Mikumi National Park
The Gateway to the Southern Circuit
Mikumi National Park is often called the gateway to Tanzania’s southern safari circuit, and it offers an unforgettable blend of accessibility and abundant wildlife. Located just a few hours’ drive from Dar es Salaam, Mikumi is one of the most popular parks in southern Tanzania perfect for both short safaris and as a starting point for deeper adventures into Ruaha and Nyerere National Parks.
Covering an area of about 3,230 square kilometers, Mikumi’s landscape is dominated by the Mkata Floodplain, which is often compared to the Serengeti for its open grasslands and impressive wildlife sightings. Herds of elephants, zebras, wildebeests, buffaloes, and giraffes roam freely, while lions, leopards, and spotted hyenas patrol the plains.
The park’s network of well maintained roads and proximity to the main highway make it an ideal choice for first time safari goers who want to experience the magic of the wild without venturing too far off the beaten path.
Best Time To Visit
The best time to visit Mahale is during the dry season (June to October) when the forest trails are easier to hike and chimpanzee sightings are more frequent. The green season (November to May) brings lush vegetation and fewer crowds perfect for photographers and explorers seeking tranquility.
MAP OF MIKUMI NATIONAL PARK
TOP DESTINATIONS
- Serengeti National Park
- Ngorongoro Crater
- Tarangire National Park
- Lake Manyara National Park
- Arusha National Park
Mikumi Nationa Park Popular Intenaries
Overview:
The 1-Day Mikumi Safari is perfect for travelers who want a thrilling wildlife experience without spending multiple days on the road. Mikumi National Park, often called a “mini Serengeti,” offers vast open savannahs, acacia woodlands, and seasonal wetlands, providing excellent opportunities to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. You’ll have the chance to see elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, and a variety of birds. This safari is ideal for photography enthusiasts, families, or anyone short on time who still wants to experience Tanzania’s wild side.
Itinerary:
06:00 – 07:00: Pickup from your hotel or lodge in Morogoro or Dar es Salaam. Drive to Mikumi National Park with scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
09:00 – 12:00: Morning game drive through the savannah and woodlands. Your guide will point out wildlife, share insights about the ecosystem, and offer tips for photography.
12:00 – 13:00: Picnic lunch at a scenic spot inside the park, perhaps near the Mkata River or a shaded grove. Enjoy the sounds and sights of the wild while you eat.
13:00 – 16:00: Continue your game drive exploring different habitats in Mikumi. Visit open plains, river areas, and small hills to maximize wildlife viewing.
16:30 – 19:00: Drive back to your hotel or lodge for drop-off, reflecting on a day filled with memorable wildlife encounters.
Highlights:
✅ See elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, buffaloes, and hippos in one day
✅ Photography opportunities in diverse landscapes
✅ Experienced guide providing insights about the park and animals
✅ Short safari for travelers with limited time but high adventure
Price per Person:
Budget: $220 – $320
Mid-Range: $400 – $550
Luxury: $700 – $950
Included in the Price:
✅ Park entrance fees
✅ 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
✅ Professional English-speaking guide
✅ Picnic lunch and bottled water
✅ Hotel pickup and drop-off
Not Included:
❌ International flights
❌ Travel insurance
❌ Tips for guide/driver ($20–$40 recommended)
❌ Personal expenses (souvenirs, snacks, photography gear, etc.)
A 2-day Mikumi National Park safari from Dar es Salaam by train offers a fast and convenient way to experience the park's wildlife. The journey to Morogoro by train takes about 1-2 hours, after which you'll likely transfer to a vehicle for the final part of the trip to the park, you'll then spend a night at a banda within the park, allowing you to enjoy a full day of game drives.
ITINERARY:
Day 1: Morning pick-up from your hotel or airport in Dar es Salaam and transfer to the train station to board the express train depart at 06:00 to Morogoro town, train journey takes 1 hour and forty five minutes, upon arrival meet with your safari guide and transfer by road for about 90 minutes to Mikumi National Park, after the park formalities embark on game viewing drive in the park with short break in one of the lodge for lunch, after lunch proceed with game viewing drive till sunset. Dinner and overnight will be at the park bandas inside the park or Camp Bastian located at Mikumi Village. Meals Plan: Lunch|Dinner.
Day 2: Morning after breakfast and transfer to Morogoro town to board the train which departs at 09:50, arrive in Dar es Salaam at 11:55 meet and transfer to the Sea Port to take the ferry which departs at 14:30 to Zanzibar Island. Meals Plan: Breakfast|Lunch
(End of the tour)
Price cost $480 per person minimum 2people sharing vehicle
INCLUDED:
Return Train Tickets
Park Entry fees into the reserves
Game drive and activities as per itinerary
Accommodation and Meals as per itinerary
Experience drive/guide
Ground Transfers
Drinking water while on vehicle
All government taxes
EXCLUDED:
International flight
Additional accommodation before and after the safari
Optional activities
Tips ( Tipping guideline US$ 20 per day per guide and US$ 10 per day per chef)
Personal Items (Souvenirs, travel insurance, visa etc)
Government imposed an increase in taxes and/or park fees.
Overview:
For those seeking both wildlife and adventure, the 3-Day Mikumi & Udzungwa Mountains Safari combines game drives with a short nature trek in Udzungwa Mountains National Park. This itinerary allows travelers to witness Mikumi’s wildlife-rich savannahs and then enjoy a jungle hiking experience with waterfalls, endemic plants, and the chance to see rare primates.
Itinerary:
Day 1: Pickup from hotel → Afternoon Mikumi game drive → Overnight at lodge/camp
Day 2: Early morning game drive in Mikumi → Drive to Udzungwa Mountains → Guided trek through forest trails → Overnight near Udzungwa
Day 3: Morning trek to waterfalls and endemic wildlife → Return to Mikumi → Drive back to hotel/lodge
Highlights:
✅ Safari in Mikumi National Park with elephants, lions, giraffes, and zebras
✅ Guided trek in Udzungwa Mountains with waterfalls and endemic flora/fauna
✅ Jungle adventure combined with wildlife photography
✅ Small-group or private safari options available
Price per Person:
Budget: $650 – $850
Mid-Range: $1,000 – $1,300
Luxury: $1,600 – $2,200
Included in the Price:
✅ Park entrance fees (Mikumi & Udzungwa)
✅ 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
✅ Professional guide
✅ 2 nights accommodation with meals
✅ Trekking activities and bottled water
✅ Hotel pickup and drop-off
Not Included:
❌ International flights
❌ Travel insurance
❌ Tips for guide/driver
❌ Personal expenses
Overview:
The 4-Day Mikumi, Udzungwa & Selous/Nyerere Safari is designed for travelers wanting a comprehensive southern Tanzania adventure. It combines Mikumi’s savannah game drives, Udzungwa’s jungle trekking, and Selous/Nyerere’s river-based wildlife excursions. This itinerary is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, adventure travelers, and photography lovers who want to explore diverse ecosystems in one trip.
Itinerary:
Day 1: Pickup → Afternoon Mikumi game drive → Overnight lodge/camp
Day 2: Early morning game drive in Mikumi → Drive to Udzungwa Mountains → Afternoon jungle trek → Overnight near Udzungwa
Day 3: Morning trekking → Drive to Selous/Nyerere → Afternoon boat safari on the river → Overnight lodge/camp
Day 4: Morning game drive or boat safari → Return drive to hotel/lodge
Highlights:
✅ Safari + jungle trekking + river cruise adventure
✅ Wildlife viewing in Mikumi, Udzungwa, and Selous/Nyerere
✅ Excellent for photography and birdwatching
✅ Private or small-group options with personalized guide
Price per Person:
Budget: $900 – $1,200
Mid-Range: $1,400 – $1,800
Luxury: $2,200 – $3,000
Included in the Price:
✅ Park/entry fees for all destinations
✅ 4x4 safari vehicle with pop-up roof
✅ Professional English-speaking guide
✅ 3 nights accommodation with meals
✅ Trekking activities and boat safari
✅ Hotel pickup and drop-off
Not Included:
❌ International flights
❌ Travel insurance
❌ Tips for guide/driver
❌ Personal expenses