How to Get to Mkomazi National Park: Road From Moshi, Arusha, Dar es Salaam and Tanga

The park lies in north-eastern Tanzania, close to the Kenyan border and in the shadow of the Pare Mountains. It has no major tourist airstrip, so most visitors arrive by road from Kilimanjaro International Airport, Moshi, Arusha or Dar es Salaam.

Because the journey is a transfer rather than an adventure in itself, many itineraries use Mkomazi as a stop between Kilimanjaro and the coast.

This guide is part of our Uganda road routes and driving guide. When you are ready to plan, see our Uganda safari packages or the Ameera Africa Safaris Uganda tours homepage.

From Moshi and Kilimanjaro Airport

The drive south-east from Moshi follows the tarmac highway to Same, then turns onto a gravel road to the park gate. It is a manageable half-day transfer, and the road offers views of the Pare Mountains. Visitors landing at Kilimanjaro can often reach the park the same day. Combine arrival with a night in Moshi if your flight lands late, so you can start fresh and arrive in time for a drive.

From Arusha

Arusha is further away, so the journey takes a longer part of the day. Most travellers go via Moshi and do not try to squeeze it into a short day. If you are coming from the northern parks, see the northern circuit safari and the Arusha gateway guide to plan the transition.

From Dar es Salaam and the Coast

The highway from Dar es Salaam passes through Chalinze and the Tanga turn-offs before reaching Same, so allow a full travel day. Many travellers combine the park with a Usambara or Pare Mountains stay along the way. Starting early helps avoid traffic and gives daylight for the final stretch, which should not be driven after dark.

Vehicles and Access

Roads inside the park are gravel and sometimes rough, and a high-clearance four-wheel-drive vehicle is advisable. Self-drive is possible in principle, but a local guide understands the sanctuary rules and conditions. See self-drive safaris in East Africa for general advice and getting around East Africa for transport options.

Timing Your Arrival

Aim to reach the park area at least a day before your planned activity, particularly if you are travelling from the south or crossing a border. Breakdowns, traffic and weather can all delay the journey, and gorilla permits are fixed to a specific date. On the morning itself, leave plenty of margin before the briefing, take a packed breakfast if your lodge offers one, and keep your permit and passport in a small day bag. The drive back to Dar es Salaam or Moshi can be done the same afternoon only if you start early.

Planning the Border Region

The park adjoins Kenya's Tsavo West but is not a crossing point for visitors. Use official border posts such as Taveta or Namanga if you plan to move between countries, and check the visa guide first. Confirm gate procedures, permits and meals with your operator before arrival.

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Related Tours, Guides and Resources

• Ameera Africa Safaris homepage: Uganda safaris, tours and holidays
• Uganda safari packages
• Uganda travel guide
• How to book a Uganda safari
• Plan your safari with our team