Overview

Mikumi National Park is often called the “Serengeti of the South” due to its open grasslands and abundant wildlife. Located along the main highway between Dar es Salaam and Iringa, Mikumi is Tanzania’s fourth-largest national park, covering over 3,200 square kilometers, and offers an easy safari getaway from the coast or as part of a southern circuit itinerary.

Wildlife & Scenery

Mikumi boasts an impressive variety of wildlife with landscapes that range from vast plains to miombo woodlands and swamps. Its centerpiece, the Mkata floodplain, is renowned for reliable sightings of:

• Lions, zebras, wildebeest, giraffes, buffalos, and impalas.

• Elephants often seen feeding under baobab trees.

• Hippos in the park’s hippo pools.

• A rich birdlife with over 400 species, including fish eagles, marabou storks, lilac-breasted rollers, and bateleurs.

The Uluguru Mountains and Udzungwa highlands form a scenic backdrop to the park’s northern region.

Activities & Experiences

• Game Drives: Excellent for wildlife viewing year-round, particularly on the Mkata floodplain.

• Hippo Pool Visits: Watch these giants up close along with water birds.

• Photography: Great light, wide landscapes, and abundant game make Mikumi ideal for both amateur and professional wildlife photographers.

• Short Safari Add-ons: Due to its proximity to Dar es Salaam, Mikumi is perfect for 2–3-day safaris.