9 Days Southern Tanzania Luxury Birdwatching Safari – an Exclusive Wildlife and Nature Experience

Discover a 9-day luxury birdwatching safari from Dar es Salaam through Nyerere, Mikumi, Udzungwa and Iringa, featuring river safaris, forest birding, game drives and scenic Southern Tanzania.

Tour Highlights

Day 1
Dar es Salaam – Nyerere National Park -River Boat Safari
Day 2
Nyerere National Park | Full-Day Wildlife Exploration
Day 3
Nyerere National Park Full day
Day 4
Nyerere National Park – Mikumi National Park
Day 5
Mikumi National Park | Mkata Floodplain Safari
Day 6
Mikumi – Udzungwa Mountains | Sanje Waterfalls
Day 7
Udzungwa Mountains – Iringa
Day 8
Iringa | Optional Kalenga Visit– Mikumi
Day 9
Mikumi National Park – Dar es Salaam

Tour Features

⏱
Duration 9 Days
🎯
Main Tour Focus Big 5 Safari
⛺
Tour Type Private Safari
🌟
Special For Wildlife
Before your journey

Highlighted Tour Overview

A quick look at the tour style, experiences, travel months and accommodation for this package.

Tour stylePrivate Safari
9 Days Southern Tanzania Luxury Birdwatching Safari – an Exclusive Wildlife and Nature Experience is listed as a Private Safari. See the itinerary for the arrangements for this package.
ExperiencesWildlife, Big 5 Safari
The experiences selected for 9 Days Southern Tanzania Luxury Birdwatching Safari – an Exclusive Wildlife and Nature Experience are Wildlife, Big 5 Safari. The itinerary describes when they take place.
Travel monthsAll year
9 Days Southern Tanzania Luxury Birdwatching Safari – an Exclusive Wildlife and Nature Experience is listed for travel throughout the year. Confirm availability for your preferred dates.
AccommodationLuxury Lodges
The accommodation category selected for this package is Luxury Lodges. Confirm the specific properties and availability when booking.
9 Days Southern Tanzania Luxury Birdwatching Safari – an Exclusive Wildlife and Nature Experience
9 Days Southern Tanzania Luxury Birdwatching Safari – an Exclusive Wildlife and Nature Experience

Nine Days of Southern Tanzania’s Rivers, Wetlands, Woodlands and Highland Forests

Experience a carefully paced 9-day luxury birdwatching safari through Southern Tanzania, combining the wetlands and waterways of Nyerere National Park, the open plains of Mikumi, the montane forests of Udzungwa, and the scenic Southern Highlands around Iringa. This drive-in, drive-out journey offers opportunities to observe waterbirds, woodland species, forest birds, raptors and other wildlife while enjoying comfortable accommodation, private road transfers and guided nature experiences

Day by day Itinerary

Day 1: Dar es Salaam – Nyerere National Park -River Boat Safari

Dar es Salaam – Nyerere National Park -River Boat Safari

Your Southern Tanzania honeymoon adventure starts with a comfortable journey south from Dar es Salaam towards Nyerere National Park. Along the way, your safari guide will share insights into the landscapes, communities and natural environment that make this region unique. On reaching the park, settle into your luxury lodge or camp and take a little time to unwind. Later in the afternoon, embark on a romantic boat excursion along the Rufiji River and its surrounding channels. Keep watch for hippos, crocodiles, waterbirds and other wildlife gathering along the waterways while admiring the peaceful scenery. As evening approaches, cruise back towards the riverbank and spend the night at your accommodation over dinner.

Destination:
Nyerere National Park
Overnight:
Serena Mivumo River Lodge
  luxury 4 star lodge
Meals & Drinks:
Lunch, Dinner
Serena Mivumo River Lodge
Serena Mivumo River Lodge
Serena Mivumo River Lodge
Serena Mivumo River Lodge
Serena Mivumo River Lodge
Serena Mivumo River Lodge
Serena Mivumo River Lodge
Serena Mivumo River Lodge
Serena Mivumo River Lodge
Serena Mivumo River Lodge

Day 2: Nyerere National Park | Full-Day Wildlife Exploration

Nyerere National Park | Full-Day Wildlife Exploration

A full day in the wilderness awaits as you venture deep into Nyerere National Park with your dedicated safari guide. The route takes you across open grasslands, woodland habitats and areas surrounding the park's lakes, where elephants, giraffes, buffalo, antelope and other wildlife may be encountered. A picnic or safari lunch provides a relaxing break in the bush before the afternoon exploration continues. With no need to rush, the day can be shaped around photography, wildlife encounters and peaceful moments shared together. Later, make your way back to camp or lodge for a romantic evening, dinner and overnight stay.

Destination:
Nyerere National Park
Overnight:
Serena Mivumo River Lodge
  luxury 4 star lodge
Meals & Drinks:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Serena Mivumo River Lodge
Serena Mivumo River Lodge
Serena Mivumo River Lodge
Serena Mivumo River Lodge
Serena Mivumo River Lodge
Serena Mivumo River Lodge
Serena Mivumo River Lodge
Serena Mivumo River Lodge
Serena Mivumo River Lodge
Serena Mivumo River Lodge

Day 3: Nyerere National Park Full day

Nyerere National Park Full day

Morning brings an opportunity to experience Nyerere beyond the safari vehicle through a guided walking adventure. Accompanied by an experienced walking guide, follow animal tracks and discover the smaller details of the ecosystem, from medicinal plants and insects to birds and signs left behind by larger animals. The experience offers an intimate connection with the African wilderness and creates memorable moments for two. Following lunch, take time to rest before heading into the park again for an afternoon game drive. As the sun begins to lower, the changing colours of the landscape create excellent conditions for photography and wildlife viewing. Dinner and overnight follow at your chosen lodge or camp.

Destination:
Nyerere National Park
Overnight:
Serena Mivumo River Lodge
  luxury 4 star lodge
Meals & Drinks:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Serena Mivumo River Lodge
Serena Mivumo River Lodge
Serena Mivumo River Lodge
Serena Mivumo River Lodge
Serena Mivumo River Lodge
Serena Mivumo River Lodge
Serena Mivumo River Lodge
Serena Mivumo River Lodge
Serena Mivumo River Lodge
Serena Mivumo River Lodge

Day 4: Nyerere National Park – Mikumi National Park

Nyerere National Park – Mikumi National Park

Leaving the wilderness of Nyerere behind, today's journey takes you towards Mikumi National Park. The road provides an opportunity to appreciate Southern Tanzania's varied scenery, from rural surroundings to changing vegetation and distant landscapes. Your safari vehicle and guide accompany you throughout the transfer, making the journey comfortable and flexible. Once in the Mikumi area, settle into your luxury accommodation and allow the remainder of the afternoon to unfold at an unhurried pace. Spend time together enjoying the surroundings before dinner and a restful night ahead of tomorrow's wildlife adventure.

Destination:
Nyerere National Park
Overnight:
Vuma Hills Tented Camp
  luxury 4 star lodge
Meals & Drinks:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
luxury lodge
luxury lodge
luxury lodge
luxury lodge
luxury lodge
luxury lodge
luxury lodge
luxury lodge
luxury lodge
luxury lodge

Day 5: Mikumi National Park | Mkata Floodplain Safari

Mikumi National Park | Mkata Floodplain Safari

Mikumi's expansive Mkata Floodplain forms the centrepiece of today's safari experience. Set off with your guide for an extensive exploration of the park, travelling across open plains and nearby habitats where wildlife frequently gathers. Elephants, zebras, giraffes, lions, buffalo and numerous bird species are among the animals you may encounter depending on seasonal conditions. The flexible nature of a dedicated safari allows you to linger whenever an interesting sighting develops or continue exploring when you are ready. A bush lunch or safari meal provides a scenic pause before more game viewing during the afternoon. By evening, head back to your lodge for dinner and overnight.

Destination:
Mikumi Natinal Park
Overnight:
Vuma Hills Tented Camp
  luxury 4 star lodge
Meals & Drinks:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
luxury lodge
luxury lodge
luxury lodge
luxury lodge
luxury lodge
luxury lodge
luxury lodge
luxury lodge
luxury lodge
luxury lodge

Day 6: Mikumi – Udzungwa Mountains | Sanje Waterfalls

Mikumi – Udzungwa Mountains | Sanje Waterfalls

Today introduces a completely different side of Southern Tanzania as the journey continues from Mikumi towards the Udzungwa Mountains. The landscape gradually changes as lush vegetation and mountain scenery replace the open plains of the safari parks. The highlight is a guided excursion towards Sanje Waterfalls, where a scenic trail leads through beautiful rainforest surroundings. Fresh mountain air, dense greenery and the sound of cascading water create a wonderfully intimate setting for a honeymoon experience. Take photographs along the route and pause whenever you wish to appreciate the surroundings together. Later, continue to your accommodation for relaxation, dinner and overnight.

Destination:
Mikumi Natinal Park
Overnight:
Udzungwa Falls Lodge
  mid rage 3 star lodge
Meals & Drinks:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
luxury lodge
midrange
midrange
luxury lodge
luxury lodge
luxury lodge
luxury lodge
luxury lodge
midrange
midrange

Day 7: Udzungwa Mountains – Iringa

Udzungwa Mountains – Iringa

Rising into Tanzania's Southern Highlands, today's drive offers a striking change of scenery and atmosphere. The route towards Iringa passes through elevated landscapes, rolling terrain and picturesque countryside. En route, make time for a visit to the remarkable Isimila Stone Age Site. The area combines fascinating archaeological remains with distinctive natural rock formations, offering insight into the ancient history of human settlement in the region. Following the visit, continue towards Iringa and settle into your accommodation. The remainder of the day can be spent at leisure before dinner and overnight.

Destination:
Udzungwa Mountains
Overnight:
Hans Poppe Hotel
  luxury 5 star lodge
Meals & Drinks:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
luxury
luxury
luxury
luxury
luxury
luxury
luxury
luxury
luxury
luxury

Day 8: Iringa | Optional Kalenga Visit– Mikumi

Iringa | Optional Kalenga Visit– Mikumi

The return journey towards Mikumi takes you through some of the scenic landscapes of the Southern Highlands and surrounding escarpment country. For couples with an interest in Tanzania's history and heritage, a stop at Kalenga Museum can be incorporated into the day's route. The journey also allows for selected roadside photography stops where conditions and timing permit, giving you opportunities to capture the dramatic scenery along the way. Reaching Mikumi later in the day, check into your luxury accommodation and spend your final safari evening relaxing together. Dinner and overnight complete the day.

Destination:
Iringa Attractions
Overnight:
Vuma Hills Tented Camp
  luxury 4 star lodge
Meals & Drinks:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
luxury lodge
luxury lodge
luxury lodge
luxury lodge
luxury lodge
luxury lodge
luxury lodge
luxury lodge
luxury lodge
luxury lodge

Day 9: Mikumi National Park – Dar es Salaam

Mikumi National Park – Dar es Salaam

Before the day becomes busy, head into Mikumi for an early-morning game drive. The cooler temperatures and soft sunrise light provide a wonderful final opportunity to search for wildlife, while the quieter atmosphere of the park adds a special sense of intimacy to your last safari experience. Following the drive, return for breakfast before checking out and beginning the road journey towards Dar es Salaam. Watch the Southern Tanzanian scenery gradually change as you travel back towards the coast. Your romantic nine-day safari concludes with arrival in Dar es Salaam, leaving you with memories of wildlife encounters, beautiful landscapes and time spent together in Tanzania's southern wilderness.

Destination:
Mikumi Natinal Park

TOUR PRICE/COST

We offer two pricing options:

  •   Private Tour (Sharing Price)
  • The cost is shared within your private group. More people means a lower price per person.

  •   Group Joining Tour
  • Join others on a fixed-date tour at a set per-person rate—ideal for solo travelers or small groups.

    Tour Cost

    No of pax Adult Price Child Price
    1 Pax From $3,034 pp From $2,276 pp
    2 Pax From $2,034 pp From $1,526 pp
    3 Pax From $1,701 pp From $1,276 pp
    4 Pax From $1,534 pp From $1,151 pp
    5 Pax From $1,434 pp From $1,076 pp
    6 Pax From $1,367 pp From $1,026 pp
    7+ Pax From $1,320 pp From $990 pp

    PRICE INCLUSIONS & PRICE EXCLUSIONS

    Inclusions
  • ✓ All accommodation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional upgrade)
  • ✓ All Taxes/VAT
  • ✓ All transportation mentioned (unless clearly labeled as optional)
  • ✓ Meals (as specified in the day-by-day description)
  • ✓ Rescue fee
  • Exclusions
  •  Additional accommodation before and at the end of the tour
  •  Government imposed increase of taxes and/or park fees
  •  International flights to/from the start/end of the tour
  •  Personal items
  •  Tips: tipping guideline
  • The Booking Form

    Tour Map

    Follow the journey from Start to End. Numbers show the order of destinations and arrows show the direction of travel. Lines connect approximate locations, not actual driving or flight paths.

    1. Start
    2. Day 1, Day 2, Day 3
    3. Day 4, Day 5
    4. Udzungwa mountain national park ↗Day 6 · Open location search
    5. Iringa ↗Day 7 · Open location search
    6. Day 8, Day 9
    7. End

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    Before you book

    FAQs about 9 Days Southern Tanzania Luxury Birdwatching Safari – an Exclusive Wildlife and Nature Experience

    What is the tour style?

    9 Days Southern Tanzania Luxury Birdwatching Safari – an Exclusive Wildlife and Nature Experience is listed as a Private Safari. See the itinerary for the arrangements for this package.

    What experiences does this package offer?

    The experiences selected for 9 Days Southern Tanzania Luxury Birdwatching Safari – an Exclusive Wildlife and Nature Experience are Wildlife, Big 5 Safari. The itinerary describes when they take place.

    When can I travel?

    9 Days Southern Tanzania Luxury Birdwatching Safari – an Exclusive Wildlife and Nature Experience is listed for travel throughout the year. Confirm availability for your preferred dates.

    What accommodation is planned?

    The accommodation category selected for this package is Luxury Lodges. Confirm the specific properties and availability when booking.

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