Upon arrival at Mbeya Airport, your driver-guide will meet you and drive 3–4 hours to Matamba, a quiet village near the edge of Kitulo Plateau. The journey takes you through the Southern Highlands, past tea plantations, valleys, and traditional villages. Once you arrive, settle into Matamba Farm Lodge, a cozy eco-lodge with sweeping views and fresh highland air. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure—explore the gardens, take a short guided walk to a local village, or enjoy the tranquility of the lodge’s natural setting. Dinner is prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
Accommodation: Matamba Farm Lodge
After a warm breakfast, head into Kitulo National Park, Tanzania’s only national park dedicated primarily to flora. Known for its vast montane grasslands and seasonal blooms of wild orchids, lilies, and aloes, Kitulo is especially stunning between November and April. You’ll spend the day walking through open meadows, exploring endemic plants, and learning about the park’s rare ecology from your guide. A picnic lunch is served in the park before returning to Matamba Farm Lodge for dinner and relaxation by the fireplace.
Accommodation: Matamba Farm Lodge
After breakfast, depart Matamba and head back toward Mbeya City, a 4-hour scenic drive through rolling highlands. Arrive at Utengule Coffee Lodge, a relaxing estate within a working coffee plantation. You can enjoy a tour of the coffee farm, unwind by the pool, or simply take in the Great Rift Valley views. Dinner is served on the veranda as the sun sets.
Accommodation: Utengule Coffee Lodge
Depart Mbeya after an early breakfast and drive northeast to Ruaha National Park. The journey takes approximately 7–8 hours, with scenic stops along the way. You’ll notice the landscape shifting from cool highlands to warmer, drier terrain filled with baobabs. Arrive at Ruaha Hilltop Lodge in time for late lunch or tea, followed by leisure time with views over the Ruaha River Valley.
Accommodation: Ruaha Hilltop Lodge
Rise early for a full-day safari in Ruaha, Tanzania’s largest and most remote park. With a packed picnic lunch, you’ll explore dry riverbeds, rocky escarpments, and open savannahs. Spot elephants, lions, cheetahs, and rare antelope species. Birdlife is abundant, with over 570 recorded species. Return to the lodge at sunset for a bush dinner and stargazing.
Accommodation: Ruaha Hilltop Lodge
Enjoy an early morning game drive to catch wildlife during their most active hours. After breakfast, begin your journey to Iringa Airport for a flight to Dar es Salaam or drive back to Mbeya for onward travel.
Accommodation: Optional (not included)
The best time to explore the Garden of God Safari Trail depends on whether you prioritize wildflowers or wildlife. Kitulo National Park blooms with vibrant orchids and endemic flowers from November to April, while Ruaha National Park offers prime wildlife viewing from June to October during the dry season. For travelers seeking both floral beauty and game drives, March and early April provide the perfect balance.
The ideal season varies based on your interests—flowers or wildlife. Here's a guide:
| Month | Highlights | Weather & Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| November – April | Kitulo flowers in bloom; scenic hikes; ideal for botanists | Warm days, occasional showers, lush greenery |
| March – Early April | Perfect balance of wildflowers and wildlife; fewer crowds | Comfortable temperatures; green landscapes; moderate rains |
| June – October | Peak wildlife viewing in Ruaha; elephants, big cats, dry season | Cool mornings, warm afternoons, minimal rain |
Tip: For both floral beauty and excellent game viewing, aim for late March to early April.
Yes, but children should be comfortable with walks and longer drives.
Between November and April, peaking in February and March.
Lions, elephants, wild dogs, giraffes, zebras, and over 500 bird species.
No, walks are moderate and suitable for most travelers with basic fitness.
Yes, flights from Iringa or Mbeya can connect to Zanzibar via Dar es Salaam.
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