Mikumi National Park

Africa’s Garden of Eden

Mikumi National Park is a stunning and often overlooked safari destination in southern Tanzania. As part of the Selous ecosystem (now Nyerere National Park), Mikumi offers incredible wildlife viewing with fewer crowds, making it a fantastic option for travelers seeking an authentic and peaceful safari experience. The park is best known for its open floodplains, large herds of elephants and buffalo, and its iconic lion population, often spotted lounging on mounds or in the shade of acacia trees.

Mkata Floodplain: The Heart of Mikumi

The Mkata Floodplain is the centerpiece of the park, resembling the famous Serengeti with its wide, grassy plains dotted with animals. Here, visitors can expect to see elephants, buffalo, zebras, wildebeest, giraffes, and a variety of antelopes. Lions and spotted hyenas are also frequently seen, and lucky visitors may spot leopards or African wild dogs.

Hills & Woodlands: A Diverse Landscape

Beyond the plains, Mikumi features rolling hills and miombo woodlands, which add diversity to the safari experience. These areas are home to shy creatures like kudu, sable antelope, and eland, as well as rich birdlife. The Uluguru Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop, enhancing the park’s scenic beauty.

Why Mikumi is Special

What makes Mikumi unique is its easy accessibility from Dar es Salaam (around 4–5 hours by road), its serene atmosphere, and its rich mix of wildlife and landscapes. Though smaller and less known than northern circuit parks, Mikumi offers excellent game viewing, particularly during the dry season, and is ideal for short or combined trips with nearby Ruaha or Nyerere National Park.

At Shafino Wildlife Safaris, we bring you deep into Mikumi’s peaceful wilderness, ensuring you experience its wildlife wonders up close, without the crowds.

Activities in Ngorongoro

Top activities include classic game drives across the Mkata Floodplain and woodlands, birdwatching (with over 400 species recorded), and photography safaris capturing the park’s varied terrain and wildlife. Cultural tours to nearby villages can also be arranged for an added local experience.

Well-Known For?

Mikumi National Park is best known for its open floodplains teeming with wildlife, particularly elephants, buffalo, zebras, and lions. Its reputation as a quieter alternative to northern parks and its easy access from Dar es Salaam make it a top choice for a less crowded but rewarding safari.

When to Visit?

MonthWhat’s HappeningWhy Visit?
June – OctDry season – wildlife gathers near waterholesBest game viewing & clear conditions
Nov – DecShort rains – landscapes turn greenFewer tourists, scenic beauty
Jan – MarGreen season – scattered wildlife, lush sceneryBeautiful for photography
Apr – MayLong rains – fewer visitorsQuiet safaris & fresh landscapes

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