Kigosi National Park is situated in the western part of Tanzania, especially the Geita region, Shinyanga region, and northwest Tobora region the nearest city of Kahama. covering an area of approximately 8,265 square kilometers, the park includes a mix of diverse habitats such as lake shores, wetlands, and dense woodlands. The proximity of Kigosi to other protected areas like Rubondo Island National Park and the greater Serengeti ecosystem, makes it a vital ecological link in the region. The strategic location enhances its significance for biodiversity and provides an important corridor for wildlife movements between various habitats.
Kigosi National Park was officially gazetted as a national park in 2019. Since its gazettement, the park has played a crucial role in wildlife conservation and habitat preservation in the region. The park is a part of the Moyowosi/Malagarasi wetlands complex, which is the largest wetlands complex in East Africa. The Malagarasi Moyowosi, Nikonga, Ugalla, Kigosi, Nikonga, and Gombe are seven slow-moving rivers that meander through a vast and intricate network of marshes, plains lakes, and woodlands. These rivers should not be confused with the Gombe Stream National Park the home to the fascinating chimpanzees in Tanzania. these rivers eventually combine to form the Malagarasi Rivers which empties into Ilagala’s Lake Tanganyika.
The national park is home to a wealth of wildlife, including notable species such as African elephants, lions, giraffes, buffalos, and various antelope species. Birdwatchers will appreciate the extensive birdlife including migratory species that frequent the wetlands during the specific seasons. Additionally, Kigosi National Park is recognized for its populations of hippos and crocodiles, often found in and around the lakes. The rich diversity of wildlife not only supports conservation efforts but also offers visitors the opportunity to experience the natural beauty and ecological significance of one of Tanzania’s lesser-known treasures.
Climate
The park and the surrounding region receive two annual rainfall peaks, in February and November. The dry season starts in mid-May and ends in mid-October. Annual rainfall varies between 1,000m and 1,500m. It is one of the largest reserves in East Africa with floodplains and wetland ecosystems. This reserve is an important wild animal protection and feeding area during the dry season for migratory animals like waterfowl and large mammal species. The maximum temperature of the area is 29°C
Attractions found in Kigosi National Park
Animals
Kigosi National Park is home largest concentrations of cape clawless otters in Africa can be found in the Moyowosi wetlands. Other animals such as Lions, Leopards, Buffalo, Crocodile, Topi, Sitatunga, Warthog, Baboon, Zebras, Roan, Elands, Common and Bohor Reedbuck, Hyenas, Hippos and Defassa waterbucks are just a few examples of the abundant big game found in this remarkable national park.
Bird species
Kigosi National Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, basting over 300 bird species. The national park is ideal destination for rare water-loving birds such as the Shoebill Stork, Wattled Crane, Pel’s Fishing Owl, African Fish Eagle, Yellow-Billed Stork, Great Egret, African Spoonbill, Black-Crowned Night Heron, Saddle-Billed Stork, Malachite Kingfisher, Little Grebe, Pied Kingfisher, Ruff, Wood Sandpiper, African Jacana, Lesser Jacana, Tawny Eagle, Scarlet-Chested Sunbird, White-Throated Bee-Eater, Hooded Venture, and African Paradise Flycatcher and among many others, the swamps are the best habitats for the bird species where the tourists the chance to spot variety of bird species in the park during their birding tour in the park
Landscape
The park is one of the excellent parks in East Africa in that the park is rich in floodplain and wetland ecosystems. The parks landscape is interesting. Grassy swamps, papyrus reeds, and riverine forest dominate the area especially in the south in addition to the open Miombo woodland to the north thus allowing the Kigosi, Moyowosi, Gombe and Nikonga rivers to easily flow through the vast flood plains in the park, are also Itigi thicket and Miombo woodland is dotted with rocky crops, open plains, springs and scattered water holes which has become the giant habitat for wildlife in that it supports high production and breeding of animal species like the lions, leopards, buffalos and many others.
Amazing things to do
Kigosi National Park also boast a number of interesting and fascinating activities for visitors including;
Cycling through the Kigosi National Park is an exhilarating way to explore its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. The park features various trails that wind through picturesque forests, open savannahs, and tranquil lakes. Cyclists can expect to encounter herds of Antelopes, Leopards, Buffalo, Crocodile, Topi, Sitatunga, Warthog, Baboon, Zebras, Hyenas, Hippos, Defassa Waterbucks colorful bird species, and even the occasional troops of monkeys as they pedal through the park. local guides often lead the cycling tours, ensures riders navigate the best routes safely while gaining insights into the area’s ecology and conservation efforts. It’s a fantastic option for families and individuals seeking an active immersion in nature, combining exercise with the thrill of adventure.
Camping
Camping in Kigosi National Park offered an immersive experience in the heart of nature. There are designated campsites that allow visitors to pitch tents or stay in more structured accommodation. Each campsite provides basic amenities while maintaining a back-to-nature feel, where the sounds of wildlife surround campers at night. Stargazing under the vast African sky is a highlight, as well as waking up to the gentle sounds of the park. Visitors also have the opportunity to engage with the environment, making it an unforgettable experience for wildlife enthusiasts, families, and anyone eager to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life.
Game Drives
Game drives are one of the most famous activities in Kigosi National Park where tourists will have getting opportunity to explore the park in a comfortable way in a safari with an experienced game guide. Game drives in Kigosi National Park is done either the morning or evening game drives. During the game drive along, you will follow a network of game viewing tracks, there are plenty of animals to see including as Lions, Leopards, Buffalo, Crocodile, Topi, Sitatunga, Warthog, Baboon, Zebras, Roan, Elands, Common and Bohor Reedbuck, Hyenas, Hippos and Defassa Waterbucks among others
On a game drive during the day, you get to be driven following the tracks, through the green savannah plains, past wide-leaved woodlands, and into the habitat of beautiful mammal species in the Kigosi National Park. Some other animals to be spotted out while on a day game drive such as The Defassa Waterbuck, Topes, Bohor Reedbucks, Oribis, Sitatunga, Eland, Giraffes, Buffaloes, Elephants, and Lions among others.
Kigosi National Park also offers a night game drive where visitors will be able to explore the park with the armed guide park ranger to spot the nocturnal animals especially the wide-eyed Bush Babies, Lions, Leopards, and Owls. You will be guided by your flashlight and an experienced ranger and it only takes 2 to 3 hours.
Birding
Kigosi National Park is a haven for birding enthusiasts while in a Tanzanian safari, boasting an impressive list of over 300 bird species. The park’s diverse habitats ranging from wetlands to woodlands provide ideal environment for a wide array of bird species. During your birding safaris, you will have the chance to spot a variety of bird species such as Shoebill Stork, Wattled Crane, Pel’s Fishing Owl, African Fish Eagle, Yellow-Billed Stork, Great Egret, African Spoonbill, Black-Crowned Night Heron, Saddle-Billed Stork, Malachite Kingfisher, Little Grebe, Pied Kingfisher, Ruff, Wood Sandpiper, African Jacana, Lesser Jacana, Tawny Eagle, Scarlet-Chested Sunbird and White-Throated Bee-Eater among others.
Sport fishing
Kigosi National Park is also a fantastic destination for sport fishing safaris in Tanzania. The park is home to various species, including tilapia and catfish, providing a rewarding experience for anglers. Guided fishing tours offer you will chance to catch these aquatic animals and also you will be provided with the best fishing spots and techniques. The tranquil environment and stunning scenery create a perfect backdrop for a day on the water.
Nature walks.
Nature walks safaris in one way you can explore the hidden gems of the park. Nature walks can be done in Kigosi National Park this is where the tourists organize and move in their groups while walking around the park with the help of the park guide, the tourists can be able to view the park’s wildlife since the park is in a wetland, so various animal and bird species can be spotted during your nature walks and so many park’s features can be identified as well.
Getting to
Kigosi National Park can be accessed by air, road, and also air means of transport from Dar es Salaam to the park. The closest international airports are in Dar-es-salaam, which offers commercial flights to Mwanza on Lake Victoria or Kigoma and then to the park. the national park can also be accessed by the road using the four-wheel drive cars from Arusha or Dar es Salaam to the park.
Where to stay
There are no accommodation facilities within the park. But camping is recommended for the guests who would need permission to camp in the area. Tourists can stay in typical safari lodges and tented accommodation on the outskirts of the park, or in basic frame tents in the adjoining Moyowosi Game Reserve.