Mikumi National Park

Tanzania’s Accessible Big Game Safari The Southern Circuit’s Wildlife Gateway

Located just 283 km west of Dar es Salaam, Mikumi National Park is the fourth-largest national park in Tanzania, covering an area of 3,230 square kilometers. Often referred to as the “Little Serengeti”, Mikumi offers vast open plains teeming with wildlife and is the most accessible safari destination in Tanzania’s Southern Circuit.

Flanked by the Uluguru Mountains to the northeast and bordered by the Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park) to the south, Mikumi is a perfect destination for those seeking a classic safari experience without venturing too far from Tanzania’s main city.

The park offers incredible game viewing year-round, and each region has its own magic:

Wildlife in Mikumi National Park

Mikumi’s broad, flat Mkata Floodplain is a magnet for wildlife, making it one of the best spots in southern Tanzania for reliable animal sightings. Key wildlife species include:

Lions, often seen perched on termite mounds or lounging in the shade.
Large herds of African elephants.
Buffaloes, zebras, wildebeest, impalas, elands, and warthogs grazing the plains.
The rare greater kudu, sable antelope, and Lichtenstein’s hartebeest.
Giraffes with a unique Masai-Southern hybrid pattern.
Leopards, spotted hyenas, and jackals — though sightings are more elusive.
Over 400 species of birds, including lilac-breasted rollers, bateleur eagles, and fish eagles.

Top Activities in Mikumi National Park

Game Drives on the Mkata Floodplain
The open landscapes allow for easy wildlife spotting. Game drives often produce sightings of elephants, lions, and large herds of grazers.
Birdwatching Safaris
Mikumi is a haven for bird enthusiasts with species ranging from colorful bee-eaters and rollers to large waterbirds like storks and herons.
Walking Safaris (with prior arrangement)
Though not common, walking safaris can be arranged in certain areas near the park borders, guided by experienced rangers.
Visit the Hippo Pools
Located near the main park entrance, these pools are home to resident hippos and crocodiles, offering great photography opportunities.
Cultural Tours to Nearby Villages
Visit local Maasai or Waluguru communities to learn about their traditions and way of life.

Why Visit Mikumi National Park?

Closest major safari park to Dar es Salaam — ideal for short safaris.
Great for first-time safari-goers looking for a quick wildlife experience.
Scenic landscapes with baobab-dotted hills and open plains.
Combines perfectly with Ruaha, Nyerere (Selous), or Udzungwa Mountains for a longer Southern Circuit safari.
Affordable and less crowded than Northern Circuit parks like Serengeti or Ngorongoro.

Best Time to Visit

Dry Season (June to October): Best wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources.
Green Season (November to May): Lush landscapes, excellent birdwatching, and fewer tourists.

Access & Location

By Road: 4 to 5-hour drive from Dar es Salaam (main highway to Zambia passes through the park)
By Air: Charter flights to Mikumi Airstrip available.
Often visited as a weekend getaway from Dar es Salaam or as a stopover en route to Ruaha or Nyerere National Parks.