Mikumi National Park is the fourth largest park in Tanzania and measures 3,230km2. Together with the huge Selous Game Reserve, with which it shares a border, the huge wilderness area and unique ecosystem are 75,000km2.
In the centre of Mikumi, the Mkata floodplain has plentiful wildlife including lion, elephant, buffalo, wildebeest, impala, eland and hippo, as well as the rare greater kudu and sable antelope. More than 400 species of bird have been recorded here, and large numbers of European migrants flock here in the wet season.
The road between Dar es Salaam and Iringa divides the park. North of this road lies the more accessible region of the park; the Mkata River and surrounding river basin carves across this area, and the vegetation includes savannah plains scattered with acacia, baobab, tamarind and some rare palm species. Tree-climbing lions can be seen here, along with a subspecies of giraffe that might be the link between the Maasai giraffe and the reticulated giraffe. Over 400 species of bird have been recorded here. Activities in the park include game drives and game walks.
The Udzungwa Mountains, part of the Eastern Arc Mountains, are near the park. Covered with tropical rainforest, mountain forest, miombo woodland and grassland, the mountains are home to such unusual species as the Udzungwa red colobus, the Tana River mangabey and the grey-faced sengi. Hiking and trekking here gives access to lovely waterfalls and awe-inspiring views.
Named after the Luguru tribe, the Ulunguru Mountains, also a part of the Eastern Arc Mountains, have a striking ridge that rises to 2,630 meters. The mountains are home to some endemic wildlife and high numbers of rare species.
