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Mikumi National Park
Easy-access wilderness
Tanzania's most accessible big-game park from Dar es Salaam — open plains full of wildlife, framed by mountains.
Big skies, big game.
Mikumi National Park lies between the Uluguru and Udzungwa mountains, a few hours' drive west of Dar es Salaam. At its heart is the Mkata floodplain — open grassland dotted with acacias, palms and baobabs that is often compared to the Serengeti.
The plains support lions, elephants, buffalo, zebra, wildebeest and giraffes, while the hippo pools are a highlight of any visit. More than 400 bird species have been recorded in the park.
Mikumi borders the vast Nyerere ecosystem to the south, making it the perfect first stop on a southern circuit safari — exactly how we use it on our Selous Wilderness Adventure.
Mkata floodplainWhat you'll see.
Mikumi's open plains make wildlife easy to spot, even on a short visit.
Lions
Prides hunt across the Mkata floodplain and rest in the shade of acacias during the heat of the day.
Elephants
Elephant herds wander between the woodland and the waterholes.
Buffalo, zebra & wildebeest
Large herds graze the open grasslands throughout the year.
Giraffes & eland
Masai giraffes are everywhere, and Mikumi is known for its herds of eland — Africa's largest antelope.
Hippo pools
Watch dozens of hippos at close range from the viewpoint at the famous hippo pools.
Birdlife
Over 400 species, including lilac-breasted rollers, bateleur eagles and yellow-throated longclaws.
When to visit.
Mikumi is open all year; the dry season offers the easiest game viewing.
Dry season — best
Short grass and animals gathered around water make for excellent sightings.
Green season
Green landscapes, newborn animals and great birdwatching with fewer visitors.
Long rains
The wettest months; some tracks may be difficult after heavy rain.
Things to do 
in Mikumi.
Floodplain game drives
Explore the Mkata floodplain in search of lions, elephants and giraffes.
Hippo pools
Stop at the hippo pools for close-up views — and plenty of noise.
Birdwatching
An easy and rewarding park for birders, especially in the green season.
Udzungwa waterfalls
Extend your trip with a forest hike to the waterfalls of the nearby Udzungwa Mountains.
Southern circuit
Continue south into Nyerere National Park for boat and walking safaris.
Short safaris
A great option for a short safari of two or three days from Dar es Salaam.
Mikumi
in pictures.
A glimpse of what is waiting for you.
Getting there.
Practical tips to help you plan your visit to Mikumi.
By road
About 290 km (roughly 4–5 hours) west of Dar es Salaam on the main highway, which crosses the park.
By air
Charter flights can reach the park's airstrip; most visitors arrive by road.
Where to stay
Tented camps and lodges inside the park and just outside its gates.
Good to know
Mikumi pairs perfectly with Nyerere National Park (Selous) for a complete southern safari.
Safaris that visit Mikumi.
View All Safaris
Selous Wilderness Adventure
Plan a custom trip
Every Jolita Safari can be tailored — dates, length, parks and lodges. Tell us your dream and we will build it around Mikumi.
Start planningFrequently asked
questions.
Start your southern safari.
Combine Mikumi and Nyerere for a wild, uncrowded Tanzania adventure.