Saanane Island National Park

Overview

Tanzania’s Only Island National Park in the Heart of Mwanza

Welcome to Saanane Island National Park, Tanzania’s only national park located within a city—right in the heart of Mwanza on Lake Victoria. Covering just 2.18 km², it’s also one of the smallest yet most unique parks in the country. The island was named after Mzee Saanane Chawandi, a local fisherman and farmer who once lived on the island.

This urban island escape offers the perfect blend of nature, wildlife, and stunning lakeside views—making it ideal for quick getaways, family outings, or even team-building retreats. With a subtropical climate, the park experiences bimodal rainfall: short rains from October to December, long rains from March to May, and a dry season stretching from June to September.

Park Attractions

Despite its compact size, Saanane is packed with diverse natural attractions:

Wildlife: Home to free-roaming animals like zebras, impalas, velvet monkeys, rock hyrax, and even wild cats. It’s also the only national park in Tanzania where you may spot the rare De Brazza’s monkey.
Birdwatching: Over 70 bird species have been recorded, including migratory and resident species.
Reptiles: Lizards, snakes, and other reptiles can be found basking on rocks or hiding in the undergrowth.
Scenic Views: The island offers panoramic sunrise and sunset viewpoints, creating breathtaking silhouettes over Lake Victoria—perfect for photography lovers.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Saanane National Park is during the dry season (June to September) when wildlife is easier to spot and outdoor activities are more enjoyable. However, the park is open year-round, with lush greenery and vibrant birdlife at its peak during the rainy seasons (March to May and October to December).

Excursion and Activities in Saanane Island National Park,

Saanane offers a surprising variety of activities for such a small park:

Boat Cruises: Enjoy scenic boat rides on Lake Victoria with views of Mwanza’s rocky shoreline.
Guided Walks: Take relaxing nature walks or rock hikes with knowledgeable guides.
Photography & Filming: Capture the wildlife, dramatic rock formations, and shimmering lake views.
Sport Fishing: Anglers can enjoy catch-and-release fishing experiences.
Meditation & Picnics: Peaceful spots for yoga, meditation, or a lakeside lunch with loved ones.
Special Events: Perfect venue for weddings, birthdays, team-building, or family day events.
Rock Jumping: For the adventurous, the park’s rock formations offer fun jumping points into the lake.