Mikumi National Park Tanzania

Discover the Wild Charm of Mikumi National Park: A Tanzanian Treasure

Located in the heart of Tanzania, Mikumi National Park continues to charm wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers from around the world. As the fourth largest national park in the country, it provides a captivating glimpse of the African wild, featuring expansive savannahs, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes reminiscent of the renowned Serengeti. For those planning an African safari, Mikumi should definitely be on the top of the list. Our safari experts will help you discover the marvels of this captivating park and why it is a must-see in your travel plans.

While Mikumi National Park may not be as well-known as the Serengeti or Ngorongoro Crater, it offers an authentic and rewarding safari experience that is easily accessible. With fewer tourists, it is a place where you can truly immerse yourself in the untamed beauty of Tanzania’s wilderness.

Whether you are new to safaris or a knowledgeable wildlife lover, Mikumi national park offers the chance to see the magnificence of Africa’s animals in their native environment, away from the masses. It presents an opportunity to reestablish a connection with nature, educate oneself about conservation efforts, and make enduring memories.

History and location of Mikumi National Park

Mikumi National Park is located in Morogoro region, 185 km southwest from Dar es Salaam city and approximately 35 km southern west of Morogoro town along the Mbeya Highway. It is also located north of the Selous Game Reserve which is the country largest game reserve and together they form the largest ecosystem on the continent.

During the colonial error in 1905 the British government set aside the land which Mikumi national park  is built up and latter in 1932 was declared as a tropical rainforest. In 1961 Tanganyika acquired independence from the British colonial rule and 3 years later in 1964 Mikumi was declared as a full national park with an area of approximately 3,230 square kilometers.

The park has seen an increase in tourism in recent years, with visitors drawn to its diverse wildlife and stunning natural beauty. Efforts are being made to ensure the sustainable conservation of the park and its wildlife, with initiatives in place to protect and preserve the natural environment. Mikumi National Park is a vital conservation area and a key part of Tanzania’s biodiversity, making it an important and treasured part of the country’s natural heritage.

Mikumi  Park Map

The Landscapes in Mikumi National Park

Mikumi National Park is a hidden gem that offers some of the most stunning landscapes Africa has to offer. Renowned for its rich wildlife and vast, untouched wilderness, the park presents an unparalleled opportunity for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. Wilds of Africa will take you through the diverse terrains of Mikumi, from its savannahs to its mountain ranges, and discover what makes this place a must-visit destination for anyone seeking the raw beauty of the African continent.

Mkata Floodplain: A Hub of Biodiversity

One of the park’s central features is the Mkata Floodplain, an area that is teeming with a diverse array of flora and fauna. During the wet season, this region transforms into a lush, green landscape, supporting an abundance of wildlife. The floodplain’s water sources attract a high concentration of animals, making it an ideal spot for game drives and wildlife photography in Mikumi national park.

As the seasons change, the Mkata Floodplain undergoes a dramatic transformation, with the dry season bringing a more arid and rugged beauty. Even then, the floodplain remains a hotspot for animal sightings as they congregate around the remaining water sources, providing a unique opportunity to observe the resilience of nature.

Tanzania Masai Giraffe

The Hippo Pools: A Window into Aquatic Life

Located just a short distance from the park entrance gate are the imoressive hippo pools which provide a prime location for viewing these massive and majestic animals as they wallow and play in the water.

Visitors in Mikumi national park can watch as the hippos roam through the pools, occasionally emerging to bask in the sun or satisfy their enormous appetites. The surrounding landscape is teeming with life, and the sight of a group of hippos sauntering through the water is a truly spectacular experience. The park itself is also home to a large number of birds, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers.

Mikumi Hippo Pool

The Mountains and Hills: A Scenic Contrast

Beyond the flatlands, Mikumi National Park is bordered by mountains and hills that add a scenic contrast to the savannah. The park is flanked by the Uluguru Mountains to the east and the Rubeho Mountains to the west, which rise majestically from the plains and provide a stunning backdrop for sunset and sunrise views.

The lush, forested slopes of these mountains are a haven for hikers and those looking to explore beyond the typical game drive routes. Treks through these areas offer breathtaking vistas and the chance to encounter a variety of bird species, monkeys, and smaller forest-dwelling creatures that are as much a part of Mikumi’s ecosystem as the more prominent savannah inhabitants.

Mikumi National Park Mountains

The Vast Savannah: A Classic African Vista

Upon entering Mikumi National Park, visitors are greeted with the quintessential African landscape: the vast savannah. Endless golden grasslands stretch to the horizon, dotted with acacia trees and the occasional baobab – nature’s very own skyscrapers. This open terrain is not just breathtaking in its expanse; it’s also the stage for the drama of life that unfolds daily in the wild.

The savannah is the perfect backdrop for wildlife viewing. Here, you might witness herds of buffalo grazing, elephants roaming in their familial bonds, and giraffes elegantly striding through the grasslands. The flat plains also provide an excellent chance of spotting predators such as lions and cheetahs as they survey their kingdom or prepare for a hunt.

Savannah Mikumi Park

Wildlife in Mikumi National Park

Mikumi is home to a vast array of wildlife, with over 400 bird species and a plethora of large mammals, including elephants, giraffes, lions, zebras, and buffaloes. The open horizons and abundant wildlife of the Mkata Floodplain, the popular centerpiece of Mikumi, often draw comparisons with the more famous Serengeti Plains.

The park’s predators are also a major highlight, with a healthy population of lions that can often be seen stalking their prey or basking in the sun. Cheetahs and wild dogs add to the thrill, providing a rare treat for visitors as these species are becoming increasingly hard to spot in other regions.

Birdwatching Bliss

Apart from the charismatic megafauna, Mikumi is a haven for birdwatchers. The varied habitats within the park, from the swamps to the savannah, provide perfect nesting grounds for both resident and migrant species. Enthusiasts can look forward to spotting the bateleur eagle, lilac-breasted roller, and the yellow-throated longclaw among others.

Mikumi Sunset Zebra

Things to Do in Mikumi

Experience the stunning beauty of the untouched wilderness of Mikumi National Park with day game drives available from 06:00 am to 18:00 pm. Observe the magnificent lions as they roam the vast terrain in search of their prey, offering a rare and breathtaking spectacle. Mikumi National Park, famous for its diverse wildlife and remarkable scenery, provides an unparalleled opportunity to witness unforgettable animal encounters.

Our game drives in Mikumi National Park feature open-sided 4WD land cruisers, land rovers, or customized vehicles with pop-up roofs, allowing for a full 180-degree view of the surroundings. Our knowledgeable and skilled driver guides will aid you in spotting wildlife and provide insightful information.

Join us on this exceptional journey and discover the wonders of this hidden treasure in Tanzania.

Explore the unspoiled marvels of Mikumi National Park safari like never before with our thrilling Night Game Drive. Embark on a journey into the secluded wilderness beneath the African night sky and observe the exciting nocturnal creatures that are often elusive during the daytime. Our Night Game Drive safari in Mikumi National Park commences at 18:30 and concludes at 22:00. You will have the chance to glimpse lions, leopards, hyenas, bat-eared foxes, porcupines, pangolins, and various nocturnal birds as they actively search for prey.

Your safety is of utmost importance to us, which is why we supply an armed ranger and a powerful spotlight capable of illuminating distances of several hundred meters.

Come and join Wilds of Africa in discovering Mikumi National Park at night and make memories that will endure for a lifetime.

Come and enjoy the marvels of a walking safari at Mikumi National Park, where you can completely submerge yourself in the splendor of nature during the peaceful morning or evening times. You have the option to select either a lengthy expedition to the north, where you’ll journey towards the stunning Chamgore Hills, or choose a shorter, yet equally exciting trek up the impressive Vuma Hills. Safety is absolutely paramount during your walk at Mikumi National Park, as you will be escorted by a highly trained armed ranger. Furthermore, your knowledgeable guide will be on hand to help you recognize the wide variety of plants, insects, and bird species that inhabit this extraordinary park.

Discover an unforgettable journey and come closer to the natural wonders of Tanzania with Wilds of Africa.

A trip to Mikumi offers visitors the opportunity to engage in cultural experiences with the local communities residing near the park. There, they can gain insight into the traditions and daily routines of people who have coexisted with the wildlife for generations. This cultural interaction enhances the safari experience, highlighting the interconnectedness between humans and nature.

Maasai Tribes

Tourists have the chance to meet the Maasai tribespeople, renowned for their unique customs and attire. Immersing themselves in the Maasai way of life, including traditional dances and music, brings a valuable cultural aspect to the safari adventure.

Community Projects

Tourists can participate in various community projects surrounding Mikumi National Park, contributing to conservation initiatives and sustainable development. Engaging in these projects provides a fulfilling opportunity to support the local community.

Mikumi Crested CrownMikumi National Park is renowned for its excellent bird watching safari opportunities. More than 400 bird species call the park home, offering visitors a stunning display of vibrant avian wildlife in all shapes and sizes. Notable resident birds in the park include the beautiful lilac-breasted roller, the charming yellow-throated longclaw, and the impressive bateleur eagle. In addition, the park is a hub for migratory birds from Europe between November and April, allowing visitors to appreciate them in their natural habitat. For those interested in water-associated birds, the hippo pool and Mwanambogo dam are ideal locations to observe magnificent species such as the African fish eagle, African spoonbill, and hamerkop. Furthermore, the Mkata river provides a chance to witness the skillful fishing maneuvers of African openbills, while enjoying the breathtaking views.

Weather and Climate

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:

The period from June to October experiences dry weather, with daytime temperatures averaging at 27°C and nighttime temperatures dropping to around 18°C. Rainfall is uncommon during this time, although there may be sporadic showers towards the end of October. The short rainy season typically starts in November and December, usually bringing afternoon showers. January and February experience short but intense rains, in contrast to the earlier months. The heavy rainy season occurs from March to May, with frequent rainfall throughout the day.

Hotels and Accommodations

If you’re searching for accommodations in Mikumi, your hunt is over. Mikumi National Park provides a variety of choices to suit your preferences, including hotels, lodges, and camps. Whether you’re seeking the luxury of a hotel, the traditional appeal of a lodge, or the excitement of camping, Mikumi has it all. There are accommodation options within the park, such as Vuma Hill Tented Camp, Stanley Copjes, and Mikumi Wildlife Camp. Additionally, there are establishments just outside the park, such as Camp Bastian, Vamos Hotel, Tanswiss Motel, and Adventure Camp.

Reserve your stay now and prepare for a safari adventure like no other.

Best Time to Visit Mikumi National Park
The ideal time to visit Mikumi National Park is during the dry season, which runs from June to October. Although the park can be explored year-round, this period provides excellent chances to see wildlife gathering near water holes and to admire the park’s sparse vegetation. When booking your safari to Mikumi National Park with Wilds of Africa, be sure to schedule your trip for the dry season in order to have 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.

Pin It on Pinterest

Shares