Katavi National Park
This seldom visited park is a snapshot of what Africa looked like a century ago - a place where time has stood still. It is remote,wild and exclusive. The Katuma River and its associated floodplains are the main focus of game viewing here. During the rainy season these marshy lakes support Tanzania’s densest concentration of hippo and crocodile.
However, when the floodwaters retreat in the dry season, Katavi truly comes into its own. The Katuma becomes the only source of water for miles around attracting thousands of elephants, buffalos, giraffe, zebra, impala and reedbuck, providing easy pickings for lions and spotted hyenas.
The hippos are the main attraction though, with up to 200 of them piling up in any muddy pool of water that is deep enough. A phenomenal sight, especially with male rivalries heating up on a daily basis. This truly authentic bush experience comes at price, but there are few better ways to immerse oneself in Africa.
ACCOMMODATION IN KATAVI
Katavi Camp is situated conveniently near the airstrip. All its tents overlook the Katisunga Plains, are big and spacious and have private bathrooms equipped with toilets and showers. Each well appointed tent includes a private terrace with easy chairs – the perfect spot to enjoy the view. They are equipped with comfortable wooden beds, and light is provided with solar lamps. This camp is a great base for exploring the park and makes for good accomodation.
Palahala Camp is right on the river overlooking a pool. The camp is a perfect blend of comfortable tents and surprising touches of delightful bush luxury. Blending in perfectly with its natural surroundings, the Palahala Camp has spacious tents and offers all the necessary comforts - hot water is always at hand when needed, as is that bottle of perfectly chilled house wine.
Chada Camp is very much in touch with its environment, with a classic feel, almost as if it was established by one of the early explorers of Katavi. Chada Camp is small, stylish and very traditional, offering one of the most authentic safari experiences available in Tanzania, if not Africa. This top-notch destination is one of the best of its kind.
