Serengeti National Park
Located in northern Tanzania, the Serengeti National Park is one of the world’s most celebrated game reserves. This magnificent 1.5 million hectare wilderness area is home to what is arguably the most impressive wildlife spectacle on earth - the Great Migration, a pilgrimage of over 3 million wildebeest and zebra charging across endless plains to seek new pastures. These migrational herds attract predators, ensuring that if travellers are following the migration, lions, cheetahs, and crocodiles will never be too far behind. The Serengeti’s accessibility, vast size and abundance of wildlife, make it a popular, year-round safari destination providing a once-in-a-lifetime wilderness adventure.
Must See:
The annual Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra.
The largest concentration of big game in Africa, particularly big cats such as lions and cheetahs.
The vast expanse of classic savannah vegetation seen by game drive or hot air balloon.
Ngorongoro Crater
Formed three million years ago when a colossal volcano erupted and collapsed, the Ngorongoro Crater is the largest caldera in the world. Millennia of erosion and the growth of forests and grasslands within its rim have resulted in a highland sanctuary for an astonishing array of wildlife, including ‘Big Five’ game such as endangered black rhinos and black-maned lions. With its breathtaking views, flamingo-filled soda lakes and some extraordinary clifftop accommodation, the Ngorongoro Crater is undoubtedly one of the most unique safari destinations on earth.
Must See:
Massive herds of wildebeest and zebra traversing the plains during their annual migration.
Livestock, herded by the semi-nomadic Maasai tribe, grazing alongside wild animals.
Magnificent views across the 610 metre deep crater from the 2400 metre high rim.
Lake Manyara National Park
Stretching for over 50 kilometres below the cliffs of a rift valley escarpment, Lake Manyara is a soda lake known for its remarkably high density of birdlife. Over 400 species make the lake their home, including pink flamingo, herons, and yellow-billed storks. The national park surrounding the lake contains forests and woodlands inhabited by an impressive array of wildlife including unique tree-climbing lions, vast elephant herds, and the world’s largest concentration of baboons. The diversity of the park’s habitats is remarkable, producing some of the most beautiful scenery anywhere in Africa.
Must See:
Thousands of pink flamingos, as well as other large water birds such as pelicans, cormorants and storks.
The park’s famous tree-climbing lions and huge family groups of baboons.
The Maji Moto, steaming and bubbling fields of hot springs.
Arusha
Tucked away in the northern highlands of Tanzania, the bustling town of Arusha is a popular gateway to the surrounding safari destinations, earning it the well-deserved title of ‘Tanzania’s safari capital’. As it rests at the base of the twin peaks, Mount Menu and Mount Kilimanjaro, the town also serves as an ideal base for hikers eager to conquer Africa’s highest mountain. Despite its range of convenient services, quality restaurants, vibrant bars and various accommodation options, Arusha has managed to retain its traditional character, complete with colourful local markets and a unique rural charm.
Must See:
The National Natural History Museum, home to a dedicated exhibit of human evolution.
The Laetoli footprints, made by human ancestors and preserved in volcanic ash.
Arusha National Park, offering a prelude to the wildlife in the region.
The scenic coffee plantations that surround the town.
Dar es Salaam
Situated on the banks of a quiet bay on Tanzania’s exquisite Indian Ocean coast, Dar es Salaam is the nation’s largest city as well as its economic and commercial centre. While most travellers use the city as merely a gateway to Tanzania’s better-known tourist attractions, those who linger will find a vibrant multicultural hub complete with a bustling harbour, distinctly African markets, beautiful beaches, and remnants of both British and German colonial presence in many of the landmarks and historical buildings around the city.
Must See:
The Dar es Salaam National Museum, dedicated to the history of Tanzania.
St. Joseph’s Cathedral, a late 19th-century Gothic church overlooking the busy harbour.
The Botanical Gardens, a peaceful oasis featuring an array of unusual exotic plants.
Bongoyo Island Marine Reserve, offering beautiful beaches, secluded islands and some excellent snorkelling and diving sites.
Zanzibar & Tanzania Islands
While the island of Zanzibar typically steals the limelight with its exquisite white sand beaches and luxurious coastal retreats, Tanzania's many other Indian Ocean islands are just as idyllic and offer a quieter, more remote setting away from the crowds. Whether you are after a rustic Robinson Crusoe-style getaway on the remote island of Fanjove, or some barefoot luxury on the exclusive private island of Mnemba, Tanzania has a range of relaxing islands to complement your adventurous African safari. No matter which island you choose you are sure to find powder sand beaches lapped by warm, crystal-clear waters teeming with an abundance of colourful coral and marine life.
Must See:
Zanzibar’s historic trade center, Stone Town, a maze of narrow winding alleyways lined with intricately carved doorways, grand colonial architecture, and colourful markets.
The Jozani Forest Reserve on Zanzibar Island, home to the rare Kirk's red colobus monkey and Aders' duiker.
Mafia Island, a diving mecca protected by a pristine marine park.
Pemba Island, Zanzibar Island’s less developed neighbour, known for its excellent diving and its magnificent Fundu Lagoon.
Tarangire National Park
Set in Tanzania’s spectacularly scenic Manyara Region, the Tarangire National Park is renowned for having some of the highest population density of elephant in the country. This impressive expanse of unspoiled wilderness is known for its unique, sparsely vegetated landscape, dotted with magnificent baobab and acacia trees. This distinctive terrain attracts large numbers of migratory herbivores and the full range of large predators which inevitably follow. Tarangire is also a birding mecca, boasting over 550 species of bird, as well as the most breeding species located in one habitat anywhere in the world.
Must See:
Unforgettable views of the Maasai Steppe and the mountains to the south.
Large herds of up to 300 elephants, which can be spotted year round.
The beautiful Tarangire River, which traverses the park and provides countless dry-season wildlife encounters.
Mount Kilimanjaro
With its three snow-capped volcanic peaks towering above the exquisite rolling hills and plateaux of northern Tanzania, Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest peak on the African continent and the world’s tallest freestanding mountain. Set within the Kilimanjaro National Park, this iconic mountain boasts a diverse range of landscapes from dense tropical rainforests and alpine meadows to glacial ice fields. While some visitors are content to take in the breathtaking views from the base, many choose to take on the exhilarating challenge of conquering the summit. Whether you are an experienced hiker or an enthusiastic novice, Kilimanjaro is sure to be the highlight of your Tanzanian adventure.
Must See:
Wildlife such as elephant, leopard, buffalo, antelope and primates in the lush montane forest of the mountain’s foothills.
Four climatic zones, each with its own distinct fauna and flora.
Rain forests, heather moors, lava formations and glaciers.
The jaw-dropping views from the summit.
Lake Tangankiya
Surrounded by the majestic mountains of the Great Rift Valley, Lake Tanganyika is the longest and the second largest freshwater lake in the world. Due to its advanced age and isolation, it is also one of the most biologically rich environments on earth, inhabited by over 500 species of fish. Most visitors choose to base themselves in the lovely lakeside town of Kigoma which serves as a gateway to the two rainforest reserves bordering the lake: Mahale Mountains National Park and Gombe Stream National Park, both of which offer unforgettable up-close chimpanzee encounters and an astonishing variety of birdlife.
Must See:
Large populations of chimpanzees as well as hippopotamus, crocodiles and a variety of other primates.
Some of the world’s most unique freshwater tropical fish.
A dazzling array of forest birds and butterflies
Tanzania offers a wide variety of holiday experiences to suit every type
From relaxing beach holidays on the idyllic island paradise of Zanzibar to exhilarating safari adventures in some of Africa’s most impressive game reserves, Tanzania offers a wide variety of holiday experiences to suit every type of traveller. Whether you are eager to climb the snow-capped peaks of Kilimanjaro, get up close and personal with chimpanzees in Mahale and Gombe, or witness the jaw-dropping spectacle of the Serengeti’s Great Migration, your Tanzanian trip is sure to be filled with unforgettable adventures.
Tanzania rests on the equator resulting in a temperate climate with relatively comfortable temperatures year round. When you choose to go will most likely depend on what you would like to do during your holiday.
June to October
Dry Season
The best time for a Tanzanian safari is during the dry season from late June to October. If your goal is to see the Great Migration, visit during June and July. While the parks on the southern and western circuit are best experienced from June to October (during the dry season), the parks on the northern circuit can be visited year-round.
January to February
Travel between January and February to see the wildebeest calving.
August to October
August to October is an ideal time to visit Zanzibar and Tanzania’s coast. It is best to avoid planning a beach vacation in this area during the rainy season from March to May.
Mount Kilimanjaro is best visited either from July and October or from January to March.
- Africa’s best chimpanzee safaris in Gombe and Mahale Mountains
- Off-the-beaten-track safaris in Selous and Ruaha parks
- Witness the epic spectacle of the Serengeti’s Great Migration
- Cultural tours of Stone Town, Zanzibar’s fascinating historical centre
- Guided safaris by boat, canoe, hot air balloon, 4x4 vehicle, or on foot
- Climb Mount Kilimanjaro with experienced guides and quality equipment
Traveller Tip
Photography is forbidden while taking ferry rides in Tanzania so put your camera away to avoid paying hefty fines.
Below are a few tour options and suggestions for a Tanzanian safari.
Need some advice?
Our friendly safari experts are on standby to tailor a tour that suits your every need and will assist you with every step of your journey.
13 Day East African Explorer
- Includes all road transfers during the safari
- Includes game drives in the Masai Mara and Serengeti Plains & Ngorongoro Crater
- 1 Night Safari Park Hotel, 2 Nights Mara Sopa Lodge, 1 Night Lake Nakuru Lodge, 2 Nights Amboseli Sopa Lodge, 1 Night Lake Manyara Serena Lodge, 2 Nights Serengeti Sopa Lodge, 2 Nights Ngorongoro Sopa Lodge, 1 Night Tarangire Sopa lodge
Tanzania offers a wide variety of accommodation options from simple camping facilities and budget guesthouses to all-inclusive luxury resorts. Whether you are looking for a rustic hut on a deserted beach or a luxury lodge perched on the rim of a volcano, Tanzania has accommodation to suit every taste and budget.
Below is a list of properties in Tanzania.
Need some advice?
Our friendly safari experts are on standby to find you a place that suits your every need and will assist you with every step of your journey.
Ngorongoro Crater Lodge
- Steeped in romance, each stilted, handcrafted banana thatch suite at andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge is adorned with graceful antiques and unforgettable opulence.
Grumeti Serengeti Tented Camp
- Set on the banks of a tributary of the Grumeti River, the camp is situated within easy reach of one of the most famous fording points of the annual wildebeest migration.
Sanctuary Swala Camp
- Named after the life-giving river that flows its length, the Tarangire National Park is Tanzania's fifth-largest park.
Singita Serengeti House
- Found on the slopes of Sasakwa Hill in the expansive Grumeti Reserves, is an exclusive-use retreat.
- Luxurious suites with an infinity private pool, a private tennis court and pavilion. In-room spa treatments. Television and children of all ages are welcomed.
- Daily game drives with a professional guide and tracker. Horse lovers will love the equestrian center. Visits to the environmental education center and premier wines at the Singita cellar.
Arusha Coffee Lodge
- Located in a verdant coffee plantation, Arusha Coffee Lodge is a sanctuary of aromatic tranquility and a welcome retreat after a long international flight, or the dust and excitement of a thrilling bush safari.
Serengeti Migration Camp
- Camp will move between three different locations across the Serengeti.
- The main common areas include a dining area, bar area and lounge area as well as comfortable sofas placed in specially-selected locations around the camp.
- Morning and afternoon game drives are focused on the migration and the other species that come along with this incredible spectacle.
Singita Mara River Tented Camp
- Daily game drives with professional guides. Perfectly positioned to watch the annual great migration of wild animals.
- Located on the northern banks of the Mara River - The Lamai triangle is celebrated for the annual wildebeest migration crossings.
- Luxurious environmentally friendly en-suite accommodation. Bright blue plunge pools available for use.
Singita Sasakwa Lodge
- Children tailor made packages. Adults will enjoy daily safari activities with an experienced guide.
- Found in the Grumeti Reserves in northern Tanzania, and is a part of the Serengeti Mara ecosystem.
- The lodge contains luxurious rooms with a TV, complimentary WiFi, baby sitting service, magnificent swimming pool and spa wellness area.
Singita Explore Mobile Tented Camp
- An exclusive-use camp so it is pitched and set-up for clients. Children of all ages are welcomed too. Luxurious en-suite tented camp.
- Land Rover safaris accompanied by an experienced guide.
- A private use camp on the plains of the Serengeti.
Singita Faru Faru Lodge
- Singita Faru Faru Lodge is set in Grumeti in northern Tanzania, forming part of the Serengeti Mara ecosystem.
- Luxurious lodge with two swimming pools, spa and gym facilities, WiFi and children of all ages welcomed.
- Professional guides and trackers provide game drives into the African bush.
Singita Sabora Tented Camp
- Wlderness area of Grumeti Reserves, spanning over 350,000 acres in northern Tanzania.
- The intimate 1920s-style explorer’s camp is permeated by a sense of nostalgic adventure.
- The younger family members can enjoy children tailor made packages. Adults will enjoy daily safari activities with an experienced guide.
&Beyond Mnemba Island Lodge
- Exclusive yet unpretentious, andBeyond Mnemba Island is an award-winning private beach paradise just off the northeast coast of Zanzibar. Ten beachside bandas overlook a pristine coral reef (a scuba diver’s delight) at this romantic, private hideaway. From snorkelling, swimming and kayaking to massages on the beach and simply doing nothing at all, andBeyond Mnemba has something for everyone.
Matemwe Lodge
- Vibrant yet laid-back Matemwe Lodge has perfected the tropical island experience. Perched on an outcrop overlooking a shallow, coral-fringed lagoon on the quiet northeastern coast of Zanzibar Island, Matemwe Lodge’s blissful location and famously relaxed atmosphere make it the ideal place to unwind.
Saadani River Lodge
- Sanctuary Saadani River Lodge is hidden within the trees bordering the Wami River.
- Private villa with its own infinity pool, two bedrooms and bathrooms, a living room and dining room.
- Game drives occur in the early morning and late afternoon/evening when the temperature is more agreeable.
Saadani Safari Lodge
- Sanctuary Saadani Safari Lodge is located on the beach in the middle of the Saadani National Park.
- Game drives in comfortable 4x4 vehicles. River safaris for bird watchers and wildlife enthusiasts. Sand bank picnics on the beach and adventurous walking safaris.
- Maridadi Suites meaning are raised on stilts and provide viewing platform of the expansive sea. All suites have en-suite bathrooms with a private outdoor shower.
