SAADANI NATIONAL PARK

Saadani National Park is Tanzania’s only wildlife sanctuary that borders the Indian Ocean, offering a rare combination of beach and bush safari experiences.

🌍 Location & Size

• Situated on the coast of Tanzania, about 45 km north of Bagamoyo and 130 km northwest of Dar es Salaam.
• Covers around 1,100 km².
• Established as a national park in 2005, though it was originally a game reserve.

🏞️ Landscapes & Features

• Unique for its beach-meets-savannah ecosystem — you can see elephants and lions against the backdrop of the ocean.
• Includes coastal forests, mangroves, grasslands, and beaches.
• The Wami River flows through the park, attracting hippos, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife.

🐘 Wildlife

• Hosts elephants, lions, leopards, buffaloes, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and warthogs.
• Marine life includes green turtles, which nest on the beaches.
• Birdlife is abundant, with over 200 species, including kingfishers, fish eagles, and flamingos.

🎒 Activities

• Game drives across savannah and coastal plains.
• Boat safaris along the Wami River to spot hippos, crocodiles, and waterbirds.
• Beach relaxation combined with wildlife viewing — a rare safari-beach blend.
• Cultural visits to nearby fishing villages.

✨ Why It’s Special

• Only park in East Africa where the beach meets the bush.
• Offers a unique chance to see wildlife and swim in the Indian Ocean on the same day.
• Less crowded compared to Serengeti or Ngorongoro, making it ideal for travelers seeking tranquility.