Katavi National Park
National Park

Katavi National Park

Remote and unspoiled Tanzanian national park.

Tanzania
Location
4,471 km²
Geographic Size
June to October
Best Time to Visit

About Katavi National Park

Katavi National Park, located in the western part of Tanzania, is one of Africa's most untouched wilderness areas. Its vast plains, dense forests, and seasonal rivers provide a sanctuary for large animal herds and a rich variety of birdlife. The park's isolation means it sees fewer visitors, offering an exclusive safari experience with a genuine se...

When to go

Excellent
Good
Fair
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Seasons

November - December
January - February
Shoulder Season
Transitional periods with fewer visitors, offering a balance between wildlife viewing and accessibility.
June - October
High Season
The park is dry, wildlife viewing is at its best as animals congregate around limited water sources.
March - May
Low Season
Heavy rainfall makes some areas inaccessible, but the landscape is beautifully lush, and birdwatching is excellent.
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What to do

Wildlife

Katavi National Park boasts a remarkable diversity of wildlife, including one of the highest concentrations of hippos and crocodiles in Tanzania, alongside vast herds of buffalo, elephants, and an array of birdlife.

Lion

Common

Elephant

Common

Black Rhino

Not Present

Cheetah

Occasional

Hippo

Common

Hyena

Common

Leopard

Occasional

Giraffe

Common

Zebra

Common

Gazelle

Common

Buffalo

Common

Wildebeest

Common

What to know

Safety & Vaccinations
Katavi is generally safe for visitors. However, it's remote, so medical facilities are limited. Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance. Vaccinations for yellow fever, tetanus, and hepatitis A are recommended. Anti-malarial precautions are also advised.
For more information regarding vaccinations and health notices, view the CDC’s page :
CDC Travelers' Health
CDC Travel health notices and vaccination recommendations
Getting There
The most common way to reach Katavi National Park is by light aircraft from major cities like Dar es Salaam or Arusha. There are also road options, but they are long and often challenging, especially in the wet season.
Getting Around
Once in Katavi, travel is primarily in 4x4 vehicles for game drives. Some camps offer walking safaris for a more intimate wilderness experience. Due to the park's size and the rough terrain, self-driving is not recommended for most visitors.
Visas
For visitors to Tanzania, visas can typically be obtained on arrival or in advance from Tanzanian consulates. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your visit. As Katavi is in Tanzania, the Kenyan visa policies do not apply directly, but visitors often combine trips to both countries, so understanding regional travel requirem...
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Frequently Asked Questions