Embark on a remarkable journey that combines untamed wilderness with serene coastline. This 2-day safari to Saadani National Park is ideal for travelers looking to experience Tanzania’s only coastal wildlife sanctuary in a short, action-packed trip. Whether you’re starting from Dar es Salaam, Bagamoyo, or even Zanzibar, this itinerary offers a perfect getaway into nature where the ocean meets the savannah.
Day one begins with a scenic drive to Saadani National Park, a hidden gem along Tanzania’s Indian Ocean coastline. The park is uniquely positioned where wild animals roam freely just steps away from the beach. Upon arrival, enjoy a game drive across diverse landscapes that include grasslands, mangrove forests, and palm-dotted shores. You might spot elephants, giraffes, buffaloes, warthogs, and a variety of antelope species. Lions and leopards are also present, though more elusive. Birdwatchers will find a haven here, with over 300 bird species recorded in the park.
Pick-up from your hotel in Dar es Salaam at approximately 07:30 AM. Travel along scenic roads towards Pangani, through lush coastal scenery and small rural communities, arriving at Saadani National Park by late morning (approx. 4‑5 hour drive depending on traffic and road conditions).
After arrival, enjoy a welcome lunch at the lodge, followed by a short orientation and rest. In the afternoon, head out on your first game drive along bush trails, exploring the savannah plains, dense woodland, and riverine corridors. Watch for elephants, antelopes such as bushbuck and duiker, monkeys, warthogs, and possibly lions or leopards at dusk.
As evening approaches, experience the coastal sunset from the beach — walk on the sand, dip your toes in the ocean, and enjoy the calming sound of waves. Dinner at the lodge, followed by optional night walk to spot nocturnal wildlife – owls, small mammals, insects and the unique sounds of the bush at night.
Early morning wake-up with sunrise over the ocean or bush (whichever view your lodge offers). After breakfast, set off on a boat safari along tidal rivers and mangrove creeks. Glide past lush mangroves, salt water estuaries, and hidden riverbanks — keep eyes peeled for hippos, crocodiles, kingfishers, herons, and other water birds. The mix of fresh and saltwater habitat brings surprises in every turn.
Later, return to lodge for a late‑morning beach‑side snack or fresh fruit, then enjoy leisure time: swimming, snorkeling (if available), walking along the beach, relaxing in hammock, or simply taking in the ocean breeze.
After lunch at the lodge, pack up and begin journey back towards Dar es Salaam, stopping at viewpoints or small crafts villages along the way. Arrive in Dar es Salaam by early evening (~5‑6 PM), with memories, photos, and new friends from your safari adventure.
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