Saadani National Park

Overview

Saadani National Park is a unique destination in Tanzania that offers visitors an immersive experience in Africa. This park brings together diverse plant and animal species, rich history, stunning climate, and breathtaking scenery. With its location on the Indian Ocean coast, Saadani National Park is the only park in East Africa where the bush meets the beach. Covering over 1100 square kilometers of land and sea, the park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering an opportunity to explore the park’s vibrant ecosystem, including its mangrove forests, savannah grasslands, and coastal forests. Visitors can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, including game drives, boat safaris, bird watching, and walking safaris, making Saadani National Park a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a unique and immersive experience in Africa.

Things to Do

Bush and Beach Safari: Enjoy a unique safari that goes from seeing animals in the park to relaxing on the beautiful beach. Saadani lets you experience wildlife with the ocean as a backdrop.

Boat Safari on the Wami River: Cruise along the Wami River, home to hippos, crocodiles, and many birds. It’s a scenic journey where you can enjoy nature at its best.

Guided Walking Safaris: Take a walk in the bush with experienced guides. Get close to nature, feel the excitement of seeing animals on foot, and connect with the environment.

Bird Watching Extravaganza: Saadani is a paradise for bird lovers. Bring your binoculars and spot various bird species, making your safari even more colorful.

Swimming and Relaxation: Unwind on Saadani’s pristine beaches. Take a dip in the Indian Ocean or simply chill on the sand, listening to the soothing waves.

What to See

Big Five Encounters: Saadani is home to elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and antelopes. Witness the thrill of spotting these incredible animals in a coastal setting.

Wami River Estuary: Explore where the Wami River meets the ocean. Watch hippos and crocodiles enjoying the water.

Historical Saadani Village: Visit the village to learn about local culture and history. Connect with the community and understand the balance between people and wildlife.

Majestic Baobab Trees: Saadani is dotted with iconic baobab trees. Capture the beauty of these ancient giants against an African sunset.

Indian Ocean Marine Life: Snorkel or take a boat trip to discover the vibrant marine life of the Indian Ocean. From dolphins to colorful coral reefs, the coastal waters are full of wonders.

Best Time to Visit

The best time is during the dry season, from June to October, for great wildlife viewing. If you prefer cooler weather, June to August is ideal for a perfect mix of bush and beach experiences.

Getting there

By Road: The most common way to get to Saadani National Park is by road. The park is located about 130 kilometers north of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s largest city. The journey takes about three hours and can be done by private car, taxi, or bus. The road to Saadani National Park is well-maintained, with several rest stops along the way. The park entrance is easily accessible from the main road, and there is ample parking available.

By Air: If you prefer to travel by air, there are several airstrips located near Saadani National Park. The closest airstrip is Saadani Airstrip, which is located just outside the park’s entrance. The airstrip is served by several domestic airlines, including Coastal Aviation and Auric Air.

Another option is to fly into Dar es Salaam International Airport, which is located about 130 kilometers from Saadani National Park. From there, you can take a connecting flight to Saadani Airstrip or hire a private car to take you to the park.

Where to Stay

Mid-Range Accommodation:

Kisiwa House

This charming boutique hotel is located in the heart of Stone Town, just a short drive from Saadani National Park. The hotel features spacious rooms with traditional Zanzibari decor and modern amenities.

Safari Lodge

This eco-friendly lodge offers comfortable tented accommodations with stunning views of the Wami River. The lodge features a restaurant, bar, and swimming pool.

Saadani River Lodge

This lodge offers river-facing accommodations with private decks and stunning views of the park. The lodge features a restaurant, bar, and swimming pool.

Luxury Accommodation:

Sanctuary Saadani River Lodge

This luxurious lodge offers spacious suites with private plunge pools and breathtaking views of the Wami River. The lodge features a restaurant, bar, spa, and swimming pool. 2. Amani Beach Resort: This elegant beach resort offers spacious villas with private pools and stunning ocean views. The resort features a restaurant, bar, spa, and swimming pool.

Saadani Safari Lodge

This exclusive lodge offers luxurious tented accommodations with private decks and stunning views of the park. The lodge features a restaurant, bar, spa, and swimming pool.