Mikumi National Park is located in southeastern Tanzania, about 280 km west of Dar es Salaam. It is part of the larger Selous ecosystem and is bordered by the Uluguru Mountains to the northeast and the Udzungwa Mountains to the southwest. Its strategic location along the A-7 highway makes it one of the most accessible national parks in Tanzania.

Mikumi National Park boasts a diverse range of wildlife, including:

• Large Mammals: Elephants, lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, elands, and buffalo.
• Predators: Besides lions, you might spot hyenas and jackals.
• Primates: Yellow baboons and vervet monkeys are common.
• Birdlife: With over 400 species, birdwatchers can enjoy sightings of colorful species such as the lilac-breasted roller, African fish eagle, and various kingfishers. During the rainy season, migratory birds such as European storks arrive. The open plains make it easier to spot animals, and the Mkata Floodplain is a particularly good spot for wildlife sightings.

The dry season (June to October) is the most popular time to visit, as the thinning vegetation makes wildlife easier to spot. Animals tend to gather around waterholes, providing excellent game viewing opportunities. The wet season (November to May), particularly during the short rains in November and December, is also a good time for birdwatching, as migratory birds arrive. The landscape becomes lush and green, but roads may be muddier, and animals are more dispersed, making wildlife viewing a bit more challenging.

In addition to game drives, Mikumi National Park offers a variety of activities:

• Guided Walking Safaris: Explore the park on foot with an experienced ranger, offering a unique way to experience the environment and learn about smaller animals, plants, and insects.
• Birdwatching Safaris: With hundreds of bird species, Mikumi is a paradise for bird enthusiasts.
• Cultural Visits: Visit nearby villages for a chance to learn about the culture of local tribes such as the Maasai and the Waluguru.
• Night Game Drives: Some lodges offer night safaris, allowing visitors to spot nocturnal animals like leopards, civets, and porcupines.

Mikumi National Park is easily accessible by road or air:

• By Road: The park is about a 4-5 hour drive from Dar es Salaam along the A-7 highway, which is well-maintained. Road transfers from Morogoro or Udzungwa Mountains are also possible.
• By Air: Charter flights are available from Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar to the Mikumi Airstrip, offering a quick and scenic journey. From the airstrip, it’s a short drive to most lodges within the park.

Mikumi offers a wide range of accommodations to suit various budgets:

• Luxury Lodges: These lodges offer modern amenities, swimming pools, fine dining, and spacious suites with spectacular views of the savannah or mountains.
• Mid-Range Lodges: Comfortable, with en-suite facilities and often featuring traditional African architecture, these lodges provide an authentic safari experience with good service.
• Budget Camps and Tented Lodges: These more affordable options offer a closer-to-nature experience. While more basic, they are clean and safe, often offering views of wildlife from your tent.
• Campsites: For adventurous travelers, there are basic campsites where you can pitch a tent, offering a true wilderness experience.

While it’s possible to self-drive in Mikumi, hiring a guided tour is highly recommended. Experienced guides not only enhance the safari experience with their knowledge of wildlife behavior but also help navigate the park more effectively. Guides are also essential for walking safaris, ensuring safety and providing insights into the park’s ecosystem.

• Clothing: Lightweight, neutral-colored clothing is best for blending into the environment. Long sleeves and pants are recommended to protect against sun and insects. Don’t forget a hat, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes for walking safaris.
• Accessories: Binoculars are crucial for wildlife viewing, and a camera with a good zoom lens will help capture distant animals. Sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle are also essential.
• Layers: Morning and evening game drives can be chilly, especially in the dry season, so bring a warm jacket or fleece.
• Rain Gear: If visiting during the rainy season, pack a lightweight rain jacket.

Mikumi is home to three of the Big Five animals – lions, elephants, and buffalo. While leopards are present, they are elusive and rarely spotted. However, rhinos are absent in the park. Despite this, Mikumi offers a rich wildlife experience with a variety of other animals and bird species.

Mikumi is part of Tanzania’s national park system and benefits from various conservation efforts:

• Anti-poaching Programs: Park authorities, along with local and international organizations, work to protect animals from poaching. Rangers patrol the park regularly to monitor wildlife and prevent illegal activities.
• Community Conservation Initiatives: The park engages with local communities to promote conservation awareness, sustainable agriculture, and eco-tourism as alternatives to activities like poaching.
• Tourism Management: Revenue from tourism supports the park’s maintenance, research, and wildlife protection efforts, ensuring that Mikumi remains a sanctuary for wildlife.