Overview & Summary
Escape the crowded northern circuit and discover Mkomazi National Park, one of Tanzania's most pristine and underrated wilderness areas. Nestled between the Pare and Usambara Mountains and bordering Kenya's Tsavo West, this 3,245 square-kilometer park offers a raw, authentic safari experience with breathtaking scenery and remarkable wildlife. Here you'll visit the renowned Rhino Sanctuary, a protected breeding ground where endangered black rhinos roam safely, and learn about one of Africa's most successful conservation stories. Mkomazi is also one of the best places in Tanzania to spot the rare African wild dog, along with elephants, giraffes, lions, cheetahs, and over 450 bird species. Your BMC TOURS & SAFARI guide ensures seamless travel through this uncrowded paradise where every game drive feels personal and untamed.
Full Itinerary
Pare & Usambara Mountains Drive & Mkata Savannah Sunset Game Drive
Your safari begins with a warm welcome from your BMC TOURS & SAFARI guide at Kilimanjaro Airport, Arusha Airport, or your Arusha accommodation. Depart on a scenic 4-5 hour drive toward Mkomazi National Park, passing through local towns, farmlands, and the dramatic Pare and Usambara mountains.
Upon arrival at your lodge or tented camp near the park, enjoy lunch and time to settle in. In the late afternoon, set off on your first game drive into open savannah and acacia woodlands beneath mountain backdrops. Spot giraffes, elephants, zebras, and colorful birdlife in the golden light before dinner.
Overnight at Babu's Camp
Mkomazi Rhino Sanctuary Visit, Conservation Briefing & Wild Dog Tracking
After early breakfast, visit the highlight of your safari: the protected Mkomazi Black Rhino Sanctuary. Learn about anti-poaching breeding programs that brought these prehistoric giants back from extinction and enjoy rare up-close sightings.
The rest of the day unfolds with game drives across diverse terrain searching for lions, cheetahs, elephants, and endangered African wild dogs. Enjoy a peaceful picnic lunch near a busy waterhole before returning to camp for dinner under the stars.
Dinner and overnight at Babu's CampUmba River Game Drive, Gerenuk & Beisa Oryx Antelope Tracking
Wake before dawn for an early morning game drive in golden light as lions begin their hunt and over 450 bird species fill the air with song. Track rare antelopes unique to Mkomazi, including the standing gerenuk and beisa oryx.
Explore areas near the Umba River where animals gather to drink and visit panoramic viewpoints overlooking the Pare Mountains. Enjoy a bush picnic lunch and capture photographs of sunset colors exploding over the remote savannah before returning to camp for dinner.
Overnight at Babu's CampDawn Predator Patrol, Pare Mountains Scenic Drive & Arusha Drop-off
Embark on one final early morning game drive as Mkomazi awakens—a last chance to encounter wild dog packs on the move or lion prides starting their morning routine. Return to the lodge for a hearty breakfast before beginning your scenic return drive to Arusha.
Enjoy a packed lunch en route with stops at Pare Mountain viewpoints. Arrive in Arusha in the late afternoon for flexible drop-off at your hotel or Kilimanjaro/Arusha Airport, marking the end of your remote wilderness safari.
END OF OUR SERVICESInclusions & Exclusions
Included
- Professional English-speaking BMC TOURS & SAFARI guide
- Private 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
- Airport and hotel pickup and drop-off in Arusha / Kilimanjaro
- All park entry fees for Mkomazi National Park
- Mkomazi Black Rhino Sanctuary visit & conservation fees
- Game drives as described in the itinerary
- 3 nights' accommodation at Babu's Camp
- Meals: 3 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners (including picnic lunches)
- Bottled drinking water throughout your safari
- All government taxes and levies
Excluded
- International and domestic flights
- Tanzania visa fees
- Travel and medical insurance
- Tips for your guide and lodge staff
- Alcoholic and soft drinks
- Personal expenses such as souvenirs and laundry
- Accommodation in Arusha before or after the safari
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary
Optional Activities
