The Exclusive Location Of Mikumi

The Exclusive Location Of Mikumi National Park

Tanzania is a country endowed with several national Parks. A detailed blog on the exclusive location of Mikumi National Park.

Mikumi National Park is located in Tanzania. It was founded in 1964 and is located near Ngorongoro. It covers 3,230 square kilometers of territory. Crossed by Tanzania’s A-7 highway. This is the fourth-largest park. Mikumi is one of Tanzania’s most popular parks due to its easy accessibility. Animals found in Mikumi National Park include elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, Burchell’s zebras, sable elands, Liechtenstein’s hartebeests, lions, leopards, hippopotamuses, spotted hyenas, and jackals. Marabou storks, red-billed oxpeckers, francolins, cattle egrets, guinea fowls, hornbills, and malachite kingfishers have all been

The Location

Mikumi National Park is a one-of-a-kind in Equatorial Africa, located in the south of Tanzania near the district of Morogoro. Mikumi National Park borders Selous Game Reserve to the south, forming a distinct ecology. The Udzungwa Mountains, Uluguru Mountains, and Malundwe Mountain are the 3 more natural areas that border the national park to the northeast.

Mikumi National Park is situated in the heart of Tanzania’s famous highlands and can be reached via the A-7 highway. The park is also connected to the Dar es Salaam highway, which connects the city to major cities like Iringa. The construction of this expressway has made it easier for most tourists to reach the park. You can access Mikumi National Park from the northern part of Selous National Park.

 

The best time to Visit Mikumi National Park

Mikumi National Park is open year-round; however, the dry season is the ideal time to explore. It lasts from June to October, which is when the park sees the most activity compared to the wet season.

The dry season is also advantageous for adventurous tourists who enjoy exploring, whereas more reserved and budget tourists would prefer to travel during the wet season, which runs from November to May, because the number of tourists visiting is low, so rates are low. For example, hotel owners usually offer discounts during this time, and flight rates are also slightly lower in the wet season.

During the dry season, the vegetation thins out and animals concentrate around waterholes, making it easy to spot them. This is usually the high season, as many tourists are visiting to carry out activities such as hiking, game drives, nature walks, cultural walks, bird watching, and many others.

Accessibility

One can fly to Julius Nyerere National Airport, found in Dar es Salaam. Because the park is located near the city of Dar es Salaam, its entrance is easy to find, and almost all safaris in Mikumi National Park start from Dar es Salaam.

The Dar es Salaam-Morogoro route is the most popular road option for visiting Mikumi National Park.

Mikumi National Park can be accessed directly via a road from Dar es Salaam. The trip takes 4 to 5 hours if you use private transportation; however, it may take longer if you use public transportation owing to frequent bus stops.

The advantage of using road transport is that the drive is more scenic and enjoyable, especially if you use private means where you can make stopovers at significant tourist attractions and enjoy the views. Some attractions you can see on your way include the Udzungwa Mountains. The roadway divides the park into two halves, which are known for their accessibility, particularly for game drives over the Mkata Flood Plains. The park is only a few kilometers from Morogoro town.

By air, one can fly into Dar es Salaam’s Julius Nyerere International Airport and be picked up by their pre-arranged tour company, which will transport the tourist straight to the park. There is also an airstrip serving the park, which is called Kikoboga Airstrip. Safari Air Link, which flies to Ruaha, Selous, Dar es Salaam, and Zanzibar daily, is the only airline that flies to Kikoboga Airstrip.

It is possible to visit Mikumi National Park by railway. The train travels through the park’s interior as well as other bushy areas from Dar es Salaam. The train’s sluggish speed makes it one of the best ways to view the region because it allows you to spend more time looking out the windows and taking in the beautiful scenery.

Animals found at Mikumi National Park

Several animals are found at Mikumi National Park. A larger percentage of grazers compared to preying animals exist there. The preying animals include lions, leopards, cheetahs, and spotted hyenas, while the grazers include elephants, buffalos, giraffes, Burchell’s zebras, sable elands, Liechtenstein’s hartebeests, jackals, wildebeests, gazelles, hippopotamuses, topis, and others. Bird species at the park include the marabou stork, red-billed ox peckers, little grebe, Egyptian goose, harlequin quail, red-chested cuckoo, guinea fowls, malachite Kingfisher, francolin, and cattle egret. The top five best safari lodges in Mikumi provide a clear view of some of these animals.

Activities at Mikumi National Park

Several activities can be carried out at Mikumi National Park, but the most common ones include game drives, bird watching, nature walks, hiking, and cultural visits.

Game drives: This activity involves driving around the park in a 4×4 car and is usually done by a tour guide and a game ranger. The tour guide must give tourists accurate information on what they are seeing and answer their questions correctly, while the game ranger is there for security reasons. During game drives, one can view animals, bird species, and plant species found in the park. Mikumi National Park has both morning and night game drives.

Bird watching: Mikumi National Park has over four hundred bird species, making it a very good spot to carry out birding. Some bird species found in the park include the marabou stork, red-billed ox peckers, little grebe, Egyptian goose, harlequin quail, red-chested cuckoo, guinea fowls, malachite Kingfisher, francolin, and cattle egrets. A tourist going to participate in bird watching needs to carry a pair of binoculars to view the birds.

 

Nature walk: Mikumi National Game Park has a beautiful and scenic landscape that makes nature walks interesting. It is done in the presence of a tour guide who leads the tourists and keeps pointing out important features in the park, for example, tree species, and a game ranger for security reasons. The paths take about four to five hours to complete and can be done across Vuma, Miombo Woodland, Mikumi Wildlife Resort, and Kikoboga.

Hiking is a long, vigorous walk, usually done on trails or footpaths. This kind of walking developed in Europe during the eighteenth century. The difference between nature walks and hiking is that during hiking, one encounters elevation change, and Mikumi National Park has a variety of hiking trails such as the Hippo Pool, the Mkata Plain, and the Kikoboga Trail. Walking safaris offer a more intimate and immersive experience in the outdoors.

Camping: Mikumi National Park contains designated campsites where guests can pitch their tents and spend the night surrounded by nature. Camping in the African wilderness allows guests to experience the sounds of nature as well as the beauty of the starry sky.

Picnicking: Several designated picnic spots within the park offer visitors a chance to relax and enjoy meals amidst the natural surroundings. Picnicking is an excellent way to take a break during game drives or walking safaris and soak in the beauty of the park.

Photography: Mikumi’s stunning landscapes and abundant wildlife provide ample opportunities for photography enthusiasts to capture breathtaking shots. Whether it’s landscapes, wildlife, or bird photography, the park offers numerous picturesque scenes worth capturing.

Cultural Visits: Nearby communities offer cultural experiences where visitors can learn about local traditions, customs, and lifestyles. These visits often include interactions with indigenous tribes, cultural performances, and visits to local markets or villages.

Nature Trails: Mikumi has several nature trails that allow visitors to explore the park’s diverse habitats on foot. These trails offer a closer look at the park’s vegetation, smaller wildlife species, and scenic viewpoints.

Mikumi National Park also provides educational activities to raise awareness about wildlife conservation and environmental issues. Park rangers can lead visitors on guided tours or give speeches about conservation efforts and the importance of protecting natural environments.

Accommodation at Mikumi National Park

Luxury hotels refer to hotels that provide luxurious accommodation experiences to guests. They have certain features, such as luxurious rooms with elegance, amazingly comfortable beds, conference and event facilities, in-house restaurants, excellent room service, spa facilities, bar spaces, excellent amenities, onsite services, 24/7 room service, a gym, and pool facilities. The features can also be termed advantages, as a guest gets to enjoy all those exclusive services. Examples include Serena Mivumo River Lodge, Vuma Hills, Lemala Manyara, Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge, Escarpment Luxury Lodge, Ol Tukai Mayara, Lake Manyara Tree Lodge, and Stanley’s Kopje Camp, to name but a few.

Midrange Hotels: These are hotels that offer all the comfort an average tourist would expect from a hotel. It provides the perfect basis for the value of money and comfort. A tourist who seeks mid-range accommodation is not looking for luxury but rather comfort. Features of mid-range hotels include comfort, room service, and amenities such as Wi-Fi, gym facilities, and bar and restaurant facilities. Examples include Mikumi Wildlife Camp, Mikumi Safari Cottages, Mikumi Adventure Lodge, Angalia Tented Camp, Camp Bastian Mikumi, Mikumi Adventure Lodge, Mikumi Wildlife Camp, and others.

Budget hotels: These are hotels for budget tourists. They are usually small or mid-size rooms that offer basic facilities and services for a low price. Features of budget hotels are basic facilities without any luxurious features such as clean beds, clean bathrooms, or security. Examples include Mikumi Safari Lodge, Mikumi Resort, Tan Swiss Lodge, Vamos Hotel, Mantis Lodge and Camping, Graceland Hotel, New Hotel Aquiline Arusha, The White House of Tanzania, Marimba Palm Hotel, Safari Inn, Mkomazi Hotels and Camping, Camp Atupele, Voyage Village, and others.

Attractions at Mikumi National Park

Attractions at Mikumi National Park include the Uluguru Mountains, the Hippo Pool, Choma Falls, Lupanga Peak, and others.

Ulunguru Mountains: The Uluguru Mountains are a mountain range in eastern Tanzania, named after the Luguru tribe. It is a collection of peaks, and Mikumi National Park lies between the Uluguru Mountains and Lumango Ranges.

Choma Waterfalls: Choma is a village about eight kilometers from Morogoro town. The waterfall can be seen from It is situated among the Uluguru mountains. The waterfalls are a hiking place that takes six to seven hours to return. Choma waterfalls have cool waters that are suitable for swimming.

Lupanga Peak: Lupanga Peak lies about 2150 meters above sea level and is the second highest peak of the Uluguru Mountains. It takes about ten to twelve hours to walk to the peak.

What is so special about Mikumi National Park?

Firstly, Mikumi National Park is home to part of the Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalos. This makes it special because most tourists love to see the Big Five. Secondly, it is also a birding paradise, as it is home to more than 400 bird species.

Examples of the birds include the spur-winged goose, white-faced whistling duck, knob-billed duck, helmeted guinea fowl, eastern crested guinea fowl, crested francolin, coqui francolin, common quail, speckled pigeon, mourning collared dove, red-eyed dove, ring-necked dove, and many others. The park also has beautiful scenery, characterized by its scenic plains and baobabs. The scenic landscapes include Chizua Waterfalls and Kinole Waterfalls.

 

Frequently asked questions

1. What is the best time to visit Mikumi National Park?The best time to visit Mikumi National Park is during the dry season, between June and October. Wildlife gathers around water sources, making it easier to spot them on game drives. The weather is pleasant, and there is less vegetation, offering better visibility.
2. What kinds of wildlife can be found in Mikumi National Park?
   • Mikumi National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, buffalo, and various antelope species such as impalas and elands. Additionally, the park boasts a rich birdlife with over 400 bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers.
3. Are there accommodation options within Mikumi National Park?
   • Yes, Mikumi National Park offers various accommodation options to suit different preferences and budgets. Visitors can choose from tented camps, lodges, and campsites within the park itself. These accommodations provide an immersive experience amidst the wilderness while ensuring comfort and convenience.
4. What activities are available for tourists in Mikumi National Park?
   • The primary activity for tourists in Mikumi National Park is game driving, which allows visitors to explore the park’s diverse landscapes and encounter its abundant wildlife. Guided game drives, both during the day and night, offer opportunities to witness predators in action and observe nocturnal species. Additionally, walking safaris and birdwatching excursions are popular activities for nature enthusiasts.
5. How do I get to Mikumi National Park from major cities in Tanzania?
   • Mikumi National Park is conveniently located along the Tanzam Highway, making it easily accessible from major cities such as Dar es Salaam and Morogoro. The park is approximately a 4-5 hour drive from Dar es Salaam and a 2-hour drive from Morogoro. Visitors can either drive themselves or opt for guided tours and transportation services offered by tour operators. Additionally, domestic flights are available to nearby airstrips for those seeking a quicker means of travel.

 

Other attractions close to Mikumi National Park

1. Udzungwa Mountains National Park: Located about 100 kilometers southwest of Mikumi, Udzungwa Mountains National Park is known for its beautiful scenery and diverse flora and fauna, including primates like the Udzungwa red colobus monkey and the Udzungwa forest partridge. It offers hiking trails and waterfalls, providing a different experience from Mikumi’s savannah landscape.
2. Ruaha National Park: Although not extremely close (about 200 kilometers southwest), Ruaha National Park is one of Tanzania’s largest national parks and offers fantastic game viewing opportunities, including large populations of elephants as well as predators such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs. It’s a bit further away but could be visited with proper planning.
3. Selous Game Reserve: While farther away (about 350 kilometers southeast), Selous Game Reserve is one of Africa’s largest protected areas and offers incredible wildlife viewing opportunities, including boat safaris along the Rufiji River, where visitors can see hippos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife.
4. Morogoro Town: Closer to Mikumi, Morogoro is a vibrant town with a bustling market, cultural sites, and nearby attractions such as the Uluguru Mountains, which offer hiking opportunities and beautiful views.
5. Mikumi Township: While not a major tourist attraction, Mikumi Township itself offers a glimpse into local Tanzanian life and culture. Visitors can explore the town, interact with locals, and perhaps visit markets or small businesses.

What you should carry when visiting Mikumi National Park.

1. Clothing:
   • Lightweight, breathable clothing (neutral colors for blending with surroundings)
   • Long-sleeved shirts and long pants to protect against sunburn and insects
   • Hat with a brim or a cap for sun protection
   • Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots for walking safaris
   • Flip-flops or sandals for relaxing at the camp
   • Warm clothing for cooler evenings and early mornings, especially during the dry season (June to October),
2. Safari Gear:
   • Binoculars for wildlife spotting
   • Camera with extra batteries and memory cards for capturing the incredible wildlife
   • lightweight daypack for carrying essentials during game drives and walks
   • Sunglasses with UV protection
   • Insect repellent containing DEET
   • Sunscreen with high SPF
   • personal first aid kit with essentials like antiseptic cream, bandages, and any necessary medications
3. Documents and Miscellaneous:
   • Passport and visa (if required)
   • Travel insurance documents
   • Cash for tips, souvenirs, and any additional expenses
   • Guidebooks or maps of the area
   • Waterproof bags or pouches for protecting electronics and documents during rainy season or water-based activities
   • Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated during game drives and walks
4. Personal Items:
   • Toiletries (including biodegradable soap and shampoo)
   • Hand sanitizer or wet wipes
   • Personal hygiene products
   • Towel (quick-dry towels are convenient for travel)
   • Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries for navigating campsites at night
   • Any prescription medications you may need
5. Optional Items:
   • Bird identification book if you’re interested in birdwatching
   • field guide to African wildlife for identifying animals and plants
   • Binocular harness or strap for comfort during long periods of wildlife viewing
   • Portable charger or power bank for charging electronics
   • Snacks and non-perishable food items for long drives or hikes