Overview
Tanzania’s Most Accessible Safari Escape
Mikumi National Park is one of Tanzania’s most accessible and rewarding safari destinations—perfect for those short on time but eager for a true African wildlife experience. Just 283 km from Dar es Salaam and easily reached by road or air, Mikumi offers an excellent opportunity to explore a rich array of wildlife in a compact itinerary. The park spans 3,230 km² and sits at altitudes between 200 and 800 meters. Its name comes from the Borassus palm that once thrived here. With open savannahs, rich biodiversity, and proximity to major cities, Mikumi is a favorite for weekend safaris and first-time visitors.
Park Attractions
- Wildlife Viewing: - Mikumi is teeming with wildlife. Herds of zebra, wildebeest, buffalo, and impala roam the grassy Mkata plains, while elephants and giraffes browse near the acacia trees. Look closer and you might spot rarer species like the greater kudu and sable antelope, especially in the miombo woodlands along the park’s edges.
- Hippo Pools: - One of the park’s most popular features, the Hippo Pools provide close-up views of hippos wallowing in the mud, often accompanied by birds and other animals seeking water.
- Birdlife: - With over 400 bird species, Mikumi is a birder’s paradise. Common sightings include guinea fowls, marabou storks, black-bellied bustards, bateleur eagles, oxpeckers, lilac-breasted rollers, and the vibrant yellow-throated longclaw.
When to Visit
Mikumi experiences two rainy seasons:
Short rains: October to early November
Long rains: March to May
The dry season from late June to September is the best time for game viewing, with animals gathering near water sources and clear skies making for excellent visibility. Temperatures are comfortable year-round, but early mornings and late afternoons offer the best conditions for activities.
Excursion and Activities in Mikumi National Park
Mikumi offers a variety of safari adventures that cater to all interests:
- Game Drives: - Whether half-day or full-day, game drives in Mikumi provide close encounters with wildlife against stunning landscapes. The Mkata floodplain ensures frequent sightings year-round.
- Night Game Drives: - For a unique safari twist, night drives reveal the park’s nocturnal residents like porcupines, civet cats, and the elusive aardvark—a thrilling experience under the stars.
- Walking Safaris: - Led by trained guides, walking safaris take place in the cooler hours of morning or evening. Explore the park on foot and connect with nature through sounds, tracks, and close-up encounters with smaller animals.
- Bird Watching: - Mikumi’s diverse habitats—from plains to woodlands—make it a hotspot for birdwatchers. Peak birding is during the wet season, when migratory species are most active.
- Filming & Photography: - With its wide-open vistas and abundant wildlife, Mikumi is ideal for professional filming and photography. Early morning light and sunset scenes offer incredible visuals.
- Picnicking: - Several designated areas in the park allow visitors to enjoy bush meals and picnics surrounded by nature—a perfect break during game drives
Getting there :-
By Road
From Dar es Salaam: 283 km via Morogoro (approx. 4–5 hours’ drive)
From Morogoro Town: Just 118 km, making it a convenient day trip or weekend escape.
By Air
Scheduled flights are available from major Tanzanian cities, often connecting through Dar es Salaam. Charter flights can also be arranged for direct access to the park’s nearby airstrips.
