Explore Mikumi National Park

Explore Mikumi National Park: A Wildlife Safari Just Outside Dar es Salaam

Mikumi National Park is one of Tanzania’s best-kept safari secrets—perfect for travelers looking for a shorter yet rewarding wildlife experience. As the fourth largest national park in Tanzania, Mikumi shares a border with the vast Selous Game Reserve (now part of Nyerere National Park), creating an extended wilderness corridor for wildlife to roam freely.

Its proximity to Dar es Salaam (just a 4-hour drive) makes it one of the most accessible parks in the country—ideal for weekend getaways or as an addition to a longer Southern Circuit safari. From sweeping floodplains and open grasslands to acacia woodlands and miombo forests, Mikumi offers diverse landscapes teeming with wildlife and birdlife.

Wildlife Viewing in Mikumi National Park

Mikumi delivers excellent game viewing, especially in the Mkata floodplain, which resembles the Serengeti in miniature. Here, you’ll have the chance to spot:

• Lions, elephants, and buffalo

• Giraffes, zebras, and wildebeest

• Eland, sable antelope, greater kudu, and impala

• Yellow baboons, vervet monkeys, and servals

• Hippos lounging in pools, often surrounded by waterbirds

Whether you’re a seasoned safari-goer or a first-time visitor, Mikumi offers an authentic African wildlife experience without the crowds.

Birdwatching in Mikumi: Over 400 Species to Discover

Bird enthusiasts will be delighted by the park’s avian diversity, with over 400 bird species recorded. Notable birds include:

• Lilac-breasted roller

• Bateleur eagle

• Yellow-throated longclaw

During the rainy season, European migratory birds join the local residents, adding to the park’s rich birdlife.

Where to Stay in Mikumi National Park

Mikumi offers a variety of safari accommodations, catering to different tastes and budgets. Options include:

• Budget lodges: Affordable and comfortable for the cost-conscious traveler

• Mid-range camps: Balance of comfort and value

• Luxury lodges: For those seeking a high-end safari experience

Recommended places to stay include Vuma Hills Tented Camp, TAN-SWISS Lodge, Mantis Lodge, and Mikumi Adventure Lodge. Trek Africa Expeditions can help you select the right option based on your preferences and travel style.

Getting to Mikumi National Park

Located about 283 kilometers west of Dar es Salaam, Mikumi is a 4-hour drive via the Morogoro highway. It’s one of the most convenient safari destinations for those starting their trip in Tanzania’s bustling capital.

Travel Tips: Visa and Entry Requirements for Tanzania

To enter Tanzania, most visitors will need a tourist visa, which can be obtained on arrival at the airport or land border for USD 100 (depending on nationality). It’s often quicker to apply online in advance.

You may also be required to show proof of yellow fever vaccination, especially if arriving from regions with health concerns. Always check the latest travel guidelines from your local Tanzanian embassy or official immigration sources before your trip.

Vehicle Hire for Your Mikumi Safari

Trek Africa Expeditions can arrange reliable transportation tailored to your itinerary, preferences, and road conditions. Recommended vehicles for safari in Mikumi include:

• 4×4 Land Cruisers: Ideal for rugged terrain (USD 200–250/day with driver)

• 4×4 Safari Vans: Comfortable and cost-effective (from USD 200/day with driver)

To estimate fuel costs, we’ll review your planned route and total distance covered. All vehicles come with professional drivers who double as knowledgeable local guides.

Best Time to Visit Mikumi National Park

Game viewing is excellent year-round, but the dry seasons from June to October and December to February offer the best conditions for wildlife sightings. During these months, animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot.

The green season (March to May and November) brings lush landscapes and vibrant birdlife but can be more challenging for wildlife viewing due to thicker vegetation.

Why Travel with Trek Africa Expeditions?

At Trek Africa Expeditions, we specialize in authentic, eco-conscious safari experiences across Tanzania and East Africa. Our expert team curates personalized adventures that combine wildlife conservation, community engagement, and unforgettable travel moments.

From Mikumi safaris to gorilla trekking, Big Five game drives, chimpanzee tracking, cultural experiences, and mountain hikes, we help you explore Africa in a way that’s meaningful, responsible, and memorable.

We are highly rated by our guests for our professionalism, personalized service, and passion for sustainable tourism. Let us help you plan your dream safari to Mikumi National Park and beyond.

Contact Trek Africa Expeditions today to start planning your Tanzania safari.