MIKUMI NATIONAL PARK
Mikumi National Park is the most popular park of the southern circuit and known for its excellent gameviewing and large plains. It is often referred to as “little Serengeti” because of its variety of wildlife and similar landscape. These plains offer unobstructed views and makes it easy to spot wildlife. You’ll find many Baobab and Acacia trees spread out on the landscape which provides shade for the animals. Lions are often found relaxing under or in the trees.
The park borders Nyerere National Park and therefore shares lots of wildlife with it. Together the parks form a huge area for wildlife to thrive, which you can definitely notice in the park. The plains are surrounded by the Uluguru mountains, which provide a dramatic backdrop.
ANIMALS
Mikumi National Park is home to 4 out of 5 animals of “the big 5” and is an excellent birding destination. It is home to over 400 different species of birds.
Often spotted in Mikumi National Park:
Elephant
Buffalo
Zebra
Wildebeest
Different types of antelopes
Giraffe
Lion
Hippo
Leopards
Many bird species
Many other smaller animals
LOCATION
Mikumi National Park is at about 5hrs driving from Dar es Salaam. This makes it the ideal destination for those wanting to do a short safari! It fits perfectly in almost every itinerary as you can easily connect to Zanzibar, Dar es Salaam or travel deeper into the country.
Other recommended destinations in the neighbourhood are Morogoro Town for local life, Uluguru Mountains for great or Udzungwa Mountains National Park for some excellent rain forest treks, waterfall-fun and primate viewing. You can continue to Iringa for some more off-the-beaten-path experiences and even go to Ruaha National park for some more wildlife spotting.
Dar es Salaam to Mikumi National Park: about 5hrs driving
Nyerere National Park (Selous) to Mikumi National Park: a full day of driving
Udzungwa Mountains National Park to Mikumi National Park: 1.5 – 2hrs driving
Ruaha National Park to Mikumi National Park: about 6hrs driving
WHEN TO VISIT
The best time to go on a safari in Mikumi National Park is from June to October as temperatures don’t get too high and it is dry.
Between November and March, the temperature rises and rains can sometimes occur. These rains are mostly during the night, so it doesn't influence your safari. These months are an excellent time for a safari!
Avoid rainy season which starts sometime in March and ends in May. Those wanting to go during rainy season can still go but have to be prepared for some muddy rides.