Why is Katavi so uncrowded?

Katavi lies in a very remote corner of western Tanzania, far from the northern circuit, so it receives only a few thousand visitors a year, offering one of the most solitary safari experiences in Africa.

When should I visit Katavi?

The dry season from June to October, and especially August to October, is best, when shrinking water forces hippos, buffalo and predators into dramatic concentrations along the Katuma River.

How do I get to Katavi?

Most visitors fly in by light aircraft from Arusha, Dar es Salaam or Ruaha to the Ikuu or Sitalike airstrips, or to Mpanda; overland access via Mpanda is possible but long and rough.

What wildlife is Katavi known for?

Katavi is famous for enormous concentrations of hippo and crocodile in its drying river pools, vast buffalo herds sometimes a thousand strong, and the lion prides that follow them.

Katavi — Places to eat — verified guides & travel directory for Tanzania

Lodging

Katavi

Safari camp dining

Meals inside Katavi are provided by the safari camps and lodges on a full-board basis; there are no independent restaurants in the park.

Lodging

Katavi

Mbali Mbali Katavi Lodge

The lodge's dining tent serves full-board bush cuisine and sundowners overlooking the Katuma floodplain.

Lodging

Katavi

Chada Katavi mess tent

Communal bush meals at this classic tented camp, often taken around the fire or out on the plains.

Fast Food Restaurant

Katavi

Mpanda town eateries

Simple local restaurants and grills in the gateway town of Mpanda serve Tanzanian staples for those travelling overland.

Katavi

Sitalike guesthouse kitchens

Basic guesthouse kitchens at the park gate offer hot local meals and snacks for budget and overland travellers.