Saadani national park has a diverse population of mammals and birds inhabiting the coast as well as along the Wami River and forest areas: elephant, leopard, lion, buffalo, giraffe, wildebeest, zebra, colobus monkeys, hippopotami, crocodile, red duiker, greater kudu, eland, and the rare Roosevelt sable can be seen here. A wide selection of marine and riverine birds, including the mangrove kingfisher, pelicans and lesser flamingo - making this park a haven for bird watchers and ornithologists. The little tidal sand island not far from the beachfront at Saadani is one of the last major green turtle breeding sites on mainland Tanzania. Dolphins are also very often spotted here during boat rides out at sea.

This is therefore the only park that uniquely offers a choice of a driving safari, a guided walk in the wild, a boat safari on the mangrove-lined Wami River, as well as a beach holiday all in the same area. This makes the park ideal for honeymooners or those wanting a short break but who want to enjoy a safari in the sun together with a beach.