Tanzania Destination Guide
Mikumi National Park
The Serengeti of the South
Tanzania Destination Guide
The Serengeti of the South
3,230 km² (1,250 mi²)
1964 (National Park)
June–October
Nicknamed the “Serengeti of the South,” Mikumi National Park features open savannahs dotted with acacias, baobabs, and tamarind trees, framed by rolling mountains. Located ~218 km from Dar es Salaam, Mikumi is a convenient gateway to Tanzania’s Southern Circuit. During the dry season, wildlife congregates along the Mkata River and nearby pools, offering excellent sightings of elephants, buffalos, hippos, lions, leopards, plus rarities like sable antelopes and African wild dogs.
Spanning 3,230 km², Mikumi ranks among Tanzania’s largest parks. It’s part of the greater Ruaha–Nyerere ecosystem, creating superb wildlife densities in the Mkata Plains. Landscapes evoke classic savannah scenes reminiscent of the Serengeti, yet here you’ll find far fewer tourists even in peak season. Birdwatchers delight as well: over 400 bird species inhabit Mikumi, from black-bellied bustards to lilac-breasted rollers.
The two hippo pools near the park center are a must-see, hosting groups of hippos and drawing elephants and buffalos to drink. Beyond the plains lie the Ruhebo and Uluguru Mountains, offering scenic hikes including Kinole Waterfall, where you can swim in a refreshing pool. The varied habitats— from open grasslands to Miombo woodlands—support antelopes like the greater kudu, Lichtenstein’s hartebeest, and the striking sable. Rarer wild dogs add an element of excitement for lucky visitors.
Mikumi National Park welcomes visitors year-round, but the dry season (June–October) is top for wildlife viewing and comfortable weather. Animals gather at water sources, and hiking trails remain accessible. The rainy season (March–May) brings lush greenery and fewer vehicles, plus additional bird species, though some roads can turn muddy.
June–October
Easier sightings near water
March–May
Bird migration & lush vistas
For travelers wanting great game viewing close to Dar es Salaam and fewer crowds, Mikumi is a perfect fit. Drive about four hours or fly in to discover healthy populations of elephants, zebras, wildebeests, and buffalos, plus predators like lions and leopards. Birding is equally rewarding, with ~400 species and scenic mountain backdrops. If you’re keen on off-the-beaten-path adventures in Tanzania, Mikumi delivers.
Game drives are the main attraction, roaming the Mkata Plains for classic savannah wildlife. Bird enthusiasts can spot rollers, eagles, and migratory species from November to April. If time allows, consider a guided trek to Kinole Waterfall in the Uluguru range, or simply enjoy Mikumi’s two hippo pools for effortless sightings of large mammals. Nearby cultural visits or day trips to Udzungwa Mountains can round out your itinerary.
Sprawling Miombo woodlands mix with open plains to sustain giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, buffalos, and large elephant herds. Lions here are sometimes known to climb trees (though less famously than Lake Manyara’s), and predators like leopards, hyenas, and elusive wild dogs also roam. Rare antelope species—eland, sable, Lichtenstein’s hartebeest—enhance the safari flavor, while waterbirds gather near the hippo pools. Expect a wide range of avian life year-round.
Located ~218 km from Dar es Salaam, Mikumi National Park is convenient for a short 2–3 day safari or as part of the Southern Circuit en route to Ruaha or Nyerere National Park. Accommodations range from simple campsites to comfortable lodges near the main entrance or scenic vantage points. You can also fly from Zanzibar or Dar es Salaam to Mikumi, perfect for combining beach escapes with a wildlife adventure.