Excellent
950 Reviews
5 Days / 4 Nights
Budget Safari, Joining Groups
Up to 12 People
English, Swahili
Embark on an unforgettable 5-day budget safari with Top Serengeti Safaris, exploring the pristine wilderness of Tanzania’s southern gems: Mikumi National Park and Selous Game Reserve (now Nyerere National Park). This adventure offers thrilling game drives, unique boat safaris on the Rufiji River, and immersive camping experiences in less-crowded parks teeming with diverse wildlife. Perfect for budget travelers seeking an authentic African safari, this tour combines expert local guides, comfortable 4x4 vehicles, and the chance to witness lions, elephants, hippos, and rare species like wild dogs in their natural habitats.
The cost of the 5-day Mikumi & Selous Budget Safari is $1,200 per person for private camping, based on a group of 2-4 people. Prices may vary depending on group size, season (2026-2027), and optional add-ons. Contact us for a personalized quote or group discounts.
| Destinations | Mikumi National Park, Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park), Tanzania |
| Departure | Dar es Salaam, Tanzania |
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| Travel With 4x4 Safari Vehicle | |
All meals are included, prepared fresh daily by experienced camp chefs. Breakfasts feature fresh fruits, cereals, eggs, pancakes, and coffee/tea. Lunches are picnic boxes with sandwiches, salads, fruits, and snacks, ideal for game drives. Dinners include grilled meats, fresh vegetables, and local Tanzanian dishes like ugali or pilau. Vegetarian, vegan, and other dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice (please specify when booking).
The total distance covered is approximately 600 km round-trip from Dar es Salaam. Daily driving includes:
Mikumi National Park: Known for its open plains, Mikumi hosts lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, impalas, wildebeests, and leopards. Birdlife is abundant with over 400 species, including lilac-breasted rollers and yellow-throated longclaws. The Mkata Floodplain offers excellent game viewing year-round.
Selous Game Reserve: One of Africa’s largest protected areas, Selous is home to large populations of elephants, African wild dogs, lions, hippos, crocodiles, and buffaloes. Rare black rhinos may be spotted, and the reserve’s diverse ecosystems (rivers, lakes, and forests) support over 440 bird species, including fish eagles and kingfishers. The Rufiji River boat safari is a unique highlight.
Tipping is customary but discretionary. Recommended amounts per group:
A valid passport (with at least 6 months validity and 2 blank pages) is required. Most nationalities need a visa for Tanzania, obtainable online as an e-Visa ($50-100, depending on nationality) or on arrival at major entry points. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory if traveling from or transiting through endemic countries (e.g., Kenya, Uganda). Check with the Tanzanian embassy for specific requirements.
Comprehensive travel insurance is mandatory, covering medical evacuation, trip cancellation/interruption, and adventure activities like safaris. Recommended providers include World Nomads, Allianz, or Travelex. Ensure coverage includes emergency helicopter evacuation, as medical facilities in remote areas are limited.
Wear neutral-colored clothing (khaki, beige, olive) to blend with the environment and avoid attracting wildlife. Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics for daytime heat, and long sleeves/pants to protect against sun and insects. Bring a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sturdy, comfortable shoes for walking safaris. Include warm layers (fleece, jacket) for cool mornings and evenings, especially in the dry season (June-October).
Dry Season (June-October): Ideal for wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources, and roads are easily navigable. Temperatures range from 20-30°C (68-86°F).
Wet Season (November-May): Lush landscapes and excellent birdwatching, with fewer tourists. However, heavy rains (March-May) may make some roads challenging. November and December offer a balance of greenery and good wildlife sightings.
Accommodations are budget-friendly tented campsites, offering an authentic wilderness experience with basic amenities (beds, bedding, shared bathrooms). Camps are safe, located near park boundaries, and staffed by experienced personnel. Typical options include:
| Name | View Hotel |
|---|---|
| Mikumi Wildlife Camp | View Hotel |
| Selous River Camp | View Hotel |
| Budget Tented Camp (Mikumi) | View Hotel |
| Budget Tented Camp (Selous) | View Hotel |
Electricity: Tanzania uses 220-240V, Type G sockets (British-style plugs). Bring a universal adapter. Power may be limited at campsites, often provided by generators (available evenings/nights).
Connectivity: Wi-Fi is limited or unavailable at campsites. Purchase a local SIM card (Vodacom or Airtel) in Dar es Salaam for basic 4G coverage. Data bundles are affordable (e.g., $5 for 10GB).
Health: Malaria is prevalent; take prophylaxis (e.g., Malarone, doxycycline) and use insect repellent. Consult a travel clinic 4-6 weeks before departure. Carry a basic first-aid kit.
Safety: Tanzania is generally safe for tourists. Always follow your guide’s instructions during game drives and walking safaris. Keep valuables secure and avoid wandering alone at night.
Local Currency: Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the official currency, but USD is widely accepted for tips and souvenirs. Exchange money at banks or authorized bureaus in Dar es Salaam for better rates.
Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local customs, especially when visiting villages. Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees) outside safari areas, and ask permission before photographing people.
August 20, 2025
The boat safari on the Rufiji River in Selous was absolutely breathtaking! Watching hippos and crocodiles from the water was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable, and the camping setup was surprisingly comfortable. Highly recommend this tour for budget travelers!
July 10, 2025
Mikumi’s open plains made wildlife spotting so easy—saw a pride of lions on the first day! The camping experience felt authentic, and the guides were fantastic at explaining the ecosystem. The drive times were long but worth it for the incredible scenery and wildlife.
June 15, 2025
This safari exceeded all expectations! The boat safari in Selous was a highlight, and the guides made us feel safe and informed. The food was delicious, and the campsites were well-organized. I’m already planning my next trip with Top Serengeti Safaris!
Join Top Serengeti Safaris for a 5-day budget safari adventure through Mikumi National Park and Selous Game Reserve, two of Tanzania’s premier wildlife destinations. This carefully crafted itinerary balances exciting game drives, unique boat safaris, and authentic camping experiences, offering an immersive journey into Tanzania’s southern wilderness. Travel in a comfortable 4x4 safari vehicle with a pop-up roof, guided by experts passionate about showcasing the region’s biodiversity.
Begin your adventure with a morning departure from Dar es Salaam in a 4x4 safari vehicle. The scenic 4-5 hour drive (300 km) to Mikumi National Park takes you through Tanzania’s countryside. Upon arrival, enjoy an afternoon game drive in Mikumi, known for its open plains and abundant wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, and zebras. Settle into a budget tented campsite for a hearty dinner under the stars and an overnight stay.
Wake early for a morning game drive when wildlife is most active, offering prime opportunities to spot predators like lions and leopards. Return to camp for a full breakfast, followed by a mid-morning rest. After a picnic lunch, embark on an afternoon game drive to explore more of Mikumi’s diverse ecosystems, including the Mkata Floodplain, home to buffaloes, impalas, and over 400 bird species. Enjoy dinner and another night at the campsite, surrounded by the sounds of the wild.
After an early breakfast, depart Mikumi for Selous Game Reserve (5-6 hours, 200 km), with an en-route game drive to maximize wildlife sightings. Arrive at a budget campsite near the Rufiji River, a vital lifeline for Selous’ wildlife. Spend the afternoon settling in and preparing for the next day’s adventures. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at the campsite, with the river’s sounds creating a serene backdrop.
Start with a morning boat safari on the Rufiji River, a highlight of Selous, offering close-up views of hippos, crocodiles, and vibrant birdlife like fish eagles and kingfishers. Return to camp for breakfast, followed by a morning of relaxation or an optional walking safari ($50 per person) with an armed ranger. After a picnic lunch, embark on an afternoon game drive to spot elephants, African wild dogs, lions, and vast buffalo herds. Optional fly-camping ($150 per person) is available for an overnight bush experience. Return to the campsite for dinner and overnight stay.
Enjoy an early morning game drive in Selous for final wildlife sightings, potentially including rare black rhinos or leopards. After breakfast at the campsite, begin the 5-6 hour drive (200 km) back to Dar es Salaam, with an en-route game drive to maximize your experience. Arrive in Dar es Salaam by mid-afternoon, concluding your unforgettable safari adventure.
Top Serengeti Safaris Co LTD is a premier, locally owned tour operator based in Moshi, Tanzania. We specialize in crafting unforgettable safari experiences across Tanzania’s iconic destinations, including Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, Mikumi, and Selous. Our mission is to provide budget-friendly, sustainable, and authentic adventures with a focus on exceptional service and local expertise.
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