Katavi National Park, located in western Tanzania, is one of the country’s most remote and untouched safari destinations. Covering approximately 4,471 square kilometers, Katavi is renowned for its pristine wilderness, large herds of wildlife, and authentic safari experience, far away from the crowds of northern parks.
This park is part of the larger Katavi-Rukwa ecosystem, which supports seasonal migrations of herbivores between floodplains and drylands, making it one of Africa’s hidden gems for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers seeking raw, unspoiled landscapes.
Katavi is known for some of the largest concentrations of hippos and crocodiles in Africa. During the late dry season, hundreds of hippos crowd into shrinking pools, creating dramatic interactions often witnessed nowhere else. The park also boasts massive herds of buffalo—sometimes over a thousand strong—and plentiful elephants, giraffes, zebras, and topi. Predators thrive here too, with lions, hyenas, leopards, and occasional wild dogs taking advantage of the abundant prey. With over 400 bird species, Katavi is equally rewarding for birdwatchers.
Game drives are the primary way to explore Katavi, offering access to floodplains, riverbanks, and woodlands teeming with wildlife. Some camps provide guided walking safaris, giving visitors an intimate close-up experience of the untouched wilderness. Due to the park’s low visitor numbers, the feeling of exclusivity is unmatched—you often have entire landscapes to yourself.
Katavi offers a small selection of intimate tented camps and classic bush lodges designed to blend into the wild surroundings. The low number of properties ensures a private, undisturbed safari atmosphere. Many camps are located near the prime wildlife areas, providing exceptional game viewing straight from camp and easy access to major safari routes.
Nairobi road, Arusha, Tanzania, East Africa
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