Mikumi National Park
Mikumi National Park is one of Tanzania’s most accessible and popular parks, located about 283 kilometers west of Dar es Salaam, making it a great option for a short safari trip. Covering an area of approximately 3,230 square kilometers, it is part of the larger Selous ecosystem and offers a classic East African safari experience, with its open plains and diverse wildlife.
The park is home to a wide variety of animals, including lions, elephants, zebras, giraffes, wildebeests, buffaloes, and several species of antelope. Mikumi is also known for its large population of hippos, often seen wallowing in the pools near the Mkata River. Birdwatchers will enjoy spotting over 400 species of birds, including hornbills, lilac-breasted rollers, and fish eagles.
The park’s landscape is often compared to the Serengeti, with its vast savannahs dotted with acacia trees and baobabs. Game drives are the most popular activity, and visitors can easily see large herds of wildlife in the Mkata floodplain, a central part of the park that is rich in game.
Mikumi’s close proximity to Dar es Salaam makes it ideal for those with limited time or those looking for an introduction to Tanzania’s wildlife. It’s also often combined with a visit to the Udzungwa Mountains or Selous Game Reserve, offering a more comprehensive safari experience.