Mikumi National Park is a vast expanse of wilderness that serves as the gateway to Tanzania’s southern safari circuit. Bordering the mighty Selous Game Reserve, it forms part of a much larger ecosystem. The park is characterized by the Mkata floodplain, its central feature, which is often compared to the more famous Serengeti plains due to its open grasslands and abundant wildlife.

The park covers 3,230 square kilometers, making it the fourth largest in Tanzania. It was established as a National Park in 1964. Its accessibility and reliable wildlife viewing make it a popular destination for both tourists and residents, offering a classic African safari experience within easy reach of the major city.

Climate
The park experiences a tropical climate with a distinct wet and dry season. The main rainy season is from December to April, which can make some roads challenging but transforms the landscape into a lush, green paradise. The dry season, from May to October, is the best time for game viewing, as animals gather around the remaining water sources and the vegetation thins out. Temperatures are warm year-round.

Getting There
Mikumi is one of the most accessible national parks in Tanzania. It can be reached by a scenic drive of approximately 4-5 hours (300 km) from Dar es Salaam on a well-tarmacked road. The main gate is located directly off the highway. The park can also be reached by flight, with several scheduled domestic flights landing at the nearby Mikumi airstrip.

Attractions
Mikumi National Park is celebrated for its rich concentrations of wildlife on the Mkata floodplain. Visitors are almost guaranteed to see impressive herds of elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and buffaloes. The park is also known for its predators, including lions, leopards, and spotted hyenas. The floodplain is dotted with iconic baobab and acacia trees, creating a quintessential African landscape. Bird enthusiasts can enjoy over 400 species, from the vibrant lilac-breasted roller to the massive ground hornbill. The sight of a lion pride resting on the rocky outcrops or a journey of giraffes silhouetted against the sunset provides a truly authentic safari adventure.