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EXPLORE  SOUTHERN TANZANIA

Mikumi National Park

Mikumi’s open plains and abundant wildlife have earned comparisons with the Serengeti. Set around the Mkata floodplain, it is a rewarding southern Tanzania stop and forms part of a wider wildlife landscape that connects toward Nyerere National Park, formerly Selous Game Reserve.

Elephants in open grassland
A herd of zebras in the grassland
Martial eagle in the wild

Open plains and woodland

Wildlife in Mikumi National Park

Mikumi is known for a rich mix of wildlife. Visitors often look for four of the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant and buffalo—along with giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, impala and hippo. Sightings vary with season, location and luck.

The Mkata floodplain

This open grassland is a rewarding area for game viewing. Lions may be seen surveying the plains, while zebra, wildebeest, impala and buffalo move through the grass. Eland are another notable sighting.

River edges and wooded hills

Acacia stands and riverine areas attract giraffe and elephant. The surrounding miombo woodland is habitat for species such as greater kudu and sable antelope. Hippos are often seen at pools near the main entrance area.

Lions are sometimes spotted resting in trees, but no particular animal sighting is guaranteed.

More than 400 recorded species

Birds in Mikumi

Mikumi is a rewarding stop for birders, with more than 400 recorded bird species. Look for waterbirds around the Mkata River and wetlands, and raptors and colorful savannah birds across the plains. European migrants are more common in the rainy season.

Open-billed storkMarabou storkRed-billed oxpeckerBlack-bellied bustardFrancolinCattle egretGuineafowlHornbillMalachite kingfisherLilac-breasted rollerBateleur eagle

Plan the connections

Travel time to Mikumi

Dar es SalaamAbout 6–7 hours by road
UdzungwaAbout 1.5–2 hours by road
RuahaAbout 5–6 hours by road; flights may be practical
Nyerere (Selous)Flying is often the more comfortable connection

These are estimates, not fixed schedules. Road conditions, stops, exact lodge locations and the route used can change journey times. Confirm current conditions before setting off.

A little planning goes a long way

Travel tips

How long to stay

Allow one or two days for game viewing, plus enough time for your road transfers. Avoid scheduling a full game drive immediately after a long drive from Dar es Salaam.

When to go

June to October is generally drier. March to May can bring heavy rain that affects tracks and access, so check park and road conditions for your dates.

Plan the southern circuit

Mikumi can work well early in a southern Tanzania itinerary. Nyerere is a long road connection, so consider flying rather than treating it as a quick drive between parks.

Places to stay

Where to stay near Mikumi

These are options mentioned by local safari planners; confirm current availability, facilities and location when booking.

Camp BastianA convenient base near Mikumi town and the park.
Vuma Hills Tented CampA tented stay in the hills near the park.
Stanley’s Kopje CampA safari camp overlooking the Mkata floodplain.