Where is Mikumi National Park?
Mikumi National Park, nestled in the heart of Tanzania, offers a rich wildlife experience and is easily accessible from Dar es Salaam, making it a convenient safari destination. Covering around 3,230 square kilometers, it forms part of the larger (formerly Selous Game Reserve) Nyerere National Park ecosystem.
What activities are found in Park?
Mikumi National Park offers a variety of activities that provide visitors with diverse ways to explore and enjoy its natural beauty and wildlife:
- Game Drives: The park’s extensive network of wildlife-viewing roads makes game drives the most popular activity. These drives offer chances to see a range of animals including lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and various antelope species.
- Guided Walks: For a more immersive experience, guided walking safaris allow visitors to explore the park on foot, offering a closer look at the smaller aspects of the ecosystem, such as flora, fauna, and animal tracks.
- Bird Watching: Mikumi is home to over 400 bird species, making it a paradise for bird enthusiasts. The diverse habitats within the park support a wide variety of birdlife, providing excellent opportunities for bird watching.
- Night Drives: Some operators offer guided night drives, which are a unique way to experience the park’s nocturnal wildlife.
- Cultural Tours: Visitors can also engage in cultural experiences, learning about local communities and their traditions.
- Photographic Safaris: The park’s landscapes and wildlife make it an ideal location for wildlife photography.
What is the best time to visit the Park?
Best Time to Visit:
- Dry Season (July-October): when wildlife viewing is at its best due to thinner vegetation and animals congregating around waterholes.
- Wet Season (November-June): is great for bird watching, but some areas might be inaccessible.
How can you get to Mikumi National Park?
Reaching the park, can be done via several methods:
- By Road: The most common way to travel to Mikumi is by road from Dar es Salaam. The drive takes approximately 5 to 6 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
- By Air: For a quicker and more convenient option, you can take a domestic flight from Dar es Salaam to the airstrip near Mikumi National Park. Several domestic airlines operate flights to Mikumi, which last approximately 30 to 40 minutes.
Mikumi National Park’s proximity to Dar es Salaam makes it an accessible destination for both local and international travelers