Ugalla River National Park

Ugalla River National Park covers 5,135 square kilometres of miombo woodland in western Tanzania — one of the least-visited major parks on the continent. The Ugalla River winds through seasonal floodplains and dense woodland, providing water and habitat for a complete woodland wildlife community.

Sable antelope — one of Africa's most visually striking species, with sweep-back horns and vivid chestnut colouring — are present in good numbers. Elephant, buffalo, hippo, lion, leopard, wild dogs, and over 350 bird species complete the list. For ornithologists, the miombo woodland holds several specialist birds found in few other places in Tanzania.

Ugalla is genuinely off the beaten track. Visiting requires commitment and planning, but the reward is a wildlife experience shared with almost no one else.