The annual Wildebeest Migration is a remarkable natural spectacle where nearly two million wildebeest and zebra traverse the Serengeti-Mara Ecosystem, following the seasonal rains each year.
Tanzania, often epitomizing the 'quintessential Africa', is renowned for the Serengeti's annual wildebeest migration, the vast Ngorongoro crater, and Mount Kilimanjaro.
Beyond these iconic sites, the country offers lesser-known yet wildlife-rich southern parks and reserves for remote safaris. In the west, it provides the best chimp viewing in Africa.
The Indian Ocean's turquoise waters near beautiful islands promise exceptional marine experiences, with stunning coral reefs and abundant sea-life.
Wildlife Enthusiasts and Safari Newcomers
Wildlife Photographers
Honeymoon Couples
Family Groups
Fishing Hobbyists
Bird Photographers
Peak game viewing in Tanzania occurs during the dry winter season, from June to October. This period is perfect for exploring the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Manyara, with wildlife congregating around water sources. It's also when the Wildebeest Migration river crossings happen.
For quieter experiences, consider Ruaha, Nyerere, or chimp trekking at Mahale and Gombe, combined with a beach or Lake Victoria visit.
The Green Season, November to March, offers baby animals, hot days, and less crowded safaris, with lush landscapes and dramatic skies, ideal for photographers seeking the perfect shot.
Iconic safari destinations like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater.
The annual Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra.
Nyerere National Park, vast and rich in wildlife.
Climbing adventures on Mount Kilimanjaro.
The stunning beaches and historic Stone Town of the Zanzibar Archipelago.
Chimpanzee tracking in Mahale Mountains National Park.
The untouched wilderness of Katavi National Park.
Over 570 bird species in Ruaha National Park.
The flamingos of Lake Manyara and Lake Natron.
Large elephant herds in Tarangire National Park.
Neutral-colored, light-layered clothing (avoid bright colors for walking safaris)
Essential clothing: Both long and short-sleeve shirts, trousers
Warm fleece or jumper for cooler evenings
Waterproof jacket
Sturdy, comfortable shoes and flip-flops/sandals
Swimming attire, hat/baseball cap
Sunglasses and sun-cream
Personal items: Toiletries, small medical kit, etc.
Torch, plug adapters, and charging equipment
Binoculars and camera
Books or similar items for relaxation during siesta time
Consult a healthcare professional for advice on vaccinations and malaria prevention
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The Serengeti National Park, Tanzania's most popular park, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa. Established in 1952, it's famed for the annual Great Migration of over 1.5 million wildebeest and zebra. Covering 14,763 km², the park is rich in biodiversity with over 500 bird and 300 mammal species, including the Big Five.
Accommodation ranges from various lodges to 'mobile camps' that move with the migration. Besides game drives, visitors can enjoy hot air ballooning, horse-riding, night drives, and walking safaris in nearby areas.
The Ngorongoro Crater, the world's largest intact and unflooded caldera, is a Tanzanian must-see. Spanning 20km across, 600m deep, and 300km² in area, it boasts Africa's highest density of wildlife. While the crater floor can be busy, early access near gate entrances allows quieter moments. Its rim, standing over 2,200m high, offers stunning views.
Other activities include visiting local Maasai villages and exploring Olduvai Gorge, the 'cradle of mankind', where early human remains were discovered.
Arusha, known as Tanzania's safari capital, is nestled in the northern highlands, shadowed by Mt. Meru and Mt. Kilimanjaro. A gateway to the northern circuit's national parks, many visitors stay here before embarking on safaris.
Famous for its coffee plantations and breathtaking views of Mt. Meru, the town offers cultural experiences like the Maasai Market Curio & Craft and Maasai Women Fair Trade Centre for souvenirs.
Attractions include Meserani Snake Park and Arusha National Park, offering stunning vistas of Mt. Kilimanjaro and rich natural beauty.
Situated off Tanzania's mainland, Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous region featuring small islands and two main ones, Unguja (often called Zanzibar) and Pemba. Zanzibar City, with its UNESCO-listed historic center, Stone Town, showcases Omani influence with attractions like the Sultan’s palace and Old Fort.
Known as the 'Spice Island', spice tours are popular.
Zanzibar is a favored beach destination post-East African safaris and easily accessible from other African safari spots via light aircraft flights to nearby islands.
A short drive or flight from Arusha, Tarangire National Park is a common precursor to Ngorongoro Crater and Serengeti visits.
Spanning approximately 2,850 km², it features granitic ridges, river valleys, and swamps. Known for Tanzania's highest elephant population density,
Tarangire also hosts unique species like generuks, oryx, and ostriches, along with about 550 bird species. While tsetse flies, attracted to dark clothing, can be a nuisance, their presence doesn't deter visitors from including Tarangire in their itineraries.
Located in Western Tanzania, Mahale Mountains National Park, set on Lake Tanganyika's shores, is famed for its chimp trekking.
The park is accessible via regular or private charter flights. Spanning 1,650km², it encompasses diverse habitats like rainforests and grasslands.
It's home to species like Angola colobus and blue monkeys, complemented by aquatic activities on Lake Tanganyika, the world's longest and second deepest freshwater lake, boasting over 1,000 fish species.
Did you know that Selous Game Reserve / Nyerere National Park is the biggest Game Reserve in Africa?
Just a 45-minute flight from Dar es Salaam, the Selous Game Reserve, now called Nyerere National Park, is perfect for a safari-beach combo with Zanzibar. Africa's largest and oldest reserve, it's rich in wildlife, including Africa's largest wild dog population. Despite the controversy surrounding a hydro-electric dam project, it remains distant from the main camps. The park offers diverse activities like boating, walking safaris, and fly camping, alongside traditional game drives.
Visiting Zanzibar or Dar Es Salaam? Selous Game Reserve is just a short flight away. Daily flights from Zanzibar take you to Africa's largest game reserve in just 50 minutes, transporting you directly into the heart of stunning wilderness and incredible wildlife.
Here are a couple of Tanzania Safari Itineraries as example.
10 x Night Bush and Beach excl Serengeti
11 x Night Bush and Beach Holiday incl Serengeti
11 x Night Tanzania & Kenya Combo Safari
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