Saadani National Park

Location: Eastern Tanzania, along the coast between Pwani and Tanga Regions
Best Time to Visit: June to October (dry season), November to May (green season), March to July (turtle nesting season)

Famous For: Unique bush-beach safari, coastal forests, marine and terrestrial ecosystems

Ecosystem: Savannah, coastal thickets, mangrove swamps, riverine forests, palm beaches

Key Wildlife: Elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, lions, leopards, green turtles, hippos, dolphins

Overview

Saadani National Park is one of Tanzania’s most unique and underrated safari destinations. It is the only national park in East Africa where savannah wildlife roams right up to the shores of the Indian Ocean. Covering about 1,100 square kilometers, Saadani offers a rare combination of classic safari landscapes, coastal forests, and pristine beaches, ideal for travelers seeking variety, solitude, and something truly different. Established in 2005, it appeals to nature lovers, photographers, and beach-safari travelers who want wildlife close to the ocean.

Location and Accessibility

Saadani lies about 130 km north of Dar es Salaam, accessible by road (4–5 hours), charter flights to Saadani Airstrip, or boat trips from Zanzibar or Bagamoyo. Its proximity to coast and cities makes it a great addition to beach holidays or cultural tours.

Landscape and Ecosystems

Saadani’s diverse landscape includes:

• Open grasslands and savannahs
• Coastal thickets and mangrove swamps
• Riverine forests along the Wami River
• Palm-studded beaches fronting the Indian Ocean

Wildlife and Birdlife

Wildlife includes elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, waterbucks, lions (rare), leopards (rare), spotted hyenas, monkeys, mongooses, and genet cats. The park is also rich in birds — over 300 species — including mangrove kingfishers, fish eagles, bee-eaters, storks, and hornbills.

Activities

1. Game Drives

Explore the interior by 4×4 to spot diverse mammals, best in early morning and late afternoon.

2. Boat Safaris on the Wami River

Glide through mangroves to see hippos, crocodiles, birds, and monkeys — especially beautiful at sunset.

3. Beach Time

Relax on unspoiled beaches, often deserted. Swimming possible in safe areas.

4. Walking Safaris

Guided bush walks with rangers to explore flora, insects, and animal tracks closely.

5. Cultural Tours

Visit Saadani village to learn about Swahili coastal traditions and fishing practices.

Conservation and Community

Saadani balances habitat restoration, community support, and marine protection, promoting eco-tourism and biodiversity.

Why Visit Saadani?

It’s perfect for those seeking a combined beach and safari experience, away from crowds, with opportunities for eco-tourism, family trips, and peaceful wildlife encounters.

Quick Facts

• Location: Eastern Tanzania, coastal boundary between Pwani and Tanga
• Size: Approx. 1,100 km²
• Established: 2005
• Best Time to Visit: June–October (dry), Nov–May (green), Mar–Jul (turtle nesting)
• Famous For: Savannah meets Indian Ocean, unique coastal wildlife
• Key Wildlife: Elephants, giraffes, buffalo, lions, leopards, green turtles
• Activities: Game drives, boat safaris, beach relaxation, walking safaris, cultural tours
• Accessibility: 4–5 hours from Dar es Salaam by road; airstrip and boat access