Mikumi National Park

Southern Tanzania’s Hidden Safari Jewel – Easy, Wild, and Wonderfully Scenic

Located just a few hours’ drive from Dar es Salaam, Mikumi National Park is one of Tanzania’s most accessible wildlife destinations. As part of the larger Selous-Nyerere ecosystem, Mikumi offers classic safari experiences with open plains, rich wildlife, and fewer crowds, making it ideal for first-time visitors or those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure.

Why Visit Mikumi?

• Abundant Wildlife, Easy Access: Just a 4–5 hour drive from Dar es Salaam, Mikumi is the best place for a short and rewarding safari in Southern Tanzania.

• Great Animal Viewing: Mikumi’s Mkata Floodplain is teeming with wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, buffalo, and sometimes leopards and wild dogs.

• Lion on the Road: Lions here are famously seen lounging on the park’s main roads, making for incredible and up-close sightings.

• Scenic Diversity: Landscapes shift from open plains to rolling hills, wooded areas, and palm-lined rivers — with views of the Uluguru Mountains in the background.

• Fewer Tourists, More Authenticity: Compared to Northern Circuit parks, Mikumi offers a more peaceful and uncrowded safari environment.

Best Time to Visit

• June to October (Dry Season): Best time for wildlife spotting as animals gather near waterholes and visibility is excellent.

• November to May (Green Season): Lush and beautiful, great for birding and photography; some roads may be more difficult after rains.

Activities in Mikumi

• Game drives (ideal in morning and evening)

• Walking safaris (available with select lodges and guides)

• Birdwatching (over 400 species, including bateleur eagles and colorful bee-eaters)

• Cultural visits to nearby villages (e.g., the Maasai settlements or Morogoro region)

Accommodation

Mikumi offers a variety of options, from budget-friendly camps to comfortable lodges with stunning views of the plains. Many are located just outside the park gate or in Mikumi town, offering convenient access and personalized service.

Perfect Combinations with Mikumi

• Ruaha National Park (wild, remote, and ideal for seasoned safari-goers)

• Nyerere National Park (Selous) (for boat safaris and diverse activities)

• Udzungwa Mountains National Park (for waterfalls and rainforest hikes)

• Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar (beach and culture extensions)