Tanzania’s Ultimate Safari Journey (8-9 Days) – Northern Circuit Explorer

Overview of Ruins Safari – Historical & Wild Expedition

For travelers seeking both history and wildlife, the Mikumi & Ruins Safari offers an exciting blend of Tanzania’s rich cultural heritage and untouched nature. This journey takes you to Mikumi National Park, a hidden gem often called the “Little Serengeti”, where big game sightings are guaranteed without the crowds.

Beyond the wilderness, explore ancient Swahili ruins in Kilwa Kisiwani, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once a major trading hub for gold, ivory, and spices. Experience the fusion of Tanzania’s wild landscapes and centuries-old history, creating a unique safari like no other!

DAY BY DAY ACTIVITIES

Day 1: Arrival in Dar es Salaam – Tanzania’s Bustling Coastal City

Why is today special?

  • Arrive in Dar es Salaam, a city full of coastal charm.
  • Meet our team and transfer to a comfortable beachside hotel.
  • Enjoy a relaxing evening before the adventure begins.

📍 Overnight Stay: Dar es Salaam

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Day 2: Dar es Salaam to Mikumi – The Journey Begins

Why visit Mikumi?

  • Often called the “Little Serengeti” due to its open savannah.
  • Easy access to big game viewing without large crowds.
  • Home to giraffes, elephants, lions, zebras & elands.

Safari Highlights:

  • Scenic 5-hour drive through the Tanzanian countryside.
  • Afternoon game drive, spotting predators and herds of herbivores.
  • Relaxing sundowner drinks at a lodge overlooking the plains.

📍 Overnight Stay: Mikumi

Day 3: Full-Day Safari in Mikumi – The Big Game Experience

  • Offers Serengeti-like landscapes with fewer tourists.
  • A mix of open plains, woodlands, and the Mkata Floodplain, attracting diverse wildlife.
  • Excellent for cheetah sightings—one of the few places in Tanzania to see them!
  • Morning & afternoon game drives, tracking big cats and elephants.
  • Watching hippos and crocodiles at the Mkata River.
  • Visiting a local Maasai village (optional) for a cultural experience.

📍 Overnight Stay: Mikumi

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Day 4: Mikumi to Kilwa Kisiwani – Ancient Ruins by the Sea

  • A UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to ancient Swahili ruins.
  • Once a powerful trading empire in East Africa.
  • A chance to step back in time and explore Tanzania’s rich history.
  • Morning drive to Kilwa, a coastal town rich in history.
  • Guided tour of Kilwa Kisiwani, exploring mosques, palaces, and old trading ports.
  • Relaxing beachside evening, enjoying fresh seafood and ocean views.

📍 Overnight Stay: Kilwa

Day 5: Kilwa – Exploring the Lost Kingdom

  • One of Africa’s best-preserved historical sites.
  • A blend of Swahili, Persian, and Arabic influences in its architecture.
  • Surrounded by stunning coastal scenery, perfect for relaxation.
  • Visit the Great Mosque of Kilwa, built in the 11th century.
  • Explore the Husuni Kubwa Palace, once the home of wealthy sultans.
  • Enjoy a traditional dhow boat ride along the coastline.

📍 Overnight Stay: Kilwa

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Day 6: Kilwa to Dar es Salaam – End of an Epic Journey

  • Morning beach relaxation before heading back to Dar es Salaam.
  • Scenic drive through coastal Tanzania’s fishing villages.
  • Transfer to the airport for departure or a Zanzibar extension.

✈️ End of Safari – A journey through history & wildlife!

Key Highlights

✔️ Experience both wildlife and ancient history in one trip.
✔️ Discover Tanzania’s hidden gem—Mikumi National Park.
✔️ Explore UNESCO-listed ruins at Kilwa Kisiwani.
✔️ Enjoy stunning Indian Ocean beaches as part of your journey.
✔️ A perfect combination of adventure, culture, and relaxation.

💰 Price Range: $2,500 – $3,800 per person

Package Specifications

Safari Cost Includes

Transfers

  • All transfers described on the program

Accommodation & Meals

  • Hotels and lodges described on the program
  • Meals described on the program
  • Bottled water, soft drinks, hot coffee and tea while in the jeep on safari

Guiding & Game-Driving

  • Certified and experienced English-speaking safari guide
  • Comfortable Land Cruiser 4x4s with pop-up roof, fridge, Wi-Fi, and power outlets
  • National park fees for the entire tour (park entry fees and concession fees)
  • Free Wi-Fi. Signal will be available in only 60-75% of the travelled territories due to lack of cell coverage in the wilderness areas
  • 24/7 phone support service
  • Air Ambulance Service by AMREF Flying Doctors
  • Binoculars (1 pc per SUV)
  • Medical kit

Safari Cost Excludes

  • Air tickets;
  • Visa fee;
  • Travel insurance;
  • Tips to your safari guide ($30-50 per day per car).

Please note:

  • By default our tours include shared accommodation in twin/double rooms, unless requested and agreed otherwise. Single supplement is available upon request. Please refer to the program to see your accommodation arrangements
  • Moshi and Arusha-based accommodations usually include breakfast only, unless requested and agreed otherwise. Please refer to the program to see your meal plans on each night
  • Most safari lodges usually do not include tea, coffee, soft and alcoholic drinks not to have you overpay for beverages you don’t need. You will be able to order and pay for drinks at the hotels’ restaurants
  • Tented lodges are the most common type of accommodation in savannah. Many of them work on solar energy. This sometimes means bucket showers, limited wi-fi and no hair dryers, all in an effort to reduce environmental impact. We encourage you to do some basic research on the accommodations in your program to ensure the safari matches your travel style

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Get In Touch With Us!

Phone

+255 764 601 151

Email

info@joanneadventures.com

Address

315 Shanty Town – Moshi – Kilimanjaro, Tanzania.

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