Mikumi National Park

Mikumi National Park in southern Tanzania is one of the country’s most accessible safari destinations and is often called the “mini Serengeti” for its wide, open plains. Covering over 3,000 square kilometers, the park is alive with wildlife—herds of elephants, buffalo, and zebras graze across the savannah, while lions and leopards roam in search of prey. The Mkata floodplain is a highlight, offering some of the best chances to see predators and other animals gathered around water sources.

Hippos bask in natural pools, giraffes stride gracefully across the plains, and bird lovers can enjoy sightings of more than 400 species, from vibrant rollers to powerful fish eagles. Just a short drive from Dar es Salaam, Mikumi is perfect for travelers with limited time who still want the feel of a true Tanzanian safari. Its mix of open landscapes, diverse wildlife, and fewer crowds makes it a rewarding and memorable experience.

What to Expect

Abundant Wildlife: The park is home to elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, buffalo, and large herds of antelope, often seen grazing on the open plains.

Easy Game Viewing: Its flat terrain and short grasslands make it easy to spot animals, especially around waterholes and riverbanks.

Diverse Scenery: Mikumi features vast savannahs, seasonal floodplains, and views of the Uluguru and Lumango mountains in the distance.

Rich Birdlife: Over 400 bird species make it a great destination for birdwatching, particularly during the wet season.

Convenient Safari Destination: Located near Dar es Salaam, it is ideal for short safaris and weekend wildlife trips without traveling too far.

When To Visit

The best time to visit Mikumi National Park depends on the type of safari experience you are seeking. From June to October, during the dry season, wildlife viewing is at its best as animals concentrate around water sources and the thinner vegetation makes sightings easier and more rewarding across the open plains. From November to May, the wet season transforms the park into a lush, green landscape with fewer visitors, excellent birdwatching opportunities, and the chance to see newborn animals, although occasional rains may slightly affect some activities.

JAN

FEB

MAR

APR

MAY

JUN

JUL

AUG

SEP

OCT

NOV

DEC

Visiting in January

January marks the beginning of the green season in Tanzania. The southern plains of Serengeti National Park and Ndutu area are lush and full of life after the short rains. Wildebeest herds gather in large numbers as they prepare for the calving season. Wildlife is abundant, and predators such as lions and cheetahs are highly active, making it a great month for dramatic safari encounters.

Visiting in February

February is the peak of the wildebeest calving season. Thousands of calves are born across the short-grass plains, attracting intense predator action. This is one of the most exciting wildlife months in Africa, offering incredible sightings in the Serengeti ecosystem.

Visiting in March

March continues the calving season, but the weather becomes more unpredictable as the long rains approach. The landscape remains green and beautiful, and wildlife is still concentrated in the southern Serengeti, although movement begins to increase.

Visiting in April

April is the height of the long rains. Many safari areas are quiet, but the scenery is at its most dramatic and green. Parks such as Ngorongoro Conservation Area still offer good wildlife viewing, especially for travelers who prefer fewer crowds and lower prices.

Visiting in May

The rains continue but start to ease toward the end of the month. Birdlife is excellent, and the landscapes remain lush. Wildlife is more spread out, making sightings a bit less predictable but still rewarding.

Visiting in June

June signals the start of the dry season. Animals begin gathering around water sources, improving game viewing. The Great Migration starts moving through the western corridors of Serengeti National Park.

Visiting in July

July is one of the best safari months in Tanzania. The Great Migration reaches the northern Serengeti, and dramatic Mara River crossings begin. Clear skies and dry conditions make wildlife viewing outstanding.

Visiting in August

August continues the peak safari experience. Massive herds gather at the Mara River, creating intense predator-prey encounters. At the same time, Tarangire National Park offers excellent elephant viewing.

Visiting in September

September remains dry and excellent for wildlife viewing. Animals concentrate around water sources, and the migration herds start settling in the northern Serengeti before slowly moving south.

Visiting in October

October offers superb game viewing across northern and central Tanzania. Wildlife is easier to spot due to limited water sources. It is also a good time to combine with southern parks like Nyerere National Park.

Visiting in November

Short rains begin, refreshing the landscape and encouraging new grass growth. The migration starts moving back toward the southern Serengeti, and birdwatching becomes especially rewarding.

Visiting in December

December brings the return of large herds to the southern Serengeti and Ndutu area. Wildlife activity increases again, and the cycle begins to prepare for the upcoming calving season.

Tanzania Safari Wildlife Journeys

You are welcome to tailor our trip options to your own interests. While these carefully chosen ideas will serve as a starting point, keep in mind that your path will be entirely unique to you.

$ 4,360 per person

Mikumi National Park

Mikumi National Park

What to Expect

When To Visit

Tanzania Safari Wildlife Journeys

7 Days Western Tanzania Wilderness & Primate Safari

4 Days Nyerere River & Big Five Wilderness Safari

5 Days Mikumi Plains & Udzungwa Rainforest Safari

6 Days Tanzania Family Safari Adventure

4 Days Tanzania Safari Express

6 Days Cultural & Wildlife Safari