The Ugalla River in west-central Tanzania is a broad, slow-moving river of sandbanks, shallow pools, oxbow lakes, and swamps that winds its way in meandering loops westwards through a remote and almost forgotten world of extraordinary wildlife richness. it was established in 1965 as Ugalla Game Reserve and became a National park in 2019. It is just under 5000 sq. km in area.
Wildlife
The river drains a vast landscape of shallow hills and valleys dominated by Miombo woodlands and tall grass savannas that are home to elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, giraffe, zebra, etc. and also the largest herds of sable and roan antelope to be found in Tanzania. In the swampy stretches to the west are found the swamp dwelling Sitatunga antelope, Cape clawless otters, and a host of exciting water birds such as shoebill storks, wattled cranes, pygmy geese, etc. In the dry season lasting from July to October, these animals concentrate more and more on the Ugalla river and it becomes a place where exciting wildlife lies around almost every corner. Hippo and crocodile abound in the river, and indeed the Ugalla River is reputed to have some of the largest crocodiles ever recorded in Africa. During the wet season they are feeding on catfish and other fish but as the dry season progresses they supplement their diet with animals coming down to drink may grow to over 21 foot in length. Game viewing will focus mostly on the river itself following its endless twists and loops and beautiful overlooks. Groves of huge trees are scattered along the banks offering wonderful places to camp or perhaps just relax for a mid-day picnic or coffee break as you watch wildlife all around you. The Ugalla River flows slowly westwards beyond the boundaries of the National park into the complex waterways and wetlands of the Moyowosi Swamps, which will eventually drain into Lake Tanganyika. This vast and remote domain must surely be one of the greatest unexplored wildlife treasures of all of Africa.
Getting there
Air. Ugalla is accessible at all times by private charter. Road. The Park is accessible by 4-wheel drive vehicle in the dry season from June to October.
Climate
Temperature The temperature ranges between 130 C to 410 C depending on the area elevation.
Rainfall
Rain seasons is between January to April. This is the wonderful time for birdlife watchers although accessibility through most of the roads becomes impossible because of heavy rains
Safari Ideas
Ugalla National Park is centrally located between the National Parks Kigosi, Mahale, Katavi and Ruaha. It is wild and remote and makes a great compliment to itineraries that feature National Parks within the southern circuit.