Big Wildlife, Open Plains, and an Easy Safari Escape from Dar es Salaam

Mikumi National Park is one of Tanzania’s most rewarding and easily accessible safari destinations, located near Morogoro in the southern part of the country. Covering more than 3,200 square kilometers, the park is dominated by wide open savannahs, acacia woodlands, and riverine forests that create ideal habitats for a rich variety of wildlife. Often compared to a smaller and more intimate Serengeti, Mikumi offers excellent chances to see lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, buffalo, and many other species roaming freely across the plains.

At the heart of the park lies the fertile Mkata Floodplain, a magnet for large herds of herbivores and the predators that follow them, making wildlife sightings frequent and exciting throughout the year. Game drives provide classic safari experiences with fewer vehicles, allowing visitors to enjoy uninterrupted views and peaceful encounters with nature. Guided walking safaris offer a deeper connection to the landscape, revealing the park’s plants, tracks, and smaller wildlife often missed on game drives.

Mikumi is also a paradise for bird lovers, with over 400 bird species recorded in its forests, rivers, and wetlands. Thanks to its close proximity to Dar es Salaam, the park is ideal for short safaris, weekend escapes, or as part of a longer southern Tanzania itinerary. With a range of lodges and camps to suit different budgets, Mikumi National Park combines convenience, biodiversity, and tranquility, making it a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an authentic and relaxed Tanzanian safari experience.