Mikumi National Park

Discovering the exceptional wildlife of Mikumi

An authentic, intimate encounter with Tanzanian wildlife awaits you in Mikumi National Park! This animal sanctuary in the south of the country is hugely popular with travellers in search of adventure. Far from the beaten track, Mikumi National Park is home to a significant population of wild animals in an unspoilt, lightly visited setting. Antelopes, zebras, elephants, giraffes and buffalo roam the vast open plains of Mikumi during the dry season. A scene not unlike what you can observe in the heart of Serengeti National Park. A leading centre of Tanzanian biodiversity, Mikumi National Park is home to more than 30 species of mammal and over 400 species of bird, including the long-crested roller, the yellow-throated sandgrouse and the bateleur eagle. The park’s plains are perfectly suited to wildlife viewing. An adventure safari in Mikumi National Park will be an opportunity to discover the famous Big Five. This reserve offers a different way of experiencing the savannah, with lions, leopards and hyenas roaming freely, and you will be able to discover the characteristic sights and sounds of Africa away from the crowds. With a bit of luck, you may even have the chance to see lions climbing trees! Waterholes are the best spots for observing crocodiles, hippos and the migratory birds that inhabit the park. If you are looking to get off the beaten track, Mikumi National Park is the ideal place. 

Breathtaking landscapes of Mikumi National Park

Located in southern Tanzania, Mikumi National Park borders the famous Selous Game Reserve. Surrounded by mountains, Mikumi’s vast open plains form a unique ecosystem often compared with that of Serengeti National Park. The natural landscapes offered by this wildlife sanctuary are simply sublime. The wild, unspoilt nature of this impressive place allows you to rediscover the true spirit of safari in Tanzania. Its vegetation, so characteristic of Tanzanian bushland, its wilderness fringed by mountains and its high concentration of animals offer exceptional panoramas.

Cultural and local experiences around Mikumi

Immerse yourself fully in the local culture by setting off on an adventure to the traditional villages located close to Mikumi National Park. There you will discover the ancestral customs of the Maasai tribes, local crafts, traditional dances and typical dishes of Tanzanian cuisine. Authentic encounters, unforgettable moments of sharing and exchanges that will leave you with lasting memories await you in Tanzania.

Luxury accommodation and camps in Mikumi

Mikumi National Park offers an intimate discovery of the unspoilt landscapes of southern Tanzania. The accommodation options available match the park’s wild character, with simple and discreet lodgings for a fully immersive experience. 

Guesthouses 

Staying in a guesthouse during a safari in Mikumi National Park is certainly the best way to live like a local. These small rustic houses offer basic comfort, but guarantee an authentic experience. 

Campsites

There are 4 different campsites in the heart of Mikumi National Park. These public campsites have basic facilities: toilets, shower, kitchen, dining room and access to running water. Ideal for enjoying a budget safari experience while retaining the “adventure” aspect of a trip to Tanzania.

Tented camps 

The tented camp is the iconic safari accommodation in Tanzania. These well-equipped semi-rigid canvas tents provide a certain level of comfort without compromising the authenticity and charm of this accommodation set in the heart of the savannah. Mikumi National Park has 3 tented camps that are perfect for getting away from it all: Vuma Hill Tented Lodge, Fox Safari Camp and Mikumi Wildlife Camp.

Lodges

Lodges are synonymous with comfort, premium services and relaxation in the midst of Tanzania’s wild nature. These solidly built accommodations in Mikumi National Park offer the same services as a hotel.

Outdoor activities and adventures in Mikumi

Mikumi National Park can be explored in several ways, with different safari experiences available within this magnificent protected reserve: 

• A 4×4 safari to discover the park’s most beautiful panoramas
• A walking safari to get closer to the majestic herbivores
• A night safari to see the big cats in action
• Birdwatching on the Mkata plains

Guided and tailor-made safaris in Mikumi

Would you like to go on a safari in Mikumi National Park? Off Road Tanzania helps you organise the trip of your dreams in Tanzania. With a fully personalised itinerary, authentic and comfortable accommodation, a private driver, a passionate local guide and support, you will enjoy a unique adventure in complete safety! Take advantage of our local agency’s expertise to create a tailor-made safari suited to your budget and wishes. Would you like to continue your trip on the beaches of Zanzibar? That is possible! We will do everything we can to bring your project to life.

La meilleure période pour visiter le parc national de Mikumi

When is the best time to visit Mikumi National Park? The best period for wildlife viewing is the dry season, which runs from June to September. Due to the high temperatures, waterholes dry up and animals gather around the remaining water sources. This makes them easier to find and observe on a safari. The park remains accessible during the rainy season, but the regular downpours make wildlife viewing more difficult.

Protecting Mikumi’s environment and heritage

A key site for wildlife and flora conservation, Mikimu National Park plays an important role in protecting and preserving Tanzania’s iconic species. The park entrance fee helps fund the actions needed to preserve this fragile natural environment. Mikumi National Park also serves as a teaching centre for students of ecology and conservation.

Preparing and organising your safari in Mikumi

A trip to Tanzania including a safari circuit in Mikumi National Park requires some preparation. Discover all our advice for your next adventure in the south of the country. 

How do you get to Mikumi National Park?

• Mikumi National Park is easily accessible from Dar Es Saalam; the journey takes 3.5 to 4 hours via the motorway. The connection can also be made by bus and plane from Dar Es Saalam.
• If you are travelling from Arusha in the north of the country, the journey is likely to be quite long. Allow more than 10 hours. We recommend choosing a domestic flight, which takes around 1 hour.
• From Undzungwa National Park, you can reach Mikumi National Park in less than two hours by road. 
• Although Selous and Ruaha parks are close to Mikumi, the roads are particularly rough. It is generally recommended to take a domestic flight for the journey. 

How long should you stay in Mikumi ?

The ideal length of stay in Mikumi National Park is 2 days. A 2-day safari will allow you to encounter a large number of wild animals and discover the many facets of the park. Make the most of your time in the south of Tanzania to explore Selous, Ruaha and Udzungwa parks. These destinations are full of majestic wild animals such as elephants, as well as chimpanzees and black rhinos.

Prices and regulations

To enter Mikumi National Park in Tanzania, you must pay an entry fee. Prices vary depending on age and remain affordable for those on a small budget:

• 30$/day for adults
• 15$/day for children aged 5 to 18
• Free entry for under 5s 

Inside the park, make sure you follow the rules that apply to all safaris in Tanzania: 

• Keep your distance from the animals
• Respect the flora
• Be discreet
• Pick up your litter

The history and creation of Mikumi National Park

Mikumi National Park was established in 1964 with the aim of preserving its rich natural heritage. The protection and conservation of wildlife and flora are major issues in Tanzania. The creation of protected reserves was therefore essential. With an area of 3,230 km² and 200 km of driveable tracks, Mikumi National Park is Tanzania’s 3^rd largest national park. The safari area is concentrated in the north of the reserve.

Safari in Mikumi National Park

For a unique experience, head into the wild lands of Mikumi National Park. It is a place where lions, leopards and hyenas roam freely and where you can discover the sights and sounds of Africa without the crowds.

The park is the perfect destination for a safari ! It is home to a wide variety of animals, including the Big Five. It is a biodiversity hotspot with more than 30 species of mammals, 20 species of butterflies and over 1,200 plants. Top tip: make sure you do not miss the hippos living in the mud pools just 5 km north of one of the entrances!

A place that is particularly well suited to wildlife watching is the Mkata plains! It is a place where you can see lions, gazelles, zebras and wildebeest playing, as well as elands, greater kudus and sable antelopes. Near the waterholes you will have the chance to spot crocodiles, hippos and many migratory birds.

Paradise awaits you. Fly to an idyllic setting to discover more than 400 bird species, including the long-tailed roller, the yellow-throated sentinel and the bateleur eagle. Discover as well the customs of the Maasai tribe. Set off on an adventure in the villages near the park, enjoy the cuisine and experience the morning rituals.

Travelling in southern Tanzania

We recommend staying 2 to 4 days in Mikumi so that you can meet the greatest number of animals and make the most of your trip.

Visits to Mikumi National Park are commonly combined with a trip to the parks of Selous, Ruaha and Udzungwa or with a trip to Zanzibar. These destinations are full of majestic wildlife such as elephants, as well as chimpanzees and black rhinos.