Welcome to Mkomazi National Park
Mkomazi National Park
Mkomazi National Park is a concealed treasure within Tanzania’s northern wildlife reserves. Once a game reserve, it was designated as a national park in 2008, making it one of the newest additions to Tanzania’s national parks. The park boasts diverse ecosystems, featuring ancient baobab trees and semi-arid savannahs, all set against the stunning backdrop of the Pare and Usambara mountains, making it an exceptional destination. Currently, it remains relatively unknown among travelers, but we anticipate its popularity will soar in the coming years.
Within Mkomazi, you can encounter the Big Five alongside giraffes, cheetahs, hyenas, gerenuk antelopes, and zebras, among many other species. While the wildlife population may be less than that of Tarangire National Park, visitors will find the absence of crowds refreshing, as safari vehicles are also scarce. Mkomazi is perfect for those seeking a serene connection with Africa’s natural beauty, away from the typical tourist paths.
A highlight of the park is the Mkomazi Black Rhino Sanctuary, which offers one of the best opportunities in Tanzania to spot these rare creatures. If seeing these magnificent animals is on your safari wish list, be sure to include a visit to Mkomazi in your itinerary.
facts about mkomazi national park
In Mkomazi National Park, you have the opportunity to witness the illustrious Big Five of Africa: elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, and rhinos. However, spotting all five in a single day is less likely than in places like Ngorongoro Crater, as the wildlife population here is lower and the animals are less habituated to the presence of safari vehicles compared to more frequented parks.
Historically, Mkomazi served as a hunting reserve, leading to the near eradication of many predators. As a result, encountering leopards can be quite elusive, often requiring several days—sometimes 3 to 4—to catch a glimpse. Conversely, the other members of the Big Five can typically be spotted within a couple of days.
In addition to the Big Five, Mkomazi is home to a variety of other wildlife, including giraffes, hippos, zebras, hyenas, and African wild dogs. Herbivores are generally more abundant than predators, allowing visitors to enjoy frequent sightings of these majestic creatures as they roam the diverse landscapes.