SOUTHERN TANZANIA

Mikumi National Park

Wide-open plains, abundant wildlife and an accessible taste of Southern Tanzania’s untamed wilderness.

DISCOVER MIKUMI

Where the Southern Wilderness Opens Wide

Mikumi National Park offers a classic African safari landscape of open grasslands, scattered acacia trees and distant mountain ranges. Located within Tanzania’s southern safari circuit, the park is particularly accessible from Dar es Salaam and has also become a popular choice for short fly-in safaris from Zanzibar.

At the heart of Mikumi lies the expansive Mkata Floodplain, one of the park’s most rewarding wildlife areas. Elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras and wildebeest roam the plains, while lions and other predators patrol a landscape that often provides excellent visibility for wildlife viewing.

Mikumi’s combination of accessibility and rewarding game viewing makes it particularly attractive to travellers with limited time. Whether experienced as a one-day fly-in adventure from Zanzibar or incorporated into a longer exploration of Southern Tanzania, the park provides a genuine safari experience without requiring a lengthy itinerary.

THE MIKUMI EXPERIENCE

Open Plains & Wild Encounters

The Mkata Floodplain

The Mkata Floodplain forms the wildlife-rich heart of Mikumi. Its broad grasslands and scattered trees create classic safari scenery while providing excellent opportunities to observe animals across relatively open terrain.

Classic African Wildlife

Elephants, giraffes, buffalo, zebras, wildebeest, impalas and other plains game are regularly encountered throughout the park. Lions are among Mikumi’s most sought-after predators, while hippos can be found around permanent water sources and an impressive variety of birds inhabits the park.

Safari From Zanzibar

Mikumi provides an appealing contrast to Zanzibar’s beaches and historic towns. Scheduled flights make it possible to leave the island in the morning, spend the day exploring the park by 4×4 and return to Zanzibar later the same day, making wildlife and beach experiences surprisingly easy to combine.

WHEN TO GO

Best Time to Visit Mikumi National Park

Mikumi can be visited throughout the year, although the character of the park changes considerably between the dry and rainy seasons. June through October generally offers the easiest wildlife viewing, while the greener months provide lush scenery and excellent birdlife.

Jan – Mar

Green Season

Seasonal rainfall keeps the plains green and creates attractive landscapes for photography. Wildlife remains present throughout the park, while birdlife is particularly rewarding during the wetter months.

Apr – May

Long Rains

The main rainy season brings lush vegetation and fewer visitors. Wildlife viewing remains possible, although heavy rainfall can make some tracks more difficult and occasionally affect travel arrangements.

Jun – Oct

Dry Season

This is generally the most rewarding period for straightforward wildlife viewing. As water becomes scarcer and vegetation thins, animals increasingly gather around reliable water sources, making them easier to locate across the open plains.

Nov – Dec

Short Rains

The short rains begin transforming the dry landscape back into green grassland. Wildlife viewing remains rewarding, while migratory birds add to the park’s already impressive birdlife.

Good to Know

Mikumi is particularly useful for travellers staying in Zanzibar or Dar es Salaam who have limited time for safari. A fly-in day safari is possible, but travellers with more time can stay overnight and enjoy a less hurried exploration of the park.