Mkomazi –
Umba
Game Reserve
Location
Mkomazi Umba
Game Reserve is the southern extension of Tsavo National Park
in
Kenya. Together they form one of East Africa's most important
savannah ecosystems, characterized by the semi-arid conditions
of the Sahal Arc. The reserve covers an area of 3710 sq km
east of Kilimanjaro and north or the stunning Pare Mountains,
Tanzania’s Eastern Arc range.
Main features
Mkomazi does not
offer the same level of game viewing as the northern national
parks, although most of the large mammals are present. Tourist
facilities are exceedingly sparse and limited, and travel to
the area is often neglected in favour of more accessible
national parks and reserves. Mkomazi Umba Game
Reserve is the focus of an intensive breeding program to save
the endangered black rhinos. The savannah and
grasslands around Mkomazi Umba Game Reserve may be
perfect for black rhinos, but it is dry and dusty for most of
the year. When frequented water holes dry up, game becomes
elusive and hard to find. Compared to larger and more
populated national parks, Mkomazi Umba Game Reserve has
its own unique appeal. The nearly extinct wild dogs have
recently been introduced to the area, and the reserve does
have a wide variety of indigenous snakes.
As Mkomazi Umba
is a Game Reserve it is possible to venture out on foot
safaris (accompanied by an armed ranger). Your safari can last
anything from couple of hours or you may wish to spend several
days exploring on foot. A vehicle carrying all the equipment
can meet you at strategic points, with camp set up for you.
With advance
notice to Classic Tours & Safaris it may be possible to
arrange visits to the Black Rhino and Wild Dog Sanctuaries.
Accessibility:
Mkomazi Umba
Game Reserve is accessible by road about 4hrs drive from
Arusha.
When to visit
Mkomazi Umba is
the only Tanzania's reserve that is accessible all year
round.
Contact us for further information.
I TANZANIA I
KENYA I ZANZIBAR I
MAFIA I
KILWA I MOMBASA
l DAR l
ARUSHA l
