Covering an area of about 2.20 square Kilometers, Saanane National Park is located on an island in Lake Victoria. The park got its name from its former owner Mzee Saanane Chawandi.

In 1964, Saanane was the first zoo in Tanzania. Later in 1991, it was recognized as a game reserve and then in 2013, it was gazetted as a National Park.

The park can be reached in about 20-15 min boat ride from Mwanza town of Tanzania. The Park is also famous for its location within the city of Tanzania. With lots of adventures, the park welcomes visitors who are coming for a memorable Tanzania Safari.

The Park is a resident to mammals like Impala, Velvet Monkeys, Rock Hyrax, and Wild Cats. The presence of “De-brazza’s Monkey” distinguishes the park as the only Park in the country inhabiting the species.

Reptiles can also be found in the park, including crocodiles, Monitor Lizards, Agama Lizards, Pancake and Leopard Tortoises, Snakes particularly Python.

The aquatic part of the Park inhabits a variety of fisheries life, mainly Tilapia and Nile Perch.

As for birds, there are 44 species documented in Saanane Island National Park. Many more can be found at different times of the year.