Ugalla River National Park is one of Tanzania’s most pristine and untouched wilderness destinations. Located between Tabora and Rukwa Regions in western Tanzania, the park stretches across a spectacularly remote landscape of rolling plateaus, steep valleys, and expansive floodplains. Established in 2019 after being separated from the Ugalla Game Reserve (originally gazetted in 1965), this newly designated national park offers one of the most authentic, off-the-beaten-path safari experiences in Tanzania.
The gazettment combine an area, which formerly was Ugalla North Game Reserve (1,811 km’) and North Ugalla Forest Reserve (2,054 km2) covering a total area of 3,865 km’.
Ugalla is bordered by other protected areas such as Ipole Game Reserve, Ngongwa, Iyonga, Mpembapazi, and Hulu Hill Forest Reserves. This connectivity ensures healthy wildlife corridors and thriving ecosystems.
Landscape & Habitat
Ugalla River National Park experiences temperatures ranging from 13°C to 41°C, depending on the season and elevation. The heavy rains occur between January and April, creating ideal conditions for birdwatching, although many roads become difficult or impassable during this time. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from June to October, when game drives and walking safaris are most rewarding, as wildlife congregates in large numbers along the Ugalla River.
How to Get to Ugalla River National Park
By road: During the dry season, from June to early November, the park can be accessed by road from Tabora Town (370 km), Kaliua District (40 km), and from Urarnbo District (75 km).
By air: The Park can be accessed via chartered flights from nearby airports in Tabora, Urarnbo, and Kaliua. Additionally, airstrips at Muhuha, Siri, and Kasense within the park can be used, but only during the dry season.
By train: Accessible by train via the Kigoma route through Tabora, stopping at Usoke and Kaliua stations, and also via the Mpanda — Kaliua route at Lumbe and Ugalla Stations.
Attractions in Ugalla River National Park
Wildlife
Ugalla River National Park boasts a remarkable diversity of wildlife, making it one of Tanzania’s most rewarding destinations for game viewing. Visitors have the chance to encounter elephants, lions, buffaloes, leopards, hyenas, wild dogs, zebras, jackals, impalas, elands, greater kudus, Lichtenstein’s hartebeests, sable antelopes, roan antelopes, topis, oribis, East African bush duikers, bohor reedbucks, and common reedbucks. In the swampy areas to the west, the rare and elusive sitatunga antelope can also be found. The Ugalla River itself harbours a healthy population of hippos and some of Africa’s largest crocodiles, making it a vital refuge for wildlife during the dry season.
Vegetation
The park is characterised by two primary vegetation zones: extensive Miombo woodlands and Zambezian flooded grasslands. The Miombo zone encompasses hilltop woodlands and grassy floodplains, covering a significant portion of the reserve and providing habitat for a diverse array of species. These varied landscapes offer perfect spots for camping, mid-day picnics, or peaceful coffee breaks while enjoying the surrounding wildlife and scenery.
Beautiful Landscapes
Ugalla’s natural beauty is defined by the meandering river, sweeping floodplains, shallow hills, valleys, and picturesque termite mounds that punctuate the flat plains. These mounds not only add to the park’s unique scenery but serve as excellent vantage points for predators hunting in the area.
Ugalla River – The Heart of the Park
The Ugalla River flows through the centre of the park and serves as its lifeline, attracting a wide range of terrestrial and aquatic species. During the dry season, it becomes a focal point for wildlife viewing as animals gather in search of water. The river’s loops, oxbows, and shaded banks create ideal settings for observing wildlife and enjoying the tranquillity of the park. Ugalla is especially famous for its enormous crocodiles, some of the largest recorded in Africa. These prehistoric giants feed primarily on catfish during the wet season and supplement their diet with animals that come to the river during the dry season.
Historical and Cultural Sites
Beyond its natural wonders, Ugalla River National Park holds significant cultural and historical value. The Mfinula ritual site at Ikunkwa remains an essential social and cultural landmark for local communities. Additionally, the Senga II and Ilyamchele historical sites preserve the heritage and traditions of societies living adjacent to the park, adding depth to any visit through insights into the region’s history and cultural practices.
Tourism Activities in Ugalla River National Park
Game Drives
Embark on thrilling game drives along the scenic banks of the Ugalla River, through oxbow lakes, and across expansive floodplains where large herds of buffalo, elephants, and antelopes roam freely. With the guidance of experienced rangers, you’ll have the chance to spot elusive predators like lions and leopards while immersing yourself in the raw beauty of this untouched wilderness.
Walking Safaris
Experience the bush from a new perspective on guided walking safaris led by expert trackers and armed rangers. These treks allow you to engage all your senses as you follow animal footprints, examine insects, identify medicinal plants, and listen to the symphony of bird calls, offering a more intimate and authentic connection with the African wild.
Bird watching
Ugalla is a haven for bird lovers, boasting over 400 species of birds. During the rainy season, its wetlands and riverbanks attract a spectacular variety of migratory and aquatic birds, including herons, kingfishers, shoebills, and fish eagles. Bring your binoculars and camera to capture the vibrant colours and unique behaviours of these feathered residents.
Sport Fishing
This is simply fishing for fun. At the Ugalla River, tourists get to experience fishing like the local fishermen. These activities will show you how to capture the fish and later release it back into the river without harming it in any way. Tilapia is the most common fish species found. It is so much fun and passively gives you an opportunity to spot other animals around the riverbanks and other water dwellers, such as crocodiles.
Honey Harvesting Experience
Dive into the local traditions with a hands-on honey harvesting experience, a rare activity in Tanzania’s national parks. Learn from skilled local beekeepers about the age-old techniques of harvesting wild honey sustainably. This enriching encounter offers insight into how communities live in harmony with nature while supporting conservation through eco-friendly beekeeping practices.
Photography & Scenic Picnics
Whether you’re a professional photographer or someone who loves capturing nature’s wonders, Ugalla’s dramatic landscapes provide endless inspiration, from golden floodplains and ancient baobabs to meandering rivers teeming with wildlife. Designated picnic spots allow you to relax with a bush breakfast or sundowner picnic while enjoying panoramic views and waiting for the perfect wildlife shot.
Accommodation Facilities
Inside the Park:
For those seeking an authentic wilderness experience, private camping is available within Ugalla River National Park. These campsites must be booked in advance and offer a unique opportunity to enjoy the park’s remote beauty in complete seclusion, surrounded by nature and wildlife.
Outside the Park:
For travellers looking for accommodation outside the park, options are available in the nearby towns of Tabora, Mpanda, Sikonge, and Inyonga. These towns offer a range of accommodations, including guesthouses, lodges, and hotels, suitable for various budgets. In Tabora Town, visitors can find more established hotels such as Palahala Luxury Camp, The Grand Penta Hotel, Mwafrika Hotel, and Tabora Belmonte Hotel, which offer services ranging from luxury to mid-range. Mpanda Town also offers convenient access to the park, with budget-friendly options such as Deluxe Lodge and Kinday Lodge. While these accommodations are not explicitly designed for safari use, they offer practical and comfortable lodging for overnight stays before or after your park visit, with essential amenities such as clean rooms, dining facilities, and local hospitality.
At Kanuth Adventure Safaris, we can help you book the best accommodation and expertly plan your entire safari experience, ensuring a smooth, memorable, and hassle-free journey from start to finish. Feel free to reach out at +255 754 967 544. Your adventure starts here!
