Western Circuit
Katavi National Park
Overview
Located in the western region of Tanzania, Katavi National Park is a comparatively unspoiled natural paradise that is home to the largest herds of buffalo on the planet. The park has a diverse range of habitats, including forests, open grasslands, beautiful seasonal lakes, flood plains with thick reeds, and dense waterways teeming with crocodiles and hippo.
The sheer tranquility and untamed beauty of Katavi make it a photographer’s dream, with dramatic sunsets casting golden hues over the wilderness and towering baobab trees dotting the horizon. The park is also a haven for bird watchers, with over 400 species of birds, including the rare African fish eagle and vibrant lilac-breasted rollers.
Katavi’s abundance of large mammals, such as elephants and lions, and its seasonal migrations of wildebeest and zebras, create the perfect stage for extraordinary game viewing.
Visitors to the area can seek out the legendary tamarind tree, which is said to house the spirit of a great huntsman named Katabi. Here, they can place an offering at the base of the tree in memory of this exceptional hunter.
Wildlife Highlights
Facts about Katavi
- Home to the largest herds of buffalo on the planet
- Untamed wilderness
- Amazing photographic moments
- The Legendary tamarind tree
- Huge populations of elephants
Travel Time to Katavi
Katavi is quite remote and accessibility by jeep is not very easy. The easiest and most common way to see Katavi National Park is with an all-inclusive 3- or 4-night fly-in package from Arusha. These packages typically begin on Monday or Thursday, when clients can be picked up in Serengeti National Park or Lake Manyara National Park by scheduled charter flights from Arusha.
Or Scheduled flights are offered by Air Tanzania to Mpanda, a tiny hamlet on the northern park boundary that is located 36 km/23 miles north of the village of Sitalike. From Sitalike local operators offer day safaris into Katavi.
How long should I stay in Katavi?
At least 2 days
Which hotel?
Katavi Wildlife Camp: It is located in the Katisunga plain. Nestled in the fringe of woodland that skirt this seasonal lake, Katavi Wildlife Camp blends seamlessly into its environment, offering the most amazing views of the park.
When is the best time to visit Katavi?
You can visit Katavi National Park all year round. During the months of June to October and December to February, the animals gather near the remaining water holes and can be reached easily. Adventurers can enjoy breathtaking views of the extensive wetlands during the rainy season.
