Mikumi National Park animals at a glance
Elephant, buffalo, zebra, wildebeest, giraffe, lion, leopard and spotted hyena are among the park's larger animals. Hippos and crocodiles live along the rivers and pools, and more than 400 bird species have been recorded. Eland, sable antelope, greater kudu and defassa waterbuck may also occur.
Living in the park is not the same as being seen on a given drive. Nobody can promise a lion on your morning or a leopard on your night drive. Good chances are the honest way to put it, and the dry season improves them. If you want a guided trip, compare Mikumi safari options or the trips from Dar es Salaam.
The Mkata Floodplain
The main safari area of the park.
The Mkata Floodplain is open grassland with seasonal water holes and patches of woodland at the edges. This is where most game drives happen. Vegetation and the spread of animals change with the rains: in the wetter months the grass grows and animals spread out, while in the dry months wildlife concentrates and watching is easier.
Zebra, wildebeest and giraffe are among the animals of the open grassland, and elephants and buffalo also live in the park. Lions and spotted hyenas are the main predators. Scan the trees at the edges as well as the open ground, and ask your guide where animals were seen recently.
Our pick: a game drive in Mikumi
A private game drive is the best way to look for lions, elephants and giraffes.
Hand-picked tours, booked through GetYourGuide. Prices are indicative starting prices in US dollars (as of October 2026). Tap a tour for live availability and the current price in your currency.
Mikumi wildlife safaris
Game drives in Mikumi, from half-day outings to trips from Dar es Salaam and Zanzibar. Check what each tour includes.
Animals you may see in Mikumi
What each one is known for, with no promise of a sighting.
Lions
Lions live in the park, and the open plain gives you long views when they are out. Look along the edges of the floodplain and ask your guide where they were seen recently.
Elephants
Elephants are among the park's larger animals. Keep your vehicle on the track and give a herd room to pass.
Giraffes and zebras
Giraffes and zebras both live in the park and suit the open plain, where they are easy to spot at a distance.
Buffalo and wildebeest
Buffalo and wildebeest both live in the park. Ask your guide where herds have been recently.
Leopards and spotted hyenas
Both live in the park. A leopard is a bonus, not something to plan on. Night drives are an activity the park has offered, so ask whether one runs on your dates.
Antelope
Eland, sable antelope, greater kudu and defassa waterbuck may also occur in the park. Ask your guide which ones are around at the time of your visit.
Hippo Pool and the water
The Hippo Pool is a viewing spot for hippos, and crocodiles live along the rivers and pools. Water points include the Hippo Pools, the Mkata River and the Mwanambogo Pool. Water levels change through the year, and how many hippos you see depends on the season.
This is a place to watch, not to swim, and you must not approach the pools on foot outside an authorised arrangement. Hippos are dangerous, so keep your distance and stay on the marked areas.
Birds in Mikumi
More than 400 species, in woodland and on the water.
Rollers, bee-eaters, eagles, storks and many waterbirds can be seen. The pools and river banks are good places to start, and a guide will point out species you would pass without noticing. Birding is one of the activities the park offers alongside game drives.
Watching animals the right way
Rules that protect you and the animals.
Stay on the tracks
Drive only on the designated tracks. Do not leave your vehicle outside permitted spots, and do not feed any animal.
Walks only with a guide
Walks happen only in areas set aside for them and only with an authorised guide. Do not approach hippo pools or elephant herds on foot.
Drones need permission
A drone needs prior written permission, so leave it at home unless you have it.
The highway crosses the park
The A7 passes through Mikumi, and animals cross it. Drive slowly, heed the signs and read the Mikumi travel guide before you drive yourself.
Plan your wildlife visit
Pages that help with the next step.
Mikumi National Park animals: frequently asked questions
What animals live in Mikumi National Park?
Elephant, buffalo, zebra, wildebeest, giraffe, lion, leopard and spotted hyena live in the park, along with hippos and crocodiles. Eland, sable antelope, greater kudu and defassa waterbuck may also occur.
Will I see lions in Mikumi?
Lions live in the park and the open plain helps, but no one can promise a sighting. The dry months from June to October give good chances because animals gather near water.
Where is the Hippo Pool?
It is a viewing spot inside the park. Water points include the Hippo Pools, the Mkata River and the Mwanambogo Pool. Ask your guide which pool to visit at the time of your visit.
Can I walk to see animals?
Only on authorised guided walks in areas set aside for them. Approaching hippo pools or elephants on foot is not allowed.
Are there night drives?
Night game drives are a separate activity with their own fees. Ask your operator whether one is available on your dates.
Which birds can I see in Mikumi?
Rollers, bee-eaters, eagles, storks and many waterbirds, with more than 400 species recorded. The pools and river banks are good places to start.