MIKUMI NATIONAL PARK
- Country: Tanzania
- Location: Southern Tanzania
- Language Spoken: Swahili
- Area (Km): 3.23 Km Squares
- Visa Requirement: yes
Mikumi National Park is a prominent wildlife destination in southern Tanzania, known for its accessibility from Dar es Salaam and diverse landscapes. It is a popular, yet less-crowded, alternative to the northern circuit parks, offering excellent wildlife viewing.
Wildlife
The park is home to a wide range of animals and is sometimes nicknamed "Little Serengeti" because of its abundance of wildlife.
- The "Big Four": Mikumi hosts four of the "Big Five" safari animals, with large populations of elephants, buffaloes, lions, and leopards.
- Other mammals: Common sightings include zebras, wildebeest, giraffes, impalas, baboons, and elands.
- Rare species: The park is known for its rare and distinct animals, including sable antelope, Lichtenstein's hartebeest, and the African wild dog.
- Hippo pools: Two artificial pools near the main gate are a major attraction for watching hippos and birdlife.
- Birdlife: With over 400 species recorded, the park is a paradise for birdwatchers.
Landscape and attractions
-
Mkata Floodplain
: The park's northwestern section is dominated by the Mkata Floodplain, a vast savanna dotted with acacia, baobab, and palm trees that attracts large concentrations of wildlife. - Uluguru and
Rubeho Mountains
: The park is framed by the scenic Uluguru and Rubeho mountains, which provide a dramatic backdrop to the savanna. -
Dar-Mbeya Highway
: This highway runs directly through the park, dividing it into a rich northern game-viewing area and a less accessible southern part.
Safari activities
- Game drives: This is the primary way to explore the park, with opportunities for full- or half-day excursions.
- Walking safaris: Visitors can take guided nature walks with a park ranger to experience the smaller details of the ecosystem up close.
- Birdwatching: With hundreds of species, Mikumi is an ideal location for dedicated birdwatching.
- Cultural tours: Visits to nearby villages offer insight into the traditions of local communities.
Best time to visit
- Dry Season (June to October): This is the best time for wildlife viewing. The vegetation is sparse, and animals congregate around waterholes, making them easier to spot.
- Wet Season (November to May): The scenery becomes lush and green, making it an excellent time for birdwatching as migratory birds arrive. However, some roads may be challenging due to rain.
Getting there
- From Dar es Salaam: Located about 280–300 km west of Dar es Salaam, Mikumi is one of Tanzania's most accessible parks. The drive takes around 4 to 6 hours.
- By air: Chartered flights are also available from Dar es Salaam or other destinations.
