Overview

Mkomazi National Park is located on the northeastern side of Tanzania. It borders Kenya’s Tsavo West National Park. It covers an area of 3,234 sq. km. Acacia-Commiphora vegetation dominates the park. While it has lower densities of wildlife, it is home to many species. It has a rhino sanctuary that protects black rhinos. It is also a great destination for watching birds. It is safe to visit the park as East Africa is safe for locals and tourists. Here are the reasons why you should visit Mkomazi National Park.

Wildlife

Mkomazi National Park does not have high densities of animals. But it is home to many species. The most common species are elephants, wildebeest, zebras, gazelles, elands, lions, and leopards. The park has recorded over 78 mammal species. The park has a rhino sanctuary that protects rhinos. This is the best place to have closer views of black rhinos in the park. The best time to see these animals is between June and October. This is the dry season in the region. During the wet season, animals such as elephants migrate to neighboring parks for greener grass and water. The roads may not be passable. The grass may also be taller to spot animals.

Birdlife

Mkomazi National Park is a perfect destination for watching birds. It has recorded over 450 species. The common species are the Martial eagle, ostrich, kori bustard, weavers, and Guinea fowl. Migratory birds from northern Africa and Europe such as European roller are present between November and April. It is easy to spot these birds during nature walks or game drives.

Scenery

Mkomazi National Park has a stunning view. It has diverse and beautiful vegetation. It is mostly covered by Acacia-Cammiphora vegetation. Savannah woodlands, rocky hills, baobab trees, and grey-green bush cover the park. The park is located on the slopes of mountain ranges giving it a scenic appeal.

Climate

Mkomazi National Park has great weather for park activities. It is usually warm and dry. Daytime is usually sunny, clear, and bright. Temperatures range between 16°C and 27°C. It rarely rains in this season. The wet season is between November and May. Temperatures range between 10°C and 30°C. Rains are common but may not always rain the whole day.

FAQs about Mkomazi National Park

• Where is Mkomazi National Park located?

Mkomazi National Park is located near the Same town in Tanzania. It is to the east of Pare Mountains. This is in the northeastern side of Tanzania. It is about 190 km from Arusha. Its coordinates are 4.1667° S and 38.1667° E. It is easily accessible by road from Arusha or Moshi.

• Why visit Mkomazi National Park?

Game viewing in Mkomazi National Park is excellent. Tourists spot animals such as elephants, antelopes, zebras, wildebeests, and wild dogs among others. The park is perfect for birding. It has over 450 species. Walking safaris allow tourists to explore the park. Camping allows tourists to experience the uniqueness of Mkomazi National Park. Tourists also enjoy visits to Mkomazi National Park Rhino Sanctuary.

• Which is the best time to visit Mkomazi National Park?

The best time to visit Mkomazi National Park is between June and October. It is the dry season in the region. Animals gather around water sources to drink water. Vegetation is also thinner compared to the wet season. This makes it easier to spot animals in the park. Some animals such as elephants migrate to other areas in search of food during the wet season. This makes it harder to spot them. But the wet season is the best to see migratory birds in the park.

• How to get to Mkomazi National Park

You can get to Mkomazi National Park by road. It is 112 km from Moshi. This is about an hour’s drive. Tourists can also fly to Arusha Airport for the safari to the park. Your tour operator will pick you up from the airport and take care of the transfers.