Mkomazi National Park
Mkomazi National Park is a striking and rugged wilderness, a vast semi-arid savanna that stretches along Tanzania’s border with Kenya, contiguous with Kenya’s Tsavo West National Park. The park is characterized by its iconic, umbrella-shaped acacia trees, rocky outcrops, and the dramatic backdrop of the Pare and Usambara Mountains. The name “Mkomazi” is derived from the Pare tribe’s language, meaning “source of water,” a vital resource for the park’s ecosystem.
The park covers 3,245 square kilometers and was originally a Game Reserve since 1951. It was upgraded to a National Park in 2006, gaining greater protection and recognition. It is a vital sanctuary for several endangered species and offers a raw, off-the-beaten-path safari experience.
Climate
Mkomazi has a hot and dry climate for most of the year. The main wet season occurs in two periods: the short rains from November to December and the long rains from March to May. The dry season, from June to October, is the best time for wildlife viewing, as animals gather around permanent water sources like the Umba River. The landscape is generally arid, with annual rainfall averaging between 500-600 mm.
Getting There
The park is accessible by road from the towns of Moshi and Same. The main gate, Zange, is located about 112 km (a 2-hour drive) from Moshi on a tarmacked road. The drive from Same town is significantly shorter, approximately 20 km. The nearest major airport is Kilimanjaro International Airport, about a 2.5-hour drive away.
Attractions
Mkomazi National Park is renowned for its critical conservation programs and unique arid landscape. It is one of the only parks in Tanzania where visitors can see the highly endangered African wild dog and is a key sanctuary for the charismatic black rhino, which can be observed in a fenced sanctuary. The park is also famous for its populations of the majestic gerenuk, a long-necked antelope that stands on its hind legs to browse, and the sturdy beisa oryx. The dramatic, sun-baked scenery, studded with baobabs and acacias against a mountain backdrop, provides a stunningly beautiful and authentic East African experience. The sight of a herd of elephants moving through the dry scrub or a pack of wild dogs on the hunt offers a thrilling and unforgettable adventure for true safari enthusiasts.
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At Parks Adventure, every journey is more than just a tour , it’s a story worth sharing. Here’s what our happy travelers have to say after exploring Tanzania’s breathtaking national parks with us:
Posted onVerified Beautiful! Wonderful Safari thanks to Frank Mbise, an amazing guide! With his experience, patience and sympathy he made us live unforgettable moments, making us discover nature from an authentic and engaging perspective. Always available and passionate, he made every day special. An experience that we will carry in our hearts!Posted onVerified Unforgettable Safari! Many thanks to Frank and Abu for their professionalism, sympathy and passion. They made us live a unique experience, making us discover the beauty and magic of nature up close. They are committed to making every moment special, with great attention to our needs. They were very professional but at the same time simple and genuine: it is also thanks to them that this trip will remain forever in our best memories!Posted onVerified Wonderful Safari The safari trip with Frank and Abu was absolutely insane! We've seen a lot of animals, including the most rarest ones such the cheetas and the leopards with cubs. Frank was such a good driver and guide, very gentle with a very good sight. His knolwedge and expertise permits us to see lots of animals and to have a wonderful trip around Serenfeti, Ngorongoro and Tarangire.Super recommended!Posted onVerified Great experience We have been in a 7 days safari with Parks Adventure and it was a great experience. Frankie and Abu (our drivers) were great, both in finding animals for us to watch, but also as people to speak to. I could not have asked for better guides. They were informative but also open to fun a light conversation. Not to mention their knowledge about the safari and animals.You really come as visitor and leave as a friend.Posted onVerified Safari Discovery with Frank Mbise A magical, fantastic experience that will forever remain in my heart! We had an exceptional guide, Frank Mbise, our driver, who told us so much about Tanzania and the safari, making us feel part of this world! During the safari, he was fantastic; he managed to spot all the animals; we even managed to see leopards, cheetahs, and even the wildebeest migration. An experience that cannot be described! His kindness and humanity made us feel at home.Posted onVerified Frank Mbise is an exceptional guide Frank Mbise was the best guide and driver one could ask for. Experienced, knowledgeable, kind, he speaks excellent English and knows the national parks and wildlife perfectly. He is always available to solve any problems that may arise and, with discretion, he guided us through a truly amazing adventure.Posted onVerified Unforgettable! The wilderness in Serengeti and Tarangire was simply outstanding! Thanks also to the expertise of our top driver Frank that was always able to bring us close to the best view spot!Posted onVerified We had a fantastic experience.We went to Serengeti, Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater.Thanks to Frank Mbise we could admire all the wonder in these places and also see the Wilderbeast migration and even the Big 5 of Tanzania! Frank is a very expert driver and very nice and supportive person. We really had a great experience. Thank you Frank!!Posted onVerified Magic Frank mbise!!! Travel with adventures in the world in August 2024Definitely one of the most beautiful trips made in my life.I have to thank for this our driver Frank that if it was not for his stubbornness we would not have seen the lioness with the cubs and not even the leopard with 3 wonderful cubs.Frank simply the number 1 driver of the tanzanja All impeccablePosted onVerified Beautiful experience We saw wonderful places and lots of animals, especially thanks to Frank a special guide and passionate about his work. There was no shortage of unexpected events, but even those made the experience unique.