Saanane Island National Park
city wildlife, island escape
The first national park within a city in East Africa — a 2.18 km² gem of rocky islands, shore forests, and the only place in Tanzania to see De Brazza’s monkey. A 5‑minute boat ride into wilderness.
2.18 km² of wonder
Established as a full national park in July 2013, Saanane Island holds two records: the smallest national park in Tanzania & East Africa, and the first park located within a city center. Just 2km southwest of Mwanza city, it comprises three islets and an aquatic environment on Lake Victoria. Originally a government zoo from 1964, it was named after Mzee Saanane Chawandi, a fisherman turned farmer.
De Brazza's Monkey & More
Saanane is the only national park in Tanzania where De Brazza’s monkey (Cercopithecus neglectus) resides. Alongside them, look for impala, rock hyrax, velvet monkeys, and wild cats. Reptiles thrive: crocodiles, monitor lizards, agama lizards, pancake and leopard tortoises, and pythons slither through the undergrowth.
Lake Victoria fisheries
The aquatic part is rich in tilapia and Nile perch — popular for sport fishing. The shallow waters around the islets provide breeding grounds, making it a unique park where game viewing meets freshwater angling.
Things to do
Game viewing, bird watching, rock hiking, boat cruise, walking safaris, picnics, bush lunch, photography/filming, meditation, and sport fishing. Special events: weddings, engagement, team building, family days & birthdays.
A short 15‑minute walk from Mwanza city center brings you to the park offices, then a 5‑minute boat transfer. Public campsite and a refreshment shop available on the island — perfect for a half‑day urban escape.
History & Location
Originally owned by Mzee Saanane Chawandi, the island became a government zoo in 1964. In 2013 it was upgraded to a full national park, annexing two smaller islets — Chankende Kubwa and Chankende Ndogo — expanding protected area to 2.18 km² (including aquatic zone). Located in the Gulf of Lake Victoria, 2km southwest of Mwanza city.
Essential information
📍 Location & access
2 km southwest of Mwanza city center, Gulf of Lake Victoria. 15-minute walk from city center to park offices, then 5-minute boat ride. Accessible by road/air from Dar es Salaam or Kilimanjaro, railway from Arusha, Kigoma, Tabora, or ship/vessel from Uganda, Kenya, Bukoba.
🏕️ Accommodation & facilities
One public campsite on the island. Shops selling refreshments. Mwanza city itself has numerous hotels and guest houses ranging from budget to luxury — all within minutes of the park.
🦜 Birding & best time
Excellent birdwatching year-round; waterfowl and fish eagles abundant. Dry season (June–October) offers easier hiking. The park stays open daily, with morning and afternoon boat departures.
📜 Historical note
Originally 0.7 km² as a zoo, it expanded to 2.18 km² including Chankende islets. Named after its former owner, Mzee Saanane Chawandi — a testament to community-based conservation.
Discover Saanane Island
city wildlife, island adventure — inquire now