Tanzania

Basic Information

Why Choose Tanzania for a Safari?

1. Unparalleled Wildlife Experience

Tanzania is home to some of the most diverse and spectacular wildlife populations in the world. Travelers can expect to see:

• The Big Five (lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo, rhino)
• Large predators such as cheetahs, hyenas, and wild dogs
• Huge herds of zebras, wildebeest, giraffes, and antelopes
• Rare and endemic species like the Zanzibar red colobus monkey and the black rhino

Tanzania boasts over 22 national parks, multiple game reserves, and marine parks, covering a wide range of ecosystems from savannas and wetlands to dense forests and coastal regions.

2. The Great Wildebeest Migration 

One of the most spectacular wildlife events in the world, the Great Migration involves over two million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles moving across the Serengeti ecosystem in search of fresh grazing lands. The migration takes place year-round, with key highlights including:

• River crossings (July–September) – Wildebeest risk their lives crossing crocodile-infested rivers like the Mara and Grumeti.
• Calving season (January–March) – Over 500,000 calves are born in the Southern Serengeti, attracting predators and offering incredible game viewing opportunities.

3. Diverse Safari Experiences

Tanzania offers a wide range of safari experiences to suit every traveler’s preferences:

• Luxury Safaris – Stay in high-end lodges, tented camps, and private conservancies with exclusive game drives.
• Budget & Camping Safaris – Affordable safari options with tented campsites inside or near the national parks.
• Walking Safaris – Explore the wilderness on foot with expert guides in parks like Selous and Ruaha.
• Balloon Safaris – Experience breathtaking aerial views of the Serengeti at sunrise.
• Photographic Safaris – Guided tours tailored for photographers to capture the best wildlife moments.

4. Cultural Encounters

Tanzania is home to over 120 ethnic groups, each with unique traditions and ways of life. Some of the most popular cultural experiences include:

• Visiting the Maasai Tribes – Discover the rich traditions of the Maasai people, known for their warrior culture, cattle herding, and colorful beadwork.
• Hadzabe Bushmen Experience – Join the Hadzabe tribe, one of Africa’s last hunter-gatherer communities, and learn ancient survival skills.
• Chaga Culture at Mount Kilimanjaro – Explore the history and traditions of the Chaga people, known for their banana plantations and coffee farming.

5. Breathtaking Natural Landscapes

Tanzania’s landscapes are as diverse as its wildlife, offering stunning scenery for exploration:

• Serengeti Plains – Endless golden grasslands dotted with acacia trees and thriving wildlife.
• Ngorongoro Crater – A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best places to see wildlife in a natural enclosure.
• Mount Kilimanjaro – The highest mountain in Africa and a top hiking destination.
• Lake Manyara & Tarangire – Home to large elephant herds, tree-climbing lions, and diverse bird species.
• Selous Game Reserve & Ruaha National Park – Remote and untouched wilderness areas with fewer crowds.
• Zanzibar’s Beaches – Crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and Swahili culture make Zanzibar the perfect safari extension.

6. Adventure Beyond Safaris

While Tanzania is famous for safaris, the country offers plenty of adventure activities:

• Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro – Trekking to the highest point in Africa via various routes like Marangu, Machame, and Lemosho.
• Snorkeling & Diving in Zanzibar – Explore coral reefs, swim with dolphins, and enjoy water sports.
• Chimpanzee Trekking – Visit Mahale Mountains or Gombe Stream National Park to track chimpanzees.
• Lake Victoria Excursions – Experience fishing trips and cultural tours around Africa’s largest lake.

Best Time to Visit Tanzania

Tanzania offers year-round safari opportunities, but the best times vary depending on the experience:

• June – October (Dry Season): Best for wildlife viewing; animals gather around water sources.
• January – March (Calving Season): Ideal for witnessing newborn animals and predator action.
• April – May (Green Season): Fewer tourists, lush landscapes, and lower safari prices.

Visa Requirements

Most international travelers need a visa to enter Tanzania. Options include:

• Visa on Arrival – Available at major airports and land borders.
• E-Visa – Travelers can apply online before arrival.
• East African Tourist Visa – Allows travel between Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda.

Health & Safety

• Vaccinations – Yellow fever vaccination may be required, depending on your country of origin.
• Malaria Prevention – Tanzania is a malaria-risk area, so travelers should take precautions such as using mosquito repellents and antimalarial medication.
• Travel Insurance – Highly recommended to cover medical emergencies and trip cancellations.

Currency & Payment

• Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) – The official currency, but US dollars are widely accepted.
• Credit Cards – Available in major hotels and lodges but carry cash for remote areas.
• Mobile Money – Services like M-Pesa and Airtel Money are widely used for transactions.

Transportation & Getting Around

• Domestic Flights – Small aircraft flights connect major safari destinations and remote lodges.
• Safari Vehicles – 4x4 Land Cruisers are the standard mode of transport for game drives.
• Public Transport – Buses and dala-dalas (minibuses) operate within cities and towns but are not suitable for safaris.