All Parks & Reserves

Ugalla River National Park

Miombo woodland and the Ugalla River floodplain in western Tanzania

  • Country Tanzania
  • Park type National Park
  • Size 3,865 km²
  • Established 2019
  • Best months June to October
Where to stay

Where to stay in Ugalla River National Park

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Ugalla River National Park guide

Overview

Ugalla River National Park covers about 3,865 km² in Tabora Region, western Tanzania. It was gazetted in 2019, when the former Ugalla North Game Reserve and North Ugalla Forest Reserve were joined into a national park.

The park is made of miombo woodland, grassland and the floodplain of the Ugalla River, which flows west towards Lake Tanganyika.

It’s remote and little visited, with basic facilities.

Wildlife & Biodiversity

Wildlife

Miombo species such as sable, roan, buffalo and elephant are found in the area, along with hippos and crocodiles in the river.

Birds

The river and wetlands attract many waterbirds.

Best Time to Visit

Short answer: June to October, in the dry season, when wildlife gathers near water and roads are easiest.

MonthsSeasonWhat to expect
Jun – OctDry seasonThe best game viewing.
Nov – DecShort rainsGreen, with some showers.
Jan – FebShort dry spellWarm. Good birding.
Mar – MayLong rainsVery wet. Some roads become difficult.

Check access and facilities with TANAPA before you go.

Getting There

By air

Airport Best for Notes
Tabora (TBO) Domestic flights A long drive west.
Julius Nyerere International (DAR), Dar es Salaam International arrivals Domestic flight to Tabora.

By road

From Tabora, drive west towards Urambo and Ulyankulu. You need a 4×4.

Entrance & Fees

Tanzania National Parks charges a conservation fee per person for each 24 hours in the park.

Check the current rate for Ugalla River with TANAPA before you go. Vehicle and camping fees are extra.

Fees last checked October 2026 against the TANAPA tariff.

Location