Mkomazi National Park

A very unique paradise nestled below the slopes of Usambara and Pare Mountains, the park borders Tsavo National Park in Kenya to the north forming a unique ecosystem with a semi-arid climate that provides a thriving biodiversity rich in rare and endemic wildlife.

The park lies 200km from Arusha Town and 120km from Moshi Town.

A Complete Overview

Location and Accessibility

Location: Northeastern Tanzania, bordering Kenya’s Tsavo West National Park.
Coordinates: Latitude 4°5′S, Longitude 37°45′E.
Size: Approximately 3,276 square kilometers (1,265 square miles).
Accessibility:
- By Road:
  - From Moshi or Arusha: About a 3–5 hour drive, depending on road conditions.
  - From Dar es Salaam: A 6–8 hour drive.
- By Air: Light aircraft flights are available to the park’s airstrip or nearby Kilimanjaro International Airport.

Key Features and Ecosystems

1. Semi-Arid Landscape
  Mkomazi’s dry savannah landscape features acacia woodlands, open grasslands, and rocky hills. Its rugged beauty is enhanced by the Pare and Usambara Mountains to the south and Mount Kilimanjaro’s peaks in the distance.
2. Tsavo-Mkomazi Ecosystem
  This transboundary ecosystem is essential for the seasonal migration of elephants and other wildlife between Tanzania and Kenya.
3. Rivers and Water Sources
  Seasonal rivers and waterholes sustain the park’s wildlife, particularly during the dry season.
4. Endangered Species Sanctuaries
  - Black Rhino Sanctuary: Established to protect and breed critically endangered black rhinos.
  - African Wild Dog: A conservation success story, with reintroduced populations thriving in the park.

Birds in Mkomazi

With over 400 bird species, Mkomazi is a paradise for birdwatchers.

Notable Birds: Ostriches, kori bustards, secretary birds, and several species of eagles, vultures, and weavers.
Migratory Birds: The park hosts seasonal migratory species during certain times of the year.

Activities in Mkomazi National Park

Game Drives
Explore the park’s diverse habitats on guided game drives, offering opportunities to see large mammals, predators, and rare species.
Birdwatching
With its varied habitats, the park is ideal for birdwatching, especially around wetlands and grasslands.
Guided Walks
Experience the park on foot with a knowledgeable guide, focusing on smaller wildlife, plants, and birdlife.
Visit to the Rhino Sanctuary
Learn about rhino conservation efforts and view these majestic animals up close within their secure sanctuary.
Cultural Visits
Engage with the local Pare and Sambaa communities to understand their traditions and sustainable relationship with the park.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit depends on your interests and the type of experience you seek:
- Dry Season (June to October):
  - Ideal for game viewing as animals congregate around water sources.
  - Clear skies and dry conditions make for excellent photography.
- Wet Season (November to May):
  - The park transforms into a lush green landscape, attracting migratory birds.
  - Wildlife may be more dispersed, but birdwatching is at its peak.

Accommodations

Mkomazi offers several options for accommodation, ranging from basic to mid-range:

Lodges
- Babu’s Camp: A luxury tented camp offering comfort and personalized service.
- Mambo View Eco Lodge: Located near the park, with stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
Tented Camps
- Mobile camps offer a closer connection to the wilderness for adventurous travelers.
Public Campsites
- Basic camping facilities are available for budget travelers who prefer a more immersive experience.
Nearby Towns
- Accommodation options in Same town cater to visitors looking for budget-friendly stays.

Why Visit Mkomazi National Park

Unique Wildlife: See endangered black rhinos and African wild dogs, along with other iconic animals.
Serene Environment: A quieter alternative to busier parks, offering an intimate safari experience.
Rich Birdlife: A haven for bird enthusiasts with a wide variety of species.
Cultural Interactions: Engage with local communities for a deeper understanding of the region.

More of Mkomazi

The large trans-boundary ecosystem provides a suitable habitat for large migratory herds of oryx, elephants and zebras. We also recommend the park for bird lovers with over 400 species have been recorded. The riverine forests along the Umba River hosts the rare colobus monkeys.

More Of Mkomazi

Mkomazi National Park also boasts the big five and large populations of black rhinoceros surpassing all other parks in Tanzania. The social painted wild dogs have a thriving population as well as gerenuk and the magnificent Beisa Oryx.

Be sure to be amazed by the experience you might choose, from game viewing, hiking hills with short hikes up to 4 hours, walking safaris and bird watching.