Tourism Activities to do in Saanane Island National Park

Tourism Activities to do in Saanane Island National Park : Saanane Island National Park is a Tanzanian national park in Mwanza. The park is located on an island in Lake Victoria. This stunning park is one of Tanzania’s smallest national parks covering an area of about 2.20 square Kilometers. The park got its name from its former owner Mzee Saanane Chawandi.

In 1964, Saanane was the first zoo in Tanzania. Later in 1991, it was recognized as a game reserve and then in 2013, it was gazetted as a National Park. The Park is also famous for its location within the city of Tanzania. With lots of adventures, the park welcomes visitors who are coming for a memorable Tanzania Safari.

Saanane Island National Park is composed of small islets, Chankede Kubwa and Chankede Ndogo, massive granite boulders. It is home to a variety of mammals like zebras, impalas, rock hyrax, wild cats, primates like velvet monkeys, De-brazza’s monkeys, reptiles such as crocodiles, Monitor Lizards, Agama Lizards, Pancake and Leopard Tortoises, among others. The presence of “De-brazza’s Monkey” distinguishes the park as the only park in the country inhabiting the species. For birdwatchers, there are over 100 species documented in Saanane Island National Park. Many more can be found at different times of the year. 

However, this article provides a detailed explanation about tourism activities to do in Saanane Island National Park. They as follows;

Guided nature walk

Saanane Island National Park offers stunning walking trails that wind through its lush landscapes. During the guided nature walk visitors will have great views of the lake, beautiful scenery, get up close and personal with animals in their natural habitat, view colorful bird species, butterflies, enjoy the cool breeze, relax your mind in a quiet environment, take great photos among others. A highlight of your hike will be reaching the famous Jumping Stone, where visitors often stop for pictures and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding waters.

Bird Watching

Saanane Island National Park is one of the ideal destinations for Bird watching tours in Tanzania. The park is home to over 100 bird species including migratory, aquatic and many residents. while on your bird watching tour, you’ll have the chance to sight birds such as Black-backed Puffback, Grey-backed Fiscal, White-necked Raven, African Paradise-flycatcher, Collared Sunbird, Northern Brown-throated Weaver, Blue-breasted Cordon-bleu, Great Reed Warbler, African Dusky Flycatcher, African Thrush, Grey-headed Kingfisher and Pied Kingfisher among other.

Boat Tours

Exploring Saanane Island National Park by boat is an exciting way to experience the park’s scenic beauty from an entirely different perspective. Guided boat tours take you around the shimmering waters, allowing you to see the stunning coastline and nearby islands up close. Along the way, you might spot dolphins or other marine life, view herds of hippos and crocodiles in water, view other animals along the water banks, enjoy great views of the sunrise or sunset, view colorful bird species, making it a memorable outing for everyone. These tours are conducted in the morning hours or in the afternoon. Whether you’re a family seeking adventure or a couple looking for a romantic outing, a boat tour is a fantastic way to enjoy the surroundings.

Fishing Around the Islands

Fishing around the islands of Saanane National Park is a popular activity, especially for those who appreciate the peacefulness of casting a line into the water. The park supports a catch-and-release policy, helping to maintain a healthy fish population. The Park HQ offers fishing rods for hire, making it easy for everyone to join in on the fun. During sport fishing you will be able to catch different fish

Camping on the Island

Camping on Saanane Island is a great way to fully immerse yourself in nature and create lasting memories with friends or family. The park provides small tents for hire, making it convenient for those who may not have their own camping gear. Set up your campsite near the water or in a more secluded area, and enjoy the sounds of the island as night falls. Whether you spend your days hiking, fishing, or simply relaxing, camping allows you to experience the island’s beauty at your own pace. Stargazing at night is an extra bonus, as the clear skies provide breathtaking views of the stars.

Special Events

Saanane Island National Park is not just a place for leisure; it also accommodates special events that can enhance your visit. Other events to enjoy at your comfort is picnic, bush lunch, photographing and filming, sunset viewing, Lake excursion, wedding, team building, family day and birthday event can also be done in the National Park

Wildlife viewing

One of the most popular things to do in the park is to explore its beautiful landscapes and see various animals up close, all while taking in the amazing view. The park is home to impressive number of animals such as elephants, buffaloes, bushbucks, wildebeests, zebras, impalas, rock hyrax, wild cats, warthogs, dik-dik, crocodiles, primates like velvet monkeys, De-brazza’s monkeys among other. While on your wildlife viewing tour, you’ll have an opportunity to sight different species of these animal as well as view different bird species, enjoy views of the beautiful scenery among others.  

The national park has a lot of other fun things to do like camping, picnics with friends and family, photographing or filming, rock hiking, bush lunch where visitors get an opportunity to enjoy delicious dishes in the bush among others.  

Best time to visit Saanane Island National Park

You can visit Saanane Island National Park any time of the year, but the ideal times are during the dry season, which runs from June to October and December to February. During these months, the vegetation is thinner, offering excellent views of wildlife. It’s also the perfect time for walking safaris since the hiking trails are in good condition.

You can still explore the park in the wet season, from March to May and in November. This is when birdwatchers can enjoy seeing a variety of migratory birds and vibrant butterfly species.

Where to stay during your safari in Saanane Island

If you’re planning a safari on Saanane Island, you’ll find several places to stay close to the national park. Your options include luxury hotels, mid-range lodges, budget-friendly choices, and campsites. Such as gold crest hotel, Waghill lodge, Ryans Bay hotel, Malaika Beach resort, Victoria Palace hotel, Hotel Tilapia, Lessa Garden hotels, Saanane Beach hotel, Rocky Bay Resort and camping, Isamilo lodge and spa, Adden Palace hotel, Dreezy hotel, Pentagon hotel, Royal Sunset Beach hotel, Lamada Roch Beach Mwanza, Mango Village, Bwiru Village Home Stay among others. 

How to get to Saanane Island

Air: Mwanza airport connects with all the major towns and cities of Tanzania, and also most of the safari destinations.

Road and Rail: Mwanza is connected by road and rail to all corners of Tanzania.

Water: visitors can travel by ship to Mwanza Port from Musoma and Bukoba on Lake Victoria and also from Uganda, and Kenya.

In Mwanza city the Park headquarters are at Capri point just 15 minutes’ walk from city center. TANAPA arranges a 5-minute boat ride from there to the landing jetty on Saanane Island.