Mkomazi National Park

Mkomazi National Park, located in northeastern Tanzania, is a hidden gem among the country’s wildlife conservation areas. Spanning approximately 3,245 square kilometers (1,253 square miles), the park is a vital part of the Eastern Arc Mountain ecosystem, characterized by semi-arid savannahs, rolling hills, and scattered acacia woodlands.

While lesser-known than some of Tanzania’s larger parks, Mkomazi is gaining recognition for its exceptional biodiversity and critical role in wildlife conservation. The park shares its northern border with Kenya’s Tsavo National Park, creating an important transboundary ecosystem for migratory species.

Mkomazi is celebrated for its thriving populations of endangered species, particularly the black rhino and the African wild dog, which have been reintroduced through dedicated conservation efforts. Visitors can learn about these initiatives at the Mkomazi Rhino Sanctuary, which plays a key role in protecting this critically endangered species.

The park is also home to a variety of other wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, zebras, elands, oryxes, and lesser kudu. Predator species such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs also roam the park, while over 450 bird species make Mkomazi a birdwatcher’s paradise.

Mkomazi’s landscapes are equally captivating, with sweeping views of the Pare and Usambara Mountains to the south and the majestic

Best Time to Visit
June to October: Dry season, when animals concentrate around water sources, making it easier to spot wildlife.
November to April: Rainy season, when the landscape becomes lush and green, and migratory birds are abundant.

Activities in Mkomazi National Park
Game Drives: Explore the park’s vast landscapes and encounter the diverse wildlife with experienced guides who will provide insights into the region’s ecology.
Bird Watching: Mkomazi is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with hundreds of species to observe, including migratory and rare birds.
Cultural Visits: Visit the nearby communities and learn about the traditions of the local tribes, such as the Maasai.
Photography: Capture the stunning scenery, wildlife, and dramatic landscapes, with opportunities to photograph the park’s rich biodiversity.

Accessibility
Mkomazi National Park is accessible by road from Kilimanjaro International Airport, which is around 100 kilometers away, and is a short drive from Amboseli National Park in Kenya. The park is often included in itineraries alongside other destinations in the Northern Safari Circuit, such as Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire.