Saanane Island National Park, situated on an island in Lake Victoria near Mwanza, Tanzania, is the country’s smallest national park, covering approximately 2.18 square kilometers.
Established in 2013, it offers a unique blend of terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.
To reach Saanane Island National Park by road, travel to Mwanza City, which is accessible from various locations:
From Dar es Salaam
Drive approximately 1,100 kilometers northwest via the A7 and A8 highways, a journey that typically takes around 16 hours.
From Arusha
Head west for about 500 kilometers via the A104 and A7 roads, taking roughly 8 hours.
From Kigoma
Travel southeast for approximately 1,000 kilometers via the A2 and A7 highways, a trip of about 15 hours.
From Tabora
Proceed east for around 500 kilometers via the A7 road, which usually takes about 8 hours.
Upon arrival in Mwanza, the park headquarters are located at Capri Point, just a 15-minute walk from the city center. From there, a short boat ride of about 5 minutes will take you to Saanane Island.
To reach Saanane Island National Park by air, fly into Mwanza Airport, which connects to major Tanzanian cities, including Dar es Salaam and Kilimanjaro International Airport.
From Mwanza Airport, the park headquarters are located at Capri Point, just a 15-minute walk from the city center. From there, a short boat ride of about 5 minutes will take you to Saanane Island.
Alternatively, you can travel by road or rail to Mwanza City from various locations, including Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Kigoma, and Tabora. Additionally, ferries operate to Mwanza Port from Uganda, Kenya, Bukoba, and nearby islands.
Once in Mwanza, the park is easily accessible by a short boat ride from the mainland
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The park is home to several mammal species. Notably, it is the only national park in Tanzania that inhabits De-Brazza’s monkeys.
With over 44 documented bird species, Saanane Island is a haven for bird enthusiasts, making it an excellent spot for bird watching.
The island’s rugged terrain offers opportunities for rock climbing and hiking.
Given its location on Lake Victoria, the park provides boat cruises along the shoreline.
The park’s aquatic environment is rich in fish species, allowing visitors to engage in recreational fishing while enjoying the scenic surroundings.
Saanane Island offers designated areas for picnics and relaxation. making it an ideal spot for family outings, and special occasions.
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