Mkomazi National Park

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Home / Destinations / Mkomazi National Park – Rhinos, Rugged Hills & Rare Wildlife

A Hidden Gem for Wildlife Enthusiasts

Located between Kilimanjaro and Tsavo, Mkomazi National Park is a conservation success story. This rarely visited park is home to the endangered black rhino, African wild dogs, and stunning mountain views. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting to explore a less crowded, ecologically rich park.

Why Visit Mkomazi National Park?

Mkomazi is a quiet and scenic park that’s perfect for travelers looking for something different. It’s one of the few places in Tanzania where you can see black rhinos and wild dogs in the same area. Here’s why it’s worth a visit:

  • One of the few places to see black rhinos in Tanzania
  • Unspoiled landscapes with little tourism pressure
  • Bordering Tsavo West National Park (Kenya)
  • Home to African wild dogs, giraffes, and rare antelopes

Top Things to Do in Mkomazi National Park

Mkomazi offers unique experiences that blend conservation and adventure. From rhino tracking to birdwatching, here are the top activities in the park:

1. Visit the Mkomazi Rhino Sanctuary

Take a guided tour to see critically endangered black rhinos in a protected reserve.

2. Game Drives

Spot giraffes, elands, zebras, and even wild dogs across open savannahs and rocky hills.

3. Birdwatching

Over 450 bird species including ostriches and hornbills.

4. Scenic Photography

Capture Mt. Kilimanjaro or the Usambara Mountains as backdrops for wildlife shots.

Wildlife Highlights in Mkomazi National Park

Mkomazi has a surprising variety of wildlife, even though it’s less visited. Here’s a look at some of the animals you may encounter:

  • Black Rhinos (in the sanctuary)
  • African Wild Dogs
  • Giraffes, Zebras, Elands, Lions, Cheetahs
  • Numerous birds and reptiles

Getting There

Mkomazi is fairly easy to reach by road from Arusha or Moshi. Charter flights are also available for those wanting a quicker journey. Here’s how to get there:

  • ~4–5 hours drive from Arusha or Moshi
  • Charter flights available to Zange Airstrip

Where to Stay

Though Mkomazi has fewer accommodation options than bigger parks, there are great places to stay nearby. Whether you want luxury or budget-friendly, here are some recommended stays:

The Bottomline

If you’re searching for rare wildlife, stunning landscapes, and a quiet safari away from the crowds, Mkomazi offers all that and more. It’s one of Tanzania’s best places for conservation-focused tourism.

Popular Questions

Is Mkomazi good for birdwatching?

Yes, Mkomazi is excellent for birdwatching, with over 450 bird species recorded. It’s especially popular with bird lovers due to sightings of ostriches, secretary birds, hornbills, and migratory species.

Mkomazi is less crowded and offers a more peaceful, off-the-beaten-path safari experience. It also features both savannah and semi-arid landscapes, making it quite unique compared to the greener parks in northern Tanzania.

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