Saandani National Park
Saadani National Park is the perfect union of beach and bush. This park was created in 1964 but it is only in the last decade that it has started to flourish as a game-viewing destination with a difference: its position along the Indian Ocean coast with miles of deserted beaches.
Located just 70 km north of Bagamoyo and accessible by the tarmac road from Dar es Salaam, Saadani is national park that is a popular day-trip from beach resorts scattered along Tanzania’s northern coast.
The park has a unique boast: it is where the bush meets the beach. It is the only reserve or Park in East Africa that runs down to the shore of the Indian Ocean, giving a different dimension to visits there.
The Wami River, which passes through Saadani National Park and empties into the Indian Ocean, hosts a large population of hippos, crocodiles, flamingos, and many large bird species. Elephants are often viewed mad wallowing on the banks of the river. It now boasts a good variety of game, with herds of up to 30 elephants frequently seen, several prides of lions, as well as good numbers of giraffe, buffalo and many different grazers. There are yellow baboons and velvet monkeys from the primates and hyenas and jackals from the scavengers. Leopards have also been spotted. The Wami River runs through the reserve and it is possible to take boat trips up its mangrove lined banks to spot Hippos crocodiles and the mangrove kingfisher.
A good choice for visitors based in Dar es Salaam who don’t have time for longer safaris to visit more remote parks around the country, Saadani is easily visited on a day trip or short weekend safari.
Accommodation
Accommodation is also offered inside the park by Saadani Safari Lodge and immediately outside the park by KISAMPA and A Tent with a View.