Mikumi National Park
Southern Tanzania’s classic safari
Open plains across the Mkata Floodplain, hippo pools and tamarind-lined waterways – Mikumi National Park delivers big wildlife moments in a true savannah setting. Perfect for a short fly-in safari from Zanzibar or as the starting point for Tanzania’s Southern Circuit.
What makes Mikumi National Park so special
Big-sky savannah on the Mkata Floodplain
Mikumi feels like a postcard safari: open grasslands, long sightlines and a dramatic mountain backdrop to the north.
The Mkata Floodplains are are the heart of the park – perfect for spotting animals from a distance and following the movement of large herds.
Between acacias, baobabs and tamarind trees, scenes change quickly: sometimes open savannah, sometimes riverine stretches, sometimes woodland edges – that’s exactly what makes Mikumi so diverse.
Mkata River and Hippo Pools as wildlife magnets
In the dry season, water becomes everything – and Mikumi delivers. The Mkata River and the well-known Hippo Pools draw animals in from far and wide.
You’ll often see herds heading straight to the water: drinking, cooling off and resting in the shade, especially beneath tamarind trees when temperatures rise.
That’s what makes game drives so rewarding here: sightings cluster around water, and along the riverlines your chances of seeing lions increase.
Rare species & outstanding birdlife
Mikumi is exciting because it offers more than the usual safari favourites. In miombo woodlands and the Vuma Hills, you may find special antelopes such as the sable antelope, Lichtenstein’s hartebeest, and sometimes greater kudu.
With luck, you might even spot African wild dogs, a rare highlight in many parks.
For bird lovers, Mikumi is a standout: 400 plus recorded species, including many raptors and storks, with additional migrants from November to April.
Highlights of Mikumi National Park
Rainforest, crater and Mount Meru views — these highlights deliver Arusha National Park’s most memorable safari moments.
Mkata Floodplain
Wide plains, clear views – perfect for watching herds and capturing classic safari photos.
Mkata Floodplain
Hippo Pools
Hippos at the pools, often with buffalo and elephants nearby, especially in the dry season.
Hippo Pools
Predators along the riverlines
Open grassland where animals are easy to spot:
zebra, giraffe, buffalo, warthog and more—perfect for relaxed viewing.
Predators along the riverlines
Rare antelopes in miombo and hills
Sable antelope and Lichtenstein’s hartebeest, sometimes greater kudu away from the open plains.
Rare antelopes in miombo and hills
Birdwatching with 400 plus species
Raptors, storks and plenty of migrants in season.
Birdwatching with 400 plus species
Mountains and guided walks
The Ruhebo and Uluguru ranges create a striking backdrop, with guided walks possible depending on route and availability.
Mountains and guided walks
Best time to visit Mikumi National Park
Mikumi works year-round. For the easiest wildlife viewing, the dry season from June to October is the top choice.
Our suggestions for your
Mikumi National Park safari
Whether you want a quick safari from Zanzibar or a deeper Southern Circuit journey, Mikumi is easy to combine and simple to plan.
Classic Northern Circuit
Tarangire → Serengeti → Ngorongoro
Best for: First-timers, Big 5 seekers
Duration: 5–7 Days
Classic Northern Circuit
Tarangire → Serengeti → Ngorongoro
Best for: First-timers, Big 5 seekers
Duration: 5–7 Days
Classic Northern Circuit
Tarangire → Serengeti → Ngorongoro
Best for: First-timers, Big 5 seekers
Duration: 5–7 Days
Classic Northern Circuit
Tarangire → Serengeti → Ngorongoro
Best for: First-timers, Big 5 seekers
Duration: 5–7 Days
Helpful tips for safaris in Mikumi National Park
Mikumi is an open savannah park with clear hotspots: the Mkata Floodplain for wide views and water areas for reliable sightings. These tips help you get the most out of your stay.
What to Pack
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Neutral-colored clothing
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Lightweight layers for changing temperatures
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Comfortable closed shoes
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Wide-brim hat and sunglasses
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Binoculars and a camera with zoom lens
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Insect repellent and sunscreen
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Soft duffel bags instead of suitcases
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A Type G, D travel adapter
What to Expect
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Game drives early morning and late afternoon
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Relax time at your lodge or camp between activities
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Open vehicles: better views and photos, but often dusty and bumpy
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Mkata River and Hippo Pools: many animals at water in the dry season
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Buffalo and elephants: often in large herds
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Birdlife: 400 plus species, binoculars recommended
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Guided walks in the Ruhebo and Uluguru Mountains possible *​
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*depending on route and availability
Learn more here
Entry Requirements
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Tourist visa required, e-Visa recommended
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Yellow fever vaccination if arriving from risk areas or transit > 12 h
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​Passport valid at least 6 months beyond entry date
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Proof of return or onward ticket required
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Import/export of Tanzanian shilling (TZS) prohibited
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Cash over USD 10,000 must be declared
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Frequently Asked Questions about a
Mikumi National Park
Whether it’s a 1-day fly-in safari from Zanzibar or the start of a Southern Circuit journey, a few simple preparations will make your time in Mikumi National Park far more comfortable. From dusty, sometimes bumpy game drives in an open 4x4 to sunlit hours on the Mkata Floodplain, these tips help you enjoy the most of your safari—relaxed, yet fully immersive.
1) How many days do you need in Mikumi
For a strong overview, 1 to 2 days works well. For a more relaxed pace and wider variety, aim for 2 to 3 days.
2) Is Mikumi suitable for children and seniors
Yes. Game drives are comfortable, and with good pacing and breaks, Mikumi is a great fit.
3) What animals can you see in Mikumi National Park
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Very common: elephants, buffalo, hippos
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Common: lions, hyenas
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With luck: leopards, African wild dogs
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Special highlights: sable antelope, Lichtenstein’s hartebeest, greater kudu
4) When are sightings at their best
During the dry season from June to October, when animals concentrate at water sources.
5) Can you do a fly-in safari from Zanzibar
Yes. Mikumi is well-suited for short fly-in safaris, especially if you want to combine beach time with a quick safari.
6) What does Mikumi combine well with for a round trip
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For more nature and activity: Udzungwa Mountains
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For more wilderness and a boat safari: Nyerere Want more?
How about: 5 days Mikumi and Udzungwa 5 days Mikumi and Nyerere