Far from the tourist trails and deep in the heart of western Tanzania lies Katavi National Park, a remote and wild safari destination for the true adventurer. Covering over 4,400 square kilometres, Katavi is Tanzania’s third-largest national park — yet it receives only a handful of visitors each year, making it one of the most exclusive and raw safari experiences in Africa.
Untamed and dramatic, Katavi’s landscape is dominated by vast floodplains, dense woodlands, seasonal lakes, and the meandering Katuma River. During the dry season, life concentrates around the remaining water sources, creating some of the most intense wildlife spectacles you’ll ever witness — from hippos fighting for territory to lions stalking prey on the open plains.
Lake Katavi & Lake Chada Floodplains:
Immense, seasonal grasslands that become wildlife hotspots during the dry season — home to huge herds of buffalo, elephants, and roaming predators.
The Katuma River:
The lifeline of the park, attracting thousands of animals, including crocodiles, hippos, and birdlife.
Massive Hippo Pods:
In the dry season, hundreds of hippos crowd together in dwindling pools, leading to territorial battles and dramatic scenes.
Raw Wilderness:
With so few visitors, you’ll often feel like you have the entire park to yourself — it’s safari as it once was, wild and untouched.
Guided Game Drives:
Explore the vast open plains and riverbanks where predator-prey interactions are frequent and thrilling.
Walking Safaris:
Venture into the wild on foot with experienced rangers and track animals through the untouched bush.
Bird Watching:
Over 400 bird species have been recorded in Katavi, especially around the wetlands and riverbanks during the green season.
Scenic Fly-Ins:
The flight to Katavi offers spectacular aerial views of untouched wilderness — a journey in itself.
The dry season (June to October) is the best time to visit Katavi. As water sources dry up, wildlife gathers in large numbers around the remaining pools and rivers, offering dramatic viewing. The green season (November to April) brings lush scenery and vibrant birdlife but wildlife becomes more dispersed.
At Maverick Safaris, we specialize in remote and off-the-grid adventures — and Katavi National Park is the ultimate destination for travellers seeking something extraordinary. With our expert guides, personalized safari planning, and deep knowledge of the Western circuit, we help you experience the raw, wild soul of Africa in its purest form.
We’ll plan your trip around your specific interests, tastes and preferences, providing helpful tips and honest advice based on first-hand knowledge of the destination.