Located just 250 km west of Dar es Salaam, Mikumi National Park Tanzania is one of the country’s most accessible and rewarding safari destinations. It forms part of the Southern Tanzania Safari Circuit, linking easily to Ruaha and Nyerere (Selous) National Parks.
Despite being less crowded than parks in the north, Mikumi offers an authentic African safari experience — complete with elephants, giraffes, lions, zebras, wildebeests, and hippos roaming across vast open plains. Often compared to the Serengeti for its scenery, Mikumi is the perfect introduction to Tanzania’s wild south.
(You can combine Mikumi with our Ruaha National Park Safaris or Nyerere Game Reserve Tours for the ultimate Southern Tanzania adventure.)
Mikumi National Park Tanzania spans over 3,200 square kilometers and is framed by the Uluguru Mountains to the east and the Udzungwa Mountains to the south. This dramatic setting creates a diverse ecosystem that supports both open grasslands and wooded savannahs.
The Mkata Floodplain, often called “Mikumi’s mini-Serengeti,” is the park’s heart. It’s here that large herds of elephants and buffalo graze, while predators like lions and leopards lurk nearby. The open landscape makes wildlife viewing easy — especially during the dry season (June–October) when animals congregate around waterholes.
(Learn more about protected areas at the Tanzania National Parks Authority.)
Mikumi is a photographer’s dream. Its landscapes teem with wildlife, and sightings are almost guaranteed.
Some of the park’s most famous residents include:
African Elephants – Often seen near the Mkata River.
Giraffes – Graceful and plentiful across the plains.
Lions – Frequently spotted near the floodplains, especially at dawn.
Hippos and Crocodiles – Found in the hippo pools near the main road.
Zebras and Wildebeests – Grazing side by side in the open savannah.
Over 400 bird species have also been recorded, including lilac-breasted rollers, bateleur eagles, and yellow-throated longclaws — making Mikumi National Park Tanzania a paradise for bird enthusiasts.
(Birdwatchers can read more at the Tanzania Tourism Board.)
Whether you’re visiting for a weekend getaway or a full safari itinerary, Mikumi National Park Tanzania offers a variety of unforgettable experiences:
Morning and evening drives reveal a wealth of wildlife, often without the crowds of northern parks.
Experience the bush up close with armed rangers who share insights on animal behavior, tracks, and plants.
Visit nearby Maasai communities to learn about their traditions, lifestyle, and connection to the land.
Enjoy packed lunches overlooking the plains or waterholes while elephants and giraffes pass by.
Mikumi is a convenient gateway to Udzungwa Mountains National Park, known for waterfalls and hiking trails, or Ruaha National Park, famous for its big-cat populations.
(Check our Southern Tanzania Safari Packages for suggested itineraries.)
The park can be visited year-round, but the dry season (June–October) offers the best wildlife viewing as animals gather near water sources.
The wet season (November–May) transforms the park into a lush green paradise, ideal for birdwatching and photography, though some roads may become muddy.
Because Mikumi lies close to Dar es Salaam, it’s perfect for short trips — just a 4- to 5-hour drive or a 45-minute flight from the city.
If you’re looking for a genuine wilderness experience without the crowds, Mikumi National Park Tanzania is the answer. Its combination of easy access, dramatic scenery, abundant wildlife, and proximity to other southern parks makes it one of the country’s best-kept secrets.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Tanzania or an experienced safari traveler, Mikumi delivers a classic safari feel with the tranquility of an untouched wilderness.
(Plan your journey with Heart of Serengeti Tanzania Safaris and discover the beauty of Mikumi and Southern Tanzania.)
