Saanane Island National Park was named after Mzee Saanane Chawandi. He was then the owner of the island? It was established as the first Zoo in Tanzania in 1964. Its main objectives were firstly to promote interest and conservation education in Wildlife, secondly was to promote recreation to the people of Mwanza town. Between 1964 and 1966 different species of Wild animals were ferried to the Island.
LOCATION
The Park is located 2km Southwest of Mwanza city center, which lies in the Gulf of Lake Victoria (Latitude 2.5 S and Longitude 32 E).
GETTING THERE
One can travel by road or air from either Dar es Salaam or Kilimanjaro International Air Ports to Mwanza. Also can travel by road or railway to Mwanza City from Arusha, Dar es Salaam, Kigoma, and Tabora. To mention a few. Moreover, people can travel by ship/vessel to Mwanza Port from Uganda, Kenya, Bukoba, and nearby Islands.
The Island is accessed by a regular short boat ride for about 5 minutes from Park Offices, on the mainland. Park Offices are easily accessed about 15 minutes short walk from the City Centre.
ATTRACTION IN SAANANE ISLAND NATIONAL PARK
Saanane Island National Park is the home of mammals like Impala, Rock Hyrax, Velvet Monkeys, and Wild Cats. The presence of “De-brazas Monkey” underscores its potential as the only Park in the country inhabiting the species. Reptiles are also dominant; they include crocodiles, Monitor Lizards, Agama Lizards, Pancake and Leopard Tortoises, Snakes particularly Python.
The aquatic part of the Park inhabits a variety of fisheries life, mainly Tilapia and Nile Perch.
TOURISM ACTIVITIES IN SAANANE ISLAND NATIONAL PARK
Saanane Island is an ideal place for game viewing, bird watching, rock hiking, boat cruise, walking, picnics, bush lunch, photographing/filming, meditation, and sport fishing. Special occasions like weddings, engagements, team building, family day,s and birthdays can also be organized.
