MORE THAN A SAFARI
Tanzania offers much more than its best-known northern safari circuit.
In the south, national parks are generally quieter, landscapes are vast and journeys can be combined with mountains, local communities, historic towns and the Indian Ocean coast.
You can travel to Nyerere for game drives and boat safaris, explore the open plains of Mikumi, spend several days in remote Ruaha or hike through the rainforest of the Udzungwa Mountains.
Beyond the national parks, we can take you to the Uluguru Mountains, Iringa, historic Kilwa, the Mufindi Highlands and the islands of Zanzibar, Mafia and Pemba.
We organise both short private safaris and complete personalised holidays. Your route can start in Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar or another agreed location.
SAFARI DESTINATIONS
NYERERE NATIONAL PARK
Nyerere combines classic game drives with activities on and around the Rufiji River.
The park contains woodland, open areas, wetlands, lakes and river channels. Wildlife may include elephants, lions, giraffes, buffaloes, hippos, crocodiles and African wild dogs.
A boat safari provides a different perspective and creates a varied programme even during a relatively short stay.
Nyerere is one of the most practical major safari destinations to combine with Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar or historic Kilwa.
KATAVI NATIONAL PARK
Katavi is one of Tanzania’s most remote and least visited national parks.
Its floodplains, rivers and woodland support large concentrations of wildlife, particularly during the dry season. The park is best suited to experienced safari travellers looking for an exclusive wilderness experience.
Because of its remote location, Katavi is normally reached by domestic flight and is more expensive than Mikumi, Nyerere or Ruaha. It can be combined with the Mahale Mountains for an exceptional journey through Western Tanzania.
RUAHA NATIONAL PARK
Ruaha is a remote safari destination known for its vast wilderness, baobab landscapes, elephants and predators.
The size of the park and the distances involved make Ruaha most rewarding when you can spend several days there. Domestic flights are recommended for a short Ruaha safari without overnight stops along the way.
For longer holidays, Ruaha can be reached overland through Morogoro, Mikumi, Udzungwa and Iringa. It also combines well with the Mufindi Highlands or more remote destinations in Western Tanzania.
SAADANI NATIONAL PARK
Saadani is Tanzania’s only national park situated directly beside the Indian Ocean.
The park combines coastal scenery with game drives and boat activities. Wildlife numbers are lower than in Tanzania’s major safari parks, so Saadani is best chosen for its unusual bush-and-beach setting rather than for the highest concentration of animals.
It can be included in a journey through Bagamoyo, Pangani, Tanga or the Usambara Mountains.
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MIKUMI NATIONAL PARK
Mikumi is one of the most practical safari destinations from Dar es Salaam.
The open Mkata Floodplain offers good visibility and opportunities to observe elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, buffaloes, lions and many different antelopes.
Mikumi is suitable for short safaris and first-time safari travellers. It can be reached by road or by taking the SGR train to Morogoro and continuing by private vehicle.
The park combines particularly well with the Udzungwa Mountains, Morogoro, the Uluguru Mountains and longer overland routes towards Iringa and Ruaha.
MKOMAZI NATIONAL PARK
Mkomazi National Park lies in north-eastern Tanzania, between the Pare Mountains and the Kenyan border.
Its dry landscapes, open savannah and mountain views create a different setting from the greener parks of Southern Tanzania. Wildlife may include elephants, giraffes, zebras, antelopes, lions and African wild dogs.
Mkomazi is also known for its black rhino conservation programme. Visits to the rhino sanctuary depend on current access and arrangements, and sightings elsewhere in the park cannot be guaranteed.
The park combines particularly well with the Usambara Mountains, Same, Tanga and Pangani. It is a rewarding choice for travellers who want to combine safari, hiking and the mainland coast within one less visited route.
MOUNTAINS, FORESTS AND HIGHLANDS
UDZUNGWA MOUNTAINS NATIONAL PARK
Udzungwa is explored mainly on foot rather than by safari vehicle.
The park protects rainforest, mountain habitats, endemic plants and several primate species. Its best-known hike leads to the Sanje Waterfalls, where viewpoints overlook the Kilombero Valley.
Udzungwa is normally combined with Mikumi National Park. Together, they provide a balanced itinerary with game drives, rainforest hiking and waterfalls.
MUFINDI HIGHLANDS
The Mufindi Highlands offer a cooler climate, rolling hills, forests, tea plantations and quiet rural landscapes.
This is a peaceful place to rest between longer travel days or to add walking, horse riding and time in nature to a Southern Tanzania itinerary.
Mufindi can be included between Iringa and Mbeya or combined with Ruaha as part of a longer overland holiday.
ULUGURU MOUNTAINS
Hikes pass through farmland, villages, forest and mountain landscapes. Options range from day hikes to routes with a simple camping experience in the mountains.
The Uluguru Mountains rise behind Morogoro and are easily included in an overland journey from Dar es Salaam.
The Ulugurus can be combined with Morogoro, Mikumi National Park or the SGR train between Dar es Salaam and Morogoro.
MAGOROTO FOREST ESTATE
Magoroto is a forest estate in the mountains of north-eastern Tanzania.
Visitors come for the green surroundings, lake, waterfalls, walking trails and outdoor activities. It works well as a relaxing nature stop within a journey through Tanga, Pangani or the Usambara Mountains.
USAMBARA MOUNTAINS
Walking routes can be arranged for one day or as a multi-day trek between local guesthouses and mountain villages. The area is especially suitable for travellers who enjoy hiking, slower travel and interaction with local communities.
The Usambaras combine well with Lushoto, Mambo, Mkomazi National Park, Pangani and the coast around Tanga.
The Usambara Mountains offer green landscapes, villages, forest trails and wide viewpoints across north-eastern Tanzania.
CULTURE, HISTORY AND THE MAINLAND COAST
DAR ES SALAAM
A private city tour can introduce you to its busy markets, historic buildings, waterfront, street life and local food. Beach stays, snorkelling trips and visits to nearby islands can also be arranged.
Dar es Salaam is more than a transit point.
A boat safari provides a different perspective and creates a varied programme even during a relatively short stay.
The city is the main starting point for our road safaris and has ferry, train and domestic flight connections to many other destinations.
BAGAMOYO
Bagamoyo is a historic coastal town north of Dar es Salaam.
Its old buildings, arts scene and complex trading and colonial history make it a rewarding destination for travellers interested in the Swahili coast. Bagamoyo can be visited as a day trip, although staying overnight allows more time to explore the town and surrounding area.
It combines well with Dar es Salaam, Saadani National Park and journeys towards Pangani or Tanga.
KILWA KISIWANI
Kilwa is one of Tanzania’s most important historic coastal destinations.
A boat trip to Kilwa Kisiwani and Songo Mnara reveals the remains of Swahili trading settlements that once connected East Africa with the wider Indian Ocean world. Both islands are recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Kilwa also offers beaches and a much quieter atmosphere than Tanzania’s major coastal resorts. It combines naturally with Nyerere National Park, Dar es Salaam or longer journeys through Southern Tanzania.
TANGA AND PANGANI
Pangani offers long beaches, a quiet coastal atmosphere and insights into life along the northern Swahili coast.
The wider Tanga region can be combined with the Usambara Mountains, Magoroto Forest, Saadani National Park and Mkomazi National Park.
This route is a good alternative for travellers who want to combine mountains, culture and beaches without visiting the busiest parts of Zanzibar.
IRINGA AND ISIMILA
The town has a relaxed highland atmosphere and provides an opportunity to learn more about local history and everyday life. We often use Iringa to divide the overland journey towards Ruaha into comfortable stages.
Iringa is a practical and interesting stop on the way to Ruaha National Park.
Nearby, the Isimila Stone Age Site contains archaeological remains and dramatic sandstone formations. It can be visited as a half-day excursion before or after a Ruaha safari.
ISLANDS AND BEACHES
ZANZIBAR ISLAND
Zanzibar is Tanzania’s best-known island destination and offers much more than beach resorts.
A stay can include the historic streets of Stone Town, spice farms, snorkelling, boat trips and beach time in places such as Paje, Jambiani or Bwejuu.
Zanzibar is easy to combine with a safari. You can travel through Dar es Salaam by ferry or domestic flight, or use a direct flight to selected national parks when available.
We can arrange accommodation, activities, domestic flights, ferry tickets and private transfers anywhere on the island.
DAR ES SALAAM
The south coast of Dar es Salaam (Kigamboni) offers incredible beaches where you will barely find any other tourist.
Take a walk on the long beaches, dive into the natural tide pools, go on a snorkeling tour or just enjoy the peacefull environment.
Small islands such as Bongoyo, Sinda and Mbudya can also be visited during a stay in Dar es Salaam. They provide an easy escape from the city for swimming, snorkelling, seafood and time on the beach. These islands are best visited as a day trip before or after a safari.
MAFIA ISLAND
Mafia is quieter and less developed for tourism than Zanzibar.
The island is known for its marine park, coral reefs, diving, snorkelling and seasonal opportunities to swim with whale sharks. It is particularly suitable for travellers looking for nature, marine life and a slower pace.
Mafia can be reached by domestic flight from Dar es Salaam and combines well with Nyerere National Park.
PANGANI
Pangani offers long beaches, a quiet coastal atmosphere and insights into life along the northern Swahili coast.
The wider Tanga region can be combined with the Usambara Mountains, Magoroto Forest, Saadani National Park and Mkomazi National Park.
This route is a good alternative for travellers who want to combine mountains, culture and beaches without visiting the busiest parts of Zanzibar.
PEMBA ISLAND
Pemba is a green and hilly island north of Zanzibar.
It offers a quieter experience, with small beaches, clove plantations, excellent diving and fewer large resorts. Pemba is a strong choice for honeymooners, divers and travellers who value privacy and tranquillity.
Domestic flights connect Pemba with Zanzibar and Dar es Salaam. Routes and schedules depend on the travel date.
WHICH DESTINATIONS WORK WELL TOGETHER?
The best route depends on your available time and preferred pace.
FOR A SHORT HOLIDAY
Combine Dar es Salaam with Mikumi National Park or the Uluguru Mountains.
Nyerere is another practical option when you want to combine game drives with a boat safari.
FOR SAFARI AND BEACH
Combine Nyerere with Zanzibar or Mafia Island.
Mikumi and Ruaha can also be followed by a domestic flight or overland transfer towards Zanzibar.
FOR WILDLIFE AND HIKING
Combine Mikumi with the Udzungwa Mountains.
A longer route can also include Morogoro, the Uluguru Mountains, Iringa and Ruaha.
FOR CULTURE, HISTORY AND WILDLIFE
Travel from Dar es Salaam to historic Kilwa and continue to Nyerere National Park.
Iringa and the Isimila Stone Age Site can be included before or after a Ruaha safari.
FOR A COMPLETE SOUTHERN TANZANIA HOLIDAY
Combine Dar es Salaam, the Uluguru Mountains, Mikumi, Udzungwa, Iringa and Ruaha before flying to Zanzibar.
This type of journey is best enjoyed over at least two weeks.
FOR A REMOTE WILDERNESS JOURNEY
Combine Ruaha, Katavi and the Mahale Mountains.
Domestic flights are normally required, and the route is most suitable for travellers with sufficient time and a higher budget.
HOW WE PLAN YOUR ROUTE
Distances in Tanzania are significant, and not every combination works well within a short holiday.
We look at your available time, interests, budget and preferred comfort level before recommending a route. We will also explain when a domestic flight would save valuable time or when an overnight stop would make the journey more enjoyable.
We can arrange:
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Private road transport
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Safari vehicles and driver-guides
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Domestic flights
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SGR train tickets
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Zanzibar ferry tickets
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Hotels, lodges and safari camps
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Guided hikes and local activities
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Island transfers and accommodation
All Kasaka Tours game drives and road transfers are private for your booking group. Scheduled trains, ferries, domestic flights and certain activities provided by accommodations are shared with other travellers.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Do I need to choose one of the example itineraries?
No. The itineraries on our website are examples based on holidays we have organised for previous guests. We can change the destinations, duration, accommodation, transport and activities according to your plans.
Can my holiday start in Zanzibar?
Yes. We can collect you from your accommodation anywhere on Zanzibar and arrange the required ferry, domestic flight and road transfers. These transport costs are calculated according to your location, dates and selected route.
Can I combine several national parks?
Yes. Mikumi, Nyerere and Ruaha can be combined, but the distances must be considered carefully. Longer journeys may include stops in Morogoro, Udzungwa, Kilwa or Iringa, or combine private road transport with domestic flights.
Can I combine safari with hiking?
Yes. Mikumi and the Udzungwa Mountains are one of the easiest safari-and-hiking combinations. The Uluguru and Usambara Mountains can also be included in longer itineraries.
Which island should I choose?
Zanzibar offers the widest selection of accommodations, beaches and activities. Mafia is quieter and particularly attractive for marine life. Pemba is green, peaceful and well suited to diving, honeymoons and secluded stays.We can compare the islands according to your budget, travel period and interests.
Are all transfers and activities private?
Road transfers, game drives and activities operated directly for your booking are normally private. Scheduled flights, trains, ferries and certain lodge or island activities may be shared with other passengers.
Your final itinerary will clearly explain which arrangements are private and which are shared.
How much time do I need for Southern Tanzania?
A short safari can take two to four days. To combine several national parks with mountains, culture and an island stay, we normally recommend at least ten days. Journeys including Ruaha or remote Western Tanzania are more enjoyable when sufficient time is available.
Can you organise our complete holiday?
Yes. We can arrange your complete journey within Tanzania, including accommodation, private transport, safaris, domestic flights, ferry and train tickets, hikes, activities and island stays.
International flights, travel insurance and visas are not included.
