MIKUMI NATIONAL PARK
OVERVIEW
The Mikumi national Park Cover an area of 3,230 sq km (1250 sq miles) is the closest park to Dar-es-salaam,the commercial capital of Tanzania and is quite accessible by road and by charter plane.
Location: The National Park is Located 283 Km (about 175 miles) west of Dar-es-salaam, north of the Selous Game Reserve, less than 300 km. and en-route to both Ruaha and Udzungwa Mountains National Parks and ( for the intrepid )katavi
Best time to visit : Accessible all year rounds.
Bird life: Over 300 species of birds have been observed in the park some of, which are Eurasian migrants who stay between October and April.
Wildlife: The famous lion climbing tree are also found here other animals are Africa rare wild dogs, Elephants, giraffes, Zebras, buffaloes, wildebeests, eland, and litechrstein’s hartebeest crocodiles, monitor lizard and python are also found in the area. At the southern end of the flood plain, in the kikoboga area families of yellow baboon live.
Hippos wallow in the water of Hippo pools. The hippo pools are about 5 Kms northwest of the main Park Gate and it is usually possible to see hippos as well as several species of birds, such as cattle egrets and open billed storks. Elephants are found throughout the park, but often favor this area in December and January.
Access: The Park is located 300 kms west of Dar-es-salaam and it takes a four-hour drive on a good road from Dar-es-salaam. From Morogoro the main Tanzania-Zambia road continues west for about 100Kms before reaching the boundary of Mikumi national Park. There is an airstrip near the Park. From Dar-es-Salaam is one hour flight.
To do: Combine with a visit to nearby Udzungwa, or travel on to selous Game Reserve or Continue on to Ruaha.
Accommodation: 2 lodges, One Luxury tented camp with plans for a second, 3 camp Sites and Guesthouse in Mikumi town on the Park border. (Mikumi Wildlife Lodge).
Best Time To Visit
December to March: Calving season is the ideal time to witness the birth of thousands of young animals. It’s also when predators are most active, hunting vulnerable newborns.
April to June: The migration begins, as large herds of wildebeest, zebras, and other species start moving northward across the Serengeti in search of fresh grazing lands.
July to October: Peak migration season, especially notable for the dramatic and dangerous crossings of the Mara River, where many animals fall prey to crocodiles.
November: Short rains signal the return of the herds to the Serengeti after months away, revitalizing the landscape and offering another spectacular wildlife display.
HOW TO GET THERE
By Road: The Serengeti is accessible by a roughly 7-hour scenic drive from Arusha, allowing travelers to pass through various landscapes, including villages and countryside along the way. It’s a great option for those who enjoy road trips and want to see more of the Tanzanian landscape before arriving at the park.
By Air: For a faster, more convenient option, regular flights operate from Arusha to multiple airstrips within the Serengeti. These flights significantly reduce travel time, offering stunning aerial views of Tanzania’s wildlife and landscapes.
TIPS FOR VISITORS
- Pack Smart: Bring lightweight, comfortable clothing suitable for varying temperatures, along with a hat, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
- Stay Hydrated: Make sure to carry plenty of water, especially during extended game drives to stay refreshed.
- Respect Wildlife: Always observe animals from a safe distance and avoid interacting with or feeding them.
- Follow the Rules: Listen carefully to your guide and follow all park regulations for both your safety and the preservation of the environment.
