Mikumi National Park

Mikumi National Park is one of the most popular wildlife parks in Tanzania, located in the Morogoro Region. Covering over 3,230 square kilometers, it is the fourth-largest national park in the country and part of the larger Selous ecosystem. Due to its convenient location near the highway between Dar es Salaam and Iringa, Mikumi is easy to reach and perfect for both short and extended safaris.

The park offers amazing wildlife experiences with a chance to see elephants, lions, zebras, giraffes, wildebeests, and more, all in a beautiful savannah setting that is often compared to the Serengeti. It is an ideal destination for first-time safari-goers as well as nature lovers seeking a less-crowded alternative to Tanzania’s northern circuit parks.

How to Reach Mikumi National Park, Morogoro

Mikumi National Park is located about 280 kilometers (around 5 hours) from Dar es Salaam, making it one of the most accessible parks from the city. You can reach the park via:

• By Road: A direct drive on the A-7 highway via Morogoro. This is the most common and affordable method.
• By Bus: Buses from Dar es Salaam to Iringa or Morogoro pass near Mikumi. From the park gate, taxis or local transport can take you inside.
• By Air: Charter flights from Dar es Salaam or Arusha can land at the small Mikumi airstrip. It’s more expensive but much faster.

Weather in Mikumi National Park

Mikumi has a warm tropical climate. The average daytime temperatures range between 25°C and 30°C (77°F to 86°F), making it pleasant for most of the year.

There are two main seasons:

• Dry Season (June to October): Best time for wildlife viewing. Roads are dry and animals gather around water sources.
• Rainy Season (November to May): Lush green scenery but some areas may be muddy and harder to access. Excellent for bird watching.

Best Time to Visit Mikumi National Park

The best time to visit Mikumi is during the dry season from June to October. Wildlife is easier to spot as animals concentrate near waterholes, and the roads are more accessible.

However, visiting during the rainy season (especially January to March) also has its perks, like fewer tourists, vibrant green landscapes, and many migratory bird species in the park.

Why Famous for Mikumi National Park, Morogoro?

Mikumi is famous for offering a classic safari experience without the crowds of larger parks like Serengeti or Ngorongoro. It’s home to an impressive range of wildlife, including large herds of buffalo, elephants, and antelope, and predators like lions and leopards.

The park’s open plains resemble those of the Serengeti and offer excellent visibility for animal viewing and photography. It is also one of the few places where you might witness the unique behavior of lions climbing trees, although this is rare.

Entry and Visit Details about Mikumi National Park

The park is managed by the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA), and visitors are required to pay an entrance fee. As of recent guidelines:

• Foreign adults: Approx. $30–$40 USD per day.
• East African residents: Lower rates apply (check with TANAPA for updated prices).
• Children under 16: Discounted rates available.

Gates are usually open from 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM. You can visit the park on a day trip or choose to stay overnight at lodges, camps, or bandas within or near the park.

History and Architecture of Mikumi National Park

Mikumi was established in 1964 and later expanded to its current size. It forms part of the larger Selous ecosystem, which is one of the most important wildlife conservation areas in Africa.

While Mikumi does not have historical buildings or monuments, it is a natural “architectural” wonder with open floodplains, acacia woodlands, and miombo forests. The Mkata floodplain is the heart of the park and serves as a major attraction due to the high concentration of animals.

Things to Do in Mikumi National Park

• Game Drives: Enjoy morning, afternoon, or full-day safari drives with professional guides.
• Bird Watching: Over 400 species of birds, including bateleur eagles, lilac-breasted rollers, and yellow-throated longclaws.
• Photography: Capture breathtaking landscapes and up-close shots of wildlife.
• Nature Walks: Some lodges offer guided bush walks around the park borders.
• Visit Local Villages: Experience local culture and crafts in nearby communities.

Interesting Facts about Mikumi National Park

• Mikumi is sometimes called the “mini-Serengeti” due to its similar landscape and wildlife.
• It is part of the Selous ecosystem, one of the largest faunal reserves in the world.
• The park is home to a unique subspecies of giraffe that resembles the Masai giraffe but with slight differences in pattern.
• Lions in Mikumi have been spotted lounging on tree branches, a behavior typically seen in Lake Manyara.
• Mikumi is one of the few parks in Tanzania where you can do a safari even on a tight schedule—perfect for a weekend getaway.

Tips for Visiting Mikumi National Park

• Travel with a reliable tour operator or hire a certified guide from TANAPA.
• Bring binoculars and a good camera for the best viewing and photography experience.
• Wear neutral-colored clothes, comfortable shoes, and bring sun protection.
• Carry snacks and drinking water, especially for long game drives.
• Respect wildlife by keeping a safe distance and not feeding the animals.