Katavi National Park
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Katavi National Park is one of the hidden gems of Tanzania, located in the western part of the country, near the border with Zambia. It is a remote and untouched wilderness area that covers an area of 4,471 square kilometers. Despite being the third-largest national park in Tanzania, Katavi remains relatively unknown, making it an ideal destination for travelers who are looking for an authentic safari experience away from the crowds.
The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including some of the highest densities of hippos and crocodiles in Africa. The park is also known for its large herds of buffalo, as well as elephant, giraffe, zebra, lion, and leopard. Katavi National Park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 400 species of birds having been recorded in the park.
The park is also known for its stunning landscapes, with vast plains, wooded hills, and seasonal lakes. The park is dominated by the Katuma River and the seasonal lakes of Katavi and Chada, which attract large numbers of wildlife during the dry season.
Things to do
Game Drives
One of the best ways to experience the wildlife of Katavi National Park is through a game drive. The park is home to a wide range of animals, and a game drive will allow you to see many of these animals up close. Game drives can be done in a 4×4 vehicle, and visitors can choose between a morning, afternoon or full-day game drive.
Walking Safaris
Walking safaris are a unique way to experience the wilderness of Katavi National Park. Walking safaris are usually led by an experienced guide and can last from a few hours to a few days. Walking safaris allow you to get up close and personal with the wildlife and experience the park’s stunning landscapes.
Boat Safaris
Boat safaris are available on the Katuma River and the seasonal lakes of Katavi and Chada. A boat safari will allow you to see the park’s wildlife from a different perspective and is an excellent way to see hippos and crocodiles up close.
Birdwatching
Katavi National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with over 400 species of birds having been recorded in the park. Visitors can expect to see a wide range of birds, including storks, herons, eagles, and kingfishers.
Camping
Katavi National Park has several campsites where visitors can camp in the wilderness. Camping is an excellent way to experience the park’s wildlife and landscapes up close.
When to visit?
The best time to visit Katavi National Park is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this time, the wildlife is concentrated around the seasonal lakes, making it easier to see a wide range of animals. The dry season is also the best time for walking safaris, as the park’s terrain is easier to navigate.
The wet season, which runs from November to April, is the best time for birdwatching, as many migratory birds visit the park during this time. However, the wet season can make the park’s roads and trails difficult to navigate, making it harder to see the wildlife.
