Katavi National Park covers an area of 4,471 sq km and is located about 40 km from Mpanda town in southwestern Tanzania, to the east of Lake Tanganyika. This park lies within the Great Rift Valley and terminates in the shallow waters of Lake Rukwa. Katavi is one of the most remote and least visited parks, offering a pristine wilderness experience. The park is primarily covered by Miombo woodland, with scattered Acacia trees near Lake Chada.
The Katuma River, along with the seasonal floodplains and lakes such as Lake Katavi and Lake Chada, are the main areas for game viewing. During the rainy season, these marshy lakes become a haven for water birds and support Tanzania's densest concentrations of hippos and crocodiles. In the dry season, as the floodwaters recede, the Katuma River becomes the only source of water for miles around. The floodplains support large concentrations of wildlife, including up to 4,000 elephants, herds of buffalo, giraffes, zebras, impalas, and reedbucks, providing ample prey for numerous lion prides and hyena clans. The park is also home to elands, and rare species like sable and roan antelopes.
From large herds of elephants and buffalo to lions, giraffes, zebras, and rare antelopes, Katavi is home to one of the densest concentrations of wildlife in Tanzania.
Katavi offers a true wilderness experience, with minimal human activity and no roads, allowing visitors to explore its untouched natural beauty on foot with expert guides.
With over 400 bird species, Katavi is a birdwatcher’s paradise. From waterfowl at the lakes to forest species, there’s a wide variety of birdlife to discover.