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.

Destination guide

Katavi

Tanzania's wildest, loneliest great park

If something goes wrong

Emergency & health

Police

112

National emergency line

Ambulance / Fire

114

Also try 115

Your guide

Founder-vetted

Every guide knows the nearest help.

Hospitals & clinics

Mpanda Regional Referral Hospital

Hospital

Mpanda

The nearest sizeable hospital, in the gateway town of Mpanda; serious cases require air evacuation to a major city.

View details & directions

Sitalike / park ranger post clinic

Clinic

Katavi gateway

Basic first-aid is available at the park gate and ranger posts; facilities are very limited.

View details & directions

Mpanda town pharmacy

Pharmacy

Mpanda

Pharmacies in Mpanda stock common medicines; bring all essential supplies before entering the park.

View details & directions

Mpanda District Police

Police

Mpanda

The nearest police presence is in Mpanda; dial 112 for emergencies where signal allows.

View details & directions

Insurance accepted for emergencies

Katavi is extremely remote with no advanced medical care nearby, so comprehensive travel insurance including air evacuation to Dar es Salaam or Nairobi is essential for any serious emergency.

NHIF AAR AMREF Flying Doctors