Mikumi National Park
Mikumi National Park is the fourth-largest National Park in Tanzania, offering excellent wildlife viewing year-round. The landscapes in Mikumi National Park are picturesque and resemble those of the Serengeti National Park, as acacias, baobabs and tamarinds dot the savannah.
During the dry season, the Mkata River attracts large numbers of wildlife from the expansive Mkata plains. Consequently, large populations of elephants and buffaloes can be spotted along the river as they seek water and shade, and feed on the seasonal fruit from the tamarind trees.
The Ruhebo and Uluguru mountains, on the northern boundary of Mikumi National Park, are stunning and offer exceptional guided walks.
Highlights of Mikumi National Park
ikumi National Park is part of the enormous Ruaha and Nyerere ecosystems, making it exceptional wildlife viewing. It is home to lions, leopards, hyena and even rare African wild dogs.
Two artificial pools are famous for Mikumi’s hippos, and they attract an array of wildlife, including large numbers of elephants and buffalos.
Unique antelopes, such as the eland, greater kudus, Lichtenstein’s hartebeest and sable antelopes can be seen around the Miombo woodlands and the Vuma hills.
Mikumi National Park is an excellent place for birdwatching in Tanzania, as 400 bird species reside here. The black-bellied bustards, guinea fowl, marabou storks, bateleur eagles, ox peckers, lilac-breasted rollers, and yellow-throated long claws are a few of the many species you can see. Additionally, from November to April, migrating birds return to the park.
Best time to go to Mikumi National Park
You can travel to this park all year round. However, the best time to go to Mikumi National Park is during the dry season, from June to October. During this period, the wildlife congregates near water sources, such as the Mkata River and hippo pools. High concentrations of animals make for excellent wildlife spotting and increase the possibility of seeing predators hunting. The dry season is also the best period to hike in the mountains and arrive at Kinole waterfall to swim in the plunge pool.
wildlife viewing on Mikumi National Park
Mikumi National Park, only 218 km from Dar es Salam, is highly accessible. It suits people who want to avoid the crowds during Tanzania’s peak season. Like the other parks on the Southern Circuit, Mikumi is an enormous and less visited park, offering exceptional wildlife spotting in seclusion. During the dry season, you can see many species, including four out of the Big Five, with rhinos missing. Two highlights include seeing lions along the river as they wait for the perfect hunting opportunity and spotting numerous birds.
