Mikumi National Park

Mikumi National Park

Tanzania’s most accessible Southern Circuit park, only about 4–5 hours from Dar es Salaam and bisected by a highway. Its Mkata Floodplain — open grassland dotted with palm trees and framed by mountains — draws frequent comparisons to the Serengeti. Mikumi borders the vast Nyerere (Selous) ecosystem to the south.

Easy access from Dar es Salaam

Mkata Floodplain

Open grassland often compared to the Serengeti

Palm-dotted Plains

Classic African landscape framed by mountains

Hippo Pools

Near the main gate — especially magical at sunset

Southern Link

Borders the vast Nyerere (Selous) ecosystem

Wildlife

Elephants
Giraffes
Zebras
Wildebeest
Buffalo
Lions
Leopards
Hyenas
Wild Dogs
Hippos
400+ Birds

Large herds of elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest and buffalo roam the plains. Lions (including some tree-climbing individuals), leopards, hyenas and wild dogs are also present. The hippo pools near the main gate are a particular highlight at sunset.

Activities

Game Drives

Day and night drives across the Mkata plains. Night drives offer rare nocturnal sightings not possible in many other parks.

Guided Nature Walks

Explore the landscape on foot with a guide for a closer look at plants, smaller animals and birdlife.

Birdwatching

Over 400 bird species, including yellow-billed storks and the striking bateleur eagle.

Picnicking & Cultural Visits

Enjoy scenic viewpoints across the plains, or visit nearby Mikumi village for a cultural experience.