Mikumi National Park
Mikumi National Park, Tanzania’s fourth-largest park, covers an area of 3,230 square kilometers and is part of the larger Selous ecosystem. Its convenient location, just a 4-hour drive (283 kms) from Dar es Salaam, makes it an accessible safari destination, especially for visitors with limited time. Often called a smaller Serengeti due to its expansive plains and abundance of wildlife, Mikumi offers a less crowded, more intimate safari experience without compromising on wildlife sightings.
Mikumi National Park, Tanzania’s fourth-largest park, covers an area of 3,230 square kilometers and is part of the larger Selous ecosystem. Its convenient location, just a 4-hour drive (283 kms) from Dar es Salaam, makes it an accessible safari destination, especially for visitors with limited time. Often called a smaller Serengeti due to its expansive plains and abundance of wildlife, Mikumi offers a less crowded, more intimate safari experience without compromising on wildlife sightings.
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Mikumi is easy to reach yet full of classic safari scenes — open plains with elephants, giraffes, and lions against a backdrop of the Uluguru Mountains.
We connect you with 2–3 trusted local operators who know how to plan the perfect Mikumi safari, whether it’s a quick getaway from Dar es Salaam or combined with nearby Selous/Nyerere.
No middlemen. No inflated prices. Just real value from safari companies who make even a short trip to Mikumi feel special.
Get quotes from specialists who know how to make Mikumi memorable.
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Plan Your TANZANIA / KENYA Safari
Best Price Guarantee. 10+ Years Experience
Get the Best Prices from the Best Local Companies
Mikumi is easy to reach yet full of classic safari scenes — open plains with elephants, giraffes, and lions against a backdrop of the Uluguru Mountains.
We connect you with 2–3 trusted local operators who know how to plan the perfect Mikumi safari, whether it’s a quick getaway from Dar es Salaam or combined with nearby Selous/Nyerere.
No middlemen. No inflated prices. Just real value from safari companies who make even a short trip to Mikumi feel special.
Get quotes from specialists who know how to make Mikumi memorable.
Company Ratings: 4.9+
Trusted by 30,000+ Users
Best Price Guarantee
Plan Your TANZANIA / KENYA Safari
Best Price Guarantee. 10+ Years Experience
Get the Best Prices from the Best Local Companies
Mikumi is easy to reach yet full of classic safari scenes — open plains with elephants, giraffes, and lions against a backdrop of the Uluguru Mountains.
We connect you with 2–3 trusted local operators who know how to plan the perfect Mikumi safari, whether it’s a quick getaway from Dar es Salaam or combined with nearby Selous/Nyerere.
No middlemen. No inflated prices. Just real value from safari companies who make even a short trip to Mikumi feel special.
Get quotes from specialists who know how to make Mikumi memorable.
Company Ratings: 4.9+
Trusted by 30,000+ Users
Best Price Guarantee
Wildlife in Mikumi
The park is home to a variety of habitats, from the open Mkata floodplain, teeming with wildlife, to the miombo-covered hills that shelter more elusive species. Its accessibility, diverse landscapes, and rich biodiversity make it a popular choice for both first-time safari-goers and seasoned travelers seeking something different from the northern circuit parks.
Types of Safari in Mikumi
Mikumi offers a wide range of safari activities, from traditional game drives to walking safaris, and caters to various interests.
Game Drives
The most common and popular way to experience Mikumi. Game drives often focus on the Mkata floodplain, where most wildlife congregates. Early morning and late afternoon game drives offer the best chance to see large mammals like elephants, lions, and giraffes.
Walking Safaris
For a more intimate experience, visitors can take guided walking safaris. These tours are typically led by experienced rangers, allowing visitors to explore the park on foot and observe smaller details such as insects, plants, and tracks. The Vuma and Kikogoba trails are popular for these walks.
Bird Watching
Mikumi is a birding hotspot, especially between October and April when migratory birds from Europe and Asia join resident species. Some of the top birds to watch include the colorful lilac-breasted roller, the bateleur eagle, and the Shelley’s sunbird.
Tours in Mikumi National Park
Best Time to Visit Mikumi National Park
The climate in Mikumi is typical of Tanzania’s southern circuit, with two main seasons: the dry season and the wet season. Each offers different experiences for travelers.
How to Get to Mikumi National Park
Mikumi is accessible by road and air, with several options available for visitors.
How Many Days Are Sufficient to Visit Mikumi National Park?
How Many Days Are Sufficient to Visit Mikumi National Park?
The ideal duration for a visit to Mikumi depends on the type of experience you’re seeking:
1-Day Safari: Perfect for visitors based in Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar who want a quick wildlife experience. Most 1-day safaris include transport, a game drive, and return in the evening .
2-Day Safari: This is ideal for those who want to explore the park at a more relaxed pace, with time for multiple game drives and possibly a night game drive. You will be able to explore more than just the Mkata Plains and possibly include an extra activity such as a walking safari or cultural visit. It also allows time to enjoy the sunrise and sunset game drives, which offer some of the best wildlife sightings.
3 to 4 Day Safari: For those looking to maximize their time in the southern circuit, 4-day tours often combine Mikumi with the nearby Udzungwa Mountains or Nyerere (Selous) National Park, adding hiking or boat safaris to the experience
Ngorongoro is easily accessible from major Tanzanian tourist hubs like Arusha, Serengeti, and Tarangire.
From Arusha: 190 km (3-4 hours’ drive).
From Karatu: 20 km (45 minutes to 1 hour drive).
From Central Serengeti: 145 km (3-4 hours’ drive).
From Tarangire: 120 km (2-3 hours’ drive).
From Lake Manyara: 80 km (1.5 hours’ drive).
Ngorongoro is easily accessible from major Tanzanian tourist hubs like Arusha, Serengeti, and Tarangire.
From Arusha: 190 km (3-4 hours’ drive).
From Karatu: 20 km (45 minutes to 1 hour drive).
From Central Serengeti: 145 km (3-4 hours’ drive).
From Tarangire: 120 km (2-3 hours’ drive).
From Lake Manyara: 80 km (1.5 hours’ drive).
How Mikumi Compares to Other National Parks
Mikumi is often compared to other national parks in Tanzania due to its rich wildlife and accessibility. Here’s how it compares:
Mikumi is often compared to other national parks in Tanzania due to its rich wildlife and accessibility. Here’s how it compares:
Accessibility: Being just a 4-hour drive from Dar es Salaam, Mikumi is one of the most accessible parks, especially for those short on time. In comparison, Ruaha and Selous (Nyerere) are more remote and involve longer travel times.
Wildlife Viewing: While Mikumi offers excellent wildlife sightings, the sheer density of animals may not match the Serengeti. However, Mikumi’s diversity, including tree-climbing lions and rare antelope species like eland and sable, makes it a unique choice.
Crowds: Mikumi tends to have far fewer visitors compared to Serengeti or Ngorongoro, offering a more tranquil safari experience. It’s ideal for those seeking solitude.
Cost: Safaris in Mikumi tend to be more affordable than in parks like Serengeti or Ngorongoro due to lower park fees and shorter travel distances from Dar es Salaam.
Accessibility: Being just a 4-hour drive from Dar es Salaam, Mikumi is one of the most accessible parks, especially for those short on time. In comparison, Ruaha and Selous (Nyerere) are more remote and involve longer travel times.
Wildlife Viewing: While Mikumi offers excellent wildlife sightings, the sheer density of animals may not match the Serengeti. However, Mikumi’s diversity, including tree-climbing lions and rare antelope species like eland and sable, makes it a unique choice.
Crowds: Mikumi tends to have far fewer visitors compared to Serengeti or Ngorongoro, offering a more tranquil safari experience. It’s ideal for those seeking solitude.
Cost: Safaris in Mikumi tend to be more affordable than in parks like Serengeti or Ngorongoro due to lower park fees and shorter travel distances from Dar es Salaam.
Where to Stay in Mikumi
For a premium luxury experience, Stanley’s Kopje provides elevated, spacious tents with panoramic views of the Mkata floodplain, along with personalized service and exceptional wildlife viewing. In the luxury category, Vuma Hills Tented Camp offers stylish en-suite tents nestled in the hills, combining comfort with a serene setting perfect for relaxing after game drives. Mid-range travelers can opt for Mikumi Wildlife Camp, featuring comfortable chalets and a strategic location near the park entrance, ensuring easy access to game drives. Budget-friendly options include Tan-Swiss Lodge, located just outside the park, offering clean, basic rooms and a convenient base for exploring Mikumi without stretching your budget.
Most accommodations are located near the park’s main gate or around the Mkata floodplain, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing from your doorstep.
For a premium luxury experience, Stanley’s Kopje provides elevated, spacious tents with panoramic views of the Mkata floodplain, along with personalized service and exceptional wildlife viewing. In the luxury category, Vuma Hills Tented Camp offers stylish en-suite tents nestled in the hills, combining comfort with a serene setting perfect for relaxing after game drives. Mid-range travelers can opt for Mikumi Wildlife Camp, featuring comfortable chalets and a strategic location near the park entrance, ensuring easy access to game drives. Budget-friendly options include Tan-Swiss Lodge, located just outside the park, offering clean, basic rooms and a convenient base for exploring Mikumi without stretching your budget.
Most accommodations are located near the park’s main gate or around the Mkata floodplain, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing from your doorstep.
Camp Bastian Mikumi
Scenic View Location, Eco-Friendly, Family-Friendly, Small and Intimate
Located just a 10-minute drive from Mikumi National Park’s main gate, Camp Bastian Mikumi is a well-regarded eco-friendly lodge known for its dedication to sustainable tourism and local community support. Set amidst lush greenery and native flora, the camp’s natural setting attracts bird species and creates a peaceful retreat. Camp Bastian’s intimate scale, with a maximum capacity of around 30 guests, ensures a quiet and personalized safari experience, highly valued by those who prefer a more secluded environment close to nature.
Budget
Mikumi Safari Lodge
Tented Camp, Scenic View Location, Family-Friendly
Mikumi Safari Lodge is a charming, eco-conscious lodge located on the edge of Mikumi National Park, offering guests a rustic yet comfortable base to explore one of Tanzania’s most accessible wildlife parks. The lodge is designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding savanna, providing panoramic views of the park’s vast plains and abundant wildlife.
Budget
Sanna Eco Lodge
Eco-Friendly, Small and Intimate, Scenic View Location
Sanna Eco Lodge is an eco-friendly retreat located near Lake Eyasi, offering an authentic cultural experience with Tanzania’s Hadzabe and Datoga communities. Known for its sustainable design and cultural immersion programs, Sanna Eco Lodge provides a meaningful experience for eco-conscious travelers.
Budget
Stanley’s Kopje
Tented Camp, Small and Intimate, Scenic View Location, Prime Wildlife Viewing Location
Stanley’s Kopje is an elevated camp located in Mikumi National Park, offering panoramic views of the park’s savannah and waterholes. Known for its secluded, elevated position and close connection to nature, Stanley’s Kopje provides an intimate safari experience with a touch of rustic luxury.
Mid Range
Tan Swiss Lodge
Family-Friendly, Large Lodge, Basic Facilities
Tan Swiss Lodge is a comfortable lodge located in Mikumi, near Mikumi National Park, offering travelers a relaxing and affordable base for exploring the park’s diverse wildlife. Known for its convenient location and friendly service, Tan Swiss Lodge is popular among budget-conscious safari-goers.
Budget
Vuma Hills Tented Camp
Tented Camp, Small and Intimate, Family-Friendly
Vuma Hills Tented Camp is a rustic yet comfortable safari camp located in Mikumi National Park, offering travelers a classic tented safari experience surrounded by Tanzania’s stunning landscapes. Known for its elevated position, the camp provides scenic views over the park, allowing for a more immersive connection to the natural surroundings.
Mid Range
Camp Bastian Mikumi
Scenic View Location, Eco-Friendly, Family-Friendly, Small and Intimate
Located just a 10-minute drive from Mikumi National Park’s main gate, Camp Bastian Mikumi is a well-regarded eco-friendly lodge known for its dedication to sustainable tourism and local community support. Set amidst lush greenery and native flora, the camp’s natural setting attracts bird species and creates a peaceful retreat. Camp Bastian’s intimate scale, with a maximum capacity of around 30 guests, ensures a quiet and personalized safari experience, highly valued by those who prefer a more secluded environment close to nature.
Budget
Mikumi Safari Lodge
Tented Camp, Scenic View Location, Family-Friendly
Mikumi Safari Lodge is a charming, eco-conscious lodge located on the edge of Mikumi National Park, offering guests a rustic yet comfortable base to explore one of Tanzania’s most accessible wildlife parks. The lodge is designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding savanna, providing panoramic views of the park’s vast plains and abundant wildlife.
Budget
Sanna Eco Lodge
Eco-Friendly, Small and Intimate, Scenic View Location
Sanna Eco Lodge is an eco-friendly retreat located near Lake Eyasi, offering an authentic cultural experience with Tanzania’s Hadzabe and Datoga communities. Known for its sustainable design and cultural immersion programs, Sanna Eco Lodge provides a meaningful experience for eco-conscious travelers.
Budget
Stanley’s Kopje
Tented Camp, Small and Intimate, Scenic View Location, Prime Wildlife Viewing Location
Stanley’s Kopje is an elevated camp located in Mikumi National Park, offering panoramic views of the park’s savannah and waterholes. Known for its secluded, elevated position and close connection to nature, Stanley’s Kopje provides an intimate safari experience with a touch of rustic luxury.
Mid Range
Tan Swiss Lodge
Family-Friendly, Large Lodge, Basic Facilities
Tan Swiss Lodge is a comfortable lodge located in Mikumi, near Mikumi National Park, offering travelers a relaxing and affordable base for exploring the park’s diverse wildlife. Known for its convenient location and friendly service, Tan Swiss Lodge is popular among budget-conscious safari-goers.
Budget
Vuma Hills Tented Camp
Tented Camp, Small and Intimate, Family-Friendly
Vuma Hills Tented Camp is a rustic yet comfortable safari camp located in Mikumi National Park, offering travelers a classic tented safari experience surrounded by Tanzania’s stunning landscapes. Known for its elevated position, the camp provides scenic views over the park, allowing for a more immersive connection to the natural surroundings.
Mid Range
Combining Mikumi with Other National Parks
Mikumi can easily be combined with other national parks in southern Tanzania:
Mikumi + Nyerere National Park (Selous)
This is a popular combination for a varied safari experience. Visitors can enjoy traditional game drives in Mikumi and boat safaris or walking safaris in Nyerere.
Mikumi + Udzungwa Mountains
For those interested in hiking, combining Mikumi with Udzungwa allows for an exploration of unique activities such as forest hiking. These two parks offer a great contrast: Mikumi’s open savannahs and wildlife viewing, combined with Udzungwa’s lush forests, waterfalls, and endemic species.
For travelers with more time and a desire for a more in-depth safari, combining Mikumi with Ruaha National Park offers a broader experience of Tanzania’s southern circuit. While Mikumi provides great game viewing and accessibility, Ruaha is renowned for its dramatic landscapes, huge elephant populations, and fewer visitors.
Packing Tips for a Mikumi Safari
To make the most of your Mikumi experience, packing wisely is crucial. Here’s a list of essentials based on the time of year and activities:
Clothing
Light, breathable clothes for the day, but bring a jacket for cooler mornings and evenings, especially from June to August.
Footwear
Comfortable walking shoes if you plan on doing walking safaris.
Sun Protection
Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essential to protect yourself from the strong African sun.
Insect Repellent
Mosquitoes are more prevalent in the wet season (November to May), so repellent is a must.
Camera and Binoculars
A good camera and binoculars are necessary for capturing wildlife, especially for bird watchers.
Other Essentials
A reusable water bottle, guidebooks, and a small first aid kit are recommended.
Visitor Safety and Health Precautions
Visitor Safety and Health Precautions
Mikumi is a safe destination, but visitors should follow park rules to ensure both their safety and the protection of wildlife.
Malaria: Mikumi is in a malaria zone, so visitors should consult their doctor about taking anti-malarial medication.
Vaccinations: Make sure your vaccinations are up to date, especially yellow fever if you are traveling from a country where it’s required.
Respecting Wildlife: Always follow your guide’s instructions and never leave the vehicle during game drives unless on a guided walking safari. Keep a safe distance from wildlife, particularly elephants, as they can be unpredictable.
Mikumi is a safe destination, but visitors should follow park rules to ensure both their safety and the protection of wildlife.
Malaria: Mikumi is in a malaria zone, so visitors should consult their doctor about taking anti-malarial medication.
Vaccinations: Make sure your vaccinations are up to date, especially yellow fever if you are traveling from a country where it’s required.
Respecting Wildlife: Always follow your guide’s instructions and never leave the vehicle during game drives unless on a guided walking safari. Keep a safe distance from wildlife, particularly elephants, as they can be unpredictable.
Ngorongoro is easily accessible from major Tanzanian tourist hubs like Arusha, Serengeti, and Tarangire.
From Arusha: 190 km (3-4 hours’ drive).
From Karatu: 20 km (45 minutes to 1 hour drive).
From Central Serengeti: 145 km (3-4 hours’ drive).
From Tarangire: 120 km (2-3 hours’ drive).
From Lake Manyara: 80 km (1.5 hours’ drive).
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