Katavi National Park

Tanzania Exclusive Adventures!

Katavi National Park is a remote pure African Wilderness safari destination in western Tanzania. It was established in 1974 and covers a land area of 4,471 square kilometers making it the third largest Tanzania safari destination. The park has one of Tanzania’s untouched wilderness home to several wildlife species.

Katavi National Park’s wilderness comprises open savannas, woodlands, swamps, Lakes and Rivers. Lake Chada, Katavi, and River Katuma are the major water supply areas where animals gather on hot days.

Katavi National Park’s remote location makes it less accessible to many. This makes it an exclusive Discovery Journeys destination ideal for wildlife enthusiasts seeking intimate and less crowded experiences.

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Wildlife in Katavi National Park

The park is home to four Big Five Mammals including elephants, buffaloes, lions, and leopards. Waterbucks, Impalas, and giraffes are also commonly seen on game drives.

The River Katavi banks are graced with large hippo populations. Crocodiles are often seen along River Katavi sand banks and Lake Chada and Katavi flood plains. The sable antelope is rare but can sometimes be spotted in the miombo woodland areas.

Buffaloes, Hippos, Giraffes, and lions occur in large. Leopards are solitary and, therefore, rarely seen. Katavi National Park’s size makes wildlife viewing more adventurous and the ultimate Discovery Journey.

The park has a rich wildlife with over 400 bird species.

Activities in Katavi National Park

Game Drives

Katavi National Park is visited in the dry season when the park’s game drive trails are dry. Game drives start early in the morning to catch up with the early risers and nocturnal animals returning from hunting.

Lions are seen in pride of up to 20 individuals. Game drives in Katavi are personal and rewarding.

Guided Nature walks

Nature walks are the best way to closely explore small wildlife species you are unable to see on game drives. An ecosystem like Katavi is more understood on guided nature walks. These are led by knowledgeable guides who have traversed the area for years. Nature walks make Katavi safari adventures more enjoyable.

Birding Safaris

Katavi National Park’s birdlife is best explored on birding journeys. The park’s diverse ecosystems give it an advantage of having several bird species including water birds and those associated with the savannas.

The saddle-billed stork, African fish eagle, yellow-billed stork, and Lilac-breasted roller are notable birds you can see in the park.

Boat cruises

River Katuma offers remarkable boat cruise adventures where you see lots of wildlife. Katavi National Park also has a network of swamps where you can enjoy a boat ride to explore aquatic wildlife.

The River Katuma banks have several schools of hippos that are seen relaxing in the shallow waters. Crocodiles are also spotted basking on the banks.

Photography Safaris

Documenting wildlife is most rewarding in exclusive destinations like Katavi National Park. The parks’ wildlife diversity and impressive scenery make wildlife photography adventures remarkable.

Where to stay

Katavi Wildlife Camp is situated in the Katisunga plains, overlooking the open wilderness of Katavi National Park. It is exclusive with 6 large tents that offer uninterrupted views of the parks’ ecosystem.

The camp is intimate, with one of the best dining experiences.

Chada Katavi Camp is another accommodation to opt for while exploring the park. It is located at the edge of the Chada plains with six luxury tents. These have ensuite bathrooms, eco-flush loos, and have provision for safari bucket showers.

The camp’s location makes it ideal to explore the nearby ecosystem on guided bush walks and game drives.

Mbali Mbali Katavi, Katuma Bush Lodge, and Kipili Luxury Camp are other accommodations to consider.

Getting to Katavi National Park

The park is best accessed by air transport from Dar es Salaam. Safari Air Link operates scheduled flights from Ruaha to Katavi on Monday and Thursday.

Air Tanzania also operates scheduled flights to Mpanda town, situated 36 kilometers from the park’s northern boundary. When coming from Northern Tanzania, you can opt for a 4-night fly-in safari package from Arusha on scheduled charter flights.

Flights to Katavi National Park continue to the Mahale Mountains, another exclusive western Tanzania destination. It is home to chimpanzees and best explored on foot. The Katavi and Mahale Mountains safari offers exclusive savanna wildlife and primate trekking adventures.

Best time to Visit

Katavi National Park is best accessed during the dry season from June to October. There are minimal rainfall disturbances during the dry season and wildlife spotting is easy.

The wet months of November, March, April, and May have impressive lush scenery. Lodges also offer discounted rates, but roads become impassable because of the rains.