Camp & Explore Mkomazi

Safari summary

2-Day Mkomazi Camping Safari
Introduction
Mkomazi National Park, located in northern Tanzania along the Kenya border, is one of the country’s most remote and untouched wildlife sanctuaries. Unlike the busier northern circuit parks like Serengeti or Ngorongoro, Mkomazi offers a raw, authentic wilderness experience where nature feels entirely unspoiled. Spanning over 3,200 square kilometers, the park is a sanctuary for endangered species such as the black rhino, African wild dog, and roan antelope, as well as a variety of plains animals and exotic birdlife. Its landscapes range from vast open savannahs dotted with acacia trees to rugged hills, dry riverbeds, and seasonal wetlands, providing a perfect backdrop for adventure and photography.
Day 1: Arrival, Setup, and Afternoon Game Drive
Morning Departure and Journey to Mkomazi
The adventure begins early in the morning with a departure from your base, which could be in nearby towns like Moshi, Arusha, or even from the Tanzanian-Kenyan border. The drive to Mkomazi winds through scenic landscapes, passing rural villages, small farms, and the rugged hills of northern Tanzania. En route, your safari guide will brief you about the park, its history, and the wildlife you may encounter, giving tips on photography, tracking animals, and camping safety.
Arrival and Camp Setup
Upon entering the park, you are greeted by the untouched beauty of Mkomazi’s open plains and scattered acacia trees. Your guide will lead you to a designated camping site, usually equipped with tents, sleeping mats, and basic sanitation facilities. Experienced camp staff help set up your sleeping area, and you are free to explore the surroundings. The campsite itself offers an excellent vantage point for wildlife spotting—zebras and giraffes may sometimes graze just meters from your tent, offering a preview of the park’s wonders.
Lunch and Preparation for Safari
After a light lunch at the camp, consisting of local dishes or safari-friendly meals, it’s time to prepare for the first game drive. Ensure cameras, binoculars, and hats are ready, and carry water for the afternoon safari. The heat of midday is usually reserved for resting at camp, as animals tend to be less active during this time.
Afternoon Game Drive
The afternoon game drive is an exciting introduction to Mkomazi. Unlike the larger northern parks, Mkomazi feels intimate and less crowded, allowing for peaceful wildlife encounters. You will traverse savannah plains, acacia woodlands, and dry riverbeds, observing herds of zebra, giraffe, and buffalo grazing. Keep an eye out for predators such as lions and leopards, which are often spotted in the late afternoon. One of Mkomazi’s highlights is the possibility of seeing African wild dogs, a rare and endangered species rarely encountered elsewhere.
Bird enthusiasts will also enjoy the rich avian life, including lappet-faced vultures, kori bustards, secretary birds, and colorful hornbills. The guide will point out animal tracks, explain feeding habits, and share conservation stories, adding depth to the safari experience.
Sunset and Evening at Camp
As the sun begins to set, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink, return to camp for a relaxing evening. Dinner is served around a campfire under the stars, where you can enjoy a hearty meal while listening to the sounds of the wild—distant calls of jackals, the occasional roar of lions, and the soft whisper of the wind through the acacias. This is a perfect moment to share stories, enjoy a hot drink, and reflect on the day’s wildlife encounters. Overnight at the campsite offers a unique immersion into the African wilderness, with the night sky providing a spectacular natural display free from city lights.
Day 2: Early Morning Game Drive, Wildlife Exploration, and Departure
Pre-Dawn Wake-Up and Morning Safari
Mkomazi’s wildlife is most active at dawn, so a pre-dawn wake-up is essential. A morning game drive begins just as the sun rises over the plains. The cooler hours bring out grazers and predators alike. Watching zebra and wildebeest herds move across the plains, giraffes browsing treetops, and antelopes like oryx and impala in graceful motion is a highlight for photographers and nature lovers
Wildlife Insights and Conservation Education
During the drive, your guide provides detailed insights into the park’s ecosystems, discussing the importance of habitat preservation, anti-poaching initiatives, and community-led conservation programs. You’ll also learn about the interconnectedness of species, migration patterns, and the challenges of protecting endangered animals in a changing environment.
Return to Camp and Breakfast
After the morning safari, return to camp for breakfast. While enjoying your meal, you can reflect on the morning sightings and the beauty of the surrounding landscapes. Pack your camping gear carefully, and ensure nothing is left behind, respecting the pristine environment of Mkomazi.

About this tour

	Tour type	Custom, tailor-made, private
	Main focus	Game drives
	Activity level	Moderate activity
	Best months	All months
	Countries	Tanzania
	Parks
	Accesibility	This tour is modifiable for those with limited mobility.

Fine details

Safari highlights

• Walking safari—with armed guard
• Cultural visits—orphanages, markets, schools
• Photography safari—with professional guide

What’s included?

• Accommodation
• Meals
• Park fees
• Private vehicle and driver