Mikumi National Park Tanzania
When on safari in Mikumi national park be prepared to be thrilled by fears lions hunting buffaloes and the elusive elands. The Mikumi national park is a remote wilderness distinct well off the bitten track; it is a true paradise of untouched Africa. It offers a wonderful wilderness experience which features a diversity of wildlife bon in a mixture of between east Africa and southern Africa species. The park is the fifth largest park in Tanzania and easily reaches from Dar es Salaam.
The landscapes in Mikumi National Park is diverse includes woodlands swamps and huge remote grasslands. It plank by the Uluguru and Udzungwa Mountains. The open horizons and abundant wildlife of the Mkata flood plains draw frequent comparisons of the Serengeti plains.
Animals in Mikumi National Park
Animal commonly found here include giraffe, different species of antelopes, lions, zebras, elephants and hippos. This flood plain is Mikumi national park most popular area. One mammal always present here is the Impala, it is common around the plain but common doesn’t un-interesting. The elegant impala is as near perfect as antelopes can be, it is capable of leaping one meter high and eleven meters in a single jump. Herds vary just from few to hundred individuals mostly female under the watchful eye of the dominant male. Males often fight to maintain or require harem though their fights. You will often see yellow baboon feeding alongside impalas in mkata flood plains in Mikumi national park. These two different species are best friends on the African Savannah. With extra eyes all around from different angles they both keep look out for locking predators and rely on each other.
A little further up north of Mikumi national park you will hear famous lion roam the place, the presence of group of wildebeest is often promising. Mikumi lions are heavily prey on wildebeest and will take in any reasonable opportunity present itself. Lion seem to know when the odd against the success stalk are too high or potentially unrewarding. The big cats are design for hunt though most stalk ending failing. However can lions spend about 80% of their lives sleeping or hanging around the failure rates had seem to induce stress. As in some other area in Mikumi national park lions are renowned for their tree climbing abilities an activity lions are not usually use to do.
Framed by these vast landscapes the sunset in Mikumi national park are often dramatic and sight for sour arms. Early the next day sunrise is when many animals are the most active before the heat kicks in. Some animals are escape the scorching sun like hippos their skin is to thin and long exposure will burn badly they prefer a dive in water. Giraffes are abundant in here, sometimes come together in herds of thirty or more frequently with nurseries of their youngsters. They are the tallest animals on Earth with males sometime over 5 meters tall. There are nine subspecies within the single species of giraffe each distinguish by its marks. The type most common in Mikumi national park is the Maasai giraffe; you can recognize them by their irregular patches, others have square shaped patches to look like the giraffe is covered by nets. The giraffe virtually are fighting for a female begin with a stiff legged dance after raving necks and leaning on each other to gain relative strength, swing their heads up and over their shoulder after missing and sometimes hit each other neck
Hippos wallowing the water of the two main waterholes and are frequently joined by great many birds. More than 300 bird species have been recorded in Mikumi national park with such colorful common residents as lilac breasted roller, yellow throated long glow and Bateleur eagle they are join by a host of European migrates during the rainy season between October and April. Hippos are star attractions of the two waterholes supported by an ever changing cast of waterbirds. There birds like saddle billed storks, hamerkop, malachite king fisher and black winged bishop. Not to mention southern ground hornbill who unlike their name do like to sit on trees too roost. Most of the time though spends on the tall grass scooping up anything edible. Bird life in Mikumi national park is like any national park in Tanzania diverse.
The African buffalo is also found in Mikumi national park at between a thousand and sixteen hundred pound, a buffalo with its powerful built body and huge horns are a formidable creature. Most rangers will tell you it is the buffalo they fear the most when patrolling on foot. They are dangerous and determine and are members of the famous BIG FIVE. At least once a day buffalo herds go to a waterhole to drink and bath the cooling mud.
Although very shy the graceful eland antelope is regularly seen at Mikumi National Park. This is perhaps the most reliable place in Tanzania for sighting of the powerful as well as the world largest antelope each of weight more than a buffalo. Other inhabitants include Zebra. Mikumi national park is also famous for its concentration of elephants especially between December and January. The African elephant is the largest living land mammal. Of all its specialize features the muscular trunk is perhaps the most extra ordinary. It serves as a nose, hand, extra foot, signaling device and tool for gathering food, surfing water, dusting and digging. The tasks are another veritable tool
Activities in Mikumi National Park
Day game drives in Mikumi National Park, offered from 06:00 am to 18:00 pm, provide an unparalleled opportunity to immerse oneself in the untamed beauty of this remote wilderness. Witness the awe-inspiring scenes of majestic lions on the prowl, navigating the expansive terrain in search of buffaloes and elusive elands. Mikumi National Park, renowned for its diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes, offers an incomparable experience of observing animals that will leave an indelible mark.
During our game drives in Mikumi National Park, we utilize open-sided 4WD land cruisers or land rovers, or modified vehicles with pop-up roofs, ensuring a complete 180-degree view. Our team of professional and experienced driver guides will assist you in spotting wildlife and provide informative explanations.
Embark on this extraordinary adventure with us and uncover the marvels of this hidden gem in Tanzania.
Experience the untamed wonders of Mikumi National Park safari like never before with our exhilarating Night Game Drive. Venture into the remote wilderness under the starry African sky and witness the thrilling nocturnal animals that are often difficult to spot during the day. Our Night Game Drive safari in Mikumi National Park begins at 18:30 hours and ends at 22:00 hours. You’ll have the opportunity to see lions, leopards, hyenas, bat-eared foxes, porcupines, pangolins, and various nocturnal birds as they actively hunt for prey.
Your safety is our top priority, which is why we provide an armed ranger and a powerful spotlight capable of illuminating distances of several hundred meters.
Join Wilds of Africa in exploring Mikumi National Park at night and create memories that will last a lifetime.
Experience the wonders of a walking safari in Mikumi National Park, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of nature during the tranquil morning or evening hours. Choose between a long expedition to the north, where you’ll venture towards the breathtaking Chamgore Hills, or opt for a shorter, yet equally thrilling journey up the remarkable Vuma Hills. Throughout your walk in Mikumi National Park, your safety is our utmost priority, as you’ll be accompanied by a highly trained armed ranger. Additionally, your knowledgeable walking guide will be there to assist you in identifying the diverse array of plants, insects, and bird species that call this remarkable park their home.
Embark on an unforgettable adventure and get closer to the natural wonders of Tanzania with Wilds of Africa.
Mikumi National Park boasts the finest location for an exceptional bird watching safari. With an impressive array of over 400 bird species, visitors to Mikumi Safari will be captivated by the sight of a vast assortment of colorful avian creatures in all sizes. Among the most prevalent resident birds in Mikumi National Park are the striking lilac-breasted roller, the delightful yellow-throated longclaw, and the majestic bateleur eagle. Additionally, from November to April, the park welcomes numerous migratory birds from Europe, which can be admired in their natural habitat. For those interested in observing water-associated birds, the hippo pool and Mwanambogo dam offer an excellent opportunity to spot magnificent species such as the African fish eagle, African spoonbill, and hamerkop. Moreover, the Mkata river provides breathtaking views of African openbills engaging in their skilled fishing maneuvers.
Weather and Climate of Mikumi National Park
Mikumi National Park, located within a tropical savanna climate, is a prominent park in Tanzania. It boasts an annual rainfall of 3025mm, with the highest precipitation occurring in March (566mm) and the lowest in July (31mm). The park offers a pleasant temperature from January to May, gradually rising to 27°C in June and reaching a peak of 31°C in October, resulting in an average annual temperature of 29°C.
The period from June to October is considered the optimal time to visit, as the absence of rainfall leaves the bushes dry and the grass shorter, allowing for excellent game sighting. Game viewing is still possible during the short rainfall in November and December, albeit not as thrilling as during the prime months from June to October.
Mikumi Weather / Climate Summary:
June to October brings dry months with day temperatures averaging 27°C and night temperatures reaching 18°C. Rainfall is rare during this period, although occasional showers may occur towards the end of October.
In November and December, the short rainy season begins, usually bringing afternoon showers.
January and February see short rains, which are more intense compared to November and December.
Finally, March, April, and May mark the heavy rainy season, with frequent rainfall throughout the day.
Hotels and Accommodations
Looking for accommodations in Mikumi? Your search ends here. The park offers a range of options that cater to your needs, including hotels, lodges, and camps. Whether you desire the comfort of a hotel, the rustic charm of a lodge, or the thrill of camping, Mikumi has it all. You’ll find accommodations within the park, such as Vuma Hill Tented Camp, Stanley Copjes, and Mikumi Wildlife Camp. Additionally, there are facilities located just outside the park, such as Camp Bastian, Vamos Hotel, Tanswiss Motel, and Adventure Camp.
Secure your stay now and embark on a safari adventure like no other.
Best Time to Visit Mikumi National Park
Visitors can explore the wonders of Mikumi National Park throughout the year, although the ultimate experience lies within the dry season. Spanning from June to October, this period offers exceptional opportunities to witness wildlife congregating near water holes, as well as unveil the park’s breathtakingly thin vegetation cover. As you embark on your safari to Mikumi national park with Wilds of Africa, make sure to plan your expedition during the dry season for an unforgettable adventure.
How To Reach Mikumi National Park
Mikumi is located about 250 km from Dar es Salaam the journey of about 4 – 5 hours drive. The paved road which cross the park and make its accessibility possible.