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Ngomi Adventures

Tanzania, from within
Ngomi Adventures
Proposal № 0162
September 19, 2026
16 Days

16 Days Tanzania Odyssey: Northern Parks to Untamed Western Wilderness

This 16-day safari is an immersive journey across Tanzania, designed to showcase the country’s incredible diversity from east to west. Starting in Dar es Salaam, the adventure begins in Nyerere National Park with a unique boat safari along the Rufiji River, followed by classic wildlife experiences in Mikumi and the remote, predator-rich landscapes of Ruaha National Park. The journey continues through the southern highlands to Iringa and the scenic shores of Lake Malawi, where you can relax and enjoy a different side of Tanzania. From here, you venture deep into western Tanzania to explore Katavi National Park, one of Africa’s most untouched and least crowded safari destinations, known for its large buffalo herds and raw wilderness. The experience concludes in Kigoma with a visit to Gombe National Park for chimpanzee trekking, offering a rare and intimate wildlife encounter. This safari is ideal for travelers seeking a unique combination of wildlife, culture, landscapes, and off-the-beaten-path adventure across Tanzania

Duration
16
Parks
7
From
$5,800 pp
Continue
— Contents

What's
inside.

  • 01 The OverviewThe journey in brief, with context P. 02
  • 02 The RouteWhere you'll go, drawn out P. 06
  • 03 The JourneyDay by day, mile by mile P. 08
  • 04 The LodgesWhere you'll sleep each night P. 22
  • 05 The InvestmentPricing, transparent P. 26
  • 06 Inclusions & NotesWhat's covered, what isn't P. 28
  • 06 ReservationHow to confirm your dates P. 32

This 16-day safari is an immersive journey across Tanzania, designed to showcase the country’s incredible diversity from east to west. Starting in Dar es Salaam, the adventure begins in Nyerere National Park with a unique boat safari along the Rufiji River, followed by classic wildlife experiences in Mikumi and the remote, predator-rich landscapes of Ruaha National Park. The journey continues through the southern highlands to Iringa and the scenic shores of Lake Malawi, where you can relax and enjoy a different side of Tanzania. From here, you venture deep into western Tanzania to explore Katavi National Park, one of Africa’s most untouched and least crowded safari destinations, known for its large buffalo herds and raw wilderness. The experience concludes in Kigoma with a visit to Gombe National Park for chimpanzee trekking, offering a rare and intimate wildlife encounter. This safari is ideal for travelers seeking a unique combination of wildlife, culture, landscapes, and off-the-beaten-path adventure across Tanzania

This 16-day safari is an immersive journey across Tanzania, designed to showcase the country’s incredible diversity from east to west. Starting in Dar es Salaam, the adventure begins in Nyerere National Park with a unique boat safari along the Rufiji River, followed by classic wildlife experiences in Mikumii and the remote, predator-rich landscapes of Ruahai […]

We've arranged this proposal in the conventional way — day by day, lodge by lodge, inclusion by inclusion. Read straight through, or jump to any section using the Contents page. Every detail is open to adjustment; small changes cost nothing.

— Section II

The route,
drawn out.

16 · 10 stops
  1. 01 Nyerere National Park
  2. 02 Nyerere National Park
  3. 03 Mikumi National Park
  4. 04 Mikumi National Park
  5. 05 Ruaha National Park
  6. 06 Ruaha National Park
  7. 07 Iringa
  8. 08 Mbeya
  9. 09 Katavi National Park
  10. 10 Gombe National Park |
  11. 11 Dar es Salaam
— Section III

The journey,
day by day.

I
Day 01 · Nyerere National Park

Dar es Salaam → Nyerere National Park | Rufiji River Experience

Activity Transfer
Meals Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Detail Distance & Time ~230 km | 5–6 hours

Begin your journey in Dar es Salaam with a scenic drive south to Nyerere National Park, one of Africa’s largest and most untouched wildlife reserves. After arriving and settling in, head out in the late afternoon for a tranquil boat safari along the Rufiji River. This unique perspective allows you to observe wildlife up close hippos wallowing in the water, crocodiles basking on the banks, and elephants gathering at sunset creating a peaceful yet unforgettable introduction to your safari.

Overnight at Selous River Camp
Dar es Salaam → Nyerere National Park | Rufiji River Experience
— Nyerere National Park
II
Day 02 · Nyerere National Park

Full-Day Game Drive | Nyerere Wilderness

Activity Safari
Meals Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Detail Game Drive 6–8 hours

Spend a full day exploring the vast landscapes of Nyerere National Park, where diverse habitats support a remarkable variety of wildlife. With a packed lunch, venture deep into the park in search of elephants, lions, giraffes, buffalo, and the elusive African wild dogs. The experience is defined by its raw, uncrowded wilderness, offering an authentic safari atmosphere far from the busy northern parks.

Overnight at Selous River Camp
Full-Day Game Drive | Nyerere Wilderness
— Nyerere National Park
III
Day 03 · Mikumi National Park

Nyerere → Mikumi National Park

Activity Transfer
Meals Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Detail Distance & Time ~300 km | 6–7 hours

After breakfast, journey north toward Mikumi National Park, passing through changing landscapes of rural villages and open plains. Upon arrival, settle into your lodge before enjoying an optional Maasai cultural experience, where you can engage with local traditions, dances, and daily life. This day offers a meaningful transition between wilderness and culture.

Overnight at Vuma Hills Tented Camp
Nyerere → Mikumi National Park
— Mikumi National Park
IV
Day 04 · Mikumi National Park

Full-Day Game Drive | Mikumi Plains

Activity Safari
Meals Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Detail Game Drive 6–8 hours

Explore Mikumi National Park, often compared to the Serengeti for its wide-open plains and abundant wildlife. A full-day game drive reveals herds of zebras, wildebeest, elephants, and predators such as lions. The Mkata floodplain provides excellent visibility, making wildlife viewing both rewarding and scenic throughout the day.

Overnight at Vuma Hills Tented Camp
Full-Day Game Drive | Mikumi Plains
— Mikumi National Park
V
Day 05 · Ruaha National Park

Mikumi → Ruaha National Park

Activity Safari
Meals Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Detail Distance & Time ~350 km | 7–8 hours

Journey through the scenic landscapes of the Udzungwa Mountains and Iringa town before arriving in Ruaha National Park. This remote park offers a dramatic shift in scenery, with rugged terrain, baobab trees, and fewer visitors. The drive itself is part of the adventure, revealing Tanzania’s geographical diversity

Overnight at Ruaha River Lodge
Mikumi → Ruaha National Park
— Ruaha National Park
VI
Day 06 · Ruaha National Park

Full Safari Experience | Ruaha National Park

Activity Safari
Meals Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Detail Game Drive Duration: 6 – 8 hours per day

Spend two full days immersed in the raw and untouched wilderness of Ruaha National Park, Tanzania’s largest national park and one of its best-kept safari secrets. This remote landscape is defined by dramatic baobab trees, rocky escarpments, and the life-giving Great Ruaha River, which attracts a high concentration of wildlife. Across these two days, enjoy extended game drives through diverse habitats, where you have excellent chances of encountering large lion prides, elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and a variety of predators including leopards and wild dogs. The park’s isolation and low visitor numbers create a truly exclusive safari atmosphere, allowing for uninterrupted wildlife viewing and a deeper connection with nature.

Overnight at Ruaha River Lodge
Full Safari Experience | Ruaha National Park
— Ruaha National Park
VIII
Day 08 · Iringa

Ruaha → Iringa | 2-Night Highlands & Cultural Experience

Activity Safari
Meals Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Detail Distance (Ruaha → Iringa): ~130 km Drive Time: 3 – 4 hours

After a short morning game drive in Ruaha National Park, return to the lodge for breakfast before departing toward Iringa, a charming town nestled in Tanzania’s southern highlands. As you leave the dry savannah behind, the scenery transforms into lush, rolling hills with a noticeably cooler climate, offering a refreshing contrast to the safari environment. Over the next two days, enjoy a relaxed and immersive stay in Iringa, allowing time to explore both its natural beauty and cultural heritage. Visit the remarkable Isimila Stone Age Site, where towering sandstone pillars and ancient archaeological discoveries provide insight into early human history. You may also explore local markets, interact with the community, or simply unwind while taking in the peaceful highland surroundings.This two-night stay is designed to offer a balanced pause in your journey blending light exploration, cultural discovery, and relaxation before continuing your adventure toward the shores of Lake Malawi.

Overnight at Iringa Sunset Hotel
Ruaha → Iringa | 2-Night Highlands & Cultural Experience
— Iringa
X
Day 10 · Mbeya

Iringa → Lake Malawi → Mbeya | 2-Night Highlands & Lakeside Experience

Activity Safari
Meals Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Detail Iringa → Matema (Lake Malawi): ~330 km | 6 – 7 hours Matema → Mbeya: ~70 km | 1.5 – 2 hours

After your enriching stay in Iringa, continue your journey south through the scenic southern highlands toward the tranquil shores of Lake Malawi. Arriving at Matema Beach, you are welcomed by crystal-clear waters framed by the dramatic Livingstone Mountains one of Tanzania’s most peaceful and lesser-visited natural settings.Take time to relax along the lakeshore, enjoy the calm atmosphere, or explore the surrounding village, where local life unfolds at a gentle pace. This lakeside stop offers a refreshing contrast to the safari, blending nature and relaxation in a truly unique environment. From here, proceed to Mbeya, where you will spend two nights in the cool and scenic highlands. Surrounded by rolling hills, tea plantations, and fresh mountain air, Mbeya provides a comfortable and well-placed base to rest, recharge, and prepare for your journey into western Tanzania. The extended stay allows for a more relaxed pace while still enjoying the beauty of the region.

Overnight at Royal Mgwasi Hotel
Iringa → Lake Malawi → Mbeya | 2-Night Highlands & Lakeside Experience
— Mbeya
XII
Day 12 · Katavi National Park

Katavi National Park | 2-Night Remote Wilderness Experience

Activity Safari
Meals Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
Detail Game Drive Duration: 6 – 8 hours per day Distance Covered: Flexible

Arrive in Katavi National Park and spend two full days immersed in one of Africa’s most remote and untouched safari destinations. Far from the crowds, Katavi offers a raw and authentic wilderness experience where nature unfolds without interruption. Over these two days, explore vast floodplains, seasonal rivers, and open savannahs that support extraordinary concentrations of wildlife. The park is especially known for its massive buffalo herds, large pods of hippos crowded into shrinking water sources, and intense predator-prey interactions involving lions and crocodiles. With very few visitors, each game drive feels exclusive, allowing for deeper exploration and uninterrupted wildlife encounters.This two-night stay provides the perfect balance of adventure and immersion, offering a true sense of discovery in one of Tanzania’s last great wild frontiers

Overnight at Katuma Lodge (Mbali Mbali Katavi)
Katavi National Park | 2-Night Remote Wilderness Experience
— Katavi National Park
XIV
Day 14 · Gombe National Park |

Katavi → Kigoma & Gombe National Park | Chimpanzee & Lake Tanganyika Experience

Activity Safari
Meals Breakfast/ Lunch/ Dinner
Detail Katavi → Kigoma: ~300 km | 6 – 7 hours Kigoma → Gombe: Boat transfer (1.5 – 2 hours each way)

Depart Katavi National Park and journey to Kigoma, a peaceful lakeside town on the shores of the legendary Lake Tanganyika one of the deepest and most pristine lakes in the world. Upon arrival, unwind along the beach and enjoy the calm atmosphere, offering a relaxing contrast after your remote safari in Katavi. The following day, embark on a scenic boat across the lake to Gombe National Park, a lush forest reserve made famous by chimpanzee research. Trek through the forested slopes in search of wild chimpanzees, an intimate and unforgettable wildlife experience that brings you closer to nature than any traditional safari. After your trek, return by boat to Kigoma for your final overnight.

Overnight at Sunset Vista Hotel
Katavi → Kigoma & Gombe National Park | Chimpanzee & Lake Tanganyika Experience
— Gombe National Park |
XVI
Day 16 · Dar es Salaam

Departure Kigoma → Dar es Salaam

Activity Departure
Meals Breakfast
Detail (Kigoma → Dar es Salaam): ~2 – 3 hours

On your last day, transfer to the airport and take a domestic flight back to Dar es Salaam, concluding your extraordinary journey across Tanzania—from the Indian Ocean to the remote western frontier

Departure Kigoma → Dar es Salaam
— Dar es Salaam
— Section IV

Where you'll
sleep.

Selous River Camp ↗ 3 photos
— Lodge 01

Selous River Camp

Rufiji River
Africa Safari Selous ↗ 3 photos
— Lodge 02

Africa Safari Selous

Nyerere National Park
Rufiji River Camp ↗ 3 photos
— Lodge 03

Rufiji River Camp

Rufiji River
Vuma Hills Tented Camp ↗ 3 photos
— Lodge 04

Vuma Hills Tented Camp

Inside Mikumi National Park
Stanley's Kopje Camp ↗ 3 photos
— Lodge 05

Stanley's Kopje Camp

Inside Mikumi National Park
Mdonya Old River Camp ↗ 3 photos
— Lodge 06

Mdonya Old River Camp

Ruaha National Park
Ruaha River Lodge ↗ 3 photos
— Lodge 07

Ruaha River Lodge

along the Great Ruaha River
Ruaha Hilltop Lodge ↗ 3 photos
— Lodge 08

Ruaha Hilltop Lodge

Outside Park – near gate
Iringa Sunset Hotel ↗ 3 photos
— Lodge 09

Iringa Sunset Hotel

Iringa
Mount Royal Villa Hotel ↗ 3 photos
— Lodge 10

Mount Royal Villa Hotel

Iringa
Kisolanza Farm Lodge ↗ 3 photos
— Lodge 11

Kisolanza Farm Lodge

between Iringa and Mbeya
Royal Mgwasi Hotel ↗ 3 photos
— Lodge 12

Royal Mgwasi Hotel

Mbeya
GR City Hotel ↗ 3 photos
— Lodge 13

GR City Hotel

Mbeya
Mbeya Hotel ↗ 3 photos
— Lodge 14

Mbeya Hotel

Mbeya
Katuma Lodge (Mbali Mbali Katavi) ↗ 3 photos
— Lodge 15

Katuma Lodge (Mbali Mbali Katavi)

Katavi
Chada Katavi Camp ↗ 3 photos
— Lodge 16

Chada Katavi Camp

Katavi
Katavi Wildlife Camp ↗ 3 photos
— Lodge 17

Katavi Wildlife Camp

Katavi
Sunset Vista Hotel ↗ 3 photos
— Lodge 18

Sunset Vista Hotel

Kigoma,
Lake Tanganyika Hotel ↗ 3 photos
— Lodge 19

Lake Tanganyika Hotel

Kigoma,
Coast View Resort ↗ 3 photos
— Lodge 20

Coast View Resort

Kigoma,
Pricing

Group Pricing by Season

Select your travel season, group size, and accommodation level. All prices are per person.

When do you want to travel?
Accommodation
Mid Season — Apr – Jun
Mid Season · Comfort
Excellent wildlife, great conditions. Mid-range lodges and camps.
$ 5,510 per person
Group total: $11,020 for 2 people
* Prices quoted for 2 people. Solo and group rates adjust automatically below.
How many people in your group?
Children 5–15 50% off park fees & lodging
0
Children 0–4 Free (sharing parent's room)
0
2 adults
All seasons at this level
Low Season
Jan – Mar, Nov
$4,684
Mid Season
Apr – Jun
$5,510
High Season
Jul – Oct
$7,439
Season Calendar
Low Season Jan – Mar, Nov Green & lush, fewer visitors — best value.
Mid Season Apr – Jun Excellent wildlife, great conditions.
High Season Jul – Oct Peak conditions — highest demand.
All prices are per person in USD based on 2 people sharing accommodation. Solo travellers incur a single supplement. Group discounts apply for 3+ people. Prices exclude international flights and visa fees.
— Section VI

In every
detail.

— Included

What's in the price.
  • 01All park entry fees (Nyerere, Mikumi, Ruaha, Katavi, Gombe)
  • 02Boat safari (Nyerere & Gombe transfer)
  • 03Private 4x4 safari vehicle
  • 04Professional driver-guide
  • 05Accommodation (15 nights)
  • 06All meals (B, L, D)
  • 07Chimpanzee trekking permit
  • 08Drinking water
  • 09Domestic flight (Kigoma → Dar es Salaam)
  • 10Taxes & VAT

— Not included

Please budget separately.
  • 01International flights & visa
  • 02Travel insurance
  • 03Alcoholic & soft drinks
  • 04Tips & personal expenses
  • 05Optional activities
When you're ready

Shall we
begin?

To confirm your dates and secure preferred lodging, please reach out. We are happy to discuss any aspect of this proposal — small adjustments cost nothing.

— By Telephone
+255 688 848 500
— By Email
info@ngomiadventures.com
— Online
ngomiadventures.com
Thank you.
— Ngomi Adventures
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16 Days Tanzania Odyssey: Northern Parks to Untamed Western Wilderness
16 Days $5,800
Safari Itinerary

16 Days Tanzania Odyssey: Northern Parks to Untamed Western Wilderness

16 Days From $5,800 USD pp

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Frequently Asked Questions

Things you might be wondering

If you don’t find your answer below, message us via the chat or use the “Book this trip” button — we usually reply within a few hours.

What is included in the price of my safari?
Your safari price typically includes park fees, professional driver-guide, 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof, accommodation on the tier you select (budget camping, mid-range lodges, or luxury lodges), all meals during the safari, drinking water in the vehicle, and airport transfers. Exact inclusions are listed in the cost overview of this itinerary.
What is NOT included?
Generally excluded: international flights to/from Tanzania, visa fees, travel insurance, tips for the driver-guide and lodge staff, alcoholic and soft drinks, personal expenses (laundry, souvenirs), optional activities such as hot air balloon flights or night drives, and any meals taken in Arusha town outside the safari.
Do I need a visa to enter Tanzania?
Most visitors need a visa. Citizens of the US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia and many other countries can obtain a Tanzania tourist visa on arrival or online via the official e-visa portal (eservices.immigration.go.tz). The single-entry tourist visa costs US$50 (US$100 for US passport holders). Bring a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel date with at least 2 blank pages.
What vaccinations and health precautions do I need?
A Yellow Fever certificate is required if you arrive from a Yellow Fever endemic country (including most of sub-Saharan Africa). Most travellers also take anti-malaria medication — consult your doctor 4–6 weeks before travel. Recommended (not required) vaccines include Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, and routine boosters. Bring insect repellent containing DEET, sunscreen, and a basic first-aid kit.
When is the best time to go on safari?
Tanzania is a year-round destination. The dry seasons (June–October and January–February) offer the best game viewing because animals gather around water sources and vegetation is sparse. The Great Migration river crossings in the northern Serengeti typically peak July–September. The "green season" (March–May, November) brings lush landscapes, fewer tourists, lower prices, and excellent birdwatching.
What should I pack for a Tanzania safari?
Pack light, neutral-coloured clothing (khaki, olive, beige — avoid bright colours and dark blue/black which attract tsetse flies). Layers are essential: cool early-morning game drives and warm midday sun. Bring a warm fleece for Ngorongoro Crater, a hat, sunglasses, comfortable walking shoes, binoculars, a good camera with extra batteries, and a soft duffel bag (hard suitcases don't fit well in safari vehicles). The total luggage limit on small bush flights is usually 15kg.
Is Tanzania safe for tourists?
Tanzania is one of the safest safari destinations in Africa, with a stable government and a tourism-dependent economy that prioritises visitor safety. Petty theft can occur in Arusha and Dar es Salaam — use hotel safes and avoid displaying valuables. Inside parks and lodges you are completely safe. Your driver-guide is professionally trained in wildlife behaviour and emergency procedures.
Can children come on safari?
Yes — Tanzania safaris are wonderful for families. Most lodges welcome children from age 6+; some luxury lodges require minimum age 8 or 12. Children pay reduced rates (often 50–75% of adult price). Game drives are long, so factor in attention spans. We can adjust the itinerary with shorter drives, child-friendly lodges with pools, and cultural activities to balance the wildlife focus.
How do I pay and what is the deposit?
A 30% non-refundable deposit is required to confirm your booking. The balance is due 60 days before arrival. We accept bank transfer (SWIFT), credit card (3% surcharge applies), and PayPal. All prices are quoted in US Dollars. A receipt and confirmation voucher are issued immediately on deposit.
What is your cancellation policy?
Cancellations more than 60 days before arrival: 30% deposit retained. 30–60 days: 50% of total trip cost. Less than 30 days: 100% of total trip cost. We strongly recommend travel insurance covering trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and emergency evacuation. We can recommend insurance providers if needed.
Will I have phone signal and internet?
Most lodges in the northern circuit (Tarangire, Manyara, Ngorongoro, Serengeti) have Wi-Fi in the main areas — often slow but enough for messages and emails. Mobile signal (Vodacom, Airtel) covers much of Tarangire and Lake Manyara, parts of central Serengeti, and Ngorongoro rim. Deep in the Serengeti you may have limited or no signal — embrace the digital detox.
How much should I tip my guide?
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Industry guidelines: US$20–30 per day for your driver-guide (from the whole group, not per person), US$10–15 per day for camp/lodge staff (placed in the communal tip box), US$5–10 for porters at airports. Tips are best in US dollars in clean, undamaged notes.
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