Mikumi National Park – The Best Short Safari from Dar es Salaam
Overview of Mikumi National Park
Mikumi National Park is one of the most accessible safari destinations in Tanzania. It is located only 4-5 hours from Dar es Salaam. Mikumi covers 3,230 km². It is often referred to as the “Serengeti of Southern Tanzania”. This is due to its wide open plains, diverse wildlife, and excellent game viewing. It is an ideal destination for short safaris. Many visitors combine it with Ruaha or Nyerere National Park for longer adventures.
Mikumi National Park Reviews
Mikumi National Park is a popular Tanzanian safari destination known for its diverse wildlife and accessible location. Visitors praise its expansive plains, abundant elephants, lions, giraffes, and zebras, offering a classic safari experience. Many travelers appreciate the park's relatively quiet atmosphere and stunning landscapes, making it ideal for a memorable adventure.
Read Full Reviews →Why Visit Mikumi National Park?
Closest wildlife safari park to Dar es Salaam (4-5 hour drive) Easy to visit on a short 1-3 day safari Home to lions, elephants, buffalo, giraffes, and hippos Less crowded than Serengeti & great for budget safaris
Where is Mikumi National Park Located?
Mikumi National Park is located in southern Tanzania, near Morogoro town, along the Dar es Salaam – Zambia highway.
How to Get to Mikumi National Park:
By Air: Fly from Dar es Salaam. You can also fly from Zanzibar or Arusha to Mikumi Airstrip. It is a 45-minute flight.
By Road: A 4-5 hour drive from Dar es Salaam or 1-hour drive from Morogoro.
Wildlife in Mikumi National Park
Mikumi has a high concentration of wildlife, especially in its Mkata Floodplain, which resembles the Serengeti’s open grasslands.
Big Cats & Other Predators
Lions – Often seen lounging on termite mounds or hunting buffalo Leopards – More elusive, spotted in wooded areas Cheetahs – Occasionally seen in open plains Hyenas – Frequently found scavenging in the park
Other Large Mammals
Elephants & Buffaloes – Common in the floodplains and near waterholes Giraffes, Zebras & Wildebeest – Easily spotted on game drives Hippos – Found in the hippo pool near the main park entrance
Birdwatching & Unique Species
Over 400 bird species, including lilac-breasted rollers & fish eagles Rare species like the Lichtenstein’s hartebeest & African wild dogs
