5-Day Safaris

5-Day Dar es Salaam Safari & Mafia Island Whale Shark and Snorkeling Experience

This 5-day adventure combines a day of wildlife safari near Dar es Salaam with a serene marine escape to Mafia Island. The journey begins with a short stay in Dar es Salaam, followed by a full day exploring Tanzania's bush on a Kijiji Safari. After returning to Dar, you will fly to the pristine waters of Mafia Island, famous for its coral reefs and seasonal whale shark encounters.

In Mafia Island Marine Park, enjoy snorkeling in crystal-clear waters and the chance to swim alongside the world's largest fish — the gentle whale shark — during peak season (October to March). The island is also home to vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, turtles, and other marine life, making it one of Tanzania's best snorkeling destinations.

This tour is also available in 7-Day package.

Want to Extend the Days or Request a Custom Quote

Prices vary by season. Contact us for a personalized quote based on your travel dates.

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Budget Package
Starting from around
1400 $ Per Person
Standard Package
Starting from around
1600 $ Per Person
Luxury Package
Starting from around
1800 $ Per Person
Advertised by Mannibreeze African Art

Day-By-Day Itinerary

Day 1 +

Day 1: Arrival in Dar es Salaam & Safari Transfer

Upon arrival at Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR), you will be met by your representative and transferred to Nyerere National Park. The transfer is a scenic 4-5 hour drive or a quick 30-minute flight. After settling in, enjoy a boat safari on the Rufiji River, where you will see hippos, crocodiles, and elephants at the water's edge. Return to your lodge for dinner and a relaxing evening.

Accommodation Budget

Peacock Hotel– Simple, clean hotel in Dar es Salaam city center. Good value for money.Subject to availability; similar alternative provided.

Accommodation Standard

Harbour View Suites– Comfortable hotel with ocean views, restaurant, and pool. Convenient location.Subject to availability; similar alternative provided.

Accommodation Luxury

Dar es Salaam Serena Hotel– Luxury hotel in the heart of Dar es Salaam with beautiful gardens, multiple restaurants, spa, and pool.Subject to availability; similar alternative provided.

Day 2 +

Day 2: Nyerere National Park (Safari Adventure)

After breakfast, depart for your Kijiji Safari. Spend the day exploring the wild. Return to Dar es Salaam in the evening and overnight.

Accommodation Budget

Selous River Camp– Affordable camp on the Rufiji River offering both mudhut rooms and basic forest tents. Subject to availability; similar alternative provided.

Accommodation Standard:

Nyerere Tented Camp– Comfortable tented camp with en-suite bathrooms, king-sized beds, and private verandas overlooking the savannah. Subject to availability; similar alternative provided.

Accommodation Luxury

Serena Mivumo River Lodge– Part of the renowned Serena chain, located at the breathtaking Stiegler's Gorge on the Rufiji River. Subject to availability; similar alternative provided.

Day 3 +

Day 3: Fly to Mafia Island

Take a morning flight from Dar es Salaam to Mafia Island. Upon arrival, transfer to your lodge. Spend the rest of the day relaxing on the beach.

Accommodation Budget

Bustani Lodge– Simple eco-friendly lodge with basic amenities. Great for budget travelers seeking beach access.Subject to availability; similar alternative provided.

Accommodation Standard:

Kinasi Lodge– Comfortable mid-range lodge set in tropical gardens with swimming pool, restaurant, and direct beach access.Subject to availability; similar alternative provided.

Accommodation Luxury

Pole Pole Bungalows– Upscale boutique resort offering spacious bungalows with ocean views, private verandas, and exceptional service. Subject to availability; similar alternative provided.

Day 4 +

Day 4 – Mafia Island – Whale Shark Adventure

After breakfast, enjoy your whale shark snorkeling experience. Swim with these gentle giants in the clear Indian Ocean. Return to your lodge in the afternoon.

Important :
whale watching is only for the months of October to March, but snorkeling and beach are available throughout the year.

Accommodation Budget

Bustani Lodge– Simple eco-friendly lodge with basic amenities. Great for budget travelers seeking beach access.Subject to availability; similar alternative provided.

Accommodation Standard:

Kinasi Lodge– Comfortable mid-range lodge set in tropical gardens with swimming pool, restaurant, and direct beach access.Subject to availability; similar alternative provided.

Accommodation Luxury

Pole Pole Bungalows– Upscale boutique resort offering spacious bungalows with ocean views, private verandas, and exceptional service.Subject to availability; similar alternative provided.

Day 5 +

Day 5: Return to Dar es Salaam

After breakfast, transfer to the airstrip for your flight back to Dar es Salaam. Connect to your onward journey home.

Accommodation:

No Accommodation.

Flight back to Dar es Salaam. Tour ends upon arrival.

Best Time of Year to Visit

Best Time To Visit

January to February and June to October – Different areas are best at different times
January to February: moderate prices (calving season)
June to October: higher prices (dry season, excellent wildlife viewing)

Best Weather

June to October (Little to no rainfall)
Prices are higher – this is peak safari season

Whale shark season

Prices are higher during peak whale shark months (December–March). Lower prices in October, November, April, and May.

Our History

Born from a deep Chagga tribal pride, our story is rooted in the shadows of Mount Kilimanjaro. Founder Paul Ngoty began his guiding career in 1978 and has since completed over 19,500 safaris, sharing his ancestral land with the world. His profound understanding of the terrain and wildlife, honed over 48 years, has earned him roles as an ambassador driver for Tanzania and a guide for dignitaries such as Bill Clinton's staff. Now, Paul and his daughter, Janeth, pour this passion into Simcha Safaris, ensuring every journey honors the land, the wildlife, and the generations of guides who came before.

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Extra Excursions (Safari Add-Ons)

Hot Air Balloon Safari (Serengeti) – Float silently above the plains at dawn, followed by a champagne breakfast in the bush. Available in Central & Western Serengeti.

Swahili Cooking Class (Zanzibar / Arusha) – Learn to prepare traditional dishes like pilau and chapati using local spices and fresh ingredients. A perfect cultural immersion.

Sunset Dhow Cruise (Mafia Island / Zanzibar) – Sail the Indian Ocean on a traditional wooden dhow, enjoy light snacks, and watch the sun melt into the sea.

These and many more, just ask for the..
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Safari Experiences

Tanzania offers some of the most diverse wildlife adventures on earth. From the endless golden plains of the Serengeti, where the Great Migration thunders across the land, to the ancient volcanic walls of the Ngorongoro Crater, teeming with the Big Five. Explore the elephant-rich herds of Tarangire, the boat safaris and bush walks of Nyerere National Park, or conquer the majestic heights of Mount Kilimanjaro. Whether you have just a few days or two weeks, we help you craft the perfect Tanzanian safari—wild, authentic, and unforgettable.

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Important to Know

This tour is not available to solo travelers or groups larger than 14 people.

Rates are per person and exclude the international flight from/to your home country.

This tour accepts children who are 5 years and older. Children under 12 receive a discount.

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