Tanzania : Saadani National Park
Saadani is the only coastal National Park in East Africa, which not only means relaxing on Indian Ocean beaches after each safari, but also provides an opportunity to observe Africa's big game and bird life interacting with the sea. Bottled-nosed dolphins are common off the Southern coast of the reserve, whales pass through the Zanzibar channel in October and November, and there is a green turtle breeding beach at Madete in the North. Saadani has a diverse population of birds and mammals including the rare Roosevelt sable. The Southern boundary is marked by the navigable Wami River, which attracts fabulous bird life as well as hippos, crocodiles and colobus monkeys.
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Saadani Safari Camp
Saadani Safari Camp is situated on the beach and consists of eight en-suite tented bandas, with thatched roofs. At the centre of the camp is the restaurant and a separate bar and library. Behind the camp, overlooking a small waterhole is a tree house, which is a lovely spot to enjoy a book or some tea while watching animals and birds come and go. There is also a pool to relax at in the heat of the day You can also take a boat safari, down the coast and into the Wami River. The boat usually passes large flocks of flamingos outside the mangroves at the estuary, before entering the river. Crocodiles lie still among the reeds at the water-side, agitated hippos dive for safety, black and white colobus monkeys sit high in the trees, and everywhere is a profusion of bird life. Explored by foot, the reserve is extremely rewarding. A further safari experience not to miss is a trip to Saadani village, a fishing community with a fascinating history and a fort once used for screening slaves.
"The food here was unbelievably good from a tiny kitchen. The camp's efforts to make the absolute best of solar power made us feel really want to conserve our use without any pressure from the people running the camp. The river trip was truly wonderful."
Pamela and Guy, Cambridge
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