Mikumi National Park abuts the northern border of Africa’s biggest game reserve – the Selous – and is transacted by the surfaced road between Dar es Salaam and Iringa. It is thus the most accessible part of a 75,000 square kilometre (47,000 square mile) tract of wilderness that stretches east almost as far as the Indian Ocean. The open horizons and abundant wildlife of the Mkata Floodplain, the popular centrepiece of Mikumi, draw frequent comparisons to the more famous Serengeti Plains. More than 400 bird species have been recorded, with such colourful common residents as the lilac-breasted roller, yellow-throated long claw and bateleur eagle joined by a host of European migrants during the rainy season.
Hippos are the star attraction of the pair of pools situated 5km north of the main entrance gate, supported by an ever-changing cast of water birds.
when to go
Climate is tropical and the park is accessible year round. The best time to visit the park is during the dry season which is June through February.
During the rainy season (March through – May) some of the park roads may be impassable.
The park lies in a horseshoe of towering mountains and forested foothills which almost enclose the flood plain of the Mkata river.
What to do
Safari drives within the national park with 4×4 vehicles.
Guided walks in selected areas.
Visit the nearby Selous Game Reserve and Udzungwa Mountains National Park.
