Mikumi & Udzungwa Mountains

Mikumi National Park is located in the southern part of Tanzania and covers an area of about 3,230 square kilometers. It is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, lions, zebras, hippos, and many species of birds. The park is also known for its beautiful landscape, with grassy plains, rolling hills, and rocky outcrops.

The park is bisected by a major road, which detracts slightly from its feeling of wilderness, but does make it easy to reach by vehicle; it's just four hours south-west of Dar es Salaam.

Udzungwa Mountains National Park

Udzungwa Mountains National Park, on the other hand, is located in the Eastern Arc Mountains in Tanzania and covers an area of about 1,990 square kilometers. It is home to a number of endemic plant and animal species, including the Udzungwa red colobus monkey, which is found only in this park. Visitors to Udzungwa can enjoy hiking and trekking through the beautiful forested mountains, waterfalls, and valleys.

Both parks offer unique and unforgettable experiences for visitors interested in exploring Tanzania's natural beauty and wildlife.

The best time to travel to Mikumi National Park and Udzungwa Mountains National Park is during the dry season, which typically runs from late June to October. During this time, the weather is generally dry and sunny, making it easier to spot wildlife, and the vegetation is not as dense, which also makes it easier to see the animals.

Another good time to visit is during the short dry season, which occurs from January to February. However, during this time, the weather can be hot and humid.

The wet season, which runs from November to May, can be challenging for visitors, as the rain can make roads and trails muddy and difficult to navigate. However, the wet season can be a good time for bird watching and seeing baby animals, as many species give birth during this time.

Ultimately, the best time to travel to Mikumi and Udzungwa Mountains National Parks depends on your interests and preferences. If you are primarily interested in wildlife viewing, the dry season may be the best time to go. However, if you don't mind the rain and are interested in bird watching or seeing baby animals, the wet season could be a good option.

Wildlife viewing: Both parks offer opportunities to see a variety of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, lions, zebras, hippos, and many species of birds. Mikumi is particularly known for its large herds of elephants, while Udzungwa is home to the Udzungwa red colobus monkey, which is found only in this park.

Scenery and landscape: Both parks offer beautiful landscapes and scenery. Mikumi National Park has grassy plains, rolling hills, and rocky outcrops, while Udzungwa Mountains National Park has forested mountains, waterfalls, and valleys.

Hiking and trekking: Udzungwa Mountains National Park is a great place for hiking and trekking, with trails leading through beautiful forests and to stunning waterfalls.

Cultural experiences: Visitors to Mikumi National Park can also visit nearby Maasai villages and learn about their culture and way of life.

Off the beaten path: While both parks are popular among tourists, they are still relatively off the beaten path compared to some of Tanzania's more famous parks, like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, making them a great option for those looking to explore less crowded areas.

Overall, Mikumi National Park and Udzungwa Mountains National Park offer a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors interested in exploring Tanzania's natural beauty and wildlife.