Katavi National Park landscape

    Tanzania

    Katavi National Park

    Quite possibly the wildest place in Tanzania, if not Africa, Katavi National Park can only be accessed by scheduled flights twice weekly, or private charter, or a 2 - 3 day overland trip from one of the main centres of Tanzania. This obviously means that tourist numbers are incredibly limited, and a true adventure awaits anyone who puts in the effort and cost to experience the region. While not coming easy or cheap, the result is a safari experience enjoyed by only a relative handful of travellers, rewarding them with an epic wildlife bonanza. Katavi is most popularly combined with Mahale Mountains National Park, on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, and these 2 together offer an unbeatable 7 day adventure. Located along the rift escarpment in western Tanzania, it offers incredible scenery including immense wetlands, roaring waterfalls and original miombo woodlands, where the Sable antelopes often hide.

    Explore Katavi National Park

    Things to See & Do

    Highlights and experiences in Katavi National Park

    Katavi National Park highlight

    With minimal accommodation options, and the expense and time involved in getting to Katavi, the 4 500 square kilometres of national park is virtually empty of any human activity. Mother Nature is completely in control here, and to be lucky enough to bear witness to the untouched wilderness is something you will cherish forever.

    Katavi National Park highlight

    Particularly during the dry season, the concentration and volume of wildlife is extraordinary, with huge buffalo herds, dazzles of zebra, and thousands of impala and elephants overflowing onto the flood plains. There are numerous rare species as well, with sable and roan antelope and wild dogs being great sightings. Predators such as lions and cheetah thrive here, and your camera shutter will take a strenuous work out while exploring the beautiful countryside.

    Katavi National Park highlight

    Walking safaris are an exciting way to explore the wilderness and get a very different view of the wildlife and plant life of Africa. Walking allows you to take note of the smaller creatures, while also learning how to track the larger animals, and focussing on the interesting flora. Seeing big game while on foot provides some exciting thrills, which are different from viewing from the safety of a vehicle.

    Katavi National Park highlight

    The populations of hippos and crocs in Katavi are legendary, and especially when the rivers dry up, the muddy puddles are often overflowing with the creatures. The crocodile caves of Katavi are fascinating homes for these enormous reptiles.

    Best Time to Visit Katavi National Park

    Month-by-month travel guide with weather, highlights, and expert recommendations.

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    Katavi National Park in May

    Weather

    May signifies the start of the dry season, with temperatures around 24-28°C and decreasing rainfall. The landscape begins to dry out.

    Highlights

    The drying plains start to draw animals towards more permanent water sources. The vegetation is still relatively thick but beginning to thin.

    Best Areas

    Areas around the Katuma River and seasonal waterholes will become more active. The Katisunga and Chada Plains will start to offer better visibility.

    Pros

    The landscape is still green, but wildlife viewing begins to improve. Fewer tourists compared to peak dry season.

    Cons

    Some areas may still have limited access due to lingering wet season conditions. Wildlife is still somewhat dispersed.