Saanane Island National Park

Saanane Island National Park is known as one of the most beautiful places in Tanzania and it’s also recommended by all of the tourists that have visited the Island before.

About Saanane Island National Park

Saanane Island was named after its old owner Mzee Saanane. He was a fisherman who turned into a farmer and later shifted to another island after being compensated. 

The Tanzania government officially owned the island in 1964 and was recognized as the first-ever government to own a zoo.

The territory lies on 0.7 square kilometers considering both dry land and water. However, the National Park includes two other smaller islets located in the southern part of the main island increasing the area to 1.32 square kilometers.

The park achieved a record of being the very first ever national park to be located in the town and the smallest national park in both Tanzania and East Africa. 

Wildlife in Saanane Island National Park

The Park is a resident to mammals like Impala, Velvet Monkeys, Rock Hyrax, and Wild Cats. The presence of “De-brazza's Monkey” distinguishes the park as the only Park in the country inhabiting the species.

Reptiles can also be found in the park, including crocodiles, Monitor Lizards, Agama Lizards, Pancake and Leopard Tortoises, Snakes particularly Python.

The aquatic part of the Park inhabits a variety of fisheries life, mainly Tilapia and Nile Perch.

As for birds, there are 44 species documented in Saanane Island National Park. Many more can be found at different times of the year. 

Things to Do in Saanane Island National Park

The park is a perfect place for everyone. It has something to offer all its visitors. For wildlife viewing lovers, it is an excellent place for game viewing, sightseeing and bird watching. 

As mentioned previously, it contains a number of mammals including Rock Hyrax, and Wild Cats. Besides, visitors can enjoy viewing reptiles like Agama Lizards and snakes especially Pythons.  

It is also an ideal place for those who look for an adventurous experience like rock hiking or those who want to spend some relaxing time by trying boat cruising, meditation and fishing.

The park is also suitable for a family day, having birthday parties, team building activities and much more.

Location 

Saa Nane Island National Park is located within the city of Mwanza Town, 2 kilometers Southwest of it and centered in the Gulf of island of Lake Victoria. 

How to Get There

By Air: The island can only be reached by road or air from Dar Es Salaam and Kilimanjaro International AirPort 

By Railway: It can be reached by taking the railway to Mwanza City from Arusha. 

By Sea: Some travel by sea to Mwanza Port from nearby islands like Uganda, Kenya and Bukoba.