Saadani National Park

Saadani National Park is unique in Tanzania because it is theonly national park that borders the Indian Ocean. It combines coastal ecosystems and savanna wildlife, offering a rare experience where beach meets bush.

Location

  • Country: Tanzania
  • Region: Eastern Tanzania
  • Along the Indian Ocean coast
  • Lies between Dar es Salaam and Tanga
  • Part of Tanzania’s coastal safari circuit

Size

  • Covers approximately 1,100 square kilometers

Landscape and Physical Features

Saadani National Park features diverse environments, including:

  1. Indian Ocean beaches
  2. Coastal forests and mangroves
  3. Savanna grasslands
  4. River systems – Wami and Mligaji Rivers

Wildlife

Mammals

  • Elephants
  • Lions
  • Giraffes
  • Buffaloes
  • Warthogs
  • Bushbucks
  • Reedbucks

Aquatic and Marine Life

  • Crocodiles and hippos (in rivers)
  • Dolphins (offshore)
  • Sea turtles (nesting on beaches)

Birds

  • Over 300 bird species, including:
    • Flamingos
    • Kingfishers
    • Fish eagles
    • Shorebirds

Climate

  • Hot and humid coastal climate
  • Dry season: June–October
  • Wet seasons:
    • March–May
    • November–December

Conservation and History

  • Established as a national park in 2005
  • Formed from former game reserves and coastal areas
  • Protected to conserve marine and terrestrial ecosystems

Tourism Activities

Visitors can enjoy:

  • Game drives
  • Boat safaris on the Wami River
  • Beach walks
  • Bird watching
  • Cultural tours to nearby villages

Importance

Saadani National Park is important because it:

  • Protects coastal and marine ecosystems
  • Preserves wildlife–ocean interaction habitats
  • Promotes eco-tourism
  • Supports marine species conservation

Fun Facts

  • Only park in Tanzania where
    wild animals share habitat with the ocean
  • Elephants are sometimes seen on the beach
  • Combines safari and beach holiday in one place