Mkomazi National Park- Travel Tips

What to See, How to Plan & Tours

Mkomazi National Park: Tanzania’s Hidden Sanctuary for Rhinos and Wild Dogs

While the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater attract the lion’s share of tourism in Tanzania, Mkomazi National Park remains a pristine, uncrowded gem in the Northern Circuit. Located in the shadow of the Pare and Usambara Mountains, and bordering Kenya’s vast Tsavo West National Park, Mkomazi offers a safari experience defined by exclusivity, breathtaking landscapes, and profound conservation success stories.

For travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Mkomazi is not just a wildlife destination—it is a sanctuary of hope. It is one of the few places in Tanzania where you can witness the highly endangered Black Rhino and the elusive African Wild Dog, making it a critical stop for serious wildlife enthusiasts.

Why Mkomazi is Tanzania's Best Kept Secret

A Vital Part of the Tsavo Ecosystem

Gazetted as a National Park in 2008, Mkomazi covers over 3,245 square kilometers. Its name is derived from the Pare language, meaning "scoop of water," signifying the semi-arid nature of the landscape. Biologically, Mkomazi is an extension of the Tsavo ecosystem. During the wet season, the park becomes a vital corridor for migratory herds of elephants, zebras, and oryx moving between Tanzania and Kenya, creating a dynamic and vast theatre of wildlife.

The Legacy of Tony Fitzjohn and George Adamson

Mkomazi’s history is deeply intertwined with legendary conservationists. In the late 1980s, the George Adamson Wildlife Preservation Trust (now the Mkomazi Wildlife Preservation Trust), led by Tony Fitzjohn, began a massive rehabilitation project. They transformed a depleted game reserve into a thriving national park. Their work in restoring the habitat and reintroducing endangered species is the foundation of the park's current success.

The Atmosphere: An Exclusive, Uncrowded Safari Experience

Unlike the traffic-heavy circuits of the north, Mkomazi offers solitude. It is possible to drive for hours without seeing another vehicle, allowing for intimate wildlife encounters and uninterrupted photography sessions. The stark beauty of the acacia-commiphora woodlands, framed by the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro in the distance on clear days, provides a dramatic backdrop unlike any other.

Wildlife & Conservation: The 'Big Two' and Rare Species

While Mkomazi is home to the Big Five, its true fame lies in the "Big Two" endangered species: the Black Rhino and the African Wild Dog.

The Mkomazi Rhino Sanctuary: A Conservation Triumph

The crowning jewel of the park is the Mkomazi Rhino Sanctuary. Heavily guarded and fenced to ensure safety against poachers, this sanctuary has been instrumental in breeding and protecting the Eastern Black Rhinoceros. Visitors can book special game drives into the sanctuary to see these prehistoric giants up close—a rare privilege in East Africa today.

The African Wild Dog: Witnessing a Rare Predator

Mkomazi is one of the primary strongholds for the African Wild Dog (Painted Wolf). Through dedicated captive breeding and reintroduction programs, the park has successfully bolstered the population of this endangered carnivore. Seeing a pack of wild dogs on the hunt or resting in the shade is a highlight that rivals any big cat sighting.

Dry Country Specials: Gerenuk, Oryx, and Lesser Kudu

The semi-arid terrain supports species that are rare or absent in the wetter Serengeti. Look out for the Gerenuk (giraffe gazelle), known for standing on its hind legs to reach high branches. The Fringe-eared Oryx and the beautiful Lesser Kudu are also prominent residents here, thriving in the dry acacia bushland.

A Birdwatcher’s Paradise: Over 450 Species

With over 450 recorded bird species, Mkomazi is a top-tier destination for birders. The park hosts dry-country specialists like the Cobalt-chested Vulturine Guineafowl, the Secretary Bird, and the Kori Bustard. During the rainy season (November to April), Eurasian migratory birds swell the numbers, turning the park into an ornithological haven.

Top Activities and Safari Experiences

Exclusive Game Drives and Walking Safaris

While game drives are the standard way to explore, Mkomazi is one of the few national parks in Tanzania that permits walking safaris. Accompanied by an armed ranger, you can explore the bush on foot, learning about animal tracks, medicinal plants, and the smaller wonders of the ecosystem that are missed from a vehicle.

Hiking and Cultural Tours in the Pare Mountains

The park’s proximity to the South Pare Mountains allows for excellent hiking opportunities. Cultural tours to local Pare villages offer insight into the indigenous tribes of the region, their agricultural practices, and their harmonious existence alongside wildlife.

Camping Under the Stars

For the adventurous, camping in designated public campsites within the park offers a visceral connection to the wild. Listening to the whoop of hyenas and the distant roar of lions while sitting around a campfire is the quintessential African experience.

Practical Travel Guide

Best Time to Visit: Dry vs. Wet Season

Dry Season (June to October): This is the best time for general wildlife viewing. The vegetation thins out, and animals congregate around man-made waterholes, making them easier to spot.

Wet Season (November to May): The park turns lush and green. This is the prime season for birdwatching and landscape photography. The views of Kilimanjaro are also generally clearer during the early wet season.

Accommodation: From Luxury Camps to Budget Bandas

Accommodation options in and around Mkomazi cater to various budgets:

Babu’s Camp: A permanent tented camp offering a high-end, classic safari experience set among baobab trees.

Mkomazi Wilderness Retreat: Nestled on Dindira Hill, this lodge offers panoramic views of the park and excellent amenities.

Tanapa Bandas: For budget travelers, the park offers simple, government-run cottages (bandas) at the Zange Gate headquarters.

Same Town: Several guesthouses and hotels are available in the nearby town of Same for those staying outside the park.

Getting There: Access via Same and Kilimanjaro

Mkomazi is easily accessible by road. The main entry point, Zange Gate, is located less than 6km from the town of Same, which lies on the main highway connecting Arusha to Dar es Salaam. The drive from Arusha takes approximately 3 to 4 hours. Alternatively, charter flights can land at the Kisima airstrip inside the park.