mkomanzi national park
Mkomazi National Park – Size & Establishment
Mkomazi National Park is located in northeastern Tanzania, bordering Kenya’s Tsavo West National Park. It spans an area of approximately 3,245 square kilometers, making it one of Tanzania’s significant protected areas. Originally a game reserve, Mkomazi was officially declared a national park in 2008. The park plays a crucial role in conserving the dry savannah ecosystem and forms part of an important wildlife corridor between Kenya and Tanzania. Its landscape consists of semi-arid savannah, thorny bushlands, and seasonal rivers. Despite being less visited than other parks, Mkomazi offers a unique wilderness experience and contributes greatly to conservation efforts.
Animals to See in Mkomazi National Park
Mkomazi is home to a diverse array of wildlife, especially species adapted to dry savannah environments. Common sightings include giraffes, zebras, oryx, eland, hartebeest, warthogs, and dik-diks. Predators such as lions, leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas are present, although less commonly seen due to the park’s vastness. Elephants and buffaloes occasionally move through from neighboring parks. The park is also known for its rich birdlife, with over 450 bird species, including ostriches, hornbills, and kori bustards. Mkomazi is particularly special for its endangered species conservation, making it a key place to see rhinos and African wild dogs in protected zones
Rhino Project in Mkomazi
The Mkomazi Rhino Sanctuary is a major conservation project focused on the protection and breeding of the critically endangered black rhino. Established within a secure, fenced area inside the park, the sanctuary provides a safe environment for rhinos to breed and be protected from poaching. Managed by the George Adamson Wildlife Preservation Trust, the project began in the 1990s and has successfully reintroduced black rhinos to Mkomazi, where they once roamed freely. Visitors can book guided tours to learn about the conservation work and, if lucky, catch a glimpse of these majestic creatures in a carefully managed and secure habitat.
Wild Dog Project in Mkomazi
Mkomazi National Park is also home to a successful African Wild Dog Conservation project, part of efforts to restore populations of this endangered predator. Once nearly extinct in the region, African wild dogs (also known as painted wolves) have been reintroduced into protected enclosures in Mkomazi. The project is run in collaboration with the George Adamson Wildlife Preservation Trust and includes breeding, monitoring, and eventual release into the wild. These intelligent and social animals are known for their teamwork and hunting efficiency. Visitors may have the rare chance to observe them and learn about the challenges and successes of their conservation
Best Time to Visit Mkomazi National Park
The best time to visit Mkomazi National Park is during the dry season, from June to October. During these months, vegetation is sparse, and animals are easier to spot around water sources. The roads are also more accessible, and the weather is generally sunny and pleasant. Wildlife viewing, including chances to see rhinos, wild dogs, and various antelope, is best in this period. Birdwatching is also excellent year-round but peaks from November to April, when migratory birds arrive. While the wet season brings green landscapes, some areas may be hard to reach due to muddy tracks and swollen rivers.