Explore Mikumi National Park — one of Tanzania’s most scenic wildlife safari destinations
Mikumi National Park is a premier wildlife safari destination in the Morogoro Region of southern Tanzania. Known for its vast savannah plains, rolling grasslands, and the iconic Mkata Floodplain, Mikumi offers accessible and rewarding wildlife viewing with classic East African safari landscapes. The park’s scenic beauty and biodiversity make it ideal for game drives, birdwatching, and nature photography.
Mikumi National Park hosts a diverse array of African wildlife, including elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, buffaloes, and a variety of antelope species across grassy plains and woodland edges. Predators such as cheetahs and leopards are also present, while the Hippo Pools attract hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds. A thriving birdlife of more than 400 species makes Mikumi a birdwatcher’s paradise, with colourful lilac-breasted rollers, hornbills, bateleur eagles, and more.
The best time for a wildlife safari in Mikumi is during the dry season from June to October, when vegetation thins and animals gather around water sources, improving visibility and game viewing opportunities. The short dry season in January and February also offers excellent wildlife sightings with clear skies and active predators. The wet season (November–May) brings lush greenery and ideal conditions for birdwatching, though some roads may be more challenging to navigate.
Mikumi National Park is easily accessible by road from Dar es Salaam, typically a 4-hour drive, making it one of the most reachable safari destinations in southern Tanzania. It can also be included on longer safari circuits with Udzungwa Mountains or Ruaha National Park.
Mikumi National Park has a variety of lodging options to suit different budgets. Luxury tented camps and mid-range safari lodges like Vuma Hills and Mikumi Wildlife Camp provide excellent wildlife access, while public campsites offer budget safari experiences. Booking in advance is recommended during the high season to secure prime locations near key game viewing areas.
You can see elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, buffalo, and many antelope species across the park’s grasslands and floodplains.
Yes, with over 400 recorded bird species, Mikumi is a top destination for birdwatchers.
The best wildlife viewing is during the dry season from June to October, with excellent visibility and animal concentrations near waterholes.
Yes, Mikumi is often combined with Udzungwa Mountains and Ruaha National Park on southern circuit safari itineraries.
