udzungwa Mountains. The scenic drive of about two and a half hours is a true feast for the eyes, as the landscape completely transforms from city life into tropical rainforests, mountain forests, miombo woodlands, grasslands, and steppes.

Udzungwa Mountains National Park is a breathtaking area where you can spot some incredibly unique primate species. Keep your eyes peeled for the agile mangabey, the striking red colobus, and the rare Sanje crested mangabey, which can only be found in this specific national park.

Upon arrival, you will check in at the beautiful Udzungwa Falls Lodge, where you can relax and prepare for your upcoming jungle adventures while listening to the surrounding sounds of nature.

Main Destination:
Udzungwa Mountains National Park
Accommodation:
Udzungwa Falls Lodge
  • Mid-range lodge located just outside Udzungwa Mountains
Meals & Drinks:
  • All meals included
  • Drinks not included

Day 6

Guided Jungle Hike in the Udzungwa Mountains

Guided Jungle Hike in the Udzungwa Mountains

Admire the deep orange hues of the sunrise as you rub the sleep from your eyes and prepare for a true off-the-beaten-track day trip.

Today, you will dive deep into the lush, green Udzungwa Forest together with a guide. You can easily request this guide directly at your accommodation! As you hike through the dense vegetation, you will experience the ultimate jungle feeling.

This breathtaking park is a true paradise for hikers and nature lovers, offering dense tropical rainforests and the chance to spot unique primate species like the red colobus or the rare Sanje crested mangabey. Enjoy the untouched wilderness, look out for exotic birds, and immerse yourself in the peaceful sounds of nature.

Main Destination:
Udzungwa Mountains National Park
Accommodation:
Udzungwa Falls Lodge
  • Mid-range lodge located just outside Udzungwa Mountains
Meals & Drinks:
  • All meals included
  • Drinks not included

Day 7

Drive to Iringa & Sunset Views

Drive to Iringa & Sunset Views

It is time to leave the jungle behind and drive towards your first safari park! Since driving straight to Ruaha National Park in one go is a bit too much, you will spend the night at Iringa Sunset Hotel, a lovely place on the edge of town and about a twenty-minute drive from the park.

As the name suggests, if you arrive on time, you will be treated to a spectacular view from the rooftop terrace, where the setting sun colours the town of Iringa. Order a drink, sit back, and enjoy this well-deserved sunset. After a day full of adventures, this is a wonderful place to unwind.

Take a dip in the swimming pool, work out any safari muscle aches in the gym, or retreat to your atmospheric room. In the evening, you will sit down for a tasty buffet before ending the day with one last look over the city, now cloaked in evening light. Iringa Sunset is a great stopover to recharge, reminisce, and look forward to everything that is yet to come.

Main Destination:
Iringa (City)
Accommodation:
Iringa Sunset Hotel
  • Budget hotel located in Iringa (City)
Meals & Drinks:
  • All meals included
  • Drinks not included

Day 8-9

Safari Adventure in Ruaha National Park

Safari Adventure in Ruaha National Park

Welcome to Ruaha National Park, one of Tanzania's largest parks and one of the rare places where you can spot the endangered African wild dog!

The mighty Ruaha River rarely runs completely dry, meaning animals constantly return to its banks for a refreshing drink. Keep a close eye out for hungry crocodiles lying in wait, and watch hippos relaxing in the shallow waters. Keep your binoculars handy, channel your inner wildlife explorer, and quietly observe the untouched nature around you. Chances are you will never want to leave!

Afterwards, you will head to the Ruaha Hilltop Lodge, beautifully nestled on the slopes of Ideremle Mountain. Located just 15 kilometres from the park gate, it is the perfect place to enjoy the absolute peace of the wilderness. Sip a fruity, dry glass of wine while taking in the breathtaking panoramic views over the endless savannah plains.

Main Destination:
Ruaha National Park
Best Time To Visit June to October (Best wildlife viewing)
High Season June to October (Ruaha is rarely crowded)
Best Weather June to October (Rains are very rare)

Wildlife in Ruaha NP

ElephantAbundant
GiraffeCommon
BuffaloCommon
ZebraCommon
HippoCommon
LionOccasional
Show more
LeopardOccasional
HyenaOccasional
Wild DogOccasional
Accommodation:
Ruaha Hilltop Lodge
  • Mid-range lodge located less than 1hr drive from Ruaha NP
Meals & Drinks:
  • All meals included
  • Drinks not included

Day 10

Journey to the Lush Mufindi Highlands

Journey to the Lush Mufindi Highlands

Welcome to the lush and cool Mufindi Highlands! After a three-hour drive, you will arrive in a breathtaking landscape of green hills and tea plantations. The air is fresh and the pace is wonderfully slow, making it the perfect place to hike and escape the African heat.

You will check in at the peaceful Mufindi Farm Lodge, surrounded by endless greenery. You will be warmly welcomed by Merel, a Dutch host who has lived here for years. Everything served comes directly from the farm or local area, so you can taste the love in every freshly prepared meal. The lodge has a warm family atmosphere, with the owners often joining guests for a chat. Finally, retreat to your cozy wooden chalet for a hot shower, a comfortable bed, and stunning views to end your day perfectly.

Main Destination:
Southern Highlands
Accommodation:
Mufindi Highlands Lodge
  • Luxury lodge located in Southern Highlands
Meals & Drinks:
  • All meals included
  • Drinks not included

Day 11

Farm Activities & Relaxation in Mufindi

Farm Activities & Relaxation in Mufindi

It is completely impossible to get bored here! The expansive estate offers space for all kinds of activities: you can play a game of tennis or badminton, go kayaking on one of the many lakes, try your hand at fishing, or simply enjoy a peaceful walk through the lush greenery.

Those who wish can explore the beautiful surrounding area on horseback, riding horses that were born right here and are allowed to roam freely. The farm is also home to a variety of other animals, including cows, goats, pigs, and sheep. To make your farm experience complete, you can even help with milking the cows at the end of the afternoon!

Main Destination:
Southern Highlands
Accommodation:
Mufindi Highlands Lodge
  • Luxury lodge located in Southern Highlands
Meals & Drinks:
  • All meals included
  • Drinks not included

Day 12-13

Drive to Mikumi National Park & Safari

Drive to Mikumi National Park & Safari

Mikumi National Park is often referred to as Little Serengeti. It is home to four members of the African Big Five, with only the rhinos missing.

In Mikumi, you will find large herds of elephants, buffaloes, zebras, wildebeests, hyenas, leopards, lions, sable antelopes, greater kudus, and much more. The chances of seeing tree-climbing lions here are even greater than in the famous Lake Manyara National Park!

The park also features unique rock formations such as the Rubeho and Uluguru Mountains. Your accommodation is located right on the edge of the park, making it a wonderful place to unwind after a day of safari.

Enjoy a cold drink by the pool or taste delicious, freshly prepared local snacks. Afterwards, dream away in a bed crafted by local artisans. In the morning, you will wake up to an orchestra of crickets and birds. Fun fact: by staying here, you are directly supporting the local community!

Main Destination:
Mikumi National Park
Best Time To Visit Late June to October (Animals are attracted to the waterholes)
High Season June to October
Best Weather June to October (Little to no rainfall)

Wildlife in Mikumi NP

ElephantCommon
GiraffeCommon
BuffaloCommon
ZebraCommon
LionOccasional
Show more
HippoOccasional
HyenaRare
Accommodation:
Camp Bastian Mikumi
  • Mid-range lodge located just outside Mikumi NP
Meals & Drinks:
  • All meals included
  • Drinks not included

Day 14

Authentic Maasai Homestay in Kisaki Village

Authentic Maasai Homestay in Kisaki Village

Today, you will depart for Kisaki Village, located near Nyerere National Park. The scenic drive from Mikumi takes about four hours.

Here, you will enjoy one of the most unique experiences we offer in Southern Tanzania: an authentic overnight stay with the Maasai! There are no staged shows or souvenir obligations, just a genuine cultural encounter where you can walk and explore the local village.

The Maasai will prepare your meals with love, and you can optionally try a traditional Maasai BBQ goat, known as nyama choma. You will spend the night in a Manyatta, a traditional Maasai hut with simple beds and cowhides. Please note there is no electricity or running water, offering a true back-to-nature experience.

If this is out of your comfort zone, you can choose to set up a tent outside. Alternatively, if you prefer, you can optionally skip the homestay entirely and travel straight to Nyerere National Park!

Main Destination:
Nyerere National Park
Best Time To Visit June to October (Easiest wildlife viewing)
High Season June to October (The main tourist area gets crowded)
Best Weather June to October (Little to no rainfall)

Wildlife in Nyerere NP

ElephantCommon
GiraffeAbundant
BuffaloCommon
ZebraCommon
HippoAbundant
Show more
HyenaCommon
LionOccasional
Wild DogOccasional
Accommodation:
Budget camping
  • Just outside Nyerere NP
Meals & Drinks:
  • Breakfast & dinner (Lunch not included)
  • Drinks not included

Day 15

Drive to Nyerere National Park & Rufiji River

Drive to Nyerere National Park & Rufiji River

Say goodbye to the Maasai and drive to the 'Serengeti of the South', Nyerere National Park! Upon arrival, you can recover from your unique homestay experience and optionally head out for an afternoon safari. Prefer to relax?

Order a drink at the bar and enjoy the peace of your camp. Nyerere is the largest national park in Africa, serving as the last true stronghold for the endangered African wild dog. The mighty Rufiji River flows through the reserve, attracting huge numbers of elephants, buffaloes, lions, hippos, and crocodiles.

You will stay at the beautiful Selous River Camp, perfectly located just outside the park. From the camp, you overlook the river where hippos wade in the shallow waters and birds fly low over the water. Take a dip in the pool and end your day sharing stories around the crackling campfire as the sun sets.

Main Destination:
Nyerere National Park
Accommodation:
Selous River Camp
  • Mid-range lodge bordering Nyerere NP without fences
Meals & Drinks:
  • All meals included
  • Drinks not included

Day 16

Wildlife on the Water in Nyerere

Wildlife on the Water in Nyerere

Experience top-tier off-the-beaten-track Tanzania today! Forget the Serengeti it is time to explore Nyerere National Park. Formerly known as the Selous Game Reserve, this is Africa's largest standalone national park, covering over 30,000 square kilometres. Since 1982, it has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its incredible wildlife diversity and undisturbed natural wonders.

Nyerere is one of the rare places in Africa where you can view wildlife from the water. After dusty game drives, nothing is more relaxing than peacefully floating down the river on a boat safari. Watch colourful birds flutter, hippos grunting in the water, and golden-green crocodiles lounging on the banks.

You might see a tower of giraffes in the shallows, impalas drinking, or majestic elephants bathing and crossing the river! Watching the sky's colours intensify as the sun sets over the water makes for a truly magical and unforgettable experience.

Main Destination:
Nyerere National Park
Accommodation:
Selous River Camp
  • Mid-range lodge bordering Nyerere NP without fences
Meals & Drinks:
  • All meals included
  • Drinks not included

Day 17

Return to Dar es Salaam & Airport Drop-off

Return to Dar es Salaam & Airport Drop-off

Enjoy one last delicious breakfast in the bush before it is time to say a fond goodbye to the wilderness. With your mind full of fresh, unforgettable memories, you have a solid drive ahead of you today.

During the scenic six-hour journey, you will watch the lush, green landscapes slowly disappear and make way for vibrant city life. Upon arrival in the bustling city of Dar es Salaam, your driver will drop you off safely at the airport for your flight home. This marks the end of your spectacular off-the-beaten-track adventure through Southern Tanzania!

Main Destination:
No major destination visited
Accommodation:
No accommodation (End of tour)
Meals & Drinks:
  • Breakfast (Lunch & dinner not included)
  • Drinks not included

End of tour (See Getting There for more details)

End of tour (See Getting There for more details)

  • Additional accommodation can be arranged for an extra cost.
  • You'll be dropped off at the airport.

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  • If preferred, you can contact the tour operator directly
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Disclaimer

  • This tour is offered by Charlie's Travels Africa, not SafariBookings.
  • This operator reserves the right to change rates advertised on SafariBookings.
  • If you request changes to this tour, the advertised rates will likely change.
  • The exact order, contents and rates of this tour are subject to availability.
  • If an accommodation is fully booked, the operator will suggest a comparable alternative.
  • This tour is subject to the terms & conditions of Charlie's Travels Africa.