Although Mkomazi and the Umba Game Reserves have been protected since 1951, the area was only granted national park status in 2008 under the management of Tanzania National Parks (TANAPA). Spanning 3,200 square kilometers of rugged, untamed wilderness, Mkomazi now stands as a sanctuary for both rare species and unique ecosystems, preserving this ecological treasure for future generations.

Since achieving national park status, Mkomazi has seen a dramatic reduction in poaching, illegal cattle grazing, fires, and other threats. Through a partnership between the Tanzania National Parks Authority (TANAPA) and the George Adamson African Wildlife Preservation Trust, the park’s infrastructure has been significantly upgraded, with improved road networks and the creation of multiple water catchments. These efforts have resulted in a thriving resurgence of wildlife.

Today, visitors to Mkomazi can witness large herds of zebras, elands, elephants, and buffalos, sometimes numbering in the hundreds. The park is also home to a diverse array of wildlife, including kongonis, giraffes, dik-diks, and ostriches. The drier regions shelter species like gerenuks, lesser kudu, and the rare beisa oryx. Although sightings of large predators are rare, the park offers the possibility of encountering serval cats, caracals, wildcats, and even the elusive wild dogs, adding a sense of adventure to every visit.

Thanks to ongoing conservation efforts, Mkomazi has become a testament to the power of wildlife preservation, offering an enriching experience for those looking to explore Tanzania’s untamed beauty.