Southern Tanzania
Mikumi National Park
The Serengeti of the south
Overview
Just a morning's drive from Dar es Salaam, Mikumi's open Mkata floodplain delivers classic savanna scenery and reliable big-game viewing without the long journey north.
Lion, elephant, giraffe, zebra and eland move across a plain framed by the Uluguru and Malundwe mountains. Because it sits on Vemi's doorstep, Mikumi is our go-to recommendation for weekend safaris, corporate retreats and travellers short on time.
Combined with the vast Nyerere National Park (Selous), Mikumi anchors a southern circuit that feels wilder and far less travelled than the north.
The landscape
The open Mkata floodplain — often compared to the Serengeti — ringed by miombo woodland and blue mountain horizons.
Quick facts
- Size
- 3,230 km²
- Drive from Dar
- ≈ 4 – 5 hours
- Famous for
- Accessible big-game viewing
- Ideal stay
- 2 – 3 nights
Wildlife
Who lives here
- Lion prides on the open floodplain
- Large herds of buffalo, zebra and wildebeest
- Elephant, giraffe, eland and sable antelope
- Hippo pools within easy reach of the main gate
Seasons
When to come
Dry seasonJune – October
Animals gather at waterholes; roads in top condition.
Green seasonNovember – May
Lush landscapes and newborn wildlife.
Experiences
Game drives · Weekend safaris from Dar · Birdwatching · Combined Mikumi–Nyerere circuits
In Pictures
Scenes from Mikumi
Journeys Here
Safaris that visit Mikumi National Park
Good to Know
Questions, answered
Yes — this is Mikumi's superpower. Depart Dar es Salaam early Saturday, enjoy an afternoon and full morning of game drives, and be home Sunday evening.
Southern
Pairs well on the southern circuit
Mikumi National Park is one of 5 destinations on the southern circuit. Most itineraries combine two or three.
