Nestled in northern Tanzania, near the Kenyan border, Mkomazi National Park is a stunning yet under-visited gem covering 3,245 square kilometers.

It forms part of the larger Tsavo-Mkomazi ecosystem, which stretches into Kenya, creating an important wildlife corridor. Established as a national park in 2008, Mkomazi is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, from the rugged beauty of the Pare Mountains to vast savannahs dotted with acacia trees.

It is also a key stronghold for endangered species like the black rhino and African wild dogs, making it a paradise for nature lovers and conservation enthusiasts. Mkomazi offers a quieter, more intimate safari experience compared to some of Tanzania’s more popular parks.

Tourist Attractions

• Endangered Species Projects: Mkomazi is home to significant conservation efforts, particularly the breeding programs for black rhinos and African wild dogs. Visitors can learn about these programs and even get the chance to see these critically endangered species up close at the park’s Rhino Sanctuary.
• Wildlife Viewing: Mkomazi supports a diverse array of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, leopards, and cheetahs. It is also known for its impressive population of oryx and fringe-eared oryx, as well as lesser kudu. The open plains of the park provide excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing.
• Birdwatching: Mkomazi is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 450 species of birds recorded in the park. Notable species include the vulturine guinea fowl, saddle-billed stork, and various types of hornbills and eagles. The diverse habitats of the park, from wetlands to dry savannah, attract a wide variety of birdlife.
• Stunning Landscapes: The park’s landscapes range from vast, open grasslands to the striking Pare Mountains and Usambara Mountains in the distance. Mkomazi’s varied terrain makes for spectacular photographic opportunities, particularly at sunrise and sunset when the golden light bathes the savannah.
• Cultural Experiences: Mkomazi is surrounded by traditional communities, including the Pare, Maasai, and Sambaa people. Visitors can take part in cultural tours to learn about the customs, traditions, and daily lives of these tribes, adding a rich cultural element to their safari.

How to Get There

• By Road: Mkomazi National Park is located approximately 200 kilometers from Arusha and 112 kilometers from Moshi. It can be accessed by road from these cities, with the drive from Arusha taking about 4 to 5 hours. Most visitors enter the park through the Zange Gate.
• By Air: The nearest airport is Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), located about 150 kilometers away. From there, visitors can take a private transfer or arrange a guided tour to Mkomazi.
• By Tour: Organized safari tours offer transportation to and from the park, with many combining a visit to Mkomazi with other nearby attractions, such as Mount Kilimanjaro or Amboseli National Park in Kenya. Maramatta Safaris offers guided packages that include transportation, park entry, and expertly led game drives.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Mkomazi National Park is during the dry season, from June to October, when wildlife is easier to spot as animals congregate around water sources. This is also an excellent time for birdwatching, as many species are nesting. The wet season, from November to May, brings lush, green landscapes and the arrival of migratory birds, though wildlife viewing can be more challenging due to thicker vegetation.

Things to Do

• Game Drives: Embark on exciting game drives through the park’s vast landscapes to see wildlife in their natural habitat. The park offers both morning and afternoon drives, giving visitors the best chance to spot predators like cheetahs and leopards as well as large herbivores like elephants and buffaloes.
• Visit the Rhino Sanctuary: Mkomazi’s Rhino Sanctuary is a major highlight, where visitors can see the endangered black rhinos under the protection of an intensive breeding and conservation program. The sanctuary offers a rare chance to learn about these magnificent creatures and the efforts being made to save them from extinction.
• Birdwatching Safaris: With such a diverse array of bird species, Mkomazi is perfect for dedicated birdwatchers. A birdwatching safari can be arranged to explore the park’s different ecosystems and spot rare and endemic species.
• Walking Safaris: For those seeking a more intimate wildlife experience, guided walking safaris are available. Led by experienced rangers, these walks allow visitors to explore the park on foot, learning about the flora and fauna while enjoying a close-up look at smaller wildlife and birdlife.

FAQs

1. Is Mkomazi National Park suitable for a day trip?
Yes, Mkomazi can be visited as a day trip from Moshi or Arusha, but it is best experienced over a couple of days to fully enjoy its wildlife and landscapes.

2. Can I see the Big Five in Mkomazi?
While Mkomazi is home to elephants, buffaloes, and rhinos, it does not have lions in large numbers, and leopards are elusive. The park is more famous for its wild dogs, black rhinos, and oryx, making it a unique destination compared to parks focused on the Big Five.

3. What should I bring for a safari in Mkomazi?
Essential items include sunscreen, a hat, binoculars, camera, comfortable clothing, and plenty of water. If you plan to go on walking safaris, sturdy hiking shoes are recommended.

4. Are there accommodation options within the park?
Yes, there are a few campsites and lodges within and around the park. Maramatta Safaris can arrange comfortable accommodation options that suit your preferences, from rustic campsites to more luxurious tented camps.

5. Can I combine Mkomazi with other parks?
Yes, Mkomazi can be combined with visits to nearby parks such as Amboseli National Park in Kenya, Mount Kilimanjaro, or Tsavo National Park. Maramatta Safaris offers customizable packages that include Mkomazi as part of a broader safari itinerary.

At Maramatta Safaris, we offer guided tours of Mkomazi National Park, allowing you to experience this hidden gem in Tanzania.

From wildlife safaris to cultural tours with the Maasai, our expert guides will ensure that your visit is unforgettable, educational, and filled with breathtaking moments.