The Ultimate Guide to Tanzania Safari Tours

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with Tanzania Safari tours that take you deep into wild landscapes brimming with majestic wildlife.

Imagine standing on the edge of the Serengeti at sunrise, the golden rays illuminating the savannah as a pride of lions crowns the morning with their regal presence. Welcome to the world of Tanzania Safari, where every moment resonates with the heartbeat of nature, and each landscape tells a story waiting to be explored. Set against the backdrop of diverse ecosystems, Tanzania offers an awe-inspiring journey for adventure seekers and wildlife lovers alike. Explore the endless plains of both the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater on a thrilling safari that will connect you to animals in their natural habitats, revealing an extraordinary world just waiting to be savored.

Tanzania stands out as one of the most captivating destinations for safari enthusiasts, inviting visitors with its breathtaking landscapes and remarkable biodiversity. The allure of Tanzania safari tours lies not only in the dramatic scenery that varies from vast grasslands to serene lakes, towering mountains, and rich wildlife reserves but also in the profound opportunities to immerse oneself in the rhythms of nature. With an ecosystem that supports a diverse range of species, Tanzania serves as a sanctuary for wildlife, making it an ideal location for a thrilling adventure, whether it’s witnessing the Great Migration in motion or relaxing under the stars after a day of game driving.

Among the country’s renowned national parks and reserves, Serengeti National Park reigns as the heart of Tanzania safari experiences. Known globally for its sprawling savannahs and diverse wildlife, the Serengeti is synonymous with iconic animal species such as lions, elephants, and zebras. Visitors flock to this national park to witness the spectacle of the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and other herbivores traverse the plains in search of greener pastures, a sight that captivates adventurers and photographers alike.

Another breathtaking location is the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a unique ecosystem referred to as a ‘caldera’—a large volcanic crater teeming with wildlife. Its impressive landscapes create one of the highest concentrations of large mammals and provide countless photographic moments. Finally, Lake Manyara National Park, often considered a hidden gem, boasts lush forests, diverse birdlife, and stunning volcanic landscapes, creating an ideal backdrop for an off-the-beaten-path safari adventure. All these fantastic environments contribute to Tanzania’s undeniable appeal, promising experiences that enrich and inspire travelers seeking a connection with the natural world.

Types of Safari Experiences in Tanzania

Classic game drives: The traditional way to explore

Among the most popular options are classic game drives, where visitors can explore the vast savannas and woodlands by vehicle. This traditional approach allows for a comfortable yet thrilling adventure as experienced guides navigate through iconic national parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. Guests can witness the majesty of the African wildlife, including elephants, lions, and migrating wildebeests, all from the safety and convenience of an open-air 4×4. The flexibility to cover large distances facilitates spotting wildlife in various habitats and makes for memorable photo opportunities at every turn.

Walking Safaris: Get up close and personal with wildlife

For those seeking a more immersive experience, walking safaris offer an intimate connection with nature. This adventure invites travelers to don their hiking boots and embark on foot into the wilderness, guided by professional rangers who share their deep knowledge of the ecosystem. Catching sight of animals from a mere few meters away or listening to the rustle of grass caused by hidden creatures provides a heightened sensory experience that a vehicle cannot replicate. Walking through the savanna allows participants to engage with their surroundings on a more profound level, enjoying the fragrance of the earth and the sounds of nature while learning about animal tracks, local flora, and the intricacies of the ecosystems.

Balloon Safaris: A birds-eye view of the wilderness

Camping Safari

Experience the best of Tanzania Safaris with Wilds of Africa. Our selection of camping safaris includes Luxury Camping, Standard Camping, Budget Camping, and Adventure Flying Camping. Immerse yourself in a stylish Tanzania Safari experience that brings you closer to nature, allowing you to stay near the habitats of magnificent animals. After an exhilarating day of game viewing, spend a night under the starry sky in the heart of the jungle. The cost for this Tanzania Safari vary depending on the camping category you have selected. Luxury camping is commence a high cost but the price slow down as you move flying camping, standard and budget camping which has the least price. Whether you choose, luxury camping, standard camping, budget camping, or flying camping safari you will experience a unique taste and unforgettable adventures. Explore the wonders of Tanzania Safaris with Wilds of Africa and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Chimpanzee Trekking Experience

Chimpanzee trekking in Tanzania offers an incredible opportunity to embark on guided adventure walks deep into the rainforest in search of wild chimpanzee families. This unique Tanzania Safari takes place in two remote national parks: Gombe and Mahale Mountains. Following established trails, you can track the chimps to their feeding and nesting areas. Once you locate a chimpanzee family, you will have ample time to observe their captivating social behavior, hunting habits, care for their young, feeding rituals, and moments of play and relaxation. Your knowledgeable Tanzania safari guide will also help you identify the various types of fruits that chimpanzees rely on for sustenance. Additionally, while trekking for chimpanzees in Tanzania’s national parks, you will encounter other fascinating primate species such as blue monkeys, baboons, vervet monkeys, colobus monkeys, and more. Experience the wonders of Tanzania’s wildlife up close with our remarkable chimpanzee trekking adventures.

Mountains Trekking & Hiking

Tanzania safari offers visitors a exhilarating hiking and trekking experiences to one of its mountains and top peaks. Discover the breathtaking beauty of the Usambara Mountains, explore the Ngorongoro Crater Highlands, and conquer the majestic peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru. Immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage of Tanzania as you hike mountains, trek through the Udzungwa Mountains, and climb Kilimanjaro. Whether you’re a seasoned mountaineer or a novice trekker, our expert guides will ensure your safety and provide an unforgettable journey. From Oldoinyo Lengai to the wonders of the Usambara Mountains, let Wilds of Africa be your guide to the ultimate hiking and trekking adventures in Tanzania.

Historical & Cultural Tours

Embark on a captivating Tanzania Safari and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of this incredible destination. Discover the wonders of Tanzania’s history with our diverse range of cultural and historical tours. Explore the ancient rock paintings of Kondoa Irangi and delve into the captivating stories of Bagamoyo and its role in the slave trade. Visit the iconic Olduvai Gorge, known as the “Cradle of Mankind,” and uncover the secrets of our human origins. Dive into the fascinating history of Kilwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and uncover the hidden treasures of Prison Island in Zanzibar. Immerse yourself in the captivating narratives of the Dr. Livingstone Museum in Kigoma and experience the vibrant traditions of Maasai villages and the ancient Hadzabe tribe. Indulge in the rich cultural heritage of Longido and explore the captivating Engaruka ruins. With our Tanzania Cultural and Historical Tours, you’ll embark on a journey of discovery and enlightenment, unlocking the true essence of this remarkable destination.

Tanzania Beach Holidays

Escape to the stunning beaches of Tanzania on a memorable beach vacation. Explore the pristine shores of Zanzibar and Pemba Island, indulge in the tranquility of Mafia Island, or discover the rich history of Bagamoyo. For a city escape, Dar es Salaam and Kigamboni offer a perfect blend of beachside relaxation and vibrant cultural experiences. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventurous seaside getaway, Tanzania’s beach holidays are sure to leave you rejuvenated and inspired. Book your Tanzania safari and beach vacation today and embark on the ultimate African adventure.

Tanzania Safari Destinations

All parks in the northern Tanzania Safari circuit are conveniently located within close proximity to each other, allowing travelers to explore the entire circuit in a single trip lasting less than two weeks. Some parks, such as Lake Manyara and Tarangire, share the same ecosystem. Throughout different seasons, animals migrate between these parks in search of green pastures and water. Tarangire is particularly renowned for its night drives and offers an exceptional game viewing experience, especially due to its impressive elephant population. Situated approximately 75 km northwest of Lake Manyara, the Ngorongoro crater northern Tanzania safari is home to the famous “big 5” wildlife species. The Ngorongoro conservation area is also known for its harmonious coexistence between wildlife and the Maasai people, showcasing the region’s diverse landscapes and vibrant culture. Additionally, visitors to the Tanzania northern circuit have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the colorful Maasai culture or visit the Hadzabe, the last remaining hunters and gatherers tribe in the East Africa region.

The Serengeti National Park, which shares its ecosystem with the Ngorongoro Conservation area to the south and Maasai Mara to the north, is renowned for being home to the largest number of predators on Earth. This park is famous for witnessing the Great Wildebeest Migration, where a massive number of mammals roam the Serengeti for over 9 months each year. Exploring this vast savannah land in Tanzania Safari filled with adventure and wildlife can be done in three days, but even with limited time, two days can provide an unforgettable experience.

For mountaineers, the northern Tanzania safari offers a range of mountain climbing options. Whether you seek to trek the live volcano of lengai, or conquer the highest peak on the continent, Mount Kilimanjaro, or venture towards the second tallest mountain in the country, Mount Meru, Tanzania has the perfect challenge for you. The Machame route is the most popular and scenic trail leading to the summit of Kilimanjaro, typically requiring a duration of 7 days to complete. In addition to this route, there are five other well-established routes that also lead to the top of Mount Kilimanjaro such as Marangu route, Lemosho and Umbwe.

The southern Tanzania safari circuit spans the remote southern region of the country, encompassing expansive parks teeming with a diverse array of wildlife, including species from both eastern and southern Africa. A visit to the southern Tanzania Safari parks, such as Selous and Ruaha, offers abundant sightings of majestic predators such as lions, hyenas, leopards, and the rare African wild dogs. This exclusive game viewing experience sets the southern Tanzania safari parks apart, as they are not as crowded with tourists as their northern counterparts. Picture yourself on a game drive, surrounded by only a handful of vehicles and fellow wildlife enthusiasts, as you spot these incredible creatures. Undoubtedly, the southern Tanzania Safari destinations provide the perfect opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the vastness of the African wilds. Our tour programs typically range from three to four days, allowing ample time to explore both Selous and Ruaha national parks. For those with more time and resources, combining Selous with Mikumi and udzungwa offers a chance to delve into diverse landscapes and encounter a rich variety of wildlife.

Western Tanzania safari circuit stretches along the shore of Lake Tanganyika in the western border of Tanzania and the Democratic Republic of Congo DRC. The remoteness and diverse natural landscapes of the area provide a range of unique wildlife safari experience which cannot obtain somewhere else in the country. Wildlife safaris, chimpanzee trekking, spot fishing and beach holidays can be done in this Tanzania safari destination.

The parks in western Tanzania safari circuit include Katavi further to the south, Mahale Mountains, and Gombe Stream along the shore of Lake Tanganyika. Furthermore there are Rubondo and Saanane Islands in Lake Victoria. The Mahale Mountains and Gombe streams national parks offer an authentic chimpanzee trekking experience in the region of East Africa. In here you will learn better of the wild chimpanzees and their social life.

Accessing the parks in western Tanzania safari destination is difficult and expensive particularly for Mahale and Katavi where you have to use a shared chartered flight. There is no also wide choice of accommodation since there are just few lodges in these parks. Due to this fact this safari destination is not the best choice for budget travelers except for Gombe and Rubondo Isalnd.

Accommodations

Tanzania safari accommodations play a crucial role in shaping your journey. Choosing the right place to stay can enhance your experience, ensuring you’re well-rested and ready for the day ahead.

In Tanzania, the types of accommodations available range from luxury lodges to budget-friendly options. Here’s a quick overview:

Luxury Lodges and Tented Camps

Luxury lodges offer a dream-like experience with stunning views, gourmet meals, and personal service. Many have spacious rooms, a pool, and guided safari tours right from your doorstep.

Mid-Range Lodges:

Mid-range lodges balance comfort and affordability. They often feature en-suite bathrooms, dining options, and walking safaris. Perfect for those who want a bit of luxury without breaking the bank!

Budget Accommodations

If you’re adventurous, there are budget options like guesthouses and camping sites. These might be more basic, but they provide authentic experiences and great opportunities to meet fellow travelers.

Tanzania Safari Accommodation

When is the Best Time to Go on a Tanzania Safari?

When planning a safari in Tanzania, it’s crucial to consider the region’s climate and wildlife patterns for an unforgettable experience. The dry season from June to October is ideal for game viewing, as animals gather around limited water sources, enhancing visibility. Conversely, the rainy season, especially from March to May, creates lush landscapes beneficial for flora and fauna, but makes wildlife sightings less predictable as animals disperse in search of food.

A key attraction in Tanzania is the Great Migration, which occurs from November to September in the Serengeti. During this period, millions of wildebeest and zebras move in search of fresh grazing grounds. Specifically, the herds are in the southern Serengeti from December to February for calving, then migrate to the central Serengeti from March to May, before moving north to cross the Mbalageti and Grumeti Rivers between June and July, and finally reaching the Mara River from August to September.

For those looking for adventure beyond wildlife, Mount Kilimanjaro offers an exciting challenge, best climbed between June to October and January to March during drier weather. Timing your safari to align with these seasonal highlights ensures optimal wildlife encounters and trekking experiences.

Preparing for Your Unforgettable Tanzania Safari Tour

Equipping yourself adequately is also a critical aspect of safari preparations. Packing according to the season—light layers for the warm days and warm clothing for cooler evenings is advisable. Coupled with safety tips, such as staying hydrated and adhering to guides’ instructions regarding wildlife interactions, you’ll be well-prepared for various circumstances. Furthermore, choosing the right safari tour operator can make a significant impact on the quality of your experience. Opt for operators with excellent local knowledge, verified reviews, and ethical wildlife practices to enhance your adventure.

By carefully planning the timing and specifics of your safari tour in Tanzania, you can maximize wildlife encounters, avoid crowded locations, and appreciate this stunning landscape’s beauty in a manner tailored to your interests. From iconic migratory events to serene mountain climbs, Tanzania offers diverse and profound experiences that forge lasting memories for any traveler.