Mkomazi National Park
Description: Set below the verdant slopes of the spectacular Usambara and Pare Eastern Arc Mountain ranges and overseen by the iconic snow-capped peak of Kilimanjaro, Mkomazi is a breathtaking park, exhibiting unique natural treasures and an immense sense of space. A game reserve since 1951, this new National Park takes its name from Pare tribe’s word for “scoop of water,” referring to little water. Mkomazi is a vital refuge for two highly endangered species, the charismatic black rhino and sociable African wild dog, both of which were successfully reintroduced in the 1990s.
Location: Northern circuit, 3.5 hours from Moshi
Things 2 Do: Game Drives, Guided Walks, Night Game Drives, Sundowners, Visits to Conservation Projects
Time: 2 nights is optimal given the transit time to get to/from the park.
Animals: Giraffe, oryx, gerenuk, hartebeest, lesser kudu, eland, impala and grant’s gazelle share the park with elephants, buffalo and numerous predators including lions, leopards and cheetah. With over 450 species of birds recorded at the park, it is a birder’s paradise. And don’t forget the conservation work being done with black rhinos and wild dogs!
Accommodations:
$$$
Babu’s Camp
Mkomazi Wilderness Retreat
“It would be impossible to describe our complete satisfaction in a short survey. I can’t promise A2T is the best because I have not done another safari, but I can promise there are none better. It was far beyond our expectations – the weather, the animals, the lodging and most especially, our guide. Alex was professional, friendly, accommodating and extremely knowledgeable. He has the eyes of an eagle – he spotted game with his eyes that we could not see with 8X binoculars! He is truly amazing and he guided us through a once in a life time experience we will never forget. We have friends who have been on safaris and never seen a leopard or a cheetah. Thanks to Alex, we saw six leopards and thirteen cheetahs! We will recommend A2T to all our friends and should we return to Africa, we would not even think of another company. A2T is the best!”