Overview

Explore Mikumi National Park with Shaka Adventure Safari

Mikumi National Park is one of Tanzania’s most accessible wildlife reserves and a perfect destination for short or extended safaris. Covering 3,230 square kilometers, it lies between the Uluguru Mountains and the Lumango range, forming part of the larger Selous ecosystem. Mikumi is often compared to the Serengeti due to its wide savannahs and excellent game viewing opportunities—without the heavy tourist crowds.

Location & Landscape

Situated in southeastern Tanzania, Mikumi is about a 4–5-hour drive (283 km) from Dar es Salaam via the Morogoro highway. The park’s landscape is characterized by open grasslands, acacia woodlands, and miombo forests, with the floodplains of the Mkata River acting as the lifeline for wildlife during the dry season.

Wildlife Highlights

Mikumi hosts a rich diversity of wildlife, including elephants, buffaloes, lions, zebras, wildebeests, giraffes, and hippos. The park is also known for its rare elands, greater kudu, and sable antelope. It offers particularly good sightings of lions that are often seen lazing in the shade of acacia trees or hunting in the early morning.

Bird lovers can spot more than 400 species, such as lilac-breasted rollers, bateleur eagles, marabou storks, and yellow-throated longclaws.

Day 1 :

Arrival & Afternoon Game Drive

Route: Morning pick-up from Dar es Salaam → Drive to Mikumi via Morogoro (5 hours)

Depart early morning from Dar es Salaam with your Shaka Adventure driver-guide in a comfortable 4x4 safari vehicle. En route, pass through scenic landscapes, rural villages, and the Uluguru Mountains. Arrive at Mikumi in time for lunch and check-in at your lodge or tented camp. In the afternoon, enjoy your first game drive in the Mkata plains where herds of zebras, giraffes, and buffalo roam freely. Dinner and overnight stay at your lodge.

Day 02 :

Full-Day Game Drive in Mikumi Plains

Route: Mkata River floodplains → Chamgore (Hippo Pool) → Kikoboga Area

Begin the day with an early morning game drive while wildlife is most active. Explore the open plains where you may encounter elephants, lions, and rare antelope species. Visit the Chamgore (Hippo Pool) where hippos, crocodiles, and aquatic birds gather. Enjoy a picnic lunch in a shaded area within the park, followed by more exploration of the park’s less-frequented trails in the Kikoboga area. Return to the lodge in the evening for dinner and your second night.

Day 03 :

Walking Safari & Sunset Game Drive

Route: Guided walking safari → Relaxation → Evening game drive

After an early breakfast, head out on a guided walking safari with a park ranger. Learn about animal tracks, plants, and the smaller ecosystems that make Mikumi unique. Return to camp for a hot lunch and some rest. In the late afternoon, enjoy a relaxed sunset game drive with a focus on predators like lions and hyenas beginning their evening hunts. Dinner and overnight at the lodge.

Day 04 :

Final Game Drive & Return to Dar es Salaam

Route: Morning game drive → Depart for Dar es Salaam

Wake up for a final early morning game drive for any missed sightings. Return to camp for breakfast, check out, and depart for Dar es Salaam with packed lunch en route. Arrival in the late afternoon, marking the end of your memorable safari with Shaka Adventure.