Plan Your Trip

Mikumi National Park

The Gateway to Tanzania’s Southern Wilderness

Located between the Uluguru Mountains and the vast wilderness of southern Tanzania, Mikumi National Park is one of the country’s most accessible and rewarding safari destinations. Covering over 3,200 square kilometers, the park forms part of the larger Selous ecosystem and offers excellent wildlife viewing within a landscape of open plains, acacia woodlands, and seasonal wetlands. Often compared to the Serengeti because of its expansive grasslands, Mikumi provides an authentic safari experience with fewer crowds and exceptional opportunities for close wildlife encounters.

Wildlife in Abundance

Mikumi is home to an impressive variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, hippos, crocodiles, and numerous antelope species. The park’s open terrain makes wildlife easy to spot, particularly on the famous Mkata Floodplain, where animals gather throughout the day. Predators are regularly seen, while large herds of grazing animals create a classic East African safari setting that delights photographers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.

An Ideal Safari from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar

Thanks to its convenient location and excellent transport connections, Mikumi has become one of the most popular safari destinations for travelers visiting Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar. Whether explored as a day trip, fly-in safari, or multi-day adventure, the park offers a genuine wilderness experience without the need for long travel times. Its accessibility and rich wildlife make it a perfect choice for first-time safari visitors and returning adventurers alike.

Area Activities

  • Game drives
  • Walking safaris
  • Birdwatching
  • Wildlife photography
  • Fly-in safaris
  • Cultural visits
  • Sundowner experiences
  • Nature excursions

When To Visit

Mikumi National Park can be visited throughout the year, but the dry season from June to October generally offers the best wildlife viewing. During these months, animals congregate around water sources and vegetation becomes less dense, making sightings easier. The green season transforms the landscape into a lush paradise, attracting migratory birds and creating excellent conditions for photography.

What To See

  • Mkata Floodplain
  • Lions
  • Elephants
  • Giraffes
  • Zebras
  • Buffaloes
  • Hippos
  • Crocodiles
  • Eland antelope
  • More than 400 bird species

How To Get There

Mikumi National Park is located approximately 300 kilometers west of Dar es Salaam and can be reached by road in around five to six hours. Scheduled and charter flights also connect the park with Zanzibar, Dar es Salaam, Ruaha, Nyerere National Park, and other safari destinations, making it a popular option for short fly-in safari experiences.