Mikumi National Park

Frequently compared to the Serengeti in the north, Mikumi is a sprawling national park that borders the massive Selous Game Reserve.

The broad Mkata floodplain is an ideal place to spot lions as they lazily survey the vast herds of buffalo, zebra, wildebeest, and impala that roam the grasslands. Elephants seek the shade of acacia stands while hippopotamus wallow in pools close to the entrance gate.

Perhaps most unique to Mikumi are its African Wild Dog population and its large eland population. The largest member of the antelope family cuts a striking figure as it grazes on the open fields, and the park's huge array of bird life (over 400 species) make it a birder's paradise as well.