Saadani National Park

Background Information

Located in the centre of the historic triangle of Bagamoyo, Pangani and Zanzibar, Saadani National Park covers 1100km square. It is the only wildlife sanctuary in Tanzania bordering the sea. The climate is coastal, hot and humid. It offers a unique combination of both marine and mainland flora and fauna in a culturally fascinating setting. About 30 species of larger mammals are present as well as numerous reptiles and birds. Besides many species of fish (over 40), green turtles, humpback whales and dolphins occur in the ocean nearby

Gazetted in 2005, it encompasses a preserved ecosystem including the former Saadani game reserve, the former Mkwaja ranch area, the Wami River as well as the Zaraninge Forest. Many villages exist around the boundaries of the park. Before being included in the national park, the Zaraninge forest was managed by the World Wide Fund for nature (WWF) whose goal was to preserve the extremely high botanical diversity of one of the last coastal rain forests remaining in Tanzania.

What to see and Do

Saadani National Park covers an area of approximately 1100 sq km and is the only wildlife sanctuary in Tanzania bordering the ocean. It offers a unique mix of both marine life and mainland flora and fauna. Approximately 30 species of larger mammals can be found here, as well as numerous reptiles and birds. Apart from many species of fish, Green turtles, Humpback whales and dolphins can also be found in the ocean nearby. Tanzania's magnificent Wami River is home to plenty of hippo and crocodile close to Saadani Lodge. Flamingos are often seen in the shallow estuarine waters, as well as flocks of pelicans.

The park is also home to a diversity of birdlife and variety of vegetation. Saadani's wildlife is abundant with lion and other predators, as well as a range of plains game including elephant, giraffe, kudu and large herds of buffalo. Activities include classic game drives, watching the waterhole from a hide, sleeping out on the beach, and of course reclining in the sun.