Mikumi National Park

Mikumi National Park is one of Tanzania’s most accessible and underrated safari destinations, making it a favorite for travelers who want an authentic wildlife experience without venturing too far off the beaten path. Located just 4–5 hours from Dar es Salaam, this park offers diverse landscapes, incredible wildlife, and fewer crowds — all at an affordable price.

Known as the “little Serengeti”, Mikumi’s open plains are home to elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and over 400 species of birds, making it perfect for weekend getaways, family safaris, and first-time adventurers looking for real African wilderness close to the city.

Why Visit Mikumi National Park?

Mikumi is ideal for:

  • Classic game drives with excellent chances to spot the Big Five

  • Easy access from Dar es Salaam and Morogoro (about 4–5 hours’ drive)

  • Beautiful sunsets over vast open plains and kopjes

  • Diverse birdlife for birdwatchers

  • Hippo and crocodile sightings in the Mkata floodplain and rivers

Perfect for families, photographers, and travelers wanting a quick yet fulfilling safari.

The Mkata Floodplain and Landscape

The heart of Mikumi National Park is the Mkata floodplain, a vast grassy wetland that attracts wildlife during the dry season. Surrounding the floodplain are rolling savannahs, acacia woodlands, and rocky kopjes — a classic Tanzanian safari setting.

This diversity of habitats supports a wide range of animals and offers stunning panoramic views that are perfect for memorable safari photos.

Best Time to Visit Mikumi National Park

  • Dry Season (June to October) – Best time for wildlife viewing as animals gather near water sources and the weather is sunny.

  • Wet Season (November to May) – Landscapes turn lush and green, birdwatching peaks, but some roads may be challenging.

How to Get to Mikumi National Park

By Road:

  • From Dar es Salaam: Approximately 4 to 5 hours’ drive via the A7 road.

  • From Morogoro: Around 2 to 3 hours’ drive.

By Air:

  • No direct flights; nearest airports are in Dar es Salaam or Morogoro, followed by a road transfer.

Where to Stay in Mikumi National Park

Mikumi offers a variety of accommodations from budget campsites to comfortable lodges and tented camps.

Recommended Lodges:

  • Mikumi Wildlife Camp – Classic tented camp with beautiful views of the floodplain.

  • Udzungwa Forest Tented Camp – Great for combining Mikumi safari with nearby Udzungwa Mountains hikes.

  • Sauti za Mikumi Lodge – Affordable and comfortable with excellent access to the park.

  • Mkata Camp – Ideal for a rustic, nature-immersed experience.

Unique Activities in Mikumi National Park

  • Morning and afternoon game drives — the best way to spot wildlife
  • Birdwatching — over 400 species including migrants and endemics
  • Guided walking safaris — for a closer look at flora, fauna, and tracks
  • Cultural visits to nearby villages — experience local Tanzanian life
  • Night game drives (available in some areas) — glimpse nocturnal wildlife

Suggested Safari Duration

2 to 3 days are perfect for a Mikumi safari, especially if combined with nearby Udzungwa Mountains National Park or Saadani National Park.

Why Include Mikumi National Park in Your Tanzania Safari?

If you want a wildlife-rich safari close to the coast with fewer tourists than the Serengeti or Ngorongoro, Mikumi is an excellent choice.

Combine it with:

  •  Beach relaxation in Zanzibar or Pangani

  •  Trekking in Udzungwa Mountains National Park

  • Safari at Ruaha or Selous Game Reserve for extended adventures

Ready to Discover Mikumi National Park?

Let’s plan your Mikumi safari adventure—whether it’s a quick wildlife getaway or part of your grand Tanzanian journey.

📩 Contact us now for personalized itineraries, pricing, and expert advice.

Most common animals

  • Elephants – Large herds roam the plains and woodlands

  • Lions – Especially around the Mkumi River and hippo pools

  • Black and White Rhinos – Though sightings are rare, they are part of the park’s conservation efforts

  • Buffaloes – Often seen grazing in groups

  • Leopards and Cheetahs – Elusive but present, especially in the wooded areas

  • Giraffes and Zebras – Abundant across the open plains

  • Hippos and Crocodiles – In the park’s rivers and floodplains

  • Wildebeest, Impalas, and Waterbucks – Common herbivores providing prey for predators

  • Birdlife – Over 400 species, including eagles, hornbills, and bee-eaters

Facts about Mikumi National Park

  • Mikumi is often called the “little Serengeti” because of its similar landscapes and wildlife diversity.

  • The park’s Mkata floodplain is a vital dry season refuge for animals escaping from the harsher surrounding areas.

  • Conservation efforts here are helping protect endangered black and white rhinos.

  • Mikumi’s accessibility makes it popular for day trips and weekend getaways from Dar es Salaam.

  • Elephants in Mikumi are known to be quite relaxed around vehicles, giving photographers great close-up opportunities.