Saltwater
Safari
Where the roar of the lion mingles with the rhythm of the tide. Explore Tanzania's only coastal national park.
A Convergence of Worlds
Saadani is the only wildlife sanctuary in East Africa bordering the Indian Ocean. It offers the rare spectacle of elephants strolling across white sands and dolphins leaping just offshore.
Did You Know?
You can realistically track a pride of lions in the morning and go snorkeling in the afternoon—all within the same park boundaries.
Terrestrial Giants
Mkwaja Plains host giraffes, zebras, and a growing population of roughly 200 elephants that frequent the shoreline.
Marine Conservation
Madete Beach is a critical nesting site for Green Turtles. Hatching events from June to August are a seasonal highlight.
River Ecosystem
The Wami River provides a lush contrast, home to hippos, crocodiles, and over 300 species of coastal birds.
Cultural Heritage
The historical Saadani Village offers a glimpse into Swahili-Arab history and traditional fishing livelihoods.
Seasons on the Swahili Coast
The Dry Season (Jun – Oct)
Best for wildlife viewing. Animals cluster near the Wami River. This is also the peak window for turtle hatching on Madete beach.
The Green Season (Nov – Apr)
A birdwatcher’s dream. Lush landscapes and dramatic skies provide excellent photography light. High humidity is expected.
Climate Stats
- Average Temp 24°C – 33°C
- Humidity High (Coastal)
- Water Temp ~25°C - 29°C
Planning Your Arrival
Fly-In
Daily flights from Zanzibar (15 mins) and Dar es Salaam (25 mins) land directly at the Saadani Airstrip.
Drive-In
Access from Dar es Salaam via Bagamoyo takes 4 hours. A 4x4 vehicle is strictly required during the rains.
Boat Access
Private boat charters can be arranged from Zanzibar or Pangani directly to the Wami estuary.