7 Things to do in Katavi National Park

7 Things to do in Katavi National Park, Nestled in the remote western side of Tanzania, Katavi National Park is the country’s best-kept secret and one of the largest parks. This park is 4,471 square kilometers in size, yet sees fewer visitors yearly, making it an ideal place for secluded wildlife safaris. Though some might think it’s perfect for seasoned travelers, even first-timers can find a good time because there are many things to do here. In this blog, we’ve crafted seven captivating things to do in Katavi.

1.    Paying tribute to Katabi.

Who is Katabi? Well! In the vast wilderness of Katavi National Park is a legendary tamarind tree, which is the home of the spirit of Katabi, the legendary hunter. This exceptional local figure comes from the Wabende tribe, who inhabit the Katavi region.

In their legends, locals say Katabi triumphed in nearly every hunt due to bravery and exceptional hunting techniques. After he died, his body was buried under a tamarind tree near Lake Katavi. Locals often visit this tree to cast their spells as well as to give offerings seeking blessings and good fortune. You can join them.

2.    Game drives.

A game drive through the vast African wilderness is something every visitor dreams of. While it may cost an arm and a leg to do a private drive in the Serengeti, Katavi offers secluded drives on a budget. It registers a few visitors yearly and never gets crowded, making every drive private and unique.

There’s more wildlife to see in this park, including its largest buffalo herds, elephants, hippos, and crocodiles. Along the riverine forests, you can spot monkeys, water birds, and more. Other animals to look after include giraffes, impalas, topis, elands, and zebras. The wild hunters also never stay away from their potential prey – so yes, you can spot leopards, lions, spotted hyenas, and occasional cheetahs.

3.    Boat cruising.

Gliding gently along the Katuma River is an experience worth trying. This unique trip offers you another angle to watch beautiful riverine forests, large pods of hippos, crocodiles, and stunning water birds. Boat rides are rarely available in most northern parks. That said, Katavi and a few southern parks blend traditional game drives with these off-the-beaten-path rides along their majestic rivers.

4.    Night game drives.

As the sun sinks into the wilderness of Katavi, it awakens another wild world. It never becomes quiet during the night in Katavi for a reason. The nocturnal predators come out to hunt because it’s cool and easier to catch prey.

Katavi permits night drives (usually from 20:00 to 23:00) for everyone seeking to appreciate the nocturnal world. As you drive, listen to the rustles, hisses, and other sounds of nature. The lion roars to mark its kingdom, while hyenas call their siblings with their haunting call or laughter. Common encounters during night safaris include genets, black-backed jackals, bat-eared foxes, spotted hyenas, porcupines, owls, nightjars, and big cats like lions and leopards.

5.    Fly camping.

Camping in the African wilderness is a unique close-to-nature experience, but fly camping is not just an activity; it’s a thrilling nighttime adventure. Picture this. You retire to a carefully designed bed in a remote location enclosed in a mosquito-netted fly tent, experience nature with all your senses, and wake up to the melodious song of a river bird.

Before sunset, you enjoy a sundowner as the lodge staff prepares your fly camp. The dinner is served at your terms – whether you want it at the spacious dinner tent of the Chada Kata Camp or on a private bush location. Afterward, you walk to the location for a leisurely night’s sleep.

Take time to appreciate the African stars and sounds of nature just outside your tent. Or slowly fall asleep and enjoy beautiful dreams in the African jungle. This is one of the best wildlife experiences worth a try during your Katavi safari.

6.    Hot air ballooning

Another way to experience Katavi National Park is from a hot air balloon. This aerial experience not only reveals the striking landscapes of this park but also takes you to places not accessible by a safari vehicle.

A colorful balloon pumped by hot air lifts the basket from a special launch site. For an hour, you’ll glide slowly along the Katuma River (depending on the wind direction) or cross the Katsunga plain and the flood plains. A celebratory breakfast awaits you as soon as you land.

7.    Birdwatching.

Katavi hosts an incredible record of more than 400 bird species. That number tells you the birds love not to forget a good camera and a pair of binoculars as you set off for a safari in Katavi National Park. Expect to see bee-eaters, storks, kingfishers, vultures, ostriches, rollers, crowned eagles, and cranes.

The bottom line.

If you want to skip the busy northern parks and explore wildlife on your own, Katavi is your next home. And we are here to help you discover this pristine destination. Are you ready? Our expert safari planners are here to help you craft your dream itinerary within a few minutes. If you still have questions, don’t hesitate to call us.