Looking for the best places for your Tanzania safari tours and Tanzania safari trips? Tanzania beckons with the raw beauty of African safaris, and 2024 is the perfect time to embark on an unforgettable adventure. From spotting the legendary Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and cape buffalo) to witnessing the awe-inspiring Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra, Tanzania offers a kaleidoscope of wildlife encounters. But beyond the savannas, there are cultural gems, breathtaking landscapes, and hidden-away reserves waiting to be explored.
Planning your dream African safari tour in Tanzania is easier than ever. Explore the vast Serengeti on a Serengeti safari tour, encountering the unparalleled diversity of wildlife. Combine your safari adventure with a blissful beach vacation in Zanzibar for the ultimate Tanzania Zanzibar vacation. Delve into the rich cultural tapestry of Tanzania and discover the unique traditions of the Maasai people. The possibilities are endless with Tanzania tours and safaris.
So, are you ready to experience the magic of Tanzania? Whether you seek classic Serengeti safaris, a luxurious Tanzania all-inclusive safari, or a family-friendly Tanzania Africa vacation, our Tanzania safari packages cater to every desire.
Here’s your curated list of 15 must-see places for your Tanzania safari tours or Tanzania safari trips in 2024, categorized to help you plan your dream trip:
Serengeti National Park
Witness the annual wonder of the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebra thunder across the vast plains of the Serengeti in a relentless search for grazing grounds. This awe-inspiring spectacle, considered one of the greatest wildlife migrations on Earth, unfolds between July and October. The sheer scale of the movement, with over 1.5 million wildebeest and 250,000 zebra participating, is a sight that will stay with you forever. But the Serengeti isn’t just about the migration. This sprawling national park, Tanzania’s largest, is teeming with wildlife year-round. Keep your eyes peeled for graceful giraffes browsing on acacia leaves, powerful lions stalking their prey, playful cheetahs sprinting across the plains, and lumbering elephants creating dust clouds as they move in herds.
Ngorongoro Crater
Nicknamed “Africa’s Eden,” the Ngorongoro Crater is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a collapsed volcanic caldera. Imagine a giant natural bowl with a diameter of over 20 kilometres, teeming with life! Within the crater walls, diverse animals roam freely, creating a unique microcosm where predators and prey coexist in a breathtaking setting. Spot lions stalking zebras, elephants grazing alongside wildebeest, and black rhinos hidden amongst the acacia trees. You might even see playful families of banded mongoose or graceful bat-eared foxes emerging after dark. The Ngorongoro Crater offers a unique opportunity to witness a wide variety of wildlife in a concentrated area.
Tarangire National Park
Nicknamed “Land of the Giants” for its towering baobab trees, some estimated to be thousands of years old, Tarangire National Park is a photographer’s paradise. These ancient trees, with their distinctive bulbous trunks, provide a dramatic backdrop for the park’s vast elephant herds. Tarangire boasts the second-largest elephant population in Africa, after Kruger National Park in South Africa. Imagine witnessing hundreds of these magnificent creatures grazing, trumpeting, and interacting with each other. But Tarangire isn’t just about elephants. The park is a haven for birdlife, with over 550 species recorded. Keep an eye out for colorful kestrels hovering over the savanna, majestic martial eagles soaring on the thermals, and comical secretarybirds strutting through the grasslands. It is definitely one of the must-see places for your Tanzania safari Tours.
Lake Manyara National Park
This scenic park boasts a beautiful alkaline lake, a rich birdlife population that includes spectacular pink flamingos, and a unique population of tree-climbing lions. Imagine spotting a pride of lions lazing in the branches of acacia trees, a sight unlike any other in the African wilderness. Lake Manyara is also home to a large hippo pool, where these fascinating creatures can often be seen basking in the shallows or snorting and splashing playfully. The park’s diverse habitats, including lush groundwater forests, acacia woodlands, and the alkaline lake itself, provide a haven for a variety of wildlife. Look out for shy giraffes browsing on leaves, nimble monkeys swinging through the trees, and powerful buffalo grazing in the grasslands. Birdwatchers will delight in the abundance of birdlife, with over 400 species recorded, including colorful lilac-breasted rollers, comical hornbills, and majestic fish eagles soaring over the lake.
Arusha National Park
A smaller park with lush green slopes and volcanic peaks, Arusha National Park is a perfect introduction to Tanzania’s wildlife. It’s an ideal spot for acclimatization before venturing deeper into the vast savannas. Despite its smaller size, Arusha National Park offers a surprising variety of wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for black and white colobus monkeys swinging through the trees with their impressive acrobatic skills. Elegant giraffes can be seen browsing on acacia leaves, while playful zebra herds graze on the grassy plains. Look out for warthogs emerging from their burrows, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot a leopard or a shy cheetah resting in the shade. A unique feature of Arusha National Park is Momella Lakes, a group of crater lakes formed by volcanic activity. These tranquil lakes attract a variety of birdlife, making it a haven for birdwatchers.
Ruaha National Park
Tanzania’s hidden gem, Ruaha National Park boasts vast, rugged landscapes, diverse wildlife including large predators like lions and cheetahs, and a feeling of true wilderness. Escape the crowds of the more popular parks and explore the remote reaches of Ruaha. This unspoiled park offers a chance to witness Tanzania’s wildlife in a more natural setting, with wide-open plains, rocky outcrops, and life-giving rivers meandering through the landscape. Keep your eyes peeled for large herds of elephants, graceful giraffes, and powerful buffalo grazing on the savanna. Spot elusive predators like lions stalking their prey, cheetahs sprinting in bursts of speed, and bat-eared foxes emerging after dark. Ruaha is also a haven for birdlife, with over 570 species recorded, including colourful lilac-breasted rollers, soaring martial eagles, and comical secretarybirds. For the adventurous safari-goer seeking a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, Ruaha National Park is a must-visit. It is one of the must-see places for your Tanzania safari Tours.
Selous Game Reserve
Africa’s largest wildlife reserve, Selous Game Reserve offers a unique opportunity to experience a safari by boat along the Rufiji River. Imagine spotting crocodiles basking on the riverbanks, pods of hippopotamuses splashing in the shallows, and a variety of birds soaring overhead. A boat safari provides a different perspective on the African wilderness and allows you to get closer to the riverine ecosystem. Jeep safaris are also available in Selous, allowing you to explore the reserve’s diverse habitats, including woodlands, grasslands, and floodplains. Here, you can encounter a variety of wildlife, from large herds of elephants and buffalo to graceful giraffes and zebras. Selous is also known for its healthy population of predators, including lions, leopards, and cheetahs. If you’re looking for a truly unique safari experience that combines boat safaris with traditional jeep adventures, Selous Game Reserve should be on your Tanzania itinerary.
Mikumi National Park
A diverse park with waterfalls, a hippo pool teeming with life, and a variety of wildlife like zebras, wildebeest, and lions, Mikumi National Park is perfect for shorter safaris or those seeking a more relaxed pace. Explore the park’s diverse habitats, from open savannas to woodlands and rocky outcrops. Mikumi boasts the stunning plunge pool of the Makundika Waterfall, a refreshing sight after a day of game viewing. The park is also home to a large hippo pool, where these fascinating creatures can be seen wallowing in the mud, basking in the sun, or battling for dominance. Wildlife viewing in Mikumi is excellent, with opportunities to spot lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and a variety of antelope species. The park is also a haven for birdlife, with over 300 species recorded, including colourful lilac-breasted rollers, majestic African fish eagles, and comical secretarybirds. For those wanting a taste of Tanzania’s diverse wildlife without a long safari commitment, Mikumi National Park offers a rewarding experience.
Saadani National Park
Combine a relaxing beach vacation with an exciting safari adventure! Saadani National Park is unique in bordering the Indian Ocean. Imagine spotting elephants and giraffes roaming the plains in the morning and then cooling off with a swim in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean in the afternoon. Saadani offers the best of both worlds: a chance to experience the thrill of a safari and the serenity of a beach getaway. The park itself is a haven for wildlife, with diverse habitats ranging from palm-fringed beaches and coastal forests to mangrove swamps and grassy plains. Keep your eyes peeled for elephants, lions, zebras, wildebeest, and a variety of antelope species. The park is also home to a healthy population of hippos and crocodiles, which can often be spotted basking in the sun or cooling off in the waterways. Birdwatchers will delight in the abundance of birdlife, with over 250 species recorded, including colourful mangrove kingfishers, majestic fish eagles soaring over the ocean, and comical hornbills. For a truly unique safari experience that combines wildlife viewing with beach relaxation, Saadani National Park is a perfect choice. It is definitely one of the must-see places for your Tanzania safari trips.
Maasai Mara (bondering Kenya)
Witness the fascinating culture of the Maasai people alongside exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities. The Maasai Mara, located in neighboring Kenya but contiguous with Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park, is a spectacular wildlife reserve renowned for its annual wildebeest migration. However, a visit to the Maasai Mara offers more than just wildlife encounters. It’s a chance to learn about the Maasai people, a semi-nomadic tribe with a rich cultural heritage. These proud warriors, easily recognizable by their colorful shukas (robes) and beaded jewelry, have inhabited the East African savanna for centuries. Spend time in a Maasai village, learn about their traditions and way of life, and witness their intricate dances and ceremonies. The juxtaposition of experiencing Maasai culture alongside the awe-inspiring wildebeest migration creates a truly unforgettable experience.
Stone Town, Zanzibar
For a taste of history and culture, explore the enchanting Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on the island of Zanzibar. Wander through the labyrinthine streets lined with coral stone buildings, a unique architectural style that blends Arabic, African, European, and Indian influences. Soak in the vibrant atmosphere of the bustling marketplaces, filled with colourful spices, handcrafted souvenirs, and local vendors. Explore historical sites like the Sultan’s Palace, once the opulent home of Zanzibar’s rulers, and the House of Wonders, a magnificent structure that was once the largest residence in East Africa. Stone Town offers a glimpse into Zanzibar’s rich history, a cultural melting pot shaped by centuries of trade and interaction with different civilizations.
Spice Plantations, Zanzibar
Immerse yourself in the fragrant world of Zanzibar’s spice plantations. The island has a long history of spice cultivation, dating back to the early explorers who valued these aromatic treasures. Take a guided tour through lush plantations overflowing with cinnamon trees, clove bushes, nutmeg trees, and pepper vines. Learn about the traditional methods of harvesting and processing these spices, from hand-picking the fruits and flowers to drying them in the sun and grinding them into powders. Discover the unique flavours and medicinal properties of each spice, and perhaps even enjoy a delicious Swahili lunch infused with the flavours of Zanzibar. A visit to a spice plantation offers a sensory experience and a deeper appreciation for the spices that have flavoured our cuisine for centuries. It is definitely one of the must-see places for your Tanzania safari trips.
Mount Kilimanjaro
The “Roof of Africa,” majestic Mount Kilimanjaro offers a breathtaking backdrop to your safari or can be a separate trekking adventure for the truly ambitious. Africa’s highest peak, Kilimanjaro is a dormant volcano with snow-capped peaks that rise above the clouds, creating a truly awe-inspiring sight. Whether you choose to witness its grandeur from afar during your safari or embark on a challenging trek to the summit, Kilimanjaro is a sight that will leave you awestruck. For those seeking an active adventure, trekking Kilimanjaro offers the opportunity to conquer the highest mountain in Africa and experience the diverse ecosystems along the way. The slopes of Kilimanjaro range from cultivated fields to lush rainforests, eventually giving way to a stark and challenging alpine environment. Reaching the summit is a physically demanding feat, but the reward of witnessing the sunrise over the African plains from the “Roof of Africa” is an unforgettable experience.
The Ngorongoro Highlands
Escape the savanna heat and explore the lush highlands surrounding the Ngorongoro Crater. This scenic escape boasts rolling hills, cascading waterfalls, and vibrant coffee plantations. The Ngorongoro Highlands offer a welcome change of pace from the arid plains below. Trek through the verdant landscape, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the highlands. Explore local villages and learn about the lives of the communities that call this region home. Visit a traditional coffee plantation and discover the process of growing, harvesting, and roasting coffee beans, the lifeblood of many Tanzanian farmers. The Ngorongoro Highlands provide a chance to experience a different side of Tanzania, a place of cooler temperatures, lush vegetation, and breathtaking natural beauty.
Lake Victoria
Take a boat cruise on Africa’s largest lake, Lake Victoria, and witness the vibrant local fishing communities. This vast freshwater lake, bordering Tanzania, Uganda, Kenya, and Rwanda, is a vital source of life for the surrounding region. Imagine setting sail on a traditional wooden dhow boat and soaking in the expansive views of the lake. Learn about the traditional fishing methods used for centuries by local communities, and witness the bustling activity at the lake’s shores. Spot a variety of birdlife soaring overhead, from majestic fish eagles to colourful African spoonbills. Lake Victoria is not just a geographical wonder, but also a place steeped in culture and tradition. A visit here offers a glimpse into the lives of the people who depend on the lake for their livelihood and a deeper appreciation for the importance of freshwater resources in Africa.
Make your dream a reality! Start planning your unforgettable adventure with Tanzania safari tours. Explore the extensive range of Tanzania safari Trips, from classic adventures in the Serengeti to luxurious all-inclusive experiences online. Whether you crave the thrill of the Great Migration or the serenity of Zanzibar’s beaches, Tanzania awaits. Browse for Tanzania Safari Tours and Trips online or visit your local travel agent to start crafting your perfect itinerary.
