Katavi National Park
A remote wilderness with abundant wildlife and unspoiled landscapes.
Overview
Katavi National Park is a unique destination that showcases the best of Tanzania’s wildlife and natural beauty. Located in the western part of the country, this park is a hidden gem that offers a breathtaking experience for visitors seeking an authentic African adventure. Established in 1974, Katavi National Park is one of Tanzania’s largest and most remote parks, covering an area of 4,471 square kilometers. The park is home to large herds of elephants, buffalos, zebras, giraffes, and antelopes, as well as predators such as lions, leopards, and hyenas, and over 400 species of birds. The park’s vast floodplains, woodlands, and miombo forests offer a picturesque backdrop for game viewing and photography, while walking safaris provide an opportunity to explore the park’s diverse flora and fauna on foot.Â
Things to Do
Game Drives: Game drives are the most popular activity in Katavi National Park. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, hippos, crocodiles, zebras, and giraffes. Game drives allow visitors to view the park’s abundant wildlife and stunning natural beauty.Â
Walking Safaris: Walking safaris offer visitors a more intimate experience of the park’s wildlife and natural beauty. Visitors can take guided walks through the park, learning about the local flora and fauna from experienced guides.
Bird Watching: Katavi National Park is home to over 400 species of birds, making it a paradise for bird watchers. Visitors can take guided tours through the park, learning about the different bird species and their habitats.
Fishing: The Katuma River is an important water source in the park and is home to a variety of fish species. Visitors can go fishing in the river, enjoying the serene environment and the abundant wildlife.Â
Cultural Tours: Visitors can take cultural tours to learn about the local cultures and traditions of the surrounding communities. The tours offer visitors a chance to interact with the local people and learn about their way of life.
What to See
The Katuma River: The Katuma River is an important water source in the park and is home to a large concentration of hippos and crocodiles. Visitors can take boat rides on the river, enjoying the serene environment and the abundant wildlife.Â
Lake Chada: Lake Chada is a salt lake located in the park and is home to a variety of bird species. Visitors can take guided tours to the lake, learning about the different bird species and their habitats.Â
Katisunga Plain: The Katisunga Plain is a vast grassy plain that is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants and lions. Visitors can take game drives through the plain, enjoying the stunning natural beauty and the abundant wildlife.
Kapapa River: The Kapapa River is a seasonal river that is home to a variety of bird species. Visitors can take guided tours to the river, learning about the different bird species and their habitats.Â
The Tamarind Tree: The Tamarind Tree is a landmark in the park and is a popular spot for visitors to relax and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
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Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Katavi National Park is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this time, the weather is warm and dry, and the wildlife is more concentrated around water sources. The park is also less crowded during this time, allowing visitors to enjoy a more authentic African safari experience.
Getting there
By Air: Fly into Kilwa Masoko Airport and arrange for ground transportation to Katavi. Chartered flights from major Tanzanian airports offer a swift and scenic journey.
By Road: For the adventurous souls traversing Tanzania by road, Katavi is accessible via well-maintained roads. A road trip provides opportunities to witness the country’s diverse scenery.
Where to Stay
Mid-Range Accommodation:
Katavi Wildlife Camp
Located in the heart of the park, Katavi Wildlife Camp offers comfortable tents and chalets, a restaurant, and a bar. The camp also offers guided game drives and bush walks.
Foxes Safari Camp
Foxes Safari Camp is located in the heart of the park and offers comfortable tents, a restaurant, and a bar. The camp also offers guided game drives and bush walks.
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Luxury Accommodation:
Chada KataviÂ
Chada Katavi is a luxury safari camp located in the heart of the park and offers luxurious tents, a restaurant, and a bar. The camp also offers guided game drives and bush walks.
Katavi Plains Camp
Katavi Plains Camp is located in the heart of the park and offers luxurious tents, a restaurant, and a bar. The camp also offers guided game drives and bush walks.
Other Attractions in Tanzania
Changu Island
Pemba Island
Mount Kilimanjaro
Arusha National Park
Mikumi National Park
Tarangire National Park
Saadani National Park
Serengeti National Park
Ngorongoro Conservation
Lake Manyara National Park
Zanzibar
Mafia Island
General Knowledge Base
General information about Katavi National Park, Tanzania.
Chale Island is situated on the southern coast of Kenya, near Diani Beach and about 600 meters offshore.
Chale Island covers an area of approximately 15 acres and is the only private island resort along Kenya’s coast.
The island offers exclusive overwater bungalows, allowing guests to stay in luxurious rooms built over the Indian Ocean.
Yes, Chale Island is part of the Chale Marine National Park, which protects the surrounding coral reefs and marine life.
The marine park is home to a diverse array of fish, corals, sea turtles, and other marine species, making it a haven for snorkeling and diving enthusiasts.
The Coral Garden is a unique snorkeling site where visitors can witness vibrant coral formations and an abundance of marine life.
 The dry seasons (December to February and June to September) are ideal for wildlife viewing, as animals concentrate around water sources.
The dry season from June to October is generally considered the best time to visit for clear skies, calm seas, and optimal conditions for outdoor activities.
