"Wildlife Sanctuary and Game Drives"
Mikumi National Park Tourism
Mikumi National Park, located near Morogoro in Tanzania, is a vast wildlife reserve that borders the famous Selous Game Reserve. Covering 3,230 square kilometres, it provides opportunities to encounter four of the big five animals (excluding rhinos). The park's Mkata floodplain is a great place to observe majestic lions. Notably, it has a thriving population of African Wild Dogs, a sizable eland population, and unique "midget" elephants distinct from larger African elephants found elsewhere.
Mikumi National Park is Tanzania's fourth-largest park. Besides the Big Five, it features a unique giraffe species bridging the Masaai and reticulated giraffe. The park is home to over 400 bird species, including unique ones like the Blue-billed Teal and Crested Francolin. Although less visited than places like Serengeti, Mikumi offers a tranquil and authentic wildlife experience for those exploring Tanzania's natural wonders.
Entry Fees to Mikumi National Park:
Park Entry Fee:
EAC: Adult – TSH 5000, Child – TSH 2000
Resident: Adult – $15, Child - $5
Non-EAC: Adult - $30, Child - $10
Special Activities:
Night Game Drive:
EAC: Adult – TSH 10,000, Child – TSH 5,000
Resident: Adult - $50, Child - $25
Non-EAC: Adult – 50, Child - $25
Walking Safari:
Short walks of 1 to 4 hours - $20
Long walks above 4 hours - $25
Entrance Gates to Mikumi National Park:
Mikumi National Park has two main entrance gates:
1. Mikumi Main Gate: This entrance gate is located on the eastern side of the park. It is close to the Mkata floodplain, which is a popular area in the park for wildlife sightings, including lions and elephants. The Mikumi Main Gate is closest to the town of Mikumi, which is approximately 7 kilometres (4.3 miles) away.
2. Uzungwa Gate: This entrance gate is situated on the southern side of Mikumi National Park, near the Udzungwa Mountains National Park. It is close to the Udzungwa Mountains National Park, which is known for its lush rainforests and diverse plant and animal species. The Uzungwa Gate is closest to the town of Mang'ula, which is approximately 10 kilometres (6.2 miles) away.
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Things to do in Mikumi National Park
1. Game Drives Safari
Game drives are the most popular safari option in Mikumi National Park. These can be either full-day or half-day safaris. Full-day game drives usually start early in the morning and end in the late af (Read More)ternoon. Half-day safaris typically last for about 4 to 6 hours and can be scheduled for the morning or afternoon. During game drives, visitors explore the park's diverse landscapes and wildlife habitats, guided by experienced safari drivers. It's an excellent way to spot a wide variety of animals, including lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and more.
2. Walking Safaris
Some tour operators may offer walking safaris, which allow visitors to explore the park on foot with an armed ranger guide. Walking safaris provide a more intimate experience with nature, focusing on (Read More)tracking animal footprints, observing smaller creatures, and learning about the flora and fauna up close.
3. Night Safaris
Night safaris are a unique experience to discover nocturnal wildlife. These safaris are conducted after dark, using spotlights to observe animals that are active during the night time, such as hyenas, (Read More) civets, and owls.
4. Birdwatching Safaris
Mikumi National Park is a paradise for birdwatchers, with over 400 bird species. Birdwatching safaris focus on spotting and identifying various bird species that inhabit the park, making it an excelle (Read More)nt choice for bird enthusiasts.
5. Mkata Floodplain
The Mkata Floodplain is a vast and scenic plain in Mikumi National Park, known for its abundant wildlife sightings, particularly lions and elephants. The best time to visit is during early mornings or (Read More) late afternoons for optimal animal viewing opportunities. Engaging in a game drive at this location allows visitors to witness a variety of fascinating animals in their natural habitat.
6. Choma Waterfalls
Choma Waterfalls is located in the northern part of Mikumi National Park. It offers cascading falls surrounded by lush landscapes, making it ideal for nature walks, hikes, photography, and relaxation. (Read More) The best time to visit is during the rainy season between November and May for peak water flow.
7. Vuma Hills
Vuma Hills offer elevated viewpoints within the park, providing stunning vistas of the surrounding landscape. It is an ideal spot for photography and sunset watching. For the most breathtaking views, (Read More)visiting Vuma Hills during the late afternoon is highly recommended.
8. Kikoboga and Mwanamboga Waterholes
Kikoboga and Mwanamboga Waterholes are natural watering spots that attract a diverse range of wildlife in Mikumi National Park allowing wildlife observation opportunities. The best times to visit are (Read More)early morning or late afternoon when animals gather for drinking and bathing.
9. Hippo Pools
Hippo Pools is a specific area in the park where visitors can observe hippos in their aquatic environment. The best time to visit Hippo Pools is during the late morning or early afternoon when hippos (Read More)are most active and visible. This time is also ideal for birdwatching at the Hippo Pool.
10. The Mkata River
The Mkata River offers boat safaris, where visitors can explore aquatic wildlife and bird species. The best times for boat safaris are during the morning or late afternoon, as wildlife activity tends (Read More)to be higher during these periods.
11. Uluguru Mountains
The Uluguru Mountains offer adventurous trekking opportunities for hikers. To avoid the midday heat and enjoy the hike fully, it's best to start in the early morning.
12. Mikumi Village Tour
Visitors can experience the local culture and traditions by taking a tour of Mikumi Village. Engaging during the daytime allows visitors to interact with the community and learn about their way of lif (Read More)e.
13. Msolwa Village Tour
The rural lifestyle and cultural heritage of the local community can be explored by visiting Msolwa village. Daytime visits offer opportunities to interact with villagers and gain insights into their (Read More)daily lives.
14. The Water Tower
The Water Tower is a popular viewpoint that provides breathtaking panoramic views of Mikumi National Park. It is recommended to visit in the morning for clear views and cooler temperatures.
Must Know Before You Travel to Mikumi National Park
- Timings: The park gates open at 06:00 AM and close at 06:00 PM for visitors and 07:00 PM for people staying within the park.
- Weekend Getaway: Mikumi National Park is an easily accessible safari destination from Dar es Salaam, providing a unique and offbeat experience for short trips.
- Budget-Friendly Option: Mikumi National Park is affordable compared to other national parks in Tanzania, making it a great choice for those on a budget.
- Payment Modes: Prepay your park entry fees in Dar es Salaam at the bank or use a credit card at the gate - cash payments are not allowed. Non-residents should pay the park entry fee in US dollars by credit card, not Tanzanian Shillings.
- Commuting within the Park: Opt for a 4x4 vehicle to navigate through the park.
- Self-Driving Allowed: You can bring your own vehicle into Mikumi National Park. Just make sure it's a 4x4 and follow park rules for safe driving.
- Entry Validity: Park entry fees are valid for 24 hours from the time of entering the park.
- Pet Policy: Pets are not allowed in the park.
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Wildlife in Mikumi National Park
Mikumi National Park boasts an impressive array of wildlife including, visitors can encounter four out of the Big Five - lions, leopards, elephants (including unique smaller elephants different from larger African elephants), and Cape buffaloes. Additionally, the park is home to a large population of different antelopes such as African Wild Dogs, elands (the world's largest antelope), greater kudus, sable antelopes, and the unusual Lichtenstein's hartebeest, making it a special highlight. Wildlife sightings also include zebras, wildebeests, impalas, giraffes, hippos, gazelles, and topis in the vast landscape.
The park's diverse avian life includes over 400 bird species such as the vibrant Lilac-breasted roller, striking secretary bird, Boehm's Bee-eater, swift Dickson's kestrel, elegant Straw-tailed Whydah, vivid Superb starling, melodious Yellow-throated long claw, impressive Bateleur eagle, and graceful herons, among many others, adding to the rich biodiversity of Mikumi National Park.
Travel Tips for Mikumi National Park
- Prior Booking: It is crucial to choose reputable and experienced tour operators for a safe and enjoyable safari experience in Mikumi National Park.
- Fuel: Ensure you have a full tank of petrol and carry an emergency jerry can with at least 20 litres of fuel and a full-sized spare tyre for remote areas and difficult terrains.
- Tsetse Flies: Be cautious of Tsetse flies in forested areas that cause sleeping sickness and keep windows closed to avoid bites.
- Safari Combination: Consider combining your visit to Mikumi National Park with other parks in Southern and Western Tanzania, such as Nyerere (Selous), Ruaha, Katavi, and Gombe, to maximize your wildlife adventure
Best Time to Visit Mikumi National Park
Nearby Places
How to Reach Mikumi National Park
How to Reach Overview
Mikumi National Park in Tanzania is accessible both by air and road. The nearest major airport is Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam, and from there, you can take a domestic flight to Mikumi Airport (Kikoboga Airstrip), the closest airstrip to the park. Alternatively, you can travel by road, with routes available from Dar es Salaam and Morogoro, taking around 4 to 5 hours and 3 to 4 hours, respectively.
How to reach Mikumi National Park by flight
The nearest major airport to Mikumi National Park is Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam. From the airport, you can take a domestic flight to Mikumi Airport (Kikoboga Airstrip), which is the closest airstrip to the park. From Mikumi Airport, you can arrange a transfer to the park's entrance or your accommodation.
Safari Air Link is the only flight that operates to Mikumi. It takes around one and a half hours and costs approximately $500 for a round-trip per person.
Safari Air Link is the only flight that operates to Mikumi. It takes around one and a half hours and costs approximately $500 for a round-trip per person.
How to reach Mikumi National Park by road
Mikumi National Park is accessible by road, and there are several routes you can take depending on your starting point in Tanzania. From Dar es Salaam, one of the common routes is via the A7 highway. The distance is approximately 283 kilometres (176 miles) and takes around 4 to 5 hours by car. Another popular route is from Morogoro, which is about 195 kilometres (121 miles) and takes approximately 3 to 4 hours by road.
How to reach Mikumi National Park by bus
Taking the bus is also quite convenient. Good bus companies are Sumry and Scandanavia and Mbeya Express. In Dar es Salaam the ticket must be bought in a part of the city called Ubungo. It is recommended to buy the ticket one day before departure.
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