Mikumi National Park

Mikumi National Park is one of Tanzania’s most accessible wildlife parks, located just a few hours’ drive from Dar es Salaam. It serves as a popular gateway to southern Tanzania’s wilderness and offers a rich safari experience with open grasslands, acacia woodlands, and seasonal floodplains. The park is often compared to the Serengeti due to its wide savannah landscapes, especially in the Mkata Floodplain, which provides excellent game-viewing opportunities. Lions, zebras, giraffes, elephants, wildebeests, and hippos are common sights, and the birdlife is equally impressive with over 400 species recorded.

Mikumi belongs to the Southern Safari Circuit, which also includes major parks like Ruaha, Nyerere (formerly Selous), and Udzungwa Mountains. Unlike the more commercialized Northern Circuit, Mikumi and its southern counterparts offer a quieter, less crowded safari experience—ideal for travelers seeking a more relaxed, authentic connection with nature. Mikumi is often combined with nearby parks for extended Southern Circuit itineraries, and its proximity to the highway makes it a great option for short or last-minute safaris.

One of the unique features of Mikumi is the opportunity to spot wildlife without needing to venture far from the main roads, making it particularly suitable for first-time safari-goers, families, or those on shorter visits. Its accessibility, combined with beautiful landscapes and abundant wildlife, makes Mikumi National Park a perfect introduction to Tanzania’s southern wilderness. Whether for a day trip or as part of a longer safari, Mikumi provides a rewarding and memorable safari experience within the Southern Circuit.