How to get to Katavi National Park : Katavi National Park is the third largest park in Tanzania. It is also by far one of the least visited in the country, making it a truly untouched wildlife paradise. The park is named after the Wabende spirit, katabi, who according to local legend lives in a tamarind tree near lake Katavi. Locals looking for his blessings from his spirit still leave offerings at the foot of the tree. The was gazetted in 1974 with an area of 2,253 sq.km followed by annexation of 2,218 sq.km in 1997 making a total area of 4,471 sq.km.
The park boasts a wonderful array of habitats, which range from flood plains of thick reeds and dense waterways that teem with hippo and crocodile to woodlands, open grasslands, forests and pristine seasonal lakes. Katavi National Park is home to the largest herds of buffalo on the planet. The Park is a relatively untouched wilderness paradise, situated in the western area of Tanzania. It is located in the west of Tanzania and is quite hard to access by road, so the easiest way in and out is by charter flights.
By Air
To get to Katavi National Park, the best option is to fly from Arusha or the capital city of Dar es Salaam. The park is located in the remote western part of Tanzania, near Lake Tanganyika. There are schedule flights twice a week that connect these areas to the northern safari circuit. you can also find flights that go from Dar-es salaam to Selous game reserve and Ruaha national park, and then onto to Katavi national park and Mahale and back. Additionally, you can arrange Chartered flights with companies like Zantasair or safari air link operating to these western circuit safari destinations. Depending on your travel plans, you’ll likely arrive in Tanzania at Kilimanjaro International Airport (KIA) which is situated approximately 46 kilometers or 29 miles from the town of Arusha, or at Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) found in the capital city Dar es Salaam. At Focus East Africa Tours we will receive you at the Airport and then make all ongoing arrangements, as well as the charter flight into the park’s airstrip as per your arrangements. These charter flights typically take just over an hour to reach the park.
By Road!
Getting to Katavi national park byroad can be quite the journey. The distance from Mbeya the is about 550 km, and if you’re coming from Dar es Salaam, it’s around 838 km, adding up to roughly 1,400 km (870 miles) together. This trip can take over 20 hours. The drive from Mbeya to Katavi National Park is described as a tough but spectacular drive on not very good roads but with the most scenic views. If you’re coming straight from Dar es Salaam, expect a route of about 1,250 km (800 miles) that takes around 16 hours. Similarly, if you’re traveling from Arusha, it’s a little over 1,000 km, which will take around 13.5 hours. It’s hard to say exactly how much of the road is unpaved, but you can definitely expect some dirt paths along the way. Overall, this journey can be pretty long and tiring, so it might not be the best option for everyone.
By Air
Alternatively, you can also get to Katavi National Park on railway means. You can board a trail to Mpanda from Dar es salaam via Tabora then catch a public transport to Sitalike, where a game drive can be arranged. From Mpanda to Sitalike gate is only 38kms.
Amazing Tourism Activities to do in Katavi National Park
Game Drives
Exploring Katavi National Park on a game drive is an exhilarating experience. You get to travel through the park in a comfortable vehicle, spotting a variety of wildlife along the way. Early morning or late afternoon are the best times for these drives when animals are most active. While on a game drive safari, expect to see wildlife such as elephants, lions, leopards, crocodiles, hippos, buffalo, zebras, cheetahs, wild dogs, giraffes also as different bird species.
Nature Walking Safaris
A nature walking safari in Katavi National Park is a fantastic way to connect with the environment. With a guide leading the way, you’ll stroll through the park, observing the smaller details of the landscape that you might miss on a vehicle. Watch for colorful insects, unique plants, and animal tracks on the ground. This slower pace allows you to soak in the sights, sounds, and smells of the savannah. Your guide will share insights about the local flora and fauna, making it an educational experience. It’s a perfect choice for those who enjoy the tranquillity of nature.
Long Walking Safaris
For the more adventurous, long Tanzania walking safaris in Katavi National Park offer a deeper exploration of the wild. These treks can last several hours or even a whole day, allowing you to discover parts of the park that are less visited. You’ll have the chance to walk alongside a trained guide who will teach you survival skills and share fascinating stories about the area. The thrill of spotting wildlife up close, plus the physical challenge of hiking, creates lasting memories. Bring plenty of water and a camera to capture stunning views and unique wildlife encounters along the way.
Birding
Birdwatching in Katavi National Park is a rewarding activity for nature lovers. With over 400 bird species recorded, the park offers a rich variety of avian life. The different types of habitats which include extensive wetlands make Katavi National Park one of the best locations for bird lovers. Early morning is the best time to spot birds as they are most active then. During you’re birding excursion, you’ll have the chance to spot different bird species such as African skimmer, carmine bee – eater, Racket tailed roller, Miombo bush warbler, Collared palm thrush, Palm nut vulture, African golden oriole, red-billed hornbill, little bee-eater, black cuckoo-shike, African spoonbill, African openbill, crested barbet, orange-breasted bush-shike, saddle-billed stock among others
What is the best time to visit Katavi National Park
Katavi National Park receives average of temperatures from 22-26C during the day and 16-18C during the night. The dry season is June to October and November to May is the wet season. However, the best time to visit Katavi National Park is during the dry season, from June to October. This is when wildlife gathers around water sources, making it easier to spot animals. The weather is also pleasant, with clear skies and comfortable temperatures, perfect for exploring the park’s stunning landscapes.
Accommodation facilities found within and near Katavi National Park
In Katavi National Park, there’s something for every type of traveler when it comes to places to stay. You can choose from luxurious lodges, comfortable mid-range options, or budget-friendly camps. Visitors have a variety of choices for accommodations, including as Nomad Tented Camp, Katavi Wildlife Camp, Chada Camp, Mbali Mbali Katavi Lodge, Chada Fly Camping, Katuma Bush Lodge, Palahala Luxury Camp, Ikuu public campsite, Chada special campsite, Kapimbye special campsite, Kapilula special campsite HQ public campsite and Katavi picnic site among others.
