Mikumi National Park

Mikumi National Park is the fourth largest in Tanzania and adjacent to the Selous Game Reserve , Africa’s largest reserve. The park is southwest of Morogoro and ringed by the Uluguru, Rubeho and Udzungwa Mountains . Topography of the park includes thick woodland, grass plains and mountainous foothills.

Colourful birds (over 400 species) flit about the park throughout the year, joined seasonally by migratory birds from Europe. The park is host to an impressive elephant population, along with easily spotted zebra, giraffe, wildebeest, impala and buffalo. The park’s Mkata River provides shade and grazing for the park’s herbivore population, and the Mkata floodplain virtually guarantees a spotting of the largest antelope in the world, the eland. Lions can be found as well for the lucky and dedicated viewer. Along with Lake Manyara , Mikumi is one of the few places in Tanzania where lions have been found climbing trees to escape wet earth during the rainy season.

The most impressive wildlife viewing comes from the hippo pools in the park. The reclusive animals get near enough for an excellent view, and seasonally, playful baby hippos are the star attraction

Getting There

Mikumi is one of the most easily accessed parks from Dar es Salaam . Just a short distance from Morogoro on a rice road, it is about a four hour from Dar es Salaam. Dar es Salaam can be reached by a wide variety of international scheduled flights . Local buses can be taken from Dar es Salaam to the park headquarters, where game drives can be arranged.

Staying There

Campsites and lodges (Stanley’s Kopje and Vuma Hills Tented Camp ) are available within the park and in Morogoro .

What To Do

Mikumi is best on private game drives or guided walks. Nearby parks to include in a journey include Udzungwa or the famous Selous .

When To Go

Mikumi is an excellent year-round destination , with good wildlife viewing in both the wet and dry seasons.