Katavi National Park Tanzania & Activities in Katavi National Park

Katavi National Park is a Tanzanian National park that was created in 1974. The park is located in Katavi Region and encompasses the Katuma River and the seasonal Lake Katavi and Chada flood plains. It’s a remote park that is less frequently visited than the other national parks.

The park is approximately 4471 square meters making it the third largest national park in Tanzania. . Katavi boasts Tanzania’s densest concentration of both crocodiles and hippos. Katavi’s lions and leopards have no shortage of prey: impala, eland, topi, zebra and big herds of buffaloes wandering the short grass plains. With a bit of luck you can also see sable and roan antelopes. A kaleidoscope of more than 400 bird species flits across the trees, riverbanks, swamps and palm groves while flotillas of pelican cruise the lakes.

It is during the dry season, when the floodwaters retreat, that is when Katavi truly comes into its own. The Katuma River, reduced to a muddy trickle, forms the only source of drinking water for miles around. Katavi’s most singular wildlife spectacle is provided by its hippos. Towards the end of the dry season, up to 200 individuals might flop together in any riverine pool of sufficient depth.

The park is easily accessible by use of a charter flight operated by Zantas Air services or Safari Air Link. The other option is by the use of the road which takes approximately20 hours of driving making it a tough but spectacular journey.

Wildlife Abundance

Katavi National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including large herds of buffalo, elephants, giraffes, hippos, and crocodiles. The park’s unique landscape, which includes vast grasslands, woodlands, and wetlands, provides a habitat for a wide variety of animal species. Visitors can expect to spot predators such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs, as well as a variety of antelopes, including impalas, kudus, and topis.

 Birdwatcher’s Paradise

Katavi National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 400 species of birds recorded in the park. Some of the notable bird species include the African fish eagle, martial eagle, and lilac-breasted roller. The park’s wetlands and lakes are home to a wide variety of waterbirds, including pelicans, storks, and egrets.

 Remote and Secluded

Katavi National Park is one of the most remote national parks in Tanzania, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a more authentic and secluded wilderness experience. The park’s remote location means that it is less crowded than other national parks in Tanzania, providing visitors with a more peaceful and exclusive safari experience.

 Cultural Significance

The Park is home to the Katavi people, who have lived in the area for centuries. Visitors can learn about the local culture and traditions by visiting the nearby villages and interacting with the local people. The park’s cultural significance is also reflected in its name, which is derived from the Katavi language.

Activities conducted in the Katavi National Park

The main activities are game drives in the park. You can go on two half day game drives or even full day game drives. Both morning and evening.

Also possible are one to two hours guided walking safaris which need to be arranged with the park wardens beforehand.

Typical pictures of Katavi are: big herds of buffaloes, zebras, topis, elephants in small families and pools with hippos and crocodiles. Roan antelope and sable antelope are the highlights of the park.

Going on a game drive in Katavi means discover, there are still places where no one else has been before. You will come across absolutely undisturbed nature and enjoy the amazing fauna the park has to offer.

Game Viewing

The Park offers excellent game viewing opportunities, particularly during the dry season when the wildlife congregates around the remaining water sources. Visitors can expect to see a wide variety of animal species, including predators, herbivores, and birds. The park’s unique landscape, which includes rocky outcrops and seasonal lakes, provides a habitat for a wide variety of animal species.

 Walking Safaris

Katavi National Park is one of the few national parks in Tanzania that allows walking safaris. This provides a unique and thrilling way to experience the park’s wildlife and landscape. Visitors can take a guided walking safari, led by an experienced guide, to get up close to the wildlife and experience the park’s natural beauty.

Camping

The Park has several campsites, including the Ikuu Camp, which is located near the park’s headquarters. Camping is a great way to experience the park’s wilderness and get up close to the wildlife. Visitors can choose from a range of camping options, including basic camping and luxury camping.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Katavi National Park is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. This is when the wildlife congregates around the remaining water sources, making it easier to spot. The dry season is also the best time for game viewing, as the vegetation is less dense and the wildlife is more concentrated.

 How to Get There

The Park is located in a remote area, and the most convenient way to get there is by charter flight from Arusha or Dar es Salaam. There are also road connections from Mbeya and Sumbawanga, but these can be rough and time-consuming. Visitors can also take a bus or taxi from Mbeya or Sumbawanga to the park’s headquarters.

 Accommodation

There are several campsites and lodges in and around the park, including the Ikuu Camp, which is located near the park’s headquarters. These offer a range of accommodation options, from basic camping to luxury lodges. Visitors can choose from a range of accommodation options, including:

 – Ikuu Camp: A luxury camp located near the park’s headquarters, offering comfortable tents and excellent service.

– Katavi Wildlife Camp: A mid-range camp located near the park’s headquarters, offering comfortable tents and good service.

– Basic camping: Visitors can also choose to camp at one of the park’s basic campsites, which offer basic facilities and a more rustic experience.

Overall, Katavi National Park is a hidden gem that offers a unique and authentic wilderness experience. Its remote location, diverse wildlife, and natural beauty make it an ideal destination for those seeking a more secluded and peaceful safari experience.

Tanzania Safaris Tour Packages | Katavi National Park

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