Katavi National Park

anzania’s Untouched Wilderness Where Hippos Rule the Rivers

Katavi National Park

Katavi National Park, Tanzania’s third-largest national park, offers unspoiled wilderness experiences far off the beaten track. Located in the remote western part of the country, Katavi lies within a truncated arm of the Great Rift Valley that ends at the shallow, brooding waters of Lake Rukwa.

This is Africa at its most wild — endless bush landscapes, dramatic floodplains, and some of the richest wildlife concentrations in Tanzania. Because of its isolation, Katavi remains one of the least-visited parks, making it a hidden gem for those seeking authentic safari adventures.

Wildlife and Scenery

Katavi’s landscape is as diverse as it is pristine. Its floodplains, reed beds, and waterways are home to large populations of hippos, crocodiles, and an astonishing variety of birdlife. In the woodlands, you’ll find herds of elephants, buffaloes, and rare antelopes like roan and sable.

The Katuma River and seasonal lakes Katavi and Chada are the heart of the park’s wildlife action. During the rains, these marshy wetlands attract flocks of waterbirds. As the dry season sets in, they become lifelines where animals from across the park congregate, creating extraordinary game-viewing spectacles.

Perhaps Katavi’s most famous scene unfolds in the hippo pools: towards the end of the dry season, up to 200 hippos cram into shrinking pools. Their fierce battles for dominance turn the waterways into a stage of raw, untamed drama.

Katavi Activities

Game Drives

Bird Watching

Canoeing / Kayaking

Walking / Hiking

Plan Your Safari Today

Let Branded Africa Safaris craft a tailor-made journey filled with adventure, comfort, and unforgettable memories.

Katavi National Park Highlights

Third-Largest National Park

Covering 4,471 km², Katavi is only smaller than Ruaha and Serengeti.

Untouched Wilderness

Despite its size, Katavi receives only a few hundred visitors annually, making it one of Tanzania’s wildest parks.

Hippo Spectacle

Known for its dramatic hippo gatherings, where huge pods crowd shrinking pools in the dry season.

Rare Antelopes

Home to elusive species such as roan and sable antelopes, rarely seen elsewhere.

Predator Haven

Lions, leopards, hyenas, and wild dogs thrive here, drawn to the massive herds of prey.

Remote Location

Reaching Katavi requires commitment; most visitors arrive by small aircraft, enhancing its exclusivity.

Best time To Go

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

The best time for game viewing. Animals gather in massive numbers around the Katuma River and shrinking lakes. Hippo battles and predator sightings are at their peak.

Lush, beautiful landscapes with plenty of migratory birds. Wildlife disperses, but the scenery and birdwatching are superb.

Heavy rains make some areas difficult to access, and many camps close during this period.

How to Book with Branded Africa Safaris

Booking your dream safari has never been easier. At Branded Africa Safaris, we keep the process simple, stress-free, and personalized—so you can focus on the excitement of your upcoming adventure.