Saadani National Park

Where the Bush Meets the Ocean

Introduction

Saadani National Park is Tanzania’s only coastal wildlife park, uniquely located along the shores of the Indian Ocean. Situated between Dar es Salaam and Tanga, this extraordinary destination combines classic safari experiences with relaxing beach scenery.

Saadani offers a rare opportunity to see wildlife roaming near the ocean, making it one of the most distinctive safari destinations in Africa.

Why Visit Saadani National Park?

Saadani is perfect for travelers seeking a unique combination of safari and beach escape.

Top Reasons to Visit

Only national park in Tanzania bordering the ocean
Combine wildlife safari with beach relaxation
Less crowded compared to northern parks
Diverse ecosystems: savannah, mangroves, and coastline
Ideal for short trips from Dar es Salaam or Zanzibar

Wildlife in Saadani National Park

Saadani offers a mix of land and coastal wildlife.

Animals You Can See

Elephants: Frequently seen near the Wami River
Lions: Occasionally spotted in the savannah
Giraffes, zebras, and buffalo
Hippos and crocodiles along rivers
Green turtles: Nesting along the beaches (seasonal)

The Wami River Experience

Wami River is one of Saadani’s highlights, offering a different safari perspective.

Boat safaris with views of hippos and crocodiles
Rich birdlife along the riverbanks
Scenic mangrove ecosystems

Safari Experiences in Saadani National Park

Game Drives

Explore savannah landscapes with diverse wildlife
Ideal for spotting elephants, giraffes, and antelope

Boat Safaris

Relaxing cruises along the Wami River
Perfect for birdwatching and photography

Beach Relaxation

Unspoiled beaches along the Indian Ocean
Combine safari adventure with ocean views

Walking Safaris

Guided walks to explore flora and smaller wildlife

Best Time to Visit Saadani National Park

Dry Season (June – October)

Best for wildlife viewing
Easier access to park roads
Ideal for game drives

Wet Season (November – May)

Lush landscapes and fewer visitors
Excellent birdwatching
Turtle nesting season along the coast

Accommodation in Saadani National Park

Saadani offers a range of accommodation options with ocean views.

Options Include

Beachfront lodges
Mid-range safari camps
Budget accommodations near the park

Many lodges combine safari and beach experiences in one package.

How to Get to Saadani National Park

4–5 hours by road from Dar es Salaam
Accessible from Zanzibar by boat and road
Private transfers and guided tours available

Travel Tips for Saadani National Park

Combine with Zanzibar for a perfect bush-to-beach itinerary
Bring sunscreen and beachwear
Carry binoculars and camera
Use insect repellent near rivers
Ideal for short safaris or weekend getaways

Plan Your Saadani Safari Today

Plan your personalised safari with our experienced travel experts!

Hear It from Travelers

We go beyond just booking trips – we create unforgettable travel experiences that match your dreams!

    
 
 
      Verified Highly Recommend Across Tanzania Expeditions Team
Across Tanzania Expeditions is the most reliable company in Tanzania. I have not been disappointed traveling with them. Because they are friendly with their customers and treat them like family. Their devotion, reliability, responsibility, respect for others attracted me deeply. I strongly recommend Across Tanzania Expeditions Company. I Highly Recommend 100%. Especially Thanks To Mr. Hezron
  
  Posted on Tripadvisor  
 
    
   Luis Rico 
 4 March 2025
 
 
 
     Verified Best Experience
Luxurious travel experience with Across Tanzania Expeditions. The most popular destination of our trip was Serengeti National park one of the most famous Parks and visit to the Ngorongoro Crater. It was our first safari, and it was the best experience. We are very happy and impressed to travel with them
  
  Posted on Tripadvisor  
 
    
   Salvi Dona 
 15 February 2025
 
 
 
     Verified Our haneymoon was really Amazing!!
Across Tanzania Expeditions made our honeymoon trip truly magical! We wanted a romantic and adventurous experience, and they delivered. The private dinners under, the luxurious accommodations, and the unforgettable wildlife encounters all contributed to making this a trip of a lifetime. Thank you, Across Tanzania Expeditions, for creating memories we will cherish forever!" Remember to: Across Tanzania Expeditions!! Dream Safari!, Unforgettable wildlife, Amazing guides, perfect planning, Highly Recommended Across Tanzania Expeditions Team!
  
  Posted on Tripadvisor  
 
    
   Roger.Lacy 
 31 January 2025
 
 
 
     Verified Superb experience in Tanzania.
The team Across Tanzania Expeditions was incredibly professional, responsive, and attentive to our preferences. They took the time to understand what we wanted and tailored the itinerary perfectly to meet our expectations. Our guide & driver was not only knowledgeable but also passionate about the culture, wildlife, and landscapes of Tanzania. They shared fascinating insights about the animals, plants, and local traditions, making every moment enriching. Across Tanzania Expeditions Owner were super professional very helpful and knowledgeable. They are very good and helpful in everything. We are very happy with their amazing customer service!!!. We already looking forward to planning our next trip with them!
  
  Posted on Tripadvisor  
 
    
   Gwaniri Z 
 31 December 2024
 
 
 
     Verified Great experience of across tanzania expeditions.
Our journey began with a safari in the Serengeti, and we were instantly awed by the sheer beauty of the park. The abundance of wildlife was incredible. We saw the lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino, along with countless giraffes, zebras, and wildebeests. The expert guide knew exactly where to find the animals and provided us with fascinating insights into their behavior and the ecosystem. The picnic lunch by the was one of the highlights of our trip. Zanzibar The island’s blend of history, culture, and natural beauty was the perfect way to , our Tanzania expedition.Tanzania is a place of unparalleled beauty, and our trip was a dream come true. The combination of wildlife, landscapes, and rich cultural experiences made this an unforgettable adventure. We are already planning our next trip. I would wholeheartedly recommend Across tanzania expeditions Tours to anyone looking for an authentic and unforgettable Across tanzania expeditions travel experience.
  
  Posted on Tripadvisor  
 
    
   John Mac 
 12 December 2024
 
 
 
     Verified Thanks Across team.
We started our adventure in Serengeti National Park with Across Tanzania Expeditions, where we were awed by the vast incredible wildlife. Witnessing the Great Migration together was like watching a live nature documentary the sheer number of wildebeests and zebras was mesmerizing. We visited the Ngorongoro Crater, a place that felt almost mythical. The lush greenery, serene lakes, and diverse wildlife atmosphere. We trip concluded on the serene beaches of Zanzibar.Tanzania gave us more than we could have imagined. It wasn’t just a trip it was a shared adventure, and a reminder of the beauty of the world. Thanks Across team for providing a great experience.
  
  Posted on Tripadvisor  
 
    
   Harley 
 4 December 2024
 
 
 
     Verified A truly memorable experience with Across Tanzania Expeditions.
Our 5 days safari with Across Tanzania Expeditions was nothing short of spectacular! Upon arrival in Tanzania, we were greeted by our wonderful guide, Fazo, who quickly made us feel at home. His expertise and enthusiasm for wildlife were infectious. Faoz's ability to spot animals was astounding – he could point out a leopard lounging in a tree from what felt like a mile away! His extensive knowledge about the ecosystems, animal behaviors, and local cultures enriched our experience beyond just the sights. The itinerary was perfectly crafted, allowing us to explore the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park. Each park offered unique landscapes and wildlife encounters. They go above and beyond to ensure that your time in Tanzania is as enriching and unforgettable as possible. We will definitely be back for another adventure!
  
  Posted on Tripadvisor  
 
    
   Castiel 
 20 November 2024
 
 
 
     Verified Highly recommend this company!
We had a wonderful time with Across Tanzania Expeditions. Our guides Fazo were friendly and knowledgeable, making the experience enjoyable and educational. The breathtaking sceneries and well-organized tours made this an unforgettable journey. Across Tanzania Expeditions provided an incredible balance of wildlife adventure and cultural immersion. This trip will stay with our lifetime.
  
  Posted on Tripadvisor  
 
    
   Polanco 
 16 November 2024
 
 
 
     Verified Across Tanzania Expeditions was absolutely exceptional.
From the moment we arrived, the team made us feel welcomed and well taken care of. The pre-trip communication was excellent, with clear information on what to expect and a personalized itinerary that met all our interests. Our guide was knowledgeable and passionate about Tanzania’s wildlife, ensuring we saw all the major animals we were hoping for lions, elephants, giraffes, and more! The meals and lodges were also fantastic, with stunning views and top-notch service. We can wholeheartedly recommend Across Tanzania Expeditions. They made our trip not just a vacation, but an experience of our a lifetime. Our experience with Across Tanzania Expeditions was absolutely exceptional.
  
  Posted on Tripadvisor  
 
    
   Pearce 
 11 November 2024
 
 
 
     Verified Outstanding tour: well planned and well run. Can’t say enough good things!
Our 9 day Safari was outstanding!!! The owner Hezron and his team were very conscientious, helpful, committed to their people having an amazing trip. Hezron contacted me daily when there to make sure all was going well. Hussein does a lot of the planning and booking and did a great job, we loved all of our lodging. Fazo our guide was a walking encyclopedia of all animals we encountered in the 5 National Parks we went to. We saw the Big 5 and more! The vehicle was clean and reliable. Fazo was a very safe and conscious driver with an instinct for where animals would be. The food at all of our lodgings were great. I am celiac and the team at Across Tanzania contacted each place before we got there to make sure they knew what to expect for my dietary needs. The trip was well planned, well run, and thoroughly enjoyable. Would highly recommend a private tour (we saw groups all packed in and they would only get to see out of their window) we had full movement in the 6 seat Land Cruiser to get the photos and views we had been dying to see.
  
  Posted on Tripadvisor  
 
    
   JodyMCanada 
 26 October 2024