Overview:

Mkomazi National Park is a lesser-known but incredibly diverse park located in northeastern Tanzania, along the Kenyan border, near Mount Kilimanjaro and the Usambara Mountains. It’s part of the larger Tsavo–Mkomazi ecosystem, connecting with Kenya’s Tsavo West National Park, which allows wildlife to roam between the two countries. This park offers stunning scenery, unique wildlife, and a quiet, off-the-beaten-path safari experience.

Facts about mkomazi:

Location: 6–7 hours from Arusha (~300 km) Size ~3,200 sq. km

Established: Game Reserve (1951), National Park (2008)

Ecosystem: Part of Tsavo-Mkomazi transboundary ecosystem

Highlights of Mkomazi National Park

Endangered Black Rhinos (in a sanctuary)

• Mkomazi is home to a Rhino Sanctuary, which protects endangered black rhinos.
• Sightings require special arrangements with park authorities or a guide, but it offers a rare chance to see these elusive animals.

African Wild Dogs (Painted Wolves)

• One of the few places in Tanzania where African wild dogs are being actively protected and sometimes spotted.
• Mkomazi supports a breeding and reintroduction program.

Wildlife

• Mkomazi is not as densely populated as Serengeti, but its home to:
• Elephants, giraffes, zebras, oryx, eland
• Lions, leopards, cheetahs
• Buffaloes, dik-diks, warthogs, impalas

Birdwatcher’s Paradise

• Over 450 bird species recorded.
• Includes dry-country birds like:
• Ostriches, kori bustards, hornbills, secretary birds
• Migratory and endemic species

Scenic Beauty

• Semi-arid savannah, rolling hills, acacia woodlands, and open plains.
• Views of Mount Kilimanjaro to the west and Pare Mountains to the south.

LOCATION/ ACCESSIBILITY

From Distance Time Estimate Arusha 300 km 6–7 hours by road,Moshi 200 km 4–5 hours Same (nearest town) 20 km 30 minutes Tsavo West (Kenya) Connected via border (with permit)

Best accessed by road (4×4 recommended).

Daily flights are limited; some private airstrips are available.

Top Activities in Mkomazi

• Game drives (morning & evening)
• Birdwatching safaris
• Rhino sanctuary visits
• Nature walks (in selected zones)
• Cultural visits to Pare and Maasai communities
• Scenic photography (especially with Mt. Kilimanjaro in the background)

 Why Visit Mkomazi?

• Off-the-beaten-path – very few tourists
• One of the best places in Tanzania to learn about conservation projects
• See black rhinos and wild dogs (very rare elsewhere)
• Ideal for experienced safari-goers or those seeking solitude
• Incredible scenery and rich birdlife