Mkomazi National Park
Although Mkomazi doesn’t offer as much game viewing when compared to other parks in Tanzania, the wild scenery compensates for it with mountains rising in every direction.
Size:3245 km² / 1240 mi²
Altitude: 225-1531 m / 738-5023 ft
Set against the lush slopes of the stunning Usambara and Pare Eastern Arc Mountain ranges and crowned by the iconic snow-capped peak of Mount Kilimanjaro, Mkomazi exudes unspoiled beauty. This remarkable wilderness showcases unique natural treasures and offers a profound sense of space, perfectly fulfilling the high expectations of visitors. Serving as a vital link between the northern circuit and coastal attractions, Mkomazi is a destination that should not be missed.
Every day, thousands of travelers pass just a few kilometers from Mkomazi along one of Tanzania’s busiest highways. Northern circuit safari-goers and other adventurers are now warmly invited to explore the wonders of this semi-arid savannah. This hidden gem is home to thriving herds of giraffe, eland, hartebeest, zebra, buffalo, and elephant, offering a rich and rewarding wildlife experience.
Mkomazi serves as a crucial refuge for two highly endangered species: the charismatic black rhino and the sociable African wild dog. Both were successfully reintroduced in the 1990s. While wild dogs, being nomadic by nature, may be spotted almost anywhere in the park, black rhinos are carefully protected within a fenced sanctuary to ensure their safety for the enjoyment and prosperity of future generations.
The park is also home to several dry-country specialist species that are rarely seen elsewhere in Tanzania. These include the striking fringe-eared oryx, known for its elegant, backward-sweeping horns, and the handsome, spiral-horned lesser kudu. Perhaps the most unusual resident is the gerenuk, a gazelle with a slender neck, an alien-like head, and a unique ability to stand upright on its hind legs to feed on acacia leaves beyond the reach of other browsers.
Originally established as a game reserve in 1951, Mkomazi National Park takes its name from the Pare tribe’s word for “scoop of water,” a reference to its limited water resources. The park is a paradise for birdwatchers, boasting over 450 recorded avian species. Among these are dry-country endemics like the cobalt-chested vulturine guinea fowl, alongside other striking ground-dwelling birds such as the ostrich, kori bustard, secretary bird, and ground hornbill. Additionally, the park attracts migratory species, including the vibrant Eurasian roller, making it a must-visit destination for bird enthusiasts.
Pros and Cons
Stunning scenery with views of Mt Kilimanjaro
Important bird area with several northern dry-country endemics
Very exclusive and doesn’t get crowded
A lovely tented camp is the perfect get-away
Wildlife is thinly populated and skittish
Wildlife
Topi, eland, giraffe, zebra, and gazelles are commonly spotted in the area. Wild dogs have been successfully reintroduced, though sightings are rare. Similarly, the black rhino has been reintroduced but is kept within a protected enclosure for safety. Mkomazi is also home to several dry-country species, such as fringe-eared oryx, lesser kudu, and the unique-looking gerenuk. Bird enthusiasts will be delighted by the diversity, with over 400 species recorded, including many dry-country specialists.
Scenery
Nestled below the breathtaking slopes of the Usambara and Pare Eastern Arc Mountain ranges and framed by the snow-capped peak of Mount Kilimanjaro, Mkomazi offers stunning scenic beauty and a profound sense of vast, untamed wilderness.
