AREA
1,062 km2 (410 sq mi)
VISITORS
15,415 (in 2012)
LOCATION
Eastern Tanzania
Saadani National Park
Saadani National Park is a unique destination in Tanzania, where the wonders of the African bush meet the coastline of the Indian Ocean. Located in the northeastern part of the country, near the town of Pangani, Saadani spans approximately 1,062 square kilometers (410 square miles). As the only national park in Tanzania bordering the ocean, Saadani offers visitors a rare combination of beach and bush safari experiences, with a wide variety of wildlife and coastal landscapes.
Dry and Wet Seasons
Dry Season (June to October): The dry season is the best time for wildlife sightings as animals gather around water sources. It is also ideal for beach activities and boat safaris along the coast, as the weather is warm and dry.
Wet Season (November to May): During the wet season, the park becomes lush and green, with migratory birds arriving, making it an excellent time for birdwatching. While some areas may be harder to access due to rain, the scenery is vibrant, and the park sees fewer visitors, providing a more peaceful experience.
Wildlife
Saadani National Park is home to a variety of species, including elephants, lions, giraffes, zebras, and buffaloes. The park also features smaller animals like warthogs, monkeys, and antelope, while the coastal waters support dolphins, sea turtles, and whales. The Wami River and its floodplains attract hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species, such as herons and flamingos.
Key Attractions
Beachfront Safari
Saadani offers the rare opportunity to enjoy a safari where you can combine game viewing with time on beautiful, secluded beaches along the Indian Ocean.
The Wami River
The Wami River flows through the park, providing a rich ecosystem for wildlife and offering boat safaris to see hippos, crocodiles, and birdlife up close.
Saadani’s Wildlife
With a diverse range of species, Saadani is one of the best places in Tanzania for both terrestrial and marine wildlife viewing.
Wildlife Highlights
- Elephants and Lions: Saadani is home to a healthy population of elephants and lions, commonly spotted on game drives.
- Hippos and Crocodiles: The Wami River is teeming with hippos and crocodiles, often visible from boat safaris.
- Dolphins and Whales: Saadani’s coastal waters offer opportunities to spot dolphins and, during migration seasons, whales.
- Birdlife: With over 200 bird species, Saadani is a birdwatcher’s paradise, including flamingos, herons, and various seabirds.
Safari Activities
Game Drives
Saadani offers both morning and afternoon game drives where you can encounter wildlife such as elephants, lions, and buffaloes in the park’s diverse ecosystems.
Boat Safaris
A highlight of visiting Saadani is the boat safari along the Wami River, where you can spot hippos, crocodiles, and a range of birdlife.
Beach Activities
- Visitors can enjoy relaxing on the pristine beaches, with opportunities for swimming and snorkeling, especially in the off-peak seasons.
Birdwatching
- The park is home to over 200 bird species, making it a haven for birdwatchers, particularly in the wet season when migratory birds arrive.
Best hotels and lodges in the Saadani National park
The Saadani National park is home to a variety of luxurious lodges, eco-friendly camps, and mid-range accommodations that provide comfortable stays and breathtaking views. Here are some of the best options:
