Saadani National Park

Discovering Saadani National Park in Tanzania

Located north of Dar Es Salaam, opposite the archipelago of Zanzibar, on Tanzania’s east coast, Saadani National Park is a park with an incredible variety of landscapes. This unique, unspoilt place makes it possible to combine a safari adventure with a refreshing stay on the mainland’s white sandy beaches. Observing the great African mammals and relaxing with your feet in the sand facing the Indian Ocean on the same day – that is the promise of Saadani National Park. The panorama offered by this natural sanctuary is unlike any other. A dense, wild savannah, an equatorial forest with marshy ground, a fine sandy beach with turquoise waters, Saadani Park immerses you in an exceptional environment that is home to a wide variety of wild animals. 

Safari in Saadani Reserve: meeting wildlife

The wildlife of Saadani National Park includes four of the five main predators of the Tanzanian savannah. The vast majority of the famous Big Five live in the park, but their small numbers make them difficult to spot. Because of its proximity to local villages, the animals in Saadani National Park tend to hide. Wildlife viewing is therefore less easy than in the larger national parks in the north of the country.

The variety of ecosystems that make up this coastal park will allow you to observe different landscapes and different emblematic species during your safari. Antelopes, giraffes, elephants, buffaloes, greater kudus, wildebeest, elands: these are just some of the animals you may encounter on the Saadani plains. The Wami River mangrove is a true paradise for hippos, crocodiles and the many bird species, including kingfishers, that inhabit the reserve. Saadani Park is classified as a lion conservation unit. Here, the emblematic Big Five felines have the unusual ability to climb trees. Saadani’s beaches, on the other hand, are an important nesting site for green turtles in Tanzania.

The must-do activities during your visit to Saadani

A visit to Saadani National Park is not limited to the traditional 4×4 photo safari; other options allow you to enjoy an exceptional adventure in this unusual setting. 

• The walking safari will add a whole new dimension to your stay in the heart of Saadani National Park. Exploring the savannah on foot accompanied by a ranger, following the tracks of herbivores, is an exclusive experience and a more intimate encounter with wildlife.
• The boat safari on the Wami River promises a very different atmosphere. Sailing through this landscape lined with mangroves, you will spot hippos, crocodiles, kingfishers and flamingos.
• On the beach side, take time to admire the sunrise and enjoy moments of relaxation by the shores of the Indian Ocean. You may see sea turtles, pelicans and perhaps even dolphins. A few water activities may also be offered, such as scuba diving or snorkelling.
• Discovering the marine breeding area is also a must-see for nature lovers.

Accommodation for a comfortable stay in Saadani

The accommodation options within Saadani National Park are not as developed as in the famous northern parks of Tanzania. We advise you to plan ahead to find accommodation suited to your wishes and your budget. Our destination specialist advisers can help you select the accommodation that suits you 100% in the heart of Saadani National Park. Here are the various establishments we can offer you for your stay in the south of the country: 

• Saadani Safari Lodge: with its bungalows overlooking the beach, this lodge will allow you to wake up to stunning views of the ocean before setting off for a day of safari in Saadani. 
• Kijongo Bay Beach Resort: an affordable seaside hotel for those on a budget.
• Sanctuary Saadani River Lodge: a lodge made up of 17 stilted bungalows set in the heart of the park, on the riverbank, for total immersion in the Tanzanian savannah.  

Ecotourism in Saadani: a commitment to environmental conservation

Created as a nature reserve in the 1960s, Saadani doubled in size in 2002 when it became a national park. A key step in the protection of local wildlife, which suffered from poaching until the late 1990s. The protection and conservation of Saadani’s coastal area are at the heart of the park’s concerns. The fight against poaching, the involvement of villages in the conservation process and raising visitors’ awareness help to protect an ecosystem of great richness. The beach, the green turtles, the Zaraninge lowland forest, the Wami River mangrove, and the endemic, rare and threatened species are the focus of daily conservation and preservation work. 

Saadani’s aquatic wildlife: a wealth to explore

Saadani National Park is renowned for its privileged location on the edge of the Indian Ocean and the richness of its marine wildlife. A safari in the heart of Saadani’s natural beauty will be an opportunity to discover exceptional aquatic species, very different from the emblematic animals of the African savannah. As you stroll along Saadani’s beaches, you may spot the dolphins and whales that live at the heart of this marine ecosystem. These magnificent beaches are also a major breeding ground for the green turtles that inhabit the Indian Ocean. The dense forests and mangroves lining the Wami River are also home to crocodiles, kingfishers, flamingos and hippos.

Travelling with Off Road Tanzania: a unique and personalised adventure in Saadani

Set off on an adventure on the wildest tracks in southern Tanzania by taking a tailor-made adventure safari in Saadani National Park. Off Road Tanzania supports you at every stage of organising your stay. A personalised itinerary, an experienced and passionate guide, exclusive experiences, authentic accommodation, transfers and journeys tailored to your wishes, personalised advice for total immersion in the south of the country. Let us design the trip that suits you!

The best times to visit Saadani National Park

As Tanzania’s climate is favourable in every season, the national park can be visited all year round. However, the dry season from June to September and the hot season from December to February offer ideal conditions for wildlife viewing and relaxing on the country’s most beautiful beaches. The short rainy season (October to November) and the rainy season (March to May) should be avoided. This park, located on Tanzania’s east coast, enjoys a hot, humid climate, with an annual maximum temperature of 29°C. 

The history and local culture of Saadani

At the heart of the Saadani reserve lies a fishing village. Set off to discover the traditions and way of life of the local people after your safari! This visit will offer you wonderful moments of sharing and exchange centred on the local culture and heritage. This village has a large collection of ruins and remains that will help you learn more about the history of this former major trading port in the 19th century.

Practical tips for your safari in Saadani

How do you get to Saadani National Park?

Access to Saadani National Park is very limited, as the road is impassable. It is therefore recommended to travel there by plane. Several options are available to you:

• From Dar Es Salaam Airport
• From Zanzibar Airport

What is the ideal length of stay?

We advise you to stay at least 2 days in the park to fully enjoy the magnificent scenery it has to offer. A 2-day safari will allow you to discover the savannah, forest and beach of Saadani National Park.

Park fees and regulations

The price of a getaway to Saadani National Park in Tanzania depends on the activity and accommodation chosen, as well as the length of stay. By using a specialist agency, you will be able to explore all the possible options for your trip to southern Tanzania. 

It is important not to disturb the animals or attract their attention, so you will need to observe them quietly. The park is open from 6:00 am to 6:00 pm, so night safaris are not available. On the beach, you must be vigilant to protect the sea turtle nesting areas and their nests.