Katavi National Park

Why Visit Katavi National Park?

Katavi is for the true explorer — a place where you can feel the heartbeat of Africa, uninterrupted by mass tourism. Think endless plains, thundering herds, ancient termite mounds, and dust trails kicked up by predators on the hunt.

Here’s why it’s worth the journey:

• Uncrowded game drives — it often feels like you have the whole park to yourself

• Huge elephant and buffalo herds during the dry season

• Hippos and crocodiles packed into shrinking pools — raw and dramatic scenes

• High densities of lions, leopards, hyenas, and other predators

• Perfect for photographers and wildlife purists

The Landscape of Katavi

Katavi’s terrain is a dramatic blend of:

• Floodplains and vast grasslands

• Miombo woodlands and acacia scrub

• Seasonal lakes like Lake Katavi, Lake Chada, and Lake Paradiso

• Thick riverine forests teeming with birds and primates

The Chada floodplain is especially famous — where during the dry season, game viewing becomes electric as animals crowd the remaining water sources.

Best Time to Visit Katavi National Park

• Dry Season (June to October) – BEST for wildlife. As water dries up, animals congregate in large numbers — buffalo, elephants, lions, and hippos.

• Green Season (November to May) – Lush landscapes and fewer vehicles, but more challenging game viewing due to tall grass and scattered water sources.

How to Get to Katavi National Park

By Air:

• Charter flights or scheduled bush flights from Arusha, Dar es Salaam, or Ruaha

• Airstrips: Ikuu and Chada

• Flight time: 4–5 hours (may include stops)

Note: Katavi is remote — flights are the most efficient and recommended access.

Where to Stay in Katavi National Park

Lodging in Katavi is exclusive and limited — adding to its untouched feel. Most camps focus on eco-sustainability and offer personalized, luxury bush experiences.

Recommended Lodges:

• Chada Katavi (Nomad) – Classic safari elegance with sweeping views of the floodplains

• Mbali Mbali Katavi Lodge – Luxurious chalets set on a raised ridge with panoramic scenery

• Katavi Wildlife Camp – Authentic safari feel and great for photographers

• Fly-camp experiences – Offered by some operators for true wilderness immersion

Unique Activities in Katavi National Park

• Game Drives – Morning and afternoon drives with pro guides
• Walking Safaris – Discover tracks, birds, and small mammals on foot
• Birdwatching – Especially vibrant in wet months
• Fly Camping – Sleep under the stars with a canvas roof and crackling fire
• Riverbank Hippo Watching – One of Africa’s most dramatic wildlife shows during dry months

Suggested Safari Duration

3–4 nights is ideal to explore Katavi fully, unwind, and catch the magic light for photography.

Combine Katavi with:

• Mahale Mountains National Park – Just a short flight away, perfect for chimpanzee trekking

• Ruaha National Park – For a richer southern circuit experience

• Zanzibar – Relax after your wild west Tanzania adventure

Why Include Katavi National Park in Your Safari?

If you’re craving something wild, uncrowded, and authentic, Katavi is the real deal. It’s where nature still calls the shots — and where you can experience Africa the way it used to be.

Ready to Experience Katavi’s Wild Magic?

Let’s create a custom Katavi safari just for you — whether you’re a solo traveler, couple, or adventurous family.

📩 Contact us now to begin planning your unforgettable safari into Tanzania’s wild west.