Katavi National Park

Found in the remote western part of Tanzania, the Katavi National Park undoubtedly qualifies for “hidden gem” status, with its annual visitor total of around 1000 being less than the Ngorongoro Crater receives during a day. Best combined with the Mahale Mountains and sometimes the Ruaha National Park, Katavi is at the heart of Tanzania’s western safari circuit. There are just three camps within the park, operating between June and mid-November each year, after the plains have dried out sufficiently from the rains to allow exploring by vehicle and on foot. Each of the camps offers a throwback to safaris of old, with a traditional feel to all of them, campfires roaring away at night and a real home-away-from-home feel.During the dry seasons wildlife congregates around the Ikuu River and Lake Katavi, with visitors able to see lion, buffalo, elephant, zebra and giraffe, as well as huge pods of hippo in the river pools and crocodile resting on the muddy banks. Guided walks, game drives and overnight fly camping are offered in Katavi.