Welcome to Mikumi National Park
Best Time to Go
All year around
Peak Time
June - October
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Mikumi National Park: A Perfect Safari Destination Close to Dar es Salaam
Mikumi National Park is one of Tanzania’s most accessible and popular wildlife destinations, especially for travelers with limited time. Located just a few hours’ drive from Dar es Salaam, Mikumi offers a great opportunity to experience a real African safari without traveling deep into the country. It is part of the larger Selous ecosystem, and its open plains and rich wildlife make it a great introduction to Tanzania’s natural beauty.
If you want you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or adding it to a longer Southern Circuit safari, Mikumi National Park provides an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and first-ti
Where is Mikumi National Park Located?
Mikumi National Park is located in the southern part of Tanzania, along the main road that connects Dar es Salaam to Iringa and Mbeya. The drive from Dar es Salaam takes about 4 to 6 hours, which makes it one of the easiest parks to reach by road.
The park covers an area of over 3,200 square kilometers and borders the famous Nyerere National Park (formerly part of Selous Game Reserve) to the south. Together, they form a huge protected area for wildlife in the southern safari circuit.
Why Visit Mikumi National Park?
Mikumi is often compared to the Serengeti because of its wide, open grasslands. These open plains make it easy to see animals, especially during a game drive. The park is home to many iconic African animals, including elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and wildebeest. Hippos can often be seen wallowing in pools, and crocodiles rest along the riverbanks.
One of Mikumi’s highlights is the group of giraffes known for their unique pattern that looks like a mix between Masai and reticulated giraffes. Lions are often seen resting on the road or under shady trees, and during early morning drives, you might be lucky enough to see them hunting.
While Mikumi may not have the huge animal numbers of Serengeti, it is an excellent place to see wildlife up close and in a more relaxed environment. For many visitors, it offers a perfect balance between convenience and authentic safari experience.
The park is also home to more than 400 species of birds, making it a great destination for birdwatchers. You may spot species such as the lilac-breasted roller, bateleur eagle, and yellow-throated longclaw, among many others.
Best Time to Visit Mikumi National Park
Mikumi can be visited throughout the year, but the dry season from June to October is the best time for wildlife viewing. During this time, animals gather around water sources, and the grass is shorter, making it easier to spot them.The rainy season from November to May brings green landscapes and is perfect for birdwatching, especially since migratory birds arrive during this time. However, heavy rains in March and April can make some roads muddy and hard to drive on.Because the park is so close to Dar es Salaam, it is also a great weekend destination year-round for people living in or visiting the city.
Activities to Do in Mikumi National Park
The main activity in Mikumi is the game drive, which allows you to explore the park by vehicle and spot animals in their natural habitat. Game drives are usually done in the morning and late afternoon when animals are most active. Guided drives with a ranger or tour operator offer the best experience, as the guides know where to find the animals and can explain more about their behavior.
Photography is also a popular activity in Mikumi. The open plains, interesting trees, and close animal sightings provide great opportunities for amazing photos. Although walking safaris are not as common in Mikumi as in other parks, there are cultural tours and excursions available in nearby villages, where visitors can learn about local traditions and daily life.
Where to Stay When Visiting Mikumi
Mikumi offers a variety of accommodation options both inside and just outside the park. You can choose from luxury lodges, mid-range tented camps, and budget-friendly guesthouses.Some lodges are located right in the park, offering views of the plains and waterholes where animals often come to drink. Others are just outside the gate, which still gives easy access for early morning or evening game drives.If you're traveling from Dar es Salaam or Morogoro, it's also possible to visit Mikumi as a day trip, but staying overnight allows you to enjoy early morning and late afternoon wildlife viewing, the best times to see animals.
How to Get to Mikumi National Park
One of Mikumi’s biggest advantages is its easy access by road. From Dar es Salaam, you can drive to the park in about 4 to 6 hours depending on traffic and road conditions. The road is paved and in good condition, and private cars, buses, or tour operators can all make the journey easily.You can also reach Mikumi from Morogoro, which is about 2 hours away. For travelers coming from Iringa, Mbeya, or Ruaha National Park, Mikumi can be a good stopover on a longer southern safari route.There is also a small airstrip in the park for charter flights, though most visitors arrive by road.
Is Mikumi National Park Worth Visiting?
- Yes, Mikumi is absolutely worth visiting, especially if you are short on time or looking for a quick safari from Dar es Salaam. It is an ideal choice for families, couples, solo travelers, or anyone who wants to enjoy a classic safari without the long travel times or high costs of other destinations. Mikumi offers a wonderful mix of wildlife, scenery, and accessibility. While it may not be as famous as Serengeti or Ngorongoro, its charm lies in its simplicity, natural beauty, and convenience. For many visitors, Mikumi is their first safari and it leaves them with memories they never forget.
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Destinations to Add to Your Mikumi Safari
See more of Africa by adding extra stops/destinations to your safari. You’ll enjoy many kinds of wildlife and beautiful nature.