Mkomazi National Park
A wild, little-visited park beneath the Pare and Usambara mountains, home to a black rhino sanctuary and African wild dogs.
- Location
- North-eastern Tanzania, on the Kenyan border
- Best time
- June–October
- Known for
- Black rhinos & African wild dogs
- From Moshi
- About 2 hours by road
Discover Mkomazi National Park
Mkomazi National Park lies in north-eastern Tanzania, between the Pare and Usambara mountains, where it meets Kenya's Tsavo West National Park across the border. Together they form one of the largest protected wildlife areas in East Africa. Covering more than 3,200 km² of semi-arid savannah, acacia bush and rocky hills, Mkomazi is one of Tanzania's least-visited parks, so you will often have its sightings to yourself.
Rhinos and Wild Dogs
Mkomazi is best known for two conservation success stories. The fenced Mkomazi Rhino Sanctuary protects a breeding population of critically endangered eastern black rhinos, and the park's African wild dog programme has helped return this rare predator to the wild. Visits to the rhino sanctuary are by prior arrangement, and we can request one for you when you book.
Wildlife and Birds
The dry country suits animals rarely seen in northern Tanzania's other parks, including gerenuk, fringe-eared oryx and lesser kudu. Elephant, giraffe, zebra, buffalo and eland roam the plains, along with lion, leopard and cheetah. With more than 400 recorded bird species, Mkomazi is also a rewarding stop for birdwatchers.
Getting There
The main entrance, Zange Gate, is near the town of Same, about two hours by road from Moshi. Mkomazi combines well with a Kilimanjaro climb, a visit to the Usambara Mountains or onward travel to the coast and Zanzibar.
Where It Is
Mkomazi National Park on the Map
Why Go
Highlights of Mkomazi National Park
- Black rhino sanctuaryA fenced sanctuary protecting critically endangered eastern black rhinos.
- African wild dogsA conservation programme that has helped return wild dogs to the wild.
- Dry-country wildlifeGerenuk, fringe-eared oryx and lesser kudu, rarely seen elsewhere in the north.
- BirdlifeMore than 400 recorded bird species.
- Quiet game drivesOne of Tanzania's least-visited parks, with sightings often to yourself.
- Mountain viewsSavannah set against the Pare and Usambara mountains.
Good to Know
Mkomazi National Park FAQs
When is the best time to visit Mkomazi National Park? +
The dry season from June to October is best for wildlife, as animals gather near water and the roads are easier. The green season from November to May brings lush scenery and excellent birdwatching, though some tracks can be harder going.
Can I see black rhinos at Mkomazi? +
The rhinos live in a fenced sanctuary inside the park, managed for breeding and protection. Visits are by prior arrangement only, and we can request one for you when you book.
How do I get to Mkomazi National Park? +
The main entrance, Zange Gate, is near Same, about two hours by road from Moshi. The park combines easily with a Kilimanjaro climb, the Usambara Mountains or onward travel to the coast.
Is Mkomazi busy? +
No. Mkomazi is one of Tanzania's least-visited national parks, so game drives are quiet and you will rarely share a sighting with other vehicles.
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