Saadani National Park

Where the Beach Meets the Bush

Saadani National Park

Covering 1,062 sq km (415 sq miles), Saadani National Park is Tanzania’s only coastal wildlife sanctuary, uniquely combining Indian Ocean beaches with savannah wilderness. Located just 100 km northwest of Dar es Salaam, it’s the perfect destination for travelers who want to experience both a safari and seaside relaxation in one trip.

What makes Saadani truly special is its unique ecosystem. Here, you can spot elephants and giraffes wandering just steps away from sandy beaches, then cool off with a swim in the Indian Ocean. It’s the only place in East Africa where the phrase “from bush to beach” becomes a reality.

History & Culture

The name Saadani traces back to the Arab settlements of the 19th century. Originally a fishing village called Utondwe, the town grew into a historic coastal trade hub, involved in both legitimate commerce and the darker history of the slave trade. It was frequently visited by early explorers such as Richard Burton, Ptolemy, Johannes Rebmann, and El-Masoud. Today, Saadani retains its cultural importance while offering a blend of wildlife adventure and historical intrigue.

Saadani National Park Activities

Game Drives

Bird Watching

Canoeing / Kayaking

Walking / Hiking

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Saadani National Park Highlights

Only Coastal National Park in East Africa

The only place where a safari meets the Indian Ocean.

Bush-to-Beach Experience

You can watch elephants by day and swim in the sea by the evening.

Green Turtle Sanctuary

Saadani’s beaches are one of Tanzania’s last strongholds for nesting green turtles.

Historic Trade Hub

Once a key Arab and Swahili settlement, it played a role in East Africa’s coastal trade history.

River & Marine Safari Combo

The Wami River safari offers a mix of aquatic wildlife rarely seen elsewhere in Tanzania.

Elephant Herds

Saadani is known for herds of up to 30 elephants, frequently spotted in the park.

Best time To Go

Discover optimal safari timing with our seasonal guide for prime wildlife sightings and unforgettable experiences

The best time for wildlife viewing, as animals gather near water sources and the roads are more accessible. Perfect for combining beach stays with game drives.

Landscapes turn lush and green, birdwatching is superb, and turtle nesting can often be observed.

The park is less crowded and beautifully green, but accessibility can be challenging due to flooding.

How to Book with Branded Africa Safaris

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