Katavi National Park lies south of the Mahale Mountains on a flood plain surrounding Lake Katavi. It is one of the most difficult parks to reach and is strictly for those of an adventurous spirit, but it has excellent game viewing with a real wilderness atmosphere.

The waters of the Park shelter crocodile, hippo and large flocks of pelicans. The diverse woodland, acacia bush, lakes and swamps attract over 400 species of birds. Leopard, lion, elephant, eland, roan and sable antelopes, southern reed-buck and topi inhabit the short grasses and thickets. Katavi is also home to Africa largest herds of buffalo.