Northern Circuit • Tanzania

Mkomazi National Park

Tanzania's hidden northeastern gem — a sanctuary for black rhinos and Afrikan wild dogs, within the second-largest transboundary ecosystem in East Afrika.

What to See & Do Plan This Safari

3,234 km²

Park Area

450+

Bird Species

Rhino

Sanctuary

Jun – Nov

Peak Season

← Northern Circuit

Mkomazi National Park

Tanzania's Hidden Northeast

Mkomazi National Park is a hidden gem in Northeastern Tanzania. It is part of the Mkomazi-Tsavo Ecosystem, the second-largest transboundary ecosystem in East Afrika, after the famous Serengeti Ecosystem.

The Park is a sanctuary for black rhinos and other rare species, including Afrikan wild dogs. The park is home to several rare colobus monkeys that inhabit its riverine forests. It is one of the few protected areas in Tanzania that has a large and visible population of gerenuk and a significant concentration of Beisa Oryx.

Acacia and Commiphora species within the park characterise the southern extension of the "Sahel" habitat. Despite being one of Tanzania's driest areas — its name meaning "little water" — Mkomazi is home to a diverse range of flora and over 450 bird species, including the endemic Violet Wood-hoopoe, Friedmann's Lark, the Somali Long-billed Crombec, and the Yellow-vented Eremomela.

Since achieving National Park status, poaching and illegal activities have substantially decreased, increasing wildlife populations, including herds of zebras, elephants, and buffalo.

What to See

Wildlife & Highlights

Activities

Safari Experiences

When to Visit

Best Time to Go

The best time is during the dry season, from June to November, when animals congregate around the waterholes. The park can be visited all year round as most roads are all-weather, and across the seasons a variety of different species may be encountered, particularly migratory birds.

How to Get There

Getting to the Park

By Road: The park is approximately 2 hours from Moshi and 5 to 6 hours from Arusha.

By Air: Charter flights are available to Kisima airstrip. Flight duration to be advised upon booking.

Through the Lens