Mkomazi National Park is a protected area in northeastern Tanzania, formerly a game reserve, that gained national park status. It’s renowned for its critical role in black rhino and African wild dog conservation, serving as a sanctuary for these endangered species.

The park experiences a hot, semi-arid climate. It has a pronounced dry season from June to October and a wet season from November to May (with short rains in Nov-Dec and long rains in March-May). Temperatures can be very hot, especially during the dry season.

Mkomazi supports a good diversity of wildlife, though game viewing can be more challenging than in the well-known Northern Circuit parks due to dense vegetation in some areas. Key species include:

• Black Rhino: Home to a successful breeding program for this critically endangered species. (Sightings are restricted and highly regulated).

• African Wild Dog (Painted Dog): Another successful conservation program for this endangered species.

• Elephants: Present and increasing in numbers.

• Giraffes, Zebras, Wildebeest, Buffalo, Hartebeest, Eland, Oryx (Gemsbok), Lesser Kudu, and Grant’s Gazelle.

• Lions, Leopards, and Cheetahs: Present but generally shy and less frequently sighted than in other parks.

Mkomazi technically has four of the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, and black rhino). However, rhino sightings are restricted, and lion/leopard sightings are less frequent due to their shy nature and the terrain. Buffalo and elephants are more commonly seen.

Yes, Mkomazi is an excellent birding destination, especially for arid-zone species, with over 450 recorded bird species. It’s a great place to see dry-country specialists, raptors, and various ground birds.

The dry season (June to October) is generally considered the best time for general wildlife viewing as animals congregate around the limited water sources. However, for specific conservation projects like rhino and wild dog, their visibility might be consistent year-round due to their protected enclosures.

• Game Drives: The primary way to explore the park.

• Rhino Sanctuary Visits: Special guided visits to the black rhino sanctuary (requires prior arrangement).

• Wild Dog Conservation Area Visits: Guided visits to see the African wild dogs.

• Walking Safaris: Guided nature walks are offered in designated areas.

• Birdwatching: Excellent opportunities for bird enthusiasts.

Light, comfortable clothing in neutral colors (avoid bright colors), warm layers for early mornings and evenings, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, high-SPF sunscreen), insect repellent, binoculars, a good camera with a zoom lens, comfortable closed-toe walking shoes, and a refillable water bottle.

Early mornings (starting around 6:30 AM) and late afternoons (from around 3:30 PM until sunset) are generally the best times when animals are most active and temperatures are cooler.

Accommodation options in Mkomazi are relatively limited and include a few comfortable tented camps and lodges inside or just outside the park boundaries, as well as basic public campsites.