During British colonisation, Katavi National Park was a nature reserve. Later, it was given another name – “Rukva Reserve Park”. However, after Tanzanian independence, Katavi Park was renamed and transformed into a nature reserve to protect and preserve African mammals. Today, the park offers visitors a variety of activities and is a must for safaris in Tanzania.
Katavi’s spectacular landscape is diverse and unique. It includes flooded areas of thick reeds and dense streams. And these streams are home to around 200 hippos, crocodiles and various species of birds. In the western forest, the treetops are home to buffalo and herds of elephant. The seasonal lakes are filled with dirty coloured water after the rain. Animals come to drink from all corners of the park. These animals include rare species ofroan antelope and sable, a must-see for visitors wishing to explore theAfrican wilderness.
Katavi National Park invites you to get off the beaten track and enjoy unspoilt wildlife. The park is home to thousands of Cape buffalo and large herds of around 4,000 elephants. Zebra, wildebeest, giraffe, moose, sable and antelope are also abundant. Cheetahs, wild dogs, hyenas, leopards and lions keep a close eye on hunting opportunities.
Towards the end of the dry season, hippos move together into a sufficiently deep pool.
There is also a wide variety of birds on the river banks. Katavi National Park has a total of 450 bird species, including herons, plovers, spoonbills, storks, eagles and vultures.
It is advisable to visit between November and April for the best birdwatching. During this time, migratory birds from Europe and North Africa inhabit the park.
Some trails are designed for walking encounters with animals. Adventurers can also book night hikes, but there is always a guide.
Katavi National Park is open all year round. From June to October and December to February, the animals gather around the remaining waterholes. During the rainy season, the vast wetlands offer breathtaking scenery for adventurous visitors.
Katavi National Park is located in western Tanzania, about 40km south of the town of Mpanda, and is mainly accessible by air.
However, if you wish to travel by land, this is also possible. You still have to wait patiently. If you are travelling from Dar Es Salaam, allow 2-3 days by car.
As the park is fairly isolated, accommodation is limited. Contact our advisers, who will find the perfect lodge for you!
*If you come with a local vehicle, you’ll need to pay an extra $9. If your vehicle is registered abroad, it will be even more expensive.
The above prices are included in your Off Road tour.
