Mikumi National Park | Dar es Salaam

Mikumi National Park – A Complete Guide

Overview

Mikumi National Park, located in southeastern Tanzania, is one of the country’s most accessible and diverse wildlife parks. Covering approximately 3,230 km², it is the fourth-largest national park in Tanzania and serves as a gateway to the more remote Selous Game Reserve.

Location & Accessibility

• Distance from Dar es Salaam: ~280 km (~4–5 hours drive)
• Nearest town: Morogoro (~100 km away)
• How to get there:
  • By Road: Via A7 highway from Dar es Salaam
  • By Air: Charter flights from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar to Mikumi Airstrip

Landscape & Ecosystem

Mikumi is part of the larger Selous ecosystem, featuring a mix of open savannah, acacia woodlands, and riverine forests. The Mkata River floodplain, often compared to the Serengeti, is the park’s main attraction for wildlife viewing.

Wildlife

Mikumi is home to a wide variety of animals, including:

• Big Game: Lions, elephants, leopards, and buffaloes
• Rare Species: African wild dogs, sable antelopes, and elands
• Plains Game: Giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and impalas
• Birdlife: Over 400 species, including fish eagles, lilac-breasted rollers, and yellow-throated longclaws
• Reptiles & Amphibians: Nile crocodiles, monitor lizards, and pythons

Best Time to Visit

• Dry Season (June–October): Best time for wildlife spotting, as animals gather around water sources.
• Wet Season (November–May): Lush landscapes, fewer tourists, and excellent birdwatching opportunities.

Activities in Mikumi

• Game Drives: The park has well-maintained roads for safari tours.
• Walking Safaris: Led by armed rangers for a closer look at the ecosystem.
• Birdwatching: Best during the rainy season when migratory birds arrive.
• Cultural Visits: Tours to local Maasai and other ethnic communities.

Accommodation Options

• Luxury Lodges: Vuma Hills Tented Camp, Stanley’s Kopje
• Mid-Range Lodges: Mikumi Wildlife Camp, Tan-Swiss Lodge
• Budget Campsites: Public and private campsites available

Why Visit Mikumi?

• Easily accessible from Dar es Salaam
• Less crowded than Serengeti or Ngorongoro
• Affordable safari experience
• Part of the larger Selous ecosystem

Mikumi National Park is an excellent choice for both first-time visitors and seasoned safari enthusiasts looking for a diverse and rewarding wildlife experience.