The hidden Trail to the Swahili Coast
The title of “The hidden trail” should begin to give the reader an idea of what this alternative safari has to offer. Most Tanzania Wildlife safaris of the Northern Safari circuit head westward out of Arusha then progressively cutting up through “The Great Rift Valley” in a Northerly fashion with a turnaround point in Serengeti. For us at Bush2Beach we go out of our way to bring what we have come to discover since 2004 to safari adventures to reach everybody’s imagination and interest. This 4 x 4 vehicle based safari will follow the dramatic Usambara and Pare Eastern Arc Mountain ranges. Time spent in the virginal Mkomazi National Park with its towering peaks that envelope your temporary existence, bring the sense of oneness with this vast expanse of wilderness stretching up to Kenya borders. Birdlife is excellent, wildlife is a little harder to see but this is brings forth the fact that Mkomazi remoteness make it a real adventure and on occasion one can spot the rare Oryx or Gerenuk antelope whilst making game drives through a labyrinth of uncluttered tracks. The adventure moves on again delivering you to the wild pristine Swahili coastline for some days to catch up with yourselves with simple beach relaxation under swaying palms with the movement and rhythm of sleeping fishing villages as a soft reminder as to where you on in the world. Another National Park in Tanzania that gets very little human traffic is Saadani the only park that shares its border with both Bush and Beach. We would not give our name sake justice if Saadani did not appear in our safari itineraries and for those who are not out to tick every box on your wildlife check list but rather looking for true essence of safari and what the different ecosystems have to offer then this safari away from the madding crowds may hold everything and more that you would like to experience. As with all our custom made safaris “The Hidden Trail can be extended in order to take in some great hikes and walks of any part of the Usambara and Pare mountains with Amani forest reserve less than 50km from the Swahili coast making it another great stop off as you journey westward.
Itinerary
Prices
Reviews
Below, we go through the adventure day-by-day, giving you a better feel of the adventure.
Day 1: Arrival
Arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport where you will be collected and transfer to NgereSero Mountain Lodge located just outside Arusha town.
O/n NgereSero Mountain Lodge (D)
Day 2: Arusha to Mkomazi National Park
After breakfast drive east from Arusha for approximately 3 hours to Mkomazi National Park.. Once you have cleared the park entrance formalities you will continue on a game drive with packed lunch. Set below the verdant slopes of the spectacular Usambara and Pare Eastern Arc Mountain ranges and overseen by iconic snow – capped peak of Kilimanjaro, Mkomazi a virgin breathtaking beauty exhibiting unique natural treasures and immense sense of space - adds to the fulfillment of visitor enjoyment expectations. You will then head to your accommodation for the night.
O/n Babu’s Camp (B, L, D)
Day 3: Mkomazi National Park
You have an full day to explore the wonders of Mkomazi national Park, either travel out for the whole day with a picnic lunch or enjoy morning and afternoon game drives with a return to camp for a wonderful hot lunch.
O/n Babu’s Camp (B, L, D)
Day 4: Mkomazi to Pangani
After listening to the dawn chorus, the bush alarm clock, enjoy a leisurely breakfast before heading back out of the park towards the town of Same. Here you will again head east and follow the dramatic Usambara mountains towards the coast. You will arrive at the Swahili coast in time to enjoy the beaches and warm Indian ocean.
O/n The Tides beach cottage (B, L, D)
Day 5: Pangani
You have a full day to enjoy the Tropical Ocean and sea breezes of this lovely stretch of coast line,
O/n The Tides beach cottage (B, L, D)
Day 6: Pangani to Saadani National Park
After a good night sleep and lovely fresh breakfast you will start your journey South along the coast line to the beautiful Saadani National Park.
Saadani National Park covers 1100 km2 and it is the only wildlife sanctuary in Tanzania bordering the sea. The climate is coastal, hot and humid. It offers a unique combination of both marine and mainland flora and fauna in a culturally fascinating setting. About 30 species of larger mammals are present as well as numerous reptiles and birds.
O/n Saadani Safari Lodge - banda suites (B, L, D)
Day 7: Saadani National Park
Plan your game viewing activities together with the camp management as they will best advice you when and where to head out. You can organize with your driver guide the timings for your game games. We have also included 1 x River Safari per person during your 3 night stay.
O/n Saadani Safari Lodge - banda suites (B, L, D)
Day 8: Saadani National Park
Plan your game viewing activities together with the camp management as they will best advice you when and where to head out. You can organize with your driver guide the timings for your game games.
O/n Saadani Safari Lodge - banda suites (B, L, D)
Day 9: Saadani to Dar es Saalam
After breakfast game drive en-route out of the park towards Dar es Salaam, you will carry a packed lunch with you. On arrival you will be transferred directly to the airport to connect with your departing international flight.
(B, L)
Note: O/N = Overnight, B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
| Amount of persons: | Price p.p. (usd): |
| 2 people sharing | 3845.- |
| 4 people sharing | 3165.- |
| 6 people sharing | 3015.- |
| Note: prices are based on two adults and indicative. Single supplement is $ 550 | |
- Included:
- Meals as stipulated |B Breakfast, L Lunch, D Dinner
- Complimentary mineral water x1.5 liters per person in the safari vehicle
- 4x4 game viewing vehicles plus driver guide (window seat guaranteed)
- Unlimited game drives
- Emergency Evacuation Cover
- All transfers and activities as mentioned above
- Park fee, Conservation fees and Community Development Fees
- Accommodation as stipulated
- Excluded:
- Tips suggested: Driver guide $8-$10 per person sharing the vehicle per day
- Drinks apart from 1,5 liter mineral water during the safari
- Visa and airport departure tax
- Items of personal nature and not mentioned in the above itinerary
No reviews yet
Through our Community Development foundation, the African Roots Foundation, Bush2Beach Safaris actively supports rural communities in Tanzania's Bush and Beach.