Katavi

About Katavi

Katavi is a wonderfully remote National Park, with few lodges and few visitors, but that is what makes it such a special place and destination for true safari enthusiasts. It is found in the West of Tanzania and really offers a throwback to the early era of safaris when safari-goers had a feeling of total isolation, peace and tranquillity. The game viewing here is amazing, comparable in numbers and variety of animals to the Ngorongoro Crater but with just 1% of the visitors and vehicles. 

The isolated nature of the park means that accommodation is limited, but the traditional tented camp Chada Katavi is a fantastic option and a really lovely camp. The tents are simple yet comfortably furnished with outdoor showers, and it really compliments the whole feel of going back in time to the olden days of safari. Game viewing takes place from the camp, either on vehicles or on some of the best walking safaris you will ever partake in, all making for a fantastic wildlife experience.

Game drives and walks are the order of the day in Katavi and the game viewing here is extraordinary. Lion hunting buffalo is one of the unique features of Katavi and hippo can be found in pods of up to 600 which rivals even the largest pods found in Zambia's South Luangwa. Large numbers of elephants can be seen, as well as giraffes, topis and leopards. You might even be lucky enough to spot a wild dog.

This is undoubtedly one of Tanzania's most incredible parks and somewhere that we highly recommend if you are looking for a safari experience that is truly unique and wild. It is ideally combined with Western Tanzania's other gem the Mahale Mountains National Park.

For more information, why not speak to one of our experts on +44 (0) 20 7843 3500 or email info@africatravel.co.uk

Seasons

• January to March - Warm and dry, a lovely time of year to visit.
• April and May - The long rain season means this area is best avoided as the range of activities is severely limited.
• June to October - The dry season is the most popular time of year to be here, excellent for activities.
• November and December - Another good time of year to visit, but you can get some rain in November which limits the activities that you can enjoy.

Wildlife

Lions spend 16-20 hours of the day sleeping or resting

Leopards can see seven times better in the dark than humans

African elephants can currently be found in 37 African countries

African Buffalos have a symbiotic relationship with many African birds such as the Oxpecker

Hippos spend up to 16 hours a day submerged in rivers and lakes

Africa's crocodiles can grow to 20 feet wide & weigh up to 1,650 pounds

The scientific name for the African Wild dog means “painted wolf”

In The Know

• During the rainy months, the Katuma River swells making for a marshy habitat but it is in the dry months when the marshes retreat that the park becomes a true wildlife wonderland as the river becomes the only water source for animals making for spectacular viewing opportunities
• Combine a trip in Katavi to the nearby Mahale Mountains National Park for a truly wild, unspoilt and unique safari experience
• Do consider a trip here outside of the main safari season (July to October) as there will be a good chance you will have the entire park to yourselves