Tanzania Safaris

by Passionate Guides

From the Great Migration of the Wildebeest to the Big Five and Tropical Beaches

Safaris can be found almost everywhere in Tanzania. For decades, it has been a way of life in East Africa's second-largest country. Tanzania has a diverse range of wildlife and landscapes that few other African countries can match. A Tanzania safari offers one massive experience after another, from the classic savannah destinations of the Serengeti, Tarangire, and Ngorongoro Crater to the beaches and coral reefs of Zanzibar. That's before you see the off-the-beaten-path gems like chimp trekking in the untouched rainforests of Mahale and Rubondo, or crowd-free game viewing in the stunningly wild and unique landscapes of Nyerere (formerly Selous) and Ruaha.

Here you'll find everything from year-round game viewing to the Wildebeest Migration and tropical beach endings.

1. Go on a safari to see the Great Wildebeest Migration.

There is no other place on Earth that can compare to the annual Wildebeest Migration in terms of wildlife encounters. The Migration is a mindblowing display of nature at its most extraordinary, and it forms the centrepiece of most inaugural Tanzania safari itineraries. As they migrate around the SerengetiMara ecosystem in search of fresh grazing, about 2 million wildebeest, zebra, and antelope run afoul of predators. The herds are so large that they can be seen from space, making this awe-inspiring event one of the last mass terrestrial animal movements on the planet. The majority of the migration takes place in Tanzania's flagship conservation area, the Serengeti National Park. To stay as close to the herds as possible, mobile camps move regularly.

Note: Between June and October (river crossing season), the availability of well-located safari camps is limited. You should book your Tanzania safari at least a year in advance if you want front-row seats for the dramatic river crossings. Alternatively, go when the herds give birth and graze across the plains, which is just as impressive to see but easier to guarantee – plus there are fewer tourists. Talk to one of our Africa Safari Experts about timing your trip to coincide with the herds' movements.

There is no other place on Earth that can compare to the annual Wildebeest Migration in terms of wildlife encounters. The Migration is a mindblowing display of nature at its most extraordinary, and it forms the centrepiece of most inaugural Tanzania safari itineraries. As they migrate around the SerengetiMara ecosystem in search of fresh grazing, about 2 million wildebeest, zebra, and antelope run afoul of predators.

The herds are so large that they can be seen from space, making this awe-inspiring event one of the last mass terrestrial animal movements on the planet.

• The majority of the migration takes place in Tanzania's flagship conservation area, the Serengeti National Park
• To stay as close to the herds as possible, mobile camps move regularly.

2. Visit an Ancient Volcano to See the Big 5

A giant volcano exploded and collapsed on itself 2.5 million years ago, forming the Ngorongoro Crater. The Crater, now a protected ecosystem and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the best place in East Africa to see the Big 5. The Crater's floor is about 260 square kilometers in size and measures around 600 meters (1 970 feet) deep (100 square miles). Around 30 000 animals live in its surprisingly diverse habitats.

• The most reliable Big 5 sightings in East Africa.
• One of Africa's Seven Natural Wonders.
• Some of Africa's densest large mammal populations can be found here.

3. Take a detour from off-the beaten path

Tanzania's lesser-known parks and reserves are ideal for adventurous safari-goers and those who have already visited Northern Tanzania's more well-known destinations. Tanzania's undiscovered safari spots offer incredible wildlife encounters far away from the crowds, from savannahs and swamps to rainforests and lakes. In addition, you can engage in activities such as fishing, walking and boating safaris, off-roading, and night drives, which are prohibited in national parks such as the Serengeti.

• Discover Tanzania's best-kept secret, Ruaha National Park, which is home to the country's largest elephant population.
• Visit Nyerere National Park (Selous Game Reserve), which is one of Africa's most important wild dog sanctuaries.
• Travel to the Mahale Mountains or Rubondo Island for chimpanzee trekking, one of Tanzania's most unique safari experiences.

4. Conclude your safari with a visit to a tropical island

Many Tanzania safaris conclude with a relaxing stay on a palm-fringed beach surrounded by the warm azure waters of the Indian Ocean. Days on safari can be long and dusty, so a sun-drenched tropical island is a perfect place to reflect on your epic adventure before returning to your daily schedule. After breakfast, you can easily fly from a Tanzania safari camp to a powder-soft beach in time for sunset cocktails.

• Zanzibar is one of the most romantic honeymoon destinations in the world.
• Mnemba Island is a private island paradise for holidaymakers.
• Pemba Island is home to some of the best diving in the world.
• Swim with migrating whale sharks at Mafia Island (about October to April).

5. Hike up Africa's Highest Peak

Mount Kilimanjaro is not only Africa's tallest mountain but also the world's highest free-standing mountain. Climbing to the 'Roof of Africa,' which rises nearly 6 kilometers (4 miles) above Tanzania's plains, can take from five to 8 days. There are numerous routes to the summit, each with its level of difficulty, climbing time, crowding, and natural beauty. Talk to one of our experts about tailoring a Kilimanjaro hike to your specific needs and abilities. Your Kili adventure can easily be combined with a Tanzania safari in nearby parks and reserves.