KATAVI
NATIONAL PARK
In the southwest of Tanzania lies Katavi National Park, an isolated almost unvisited park. Katavi is the third largest national park in Tanzania and part of the Great Rift Valley. The park consists of savannas, grasslands, swamps, rivers and temporary lakes. In the rainy season, many savannahs run over what makes them so fertile in the dry season when the savannahs are dry again. The different ecosystems and absence of travelers makes this park so improbably spectacular
The surrounding game reserves Rukwa, Lukwati and Luafi, together with Katavi and various forested areas, form an ecosystem of 25,000 km2. This Katavi/Rukwa ecosystem is one of the largest and most wildlife-rich areas of Tanzania. The main river that runs through Katavi is the Katuma River. This lifeline of the park runs into Lake Katavi in the north and into Lake Chada in the middle of the park. Much of the park consists of wetlands, low-lying areas that flood during the rainy season and slowly dry up and turn into grassland in the dry season (Lake Katavi, Chemchem Springs, and Lake Chada).
ACTIVITIES AT KATAVI NATIONAL PARK
The jeep safaris
The jeep safaris in Katavi are carried out all day, from dawn to dusk. It is also possible to opt for two half-day safaris. Travelers then enjoy a siesta at the accommodation. The safari vehicles in Katavi are always open when the safari is operated by the property. By default, the jeeps are shared with other travelers, but everyone is assured of a place on the ‘outside’. This assures travelers of the best view during the safaris. The open jeeps are occupied by a maximum of six passengers. For an additional fee, the jeeps for private safaris can be bought off.
BIRD SAFARI
Bird lovers usually go on a walking safari (for an additional fee) so that they can get close to the birds more easily. Of course, it is also possible to focus on birds during the jeep safari. Due to the abundant bird life in Katavi, attention is also given to the birds during every safari activity. However, true enthusiasts are advised to hire a private ranger so that they can enjoy the birds as they wish.
WALKING SAFARI
A surprising way to experience Katavi is by walking safari. There are only a few accommodations that offer walking safaris (at an additional cost). Under expert guidance, travelers get (very) close to the wildlife. The emphasis during the walking safari is primarily on safety. In addition, you are interested in what you encounter along the way. These are tracks, flora, birds as well as seeing e.g. gazelles to lions. It can all pass by during a walking safari.