Mkomazi sits in the opposite direction from most northern circuit parks — southeast of Moshi near the town of Same (pronounced “SAH-may”). This makes it difficult to combine with other destinations, but it rewards those who seek it out. As one of Tanzania’s newer national parks, Mkomazi is still developing its infrastructure, but it has one extraordinary draw: a protected black rhino sanctuary where sightings are virtually guaranteed.
Visiting the rhino sanctuary requires a morning departure in a park service vehicle with a park guide. The most practical approach is a two-day visit, with the rhino sanctuary on the morning of day two. A day trip from Moshi is possible but requires a very early 5am departure. The park is not accessible as a day trip from Arusha.
Beyond the rhinos, Mkomazi offers elephants, giraffes, zebras, various antelopes, wild dogs, lions, leopards, cheetahs, hyenas, and buffaloes. There are also some excellent off-the-beaten-path hiking destinations that can be incorporated into a multi-day itinerary.