Tanzania Safari

Though beach tourism in Tanzania is centered on offshore islands such as Zanzibar and Mafia, the mainland Swahili Coast hosts a wealth of attractive, off-the-beaten-track seaside destinations.

Incorporating more than 1,000 kilometres of gorgeous Indian Ocean frontage, the Swahili Coast of mainland Tanzania, with its endless palm-lined beaches and offshore reefs writhing with colourful fish, has all the attributes one would associate with a tropical beach haven. The capital Dar es Salaam, for instance, is flanked by attractive and well-developed beaches.

The more rustic and prettier beaches lie to the south of the city, where Ras Kutani is the premier upmarket eco-lodge, its grounds alive with monkeys and birds – this lodge is a popular springboard for those headed off on a southern safari. Far more built-up and resort-like, Kunduchi and Mbezi Beaches lie to the north of the city and are lined with unpretentious mid-range hotels.

The northern safari circuit is bookended by Lake Victoria and Rubondo Island in the west and Mount Kilimanjaro in the east. To the north lies the Kenyan border with the Masai Mara and Amboseli reserves located just across the frontier. Tarangire National Park is regarded as the most southerly tourist attraction in this diverse and breathtaking safari region. Within a relatively compact geographical area, safari goers will have access to a multitude of other iconic parks and major tourist attractions, including the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Oldupai Gorge, Lake Natron, Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano, Mount Meru, Arusha National Park and Lake Manyara.

Highlights

First-and-foremost amongst a profusion of highlights on the northern safari circuit is the Serengeti National Park, encompassing 14,750 square kilometres and making up 50% of the wider Serengeti-Mara ecosystem, this is an iconic wildlife area. Sensational scenery dominated by expansive savannah grasslands and peppered with distinctive flattop acacias and balanites trees make this one of the most picturesque landscapes in all of Africa. Throw in 1.7 million wildebeest, 300,000 zebra and 400,000 gazelles and you have a wildlife spectacle second to none. Whether your budget stretches to incorporate a visit to the luxurious lodges within the exclusive Singita Grumeti concessions of the western corridor, or is limited to the budget offerings of Ikona Wildlife Management Area, the Serengeti and its surrounding reserves offer safari accommodations and experiences to suit most budgets.

Adjoining the south-east of the Serengeti National Park lies the exclusive Legendary Lodges concessions of Mwiba and southern Maswa that wrap around into the extensive Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Most visitors only ever see the Ngorongoro Crater, but if you have your own vehicle you have a unique opportunity to leave the safari hordes behind and explore the wider conservation area that is a mixed-use area for wildlife and Maasai pastoralists. Within this protected area, the vast Oldupai Gorge (originally misnamed Olduvai) is an archaeological site made famous by the Leakey family for being home to some of the continent’s most important hominid fossils. The Ngorongoro scenery is sensational and provided you visit outside of the peak safari season months (June – September) you will fall in love with this attractive crater packed full of habituated wildlife and mesmerizing scenery.

Mount Kilimanjaro is an anomaly. Located virtually on the equator, this 5,885 metre high conical, free-standing volcano seems so out of place with its snow-capped peak dwarfing the rift valley below. Whether you come to Tanzania to climb its legendary slopes to stand atop Uhuru Peak, or simply to gaze and photograph its majesty, as it presides over the plains and parks below, it would be wrong to come to Tanzania and not spend some time appreciating this grand old mountain that forms the roof of Africa.

The plentiful wildlife and giant elephant tuskers of Tarangire National Park, along with the seasonal appearance of upwards of a million flamingos that descend upon shallow Lake Manyara, round out the top five highlights for any safari to the northern circuit.

Practical Advice

Tourist infrastructure is considerably better developed across the northern region with a wide variety of accommodation options from rustic campsites and budget lodgings to boutique camps and exclusive safari lodges that are amongst the very finest in Africa. While many visitors opt to fly between camps to save time, there is an extensive and well-maintained road network that enables relatively easy movement overland, although during the heavy rains from March to May, you should expect bridges and river crossings on the minor roads to periodically become submerged and even collapse after heavy rainfall. Unpaved secondary roads also take a real beating over this period.

Safety is not a major concern in northern Tanzania. The biggest non-weather related challenges you are likely to encounter while travelling through northern Tanzania will be with roadblocks, petty police harassment and traffic fines. Diesel and petrol are both widely available outside of the protected areas, but it is worth stocking up on fuel and supplies in the bigger towns and cities of the region, such as Mwanza, Arusha and Moshi, whenever you are passing through.

The Ngorongoro Crater, originally a massive volcano, is the world’s largest preserved crater. Some say it would have been higher than Africa’s highest mountain, Mount Kilimanjaro before it erupted.

It is now a large highland area with the famed 600-meter-deep Ngorongoro Crater as its focal point, decades after having collapsed and crumbled. The ancient caldera, which is about three million years old, is home to one of the most spectacular wildlife havens on the planet.

An awe-inspiring array of wildlife accompanied by lone Maasai, resplendent in beads and furled in scarlet shuka robes, may be found on the Crater walls and on the floor, fever and fig tree forests give shade for an awe-inspiring diversity of species.

All of the residents’ thirsts are quenched by fresh springs and a big soda lake. Within its border, black rhinos is protected, gigantic tusked elephants roam the forests, black-maned lions prowl the grasslands, and flamingos swarm the soda lakes.

This bowl of plenty is home to an estimated 25,000 large species, including a population of 6,000 resident wildebeest, 16 critically endangered black rhino, and over 70 lions. Leopards are most typically seen in the beautiful Lerai Forest, while cheetahs travel in and out of the Crater.

Golden and black-backed jackals are common among the smaller carnivores, while the generally cautious and nocturnal serval can be observed during the day. Buffalo, zebra, and Thomson’s gazelle can all be found in large numbers.

The Serengeti National Park, which covers 14,763 square kilometres and stretches up to the Kenyan border in the north, is perhaps one of Africa’s most beautiful parks.

The Serengeti region is home to two World Heritage Sites and two Biosphere Reserves and is known for its large open grasslands and exceptional wildlife observations.

The Serengeti ecosystem is one of the world’s oldest, with little change in climate, vegetation, or species during the last million years. There are 35 species of plains-dwelling mammals in the park, as well as a plethora of wildlife.

The Serengeti, which in Maasai means “endless plains,” is located on a wide plateau between the Rift Valley’s eastern arm and Lake Victoria’s great extent. The Masai Mara National Reserve in Kenya, which sits across the border to the north, is part of the same Serengeti-Mara ecosystem.

A Serengeti safari, especially during the peak of the Great Migration, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Hundreds of thousands of wildebeest, zebra, and other herbivores traverse the several rivers in the course of Africa’s annual Great Migration every year, risking the jaws of gigantic crocodiles and bearing the continual pressure of lions, hyenas, jackals, and other predators.

The southern safari circuit sprawls across southern Tanzania. From the gigantic Selous Game Reserve in the east to Mahale Mountains and Gombe Stream national parks on the shore of Lake Tanganyika in the west, this is wildest Africa and the domain of adventurers and explorers. Between Africa’s deepest lake and the Selous World Heritage Site lie the diminutive Mikumi and Udzungwa Mountains national parks, as well as the impressive Ruaha-Rungwa ecosystem and the beguiling Katavi-Rukwa landscape. For those intrepid travellers who opt for the road less travelled, the alluring southern safari circuit beckons with the promise of genuine wilderness and real adventure.

Highlights

Bisected by the crocodile-infested Rufiji River and home to the world-renowned Stiegler’s Gorge, the 50,000 square kilometre Selous Game Reserve remains an iconic safari destination and long-standing safari highlight of southern Tanzania despite its on-going poaching and hydro-development challenges. Although poaching has ravaged the enormous elephant herds of years gone by, the Selous still supports around 16,000 of these grey giants as well as a thriving population of wild dogs.

One of the largest national parks in East Africa, the 20,226 square kilometre Ruaha National Park is almost unknown outside of Tanzania, yet with an estimated 10 percent of the surviving wild lion population in Africa, it is definitely a highlight on any trip to explore the wild south of the country. Beautiful landscapes peppered with giant baobabs, elephants, abundant plains game and one of the only places you will see greater kudu in Tanzania are further good reasons to make sure Ruaha is on the itinerary of every intrepid safari connoisseur. It is best explored during the long dry season from June to October when the animals congregate near the perennial Great Ruaha River, which – along with the Mwagusi, Jongomero and Mzombe rivers – provide the lifeblood of the park. The banks of the Ruaha are a permanent hunting ground for lion, leopard, cheetah, hyena and even the endangered African wild dog, which prey on the impala, gazelle and waterbuck that come to drink at the river. Whether exploring this large tract of African wilderness by vehicle or foot, Ruaha is a special place to visit.

Wild and remote Katavi National Park is one of the country’s most unspoiled and untouched bush settings with amazing landscapes and rich wildlife. The 4,471 square kilometre park is difficult to access and consequently can be relatively costly to visit. As a result, few people make the effort to come here. While the Serengeti might see 125,000 visitors in a year, the remote Katavi sees no more than a few hundred brave adventurers by comparison. This is wild Africa at its very best and, provided you have the time and budget, it’s a park that’s absolutely worth exploring. With only a couple of small, rustic safari camps, you often come across more prides of lion than fellow safari aficionados on a game drive in Tanzania’s third largest national park. Surrounded by woodlands, two gigantic sprawling grassy plains – Chada and Katasunga – dominate the park and provide a dramatic setting for watching lion-buffalo interactions. During the dry season, the Katuma and Kapapa rivers are the only permanent water in the area and act as a magnet for thirsty wildlife. Hundreds of hippos congregate in the shrinking waterholes and enormous crocodiles sit out the heat inside mud-holes excavated into the riverbanks.

Nestled on the Lake Tanganyika shoreline with its forested mountains rising up from the lakeshore, mesmerising Mahale Mountains National Park boasts stunning scenery and close-encounters with habituated chimpanzees. The mist-covered peak of Mount Nkungwe stands sentinel in the background and the crystal-clear waters of Lake Tanganyika lap against white-sand beaches. Without road access, many safari stalwarts regard Mahale as Tanzania’s most remote park, but also one of its most enthralling. The star attractions are the 1,700 chimpanzees that reside within the 1,613 square kilometre protected area, but the holy grail for most visitors is the 60-strong Mimikere or ‘M’ group, which has been studied by researchers for more than four decades. While the M group of chimps are well habituated, finding our closest relatives can be a challenge. Be prepared for some sweaty, steep climbing through dense vegetation, but the trials and tribulations are well worth the end result.

Practical Advice

The southern safari circuit is definitely best attempted during the dry season. Infrastructure is far more limited and basic than you’ll encounter up north. There are also considerably fewer safari camps and accommodation options than the more popular northern circuit, but this is precisely the reason for the southern park’s off-the-beaten-track appeal. It’s also worth noting that there are no roads into Mahale Mountains National Park with visitors having a choice between travelling in by air or by boat.

While most visits to Tanzania’s southern safari circuit are trouble-free, travel advisories are increasingly citing a rise in armed crime. That said, you stand considerably more chance of being injured in a road accident, or getting ill with malaria, or even perishing from a capsized ferry on Lake Tanganyika, so take some sensible safety precautions and you should be fine.

From the often-overlooked and largely undeveloped tropical paradise of Pemba Island in the north to the classy utopia of Mafia Island in the south, Tanzania’s tropical east coast islands offer a welcome respite at the end of a rewarding safari. Nestled between Pemba and Mafia is Zanzibar with its eclectic mix of white-sand beaches, warm water, nightlife and powerful cultural history.

Highlights

The lion’s share of Tanzania’s island visitors gravitate towards world-renowned Zanzibar. Zanzibar has an almost overwhelming choice of over 800 tourism establishments to suit every budget and taste.

It almost goes without saying, but this is not a place you should come to if you don’t want to see other tourists. While some parts of Zanzibar are less intensively developed than others, this island is about as far from a pristine wilderness escape as you can get with almost the entire coastline developed, but most especially in the northeast and southeast.

Zanzibar – an exotic island kingdom of former slave traders and fishermen – has reinvented itself as a tourism hotspot. For those with deep pockets and a healthy budget, nothing beats the exclusive satellite island of Mnemba off the north-eastern tip of Zanzibar. With one exclusive; Beyond lodge, Mnemba is the very pinnacle of tropical island beach-chic luxury. Alternatively, there is a dizzying array of hotels, beach resorts, guesthouses and other accommodation options to choose between on the main island.

If the thought of hundreds of hotels and thousands of tourists is not your cup of tea, then a trip to neighbouring Pemba is the way to go. Zanzibar’s big brother island has remained a thriving fishing community and surprisingly free of tourism development with only a handful of tourist hotels to choose from, a number of which are in the far north of the island where the underwater honeymoon suite of Manta Resort must be the most unique place you could opt to spend a night!

But the unpretentious Emerald Bay Resort in the south of the island is the traveller’s pick. Delicious seafood meals served on an open-air rooftop terrace and daily boat cruises to lose track of time and spend a week or two recuperating at this affordable island paradise.

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p>Further south lies the idyllic island of Mafia. A touch more sophisticated and exclusive than Zanzibar, but without the Mnemba price tag, this is an exciting coconut-covered island to visit.

The beaches are superb and its mangroves and marine park ensure that the sea life is bountiful and the underwater safari experience is far superior to Zanzibar or Pemba where a combination of overfishing and widespread dynamite fishing have devastated the reef and fish stocks.

More out of the way and a little harder to reach, Mafia is the place for adventurous travellers and diving connoisseurs. The star attraction being the docile and completely harmless whale sharks that frequent the island waters between October and March each year. The best place to base yourself on Mafia would have to be the colourful and good value-for-money Butiama Beach.

Practical Advice

It is highly recommended to visit Zanzibar or one of Tanzania’s other Indian Ocean islands at the end of your safari. After lots of early morning game drives and ‘African massages’ courtesy of the often-bumpy roads, some quality rest and relaxation on an idyllic white-sand beach lapped by the warm, azure waters of the Indian Ocean is usually just the tonic and will no doubt prove the cherry on the top of an incredible Tanzanian safari experience.

The quickest and safest way to reach any of the country’s island destinations is by air. With both regularly scheduled flights and private charters flying the aerial island access routes, getting there is simple if a touch costly at times, especially if you want to fly from somewhere outside of the major cities.

For those on a tighter budget or who enjoy sea travel, there are a few ferries that sail daily between the mainland ports and islands of Pemba Island, Zanzibar and Mafia Island. It is, however, important to assess the sea conditions, seaworthiness of the vessel, and presence of safety equipment before boarding a boat for your island voyage.

A low risk, low impact and environmentally friendly way of seeing Africa’s plains from the sky.Not many activities in Africa give travellers an aerial perspective at a slow pace, without making a lot of noise. That’s why a hot air balloon ride across the far-reaching plains is such a wonderful way to spend a morning.

Planes and helicopters are intrusive and noisy and it’s difficult for them to get low enough to the ground for a quiet and serene view of the world below. Hot air balloon safaris glide low over the African savannah -sometimes even as low as treetop level – for a very peaceful view of the world below.

The best balloon safari by far glides over the Serengeti migration. But there are many other amazing places to experience this wonderful mode of travel. The Masai Mara, Amboseli National Park and Lake Manyara National Park, for example, might not have an annual migration, but the views are equally impressive.

In South Africa, the ballooning operators are absolutely excellent and flights usually go up just before sunrise when the weather is still calm and predictable. A very memorable sunrise from the balloon is usually followed by a festive champagne breakfast back on the ground.

The balloon’s lift comes from hot air which is slightly lighter than the surrounding cold atmosphere. The hotter the balloon, the faster it rises. As the balloon cools it slowly descends. The pilot can control the balloon to brush the treetops or even the grass, yet could go as high as 15 000 feet.

These rides are entirely secure. In the very unlikely event of loss of power, the balloon will enter a stable cold descent back to the ground. This feature of the balloon makes it one of the safest forms of flight.

Forget the swanky safari lodges and luxury tented camps, nothing beats pitching a tent and camping when it comes to saving money and sticking to a tight budget. Whether it’s a pop-tent out of your backpack or a rooftop tent on your self-drive safari vehicle, the rustic camping option takes you close to nature and stretches your money further. Self-catering, street food, eating in local restaurants and travelling by public transport all help to keep costs in check, while simultaneously exposing the traveller to the local people and culture of Tanzania.

If it is value-for-money that you’re after, then it would be best to travel outside of the peak season (June to September) because rates tend to be inflated due to the excess demand. Many of the lodges and camps – both on the safari circuits and scattered across the Spice Islands – offer generous off-season discounts with the ‘emerald season’ (AKA the rainy season) typically being characterised by negotiable accommodation rates and special packages where you might pay for three nights and stay for five (i.e. two nights ‘free’) or something similar.

Tanzanian luxury safaris are a wildlife and forest extravaganza in a country with epic terrain. This vast, sparsely populated country is home to some of the world’s most incredible wildlife encounters.

A luxurious Tanzania safari is really something unique, from the snow-capped summit of Mount Kilimanjaro to the game-rich Tarangire.

With 14 national parks and multiple game reserves, it is home to the continent’s largest wildlife herds, as well as the palm-fringed island of Zanzibar, perfect for post-safari relaxation.

Why Go on a Tanzania Luxury Safari Tour?

• In hand-picked areas like the Ngorongoro Crater, a Tanzania luxury safari tour involves world-class private camping in luxury tented accommodation.
• On a luxury safari in Tanzania, you can see the Great Wildebeest Migration as it passes through the Serengeti National Park’s plains.
• On your Tanzania Luxury Safari trip, you will have excellent game viewing all year.
• The Tarangire National Park is famous for its large herds of elephants and spectacular baobab trees

The Top Five Luxury Tanzania Safari Lodges and Camps

Our travel expert Matthys has been privileged enough to have seen more than 25 luxury Tanzania safari lodges and camps, from these 25, Matthys has selected his top five for the world to see:

Lemala Mpingo Ridge

Lemala Mpingo Ridge Luxury Safari Lodge is located right on the ridge of a massive hill with sweeping views of Tarangire National Park.

You can even see Lake Manyara National Park in the distance as well as the Rift Valley Wall. All the Tanzania luxury Camps from Lemala have a winning recipe regarding the decoration and the layout of the spacious suites.

The same goes for all the Lemala luxury camps mentioned in this article. Understated luxury and elegance with light-coloured wood and decorations throughout the room and camp. The food is fantastic and the service is excellent!

• The highlight of this tanzania luxury safari camp: The view from the suites, bar, and dining area, and the pool is just amazing.
• Best time to visit: June to October

Sanctuary Kusini

Sanctuary Kusini is a Tanzania luxury safari camp and is located in the Western part of the Serengeti on a rocky hill with big rocks surrounding the camp.

The Tanzania luxury Safari Camp’s dining and lounge area are beautifully decorated with large soft sofas to relax and enjoy a gin & tonic and soak up your African Safari in style. The Tanzania luxury safari camp has a great sundowner spot on a big rock overlooking the plains of the Serengeti National Park, the perfect way to start your evening!

The tented suites are also beautifully decorated in an old colonial safari style with a touch of old and new. The location is excellent to see the calving season from January to March.

• The highlight of this Tanzania luxury safari camp: The view from the suites, bar, dining area, and pool are fantastic.
• Best time to visit: January – March

Bushtops Safari Camp

When you have stayed at so many fantastic luxury safari camps in Tanzania, it starts to get challenging to pick a favourite, and if Matthys had to choose, this Camp would be one of the top camps in his opinion.

This Tanzania luxury safari camp is located in the Northern Part of the Serengeti and perfect for the time when the Migration herds cross the Mara River.

Bushtops Luxury Safari Camp has a fantastic rock pool with sweeping views, and the camp also has spa facilities.

Among the highlights of the Tanzania luxury safari camp, will be the great open Boma area, comfortable lounge, and dining areas.

The camp is dressed in light-coloured wooden decks, which brings a modern touch with a classic look. Understated African Safari luxury is what comes to mind when thinking of this camp.

The food is from out of this world, delicious, and the presentation can be compared to a Michelin star restaurant.

• The highlights of this Tanzania luxury safari camp: The walls of the suites can roll up and create a massive open living area with a private plunge pool with an outside shower and seating area to top it off.
• Best time to visit: June – August

Lemala Mara – Kuria Hills

Lemala Mara is located in the Western Serengeti, and the same winning formula applies that the rest of the Lemala luxury safari camps have.

The luxury safari camp offers the same high level of service, quality of food, friendly staff, elegant, understated luxury with meticulous attention to detail!

• The highlight of this Tanzania luxury safari camp: The Suites have private plunge pools with an outdoor shower and seating area.
• Best time to visit: June – August

Nimali Mara

Nimali Mara is also located in the Western Serengeti. The camp is situated on a massive exposed rock built around the rock which gives it a unique feel. The lounge and dining areas provide incredible views of the Serengeti underneath, probably the second-best view in this list of luxury safari camps.

The rooms are all located around the dining and lounge areas.

The suites offer incredible views with one side of the suite entirely made of glass with no obstructions.

The room is all about a luxury safari in Tanzania, and the finishes are all well thought out. The bathroom provides a beautiful copper bathtub with views over the grass plain, which is a luxurious safari experience that everyone should experience.

Wildlife safaris are not known to be particularly relaxing. While you often get an afternoon siesta and even some spa time if you’re fortunate enough to be staying in a fancy lodge, the early morning starts and many hour spent rattling and rolling along rutted game drive tracks can take their toll. Similarly, while trekking and climbing mountains tick all the active and adventurous boxes, these activities cannot be classed as relaxation in anyone’s books.

Tropical islands are the quintessential relaxed holiday destination and thankfully Tanzania is blessed with a plethora of beachside options from Asilia’s Rubondo Island Camp and Malaika Beach Resort on the shores of Lake Victoria to the charismatic Indian Ocean ‘Spice Islands’ of the Zanzibar archipelago. The ultimate getaway-from-it-all itinerary would contain a handpicked selection of relaxed island resorts with Zanzibar, Pemba and Mafia all featuring prominently. In fact, Mafia’s sublime Pole Pole Bungalows, restful Butiama Beach and the tree houses of Chole Mjini Lodge are all highly recommended if beachside relaxation is your preference and priority.

It’s fair to say that there is an adventure on Safari to be had in northern Tanzania, specifically on a Serengeti walking safari which is a drawcard in Tanzania for adventure seekers.

Forget flying, you should drive overland and camp to experience a real adventure safari in Tanzania. Not only do you need a reliable and fully kitted out 4×4 to explore the adventure attractions of the southern safari circuit properly, but you also need plenty of time, 4×4 driving confidence, and a healthy dose of adventurous spirit.

The key to getting deep into the seldom-explored Selous, Ruaha and Katavi parks is the ability to be self-sufficient on your Adventure Safari in Tanzania.

This should also be considered a dry season destination unless you’re hell-bent on pushing the adventure limits right off the charts.

Other classic adrenalin-fuelled adventure experiences include: hot air ballooning over the migration in the Serengeti, Big Five walking safaris in one of the country’s iconic protected areas, diving with whale sharks off Mafia Island, deep sea fishing in the Pemba Channel, summiting Mount Meru and conquering Kibo peak on Kilimanjaro.

There are plenty of good active holiday options in Tanzania, including hiking and mountain climbing, chimpanzee trekking, walking safaris, snorkelling and scuba diving, and even the iconic Kilimanjaro Marathon.

Hiking, trekking and mountain climbing lead the way in terms of active holiday pursuits available in Tanzania. Whether you set foot on the summit of one of Tanzania’s highest mountains or just walk through the indigenous forests on the lower slopes for a few hours, trekking in this country has something for everyone: volcanoes, mountain ranges, high plateaus, craters, lakes and forests offer superb possibilities for everything from short hikes or longer multi-day treks.

Without a doubt, Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa, with its six official climbing routes, is Tanzania’s most popular trekking attraction. Kili climbs last from five to ten days with Lemosho and Rongai being the routes of choice. Neighbouring Mount Meru (4,566 metres) is less well known, but just as attractive a trekking proposition, especially considering that it is located inside the Arusha National Park with animals like elephants, buffaloes, giraffes and colobus monkeys to ensure that your trek is both active and adventurous. Other lesser known volcanoes and climbable mountains in northern Tanzania include: Mount Lomalasin (3,648 m), Mount Hanang (3,417 m), Ol Doinyo Lengai (2,878 m) and Mount Longido (2,637 m).

Even if you harbour no summit ambitions, there are plenty of quality hiking options with a three- to five-day trek through the Ngorongoro Conservation Area to Lake Natron, which affords an opportunity to experience Maasai culture en route, being amongst the best of them. Other multi-day hiking options are available in the western Usambara Mountains. In southern Tanzania, you can go hiking through the pristine and untrammelled Udzungwa Mountains National Park, or trekking for chimpanzees in the Mahale Mountains or Gombe Stream national parks.

Another great way to stretch your legs is on a Big Five walking safari inside one of Tanzania’s protected areas. The top five options for this exhilarating undertaking are: Serengeti, Tarangire, Katavi, Ruaha and the Selous. Dangerous game abounds, so make sure to go with a reputable operator and have a well-trained and experienced walking guide leading you on your foray into the wilderness. This active experience is far more than simply exercise, it is an opportunity to reconnect with nature and appreciate the rejuvenating power of wilderness, while the constant possibility of big game encounters adds a strong dimension of anticipation and exhilaration.

For visitors who prefer water-based activities, snorkelling with the whale sharks off Mafia Island or scuba diving in the azure waters surrounding the Spice Islands are great options to explore.

Seeing the Big Five up close and personal is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, regardless of how many instances you will get to experience it. Luxury safaris in Tanzania are an experience to savour and a number of camps will make for an unforgettable experience. In this case here are nine unforget
table camps to see the Big Five in Tanzania.

One of the best camps in Tanzania found in central Serengeti is Dunia Camp. What makes it stand out is its remoteness, which is enticing for the Big Five. However, with the freedom the animals have, it’s best to be with a guide or tour group.

Strategically located in the remote plains of the eastern Serengeti, Namiri Camp is the best place to see the Big Five, especially the cats. In fact, since the camp banned poaching, the big cat numbers have increased, so chances of spotting them will be very good.

Ten percent of the world’s population of lion is in Kwihala. This means that when you visit Tanzania, it’s not surprising to see prides consisting of more than 20. The best part is that Kwihala is full of life with many other species of animals such as jackal, hyena and wild dog.

Jabali ridge is a goldmine, teeming with wildlife, where predators and prey roam freely in the wild. Action packed days are guaranteed – elephant and rhino are so close, that you’ll be sure to feel their power.

Located in northern Serengeti, Kimondo Camp is full of buffalo and rhino. With the help of a guide, adrenaline-filled campers get the unique opportunity for an up-close and personal Big Five experience.

The award-winning Sayari Camp is revered for extraordinary wildlife sightings, including the Big Five. Set on the unspoiled plains of the northern Serengeti, close to the famous Lamai Wedge, Sayari gives you easy access to the Mara River and multiple river crossing points.

When looking for a great wildebeest migration meeting with the bonus of a Big Five encounter, Olakira camp in Northern Serengeti is the place to be. With the action-packed scenes so prolific, the experience will stay with you for a lifetime.

The wild expanses of Tanzania offers the ultimate paradise for birding enthusiasts. While there’s plenty of birdwatching opportunities in Tanzania, you will get a wonderful experience being guided by professionals. The huge list of bird species to be found here make bird watching safaris in Tanzania the most sought after activity among bird lovers.

Tanzania is a well-known safari destination for its highest concentrations of game parks and nature reserves. The most visited national reserves that worth visiting for bird watching is the Serengeti National Reserve, Lake Manyara National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area and more.

Having said that, few compare to Tarangire National Park, especially during dry season because of the low density of tourists and higher visibility of spotting rare and common bird species.

Tanzania is host to over 900 resident and 200 migrant bird species throughout national park and game reserves, whilst Tarangire National Park boasts 500 species.

Some Sightings to Look Out for (but are not limited to):

• Grey-headed silverbill
• Usambiro barbet
• Green-winged pytilia
• Kori bustard
• Chestnut sparrow
• Schalow’s turaco
• Rosy-breasted longclaw
• African crowned eagle
• Red and yellow barbet
• Martial eagle

Tanzania must be one of the most photographer-friendly destinations on the planet. From snow-capped mountain peaks to ‘Big Five’ safaris and dreamy tropical islands, Tanzania is basking in its newfound status of being a seriously hot photographic travel destination.

From the Serengeti plains and steep-sided Ngorongoro Crater to the flamingos of Lake Manyara and giant tuskers of Tarangire to idyllic Zanzibar and traditional Pemba to the wild landscapes of Ruaha, Katavi and Stiegler’s Gorge in the Selous… the list of iconic Tanzanian photographic destinations is almost endless. Mahale Mountains with its habituated chimpanzees and Lake Tanganyika location is another unique photographic destination, while the many mountains and volcanoes – from world-renowned Kilimanjaro to the restless Ol Doinyo Lengai volcano – ensure that this is a country that has photographers salivating at the mere thought of a visit.

Photography is best done from either a private vehicle or at the very least a vehicle of like-minded individuals who won’t move around at critical moments and who are also happy to be out before sunrise and back after dark. Photographic safaris tend to be most successful when you have control over the vehicle and where it goes. A guide who is a photographer him- or herself and who has guided photographers before makes a big difference in terms of positioning the vehicle correctly, getting the light right, and not wanting to head back to the lodge or camp simply because it’s breakfast time. If you can afford it, then it is definitely worth booking a private vehicle – for you (and your fellow photographers) – to ensure that there is no conflict of interests and that you are the master of your own photographic destiny. Things are considerably easier outside of the parks and game reserves where dangerous wildlife and safety are less of an issue, allowing one to explore and photograph on foot and at your own pace.

Dust is a big problem on safari, so travelling with multiple camera bodies attached to different lenses is a good idea, as this negates the need to change lenses enabling dust to get inside the camera. Have plenty of extra memory cards, spare batteries and a solar charger is also a great piece of kit to travel with (because its difficult to try and charge batteries halfway up a volcano).

The time of year you chose for your photographic safari is probably the biggest and toughest decision you will face. On the one hand you have the superb wildlife viewing and Mara River crossings of the late dry season, but this comes with smoky and dusty conditions as well as dull brown and drab grey backgrounds. During the green season when the rejuvenated bush returns to life, there is a profusion of colour, and the clarity after the rains is second to none, but on the flipside wildlife is dispersed and quality sighting can be harder to come by. This is the time of year to concentrate on landscape and bird photography for sure.

Who needs the regular safaris that we have become accustomed to when you can have a walking safari? Walking safaris have become a massive hit recently, and this is purely because of the opportunity that tourists have to come closer to the wild and interact more with the animals. For people who choose this option, it is set to become an unforgettable and exhilarating experience walking among big game. There are few destinations which specialize in walking safaris and we will show you where you can get the best out of walking safaris.

Encountering animals by stepping into their world awakens your senses and the bush somehow feels even more alive and engaging. Following in the tracks of mighty herds, a walking safari is indeed a soulful wildlife encounter.

Tanzania National Parks have some incredible wilderness areas for walking safaris. Experiencing a pristine area on foot with no disturbance from safari vehicles, is truly memorable and makes for some great photographic opportunities.

The scenery surrounding this active volcano mountain in Tanzania is breathtaking. Visitors can take a walk from the neighboring campsites and take a walk to the nearby Lake Natron and the expansive Rift Valley. The local community, the Maasai, can also be found in this region grazing their cattle. There are many tour guide companies in this area which organize safari walk expeditions.

If dense forests full of chimpanzees and waterfalls are your idea of a safari walk, the Mahale Mountains in Tanzania is a good bet. This has the largest concentration of chimps in the world which makes the safari even more interesting. It is advisable to visit the Mahale Mountains during the dry season since the times the track can be impassable. There are generous, thatched-style hotels nearby for accommodation.

Tanzania offers some amazing, memorable, romantic and unique experiences that you can enjoy as a couple. If you both relish a challenge, climbing Africa’s highest mountain could be one of your primary options. Imagine standing alongside one another on the Roof of Africa at 5,985 metres having completing the multi-day climb together: a shared memory of triumph over adversity that will bring the two of you closer together. Whether you want to conquer mountains, appreciate wildlife and scenic landscapes, or kick back and relax on a romantic island beach, travelling as a couple is special because you are sharing the experiences and creating shared memories that you can reminisce about for decades to come.

Highlights

Couples will quite likely gravitate towards the northern safari circuit for their safari experiences before flying to the islands of the Indian Ocean region to kick back and recharge their batteries together. While on safari in the north, a hot air balloon ride over the migration in the Serengeti is a very special experience to share with your partner.

Many of the safari camps and lodges will gladly organize private dinners for two either at the camp or out in the bush. Take a couples massage at any of the Asilia, &Beyond, Legendary or Singita safari lodges to round off your safari experience together. Once you reach your Spice Island of choice, things only get better with romantic sunset strolls along the beach, tranquil seaside dinners and many R&R hours whiled away on beach loungers or in a hammock reading books and chatting.

If climbing Kilimanjaro or Mount Meru isn’t your idea of the perfect couples activity and you prefer thrills of a different kind, you could always take a PADI diving course and learn to scuba dive together. This immersive experience is a special one to share with your partner and seeing incredible creatures like whale sharks and turtles swimming alongside both of you will only add to your sense of awe and wonder, as you glide effortlessly beneath the waves. For sedentary couples that aren’t looking for shared hardships, kicking back together on a Spice Island beach of your choice – either Mafia, Zanzibar or Pemba – should have the desired relationship effect.

Travel Tips

Whether you are travelling alone, with a partner, or in a small group, it is essential to stay vigilant and attentive to your valuables at all times. Don’t flaunt your wealth or tempt fate when out and about, especially in the towns and cities where petty crime and tourist muggings are not uncommon. Always use the hotel safe to lock away all money, passports and valuables; don’t leave anything lying around to tempt hotel staff or cleaners. Another good practice when travelling as a couple is to each keep a certified copy of your partner’s passport or travel documents, as well as dividing up your cash between the two of you. That way, if one person is mugged, robbed or has his/her pocket picked, at least all is not lost and you will still have the money and supporting documentation needed to remedy the situation.

Family travel – especially big or extended families travelling together – can prove a bit chaotic and more costly, but there is something so special about experiencing and sharing superb safari experiences with your children and partner. Most safari camps and lodges also have one or two family suites where adjoining rooms or tents allow mom and dad their own space, while still ensuring the kids are close by and safe, because you can move between the family tents or rooms at night without having to step outside and worry about wild animals. From a family perspective, it is also worth emphasizing that Tanzania is a largely safe country where violent crime against foreigners is incredibly rare.

Tanzania’s northern safari circuit is prime wildlife-viewing country. Although not renowned for its affordability, kids will love seeing the well-habituated animals, as well as the vibrant Maasai culture. A good selection of child-friendly lodges, camps, hotels and restaurants ensures that there is plenty of choice. The southern safari circuit is definitely a more adventurous option and should probably be restricted to families with older children who will better appreciate longer and wilder safaris in open-top game viewing vehicles.

The mellow beaches of Zanzibar and the other Spice Islands are reason enough to recommend the Indian Ocean islands as ideally suited to families and children. Many Zanzibari hotels also have swimming pools (ideal for swimming with kids in a controlled environment when seas are rough or while the tide is out) as well as spacious hotel grounds where kids can run wild and burn off energy in a safe place. Because many families visit Zanzibar, there is also a wide choice of child-friendly cuisine on almost every menu.

Highlights

Families travelling with small kids and tighter budgets might find it easier to base themselves in major centres like Arusha (where there are shops, medical facilities and other support services) and do shorter excursions from that base. An example of an easy and rewarding daytrip would be to nearby Arusha National Park where there is plenty of wildlife, but for the full experience a trip further afield to Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire or Lake Manyara would be more impressive.

Ngorongoro Crater with its nearby family-friendly accommodation is especially well-suited to families and young children, while the extremely relaxed and abundant wildlife should keep even the most restless children engaged and excited. Furthermore, children under eighteen also get sizeable discounts on daily park fees and permits to climb Kilimanjaro.

It would be unfair – almost cruel – to bring your children to Tanzania and not finish off with at least some time to explore the Spice Islands and enjoy the surrounding warm-water and white-sand beaches. Zanzibar Island has an abundance of lovely east-coast beaches with soft sand and calm seas, while most resorts also have a swimming pool. For families with more of a sense of adventure, or looking to get away from the crowds, Mafia Island with its little beaches, exciting dhow rides and top quality snorkeling is the place to head with your children.

Travel Tips

Tanzania may initially seem daunting for travel with children: prices for accommodation and park entry fees can add up, road travel distances can be long, and vehicle rental is rather costly. But for families with a sense of adventure, it’s a destination brimming with wonderful attractions, including wildlife, beaches, friendly people and great weather. Having a real sense of adventure (and humour) is invaluable as you explore the wilds of Tanzania, but proper planning for family travel is equally important. The following are some pre-trip considerations and travel tips to help you get started:

• The cooler, dry season (June through September) is best for family travel. Travel during the dry season months tends to be easier and transportation more dependable. Mosquitoes also tend to be less common, although malaria prophylaxis should still be taken. Malarone and Paediatric Malarone for the little ones is definitely the anti-malarial drug of choice with high efficacy and the fewest side effects.

• Aside from malaria prophylaxis, it is recommended that you consult your local travel clinic, doctor or paediatrician for vaccination recommendations, remembering that a Yellow Fever vaccination is required for every visitor over the age of two years.

• It is important to avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes, so travelling with your own mosquito nets and ensuring that your children always sleep under them is first prize. Dressing in long-sleeved shirts, long trousers and socks, as well as religiously using mosquito repellent at dawn and dusk further reduces the likelihood of getting malaria.

• At beaches, keep in mind the risks of hookworm infestation in populated areas, and watch out for spiny sea urchins when wading or snorkelling in the shallows. Take care about bilharzia infection in stagnant water and lakes in populated areas. A fully stocked child-oriented first aid kit is a travel imperative.

• The equatorial sun in Africa can be lethal, so make sure to always wear hats, use plenty of sunscreen and drink lots of water to avoid sunburn and dehydration.

• Street food isn’t generally suitable for children, and ‘healthy kid-friendly snacks’ are a challenge to find on the road, so stock up on fresh and dried fruit as well as fruit juices whenever you are passing through a big town or major city.

• For those travelling with infants, baby-changing facilities are almost non-existent except for possibly in the upmarket hotels, so bring along a small blanket or your own portable change mat to spread out whenever necessary.

• Baby foods and powdered milk, disposable nappies, baby wipes and similar items are only available in major towns like Arusha, Moshi and Dar es Salaam. Child car seats – whether for rental cars or safari vehicles – are generally not available, unless arranged well in advance.

• Many wildlife lodges and safari camps have age restrictions on accommodating children, so make sure to confirm the child policy for all the places you intend to stay. Conversely, some lodges and safari camps actively court families.

• Most hotels, lodges and national parks offer discounted entry and accommodation rates for children – and infants (under two years) are usually free of charge – but you will need to specifically request these discounts, especially when booking through tour operators.

• Aside from the discounts related to the age of your children, many lodges, camps, hotels and guesthouses will offer seasonal discounts, or will be willing to adjust their advertised rates outside of the peak-season months, so make sure to always ask and negotiate.

• Tanzania’s parks are completely unfenced, as are the lodges and camps located inside these wildlife areas, so carefully supervising your children at all times is critical. Wild animals frequently enter public areas and children should not be allowed to walk alone around camp, even for short distances. Exercise particular vigilance after dark.

For any family travelling in Tanzania, it is the allure of the country’s productive wildlife areas and high quality safari experiences that are the main attraction with legendary parks like Serengeti, Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater boasting high quality animal sightings and often at extremely close range. The fact that all parks offer substantially reduced children’s entry fees is a bonus. If staying inside the park, it’s a good idea to opt for a lodge or safari camp with a pool where the kids can expend their energy between game drives. Alternatively, base yourself outside the park at a hotel with a pool and large grounds for kids to run around, and only venture into the park on well-timed animal-spotting forays, while also enjoying cultural interactions and other activities (such as night drives) that take place outside of the national parks.

Tanzania is quite likely not the first place that jumps to mind when you think of top honeymoon destinations in Africa, but it’s an amazing choice nonetheless, especially if you and your loved one enjoy a touch of adventure and excitement on your romantic travels on your first view days of married life.

Whether you prefer private romance by the beach or indulging in absolute safari luxury and pampering, whatever you are looking for you can likely find it on a Tanzania Honeymoon safari (except maybe a skiing lodge!).

With dozens of heavenly white sand beaches, prolific national parks, five-star safari lodges and the most obliging people on earth, Tanzania is the perfect place for a honeymoon safari with a difference, which is exactly the factor that contributes to it being a Top Honeymoon Destination.

Going on a romantic adventure is all about making special memories together that the two of you can share for years to come. And what could be more special than witnessing a playful herd of elephants cavorting in a muddy waterhole on a hot day, or watching a cheetah stalking across the savannah or even watching the great migration in Serengeti National Park?

The scenery on a Tanzania Honeymoon Safari is sublime and the wildlife abundant. Going on a Tanzania honeymoon doesn’t mean you have to rough it; there are numerous luxury safari camps where you can enjoy a wildlife-watching experience in the lap of luxury.

Tranquil and picturesque lodge settings, high-quality service, superb food, spa facilities and a dreamy ambience ensure a romantic escape second to none. Opulent Sasakwa Lodge in the exclusive Singita Grumeti concessions is just such a place. It doesn’t come cheap, but – if you can afford it – you will never forget it!

One of the best places for a romantic escape is the tropical island of Zanzibar where you and your partner can decompress and reconnect on tropical white sand beaches without a care in the world. With its dazzling sun-bleached sands and palm-fringed shores, a honeymoon here is the picture of paradise.

Coming here for a rest after your honeymoon is the perfect way to unwind and round off your trip to Tanzania. There are numerous fully inclusive resorts throughout Zanzibar where your every need will be taken care of so that the two of you can enjoy spending quality time together in stunning surroundings, a true top honeymoon destination.

A stroll along the beach at sunset followed by a romantic meal for two is the perfect way to spend an island evening, while a sundowner cruise in a traditional dhow (wooden sailing boat) will allow you to explore some of the smaller islands off of Zanzibar in the Zanzibar archipelago.

If you’re looking for accommodation recommendation,Gold Zanzibar Beach house and Spa is a perfect choice and has recently been chosen as one of the best luxuries stays in 2021. Gold Zanzibar Beach House and Spa invite everyone to explore their tropical paradise on Zanzibar’s tideless white sand Kendwa beach.

But, for the ultimate romantic escape, head further south to Mafia Island where stylish and exclusive Pole Pole Bungalows will cater for your every need without breaking the bank on your Tanzania honeymoon safari

What to Look Out for When Booking a Tanzania Safari Honeymoon

Planning your first adventure together as a married couple is rather exciting. And spending this in Tanzania is an outstanding choice. There are some things you need to keep in mind when travelling to East Africa. Especially on your honeymoon safari in Tanzania so that both of you can have the time of your life.

Not Every Game Reserve has the Same Animals

With the location of the different game reserves in Tanzania, the terrain and landscape differ. Along with the different terrains, comes a variety of wildlife. Cheetahs would prefer more open grasslands whereas Hippos are found in areas with abundant water.

The best would be to create a bucket list of wildlife you would like to see while on your Tanzania honeymoon safari and then select the reserve better known for sightings of this wildlife.

For example : Selous Game Reserve which is in southern Tanzania. This vast conservation area is home to Africa’s Big 5 as well as all of the top predators, including the lion, wild dog, cheetah, leopard, and spotted hyena.

And the animals are plentiful: a Selous safari is ideal for seeing large elephant and buffalo herds, as well as healthy populations of hippo, giraffe, and sable antelope. So this type of honeymoon safari would be for people that have not been on Safari before and would like to therefore see a variety of wildlife.

The Luxury Camp in Tanzania is a Big Investment

Including a stay at a luxury camp for your Tanzania honeymoon safari, can be expensive. However, travelling to a more elite camp does have its benefits. Luxury camps generally have fewer rooms and therefore have fewer people in camp at any time. Thus, being on your honeymoon in Tanzania would allow you a little more privacy- which is essentially what everyone desires.

Having fewer people in the camp also means fewer people during game drives on your Tanzania Safari. The number of people in each vehicle would be less and offers you a more personalised experience and falls nicely in line with all the covid 19 travel restrictions.

As there are fewer rooms at luxury camps, they very often do not allow children to stay in camp, which is ideal for a honeymoon safari in Tanzania.

Most Lodges in Tanzania Offer More than Just Safari Drives

You’re visiting Tanzania for the first time, and you’re looking forward to your first safari. When you think of a honeymoon in Tanzania, you envision going on a game drive early in the morning as the sun rises over the African jungle.

However, even on honeymoon in Africa, there are other ways to explore the bush. Most lodges offer bush walks or even longer walking safaris where you are able to get to experience the bush first hand. Depending on the location of your lodge, you would also be able to explore either in a motorboat or canoe.

With the game activities mostly scheduled for the early mornings or late afternoon, it might be worth looking at a camp that offers a little more facilities as well. Maybe a spa or even a gym. Nothing beats a back massage out in the African bush on a Tanzania honeymoon safari in a top honeymoon destination.

Three of Four Days is Usually Enough Time at Camp

Although this might be your first safari, you might not want to spend all your time in the bush. A Tanzania honeymoon has so much to offer, maybe you would like to combine your stay with another great experience, such as the islands off Tanzania or hiking in the mountains of Mount Kilimanjaro or even exploring the stupendous Ngorongoro Crater.

Ideally, you would like to spend a minimum of 3 nights at a lodge. This would give you enough time on your Tanzania Honeymoon but also give you some time to enjoy the lodge facilities or just relax in your room. Most safaris are rushed and you might have booked a great room, but you hardly spend time here.

Still, struggling to plan your Tanzania honeymoon Safari? Why not have a look at our Tanzania honeymoon blog and check out the Five romantic honeymoon accommodation options in the Serengeti.

Gay people travel to Tanzania and they are also booked in the same room, as well as a shared bed. Tour operators are quite aware and it is worth understanding that there are numerous countries where homosexuality is illegal; Tanzania being just one of several in East Africa.

It’s important to note that public displays of affection are not well accepted even between straight couples, so decorum is just smart practice here for all visitors. Imagine watching a mother and son greet each other on the street – no hugs, a hand shake, that’s all. This is as far as it goes, although it is customary for men to hold hands (this is not unusual). Guides know tourists are a little more affectionate, and may give you a hug, but it would only be done in a tourist setting. Despite Zanzibar’s colour and hints of exotic, it will not be any more lenient than mainland Tanzania.

As long as you practice basic safety awareness and avoid lonely stretches of deserted beach, especially at night, Zanzibar and the other Indian Ocean islands of Pemba and Mafia are probably the most alluring prospect for solo travellers going it alone. Exploring the northern safari circuit is saf
e and with the large number of safari companies and tour operators focusing on this region there is an abundance of information and plenty of opportunity for solo travellers to explore the iconic parks of Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, Lake Manyara and Mount Kilimanjaro.

Highlights

Solo travellers can tackle any and all of Tanzania’s parks and highlights, although it’s generally advantageous to join a group for wildlife safaris and/or treks up Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru. There is a definite safety advantage, but going in a group can also be a significant cost-saver, as well as offering an opportunity to meet other like-minded travellers and make new friends.

For those solo-travellers who really want to go it alone, destinations like Zanzibar and the other Indian Ocean islands are an attractive proposition. For those with time on their hands and wanting to gain a deeper understanding of the country as well as give back, volunteering with a local Tanzanian non-profit to contribute to their community development or conservation work can give a real sense of purpose and a feeling of satisfaction to your solo travel adventures.

‘Volunteer-ism’ (volunteer tourism) and more purposeful travel are becoming increasingly popular with an growing number of volunteer opportunities emerging for solo travellers across Tanzania.

Travel Tips

When traveling alone, it’s always important to stay vigilant and attentive to your valuables. Don’t flaunt your wealth or tempt fate. Solo travel in Tanzania is safe provided you follow a few simple rules… First, safety in numbers at night: make sure to team up after sundown. Joining small group tours (maximum six people) with a good guide not only provides a temporary safety benefit, but also helps to keep costs more manageable when compared to exclusive tours and private guides. Moving around in groups at night is especially important for solo female travellers, as is dressing somewhat modestly to avoid drawing unwanted attention to yourself.

Second, it is safest to travel by taxi. In major cities like Arusha or Stone Town, ask the hotel or guesthouse staff to recommend a reputable taxi that will get you safely to your destination. Having a local Tanzanian staff member help to negotiate the price before getting in the vehicle is also highly recommended. Third, while it is important to always be polite, don’t leave anything to misinterpretation. Tanzania is known for its jovial attitudes and unrelenting street vendors, but if someone pushes things too far or makes you feel uncomfortable, then it’s okay to be direct and tell them to leave you alone, especially if you’re on your own.

From the high snowy peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru to the palm tree-fringed Indian Ocean islands of Zanzibar and Pemba, a African Safari in Tanzania quite simply has it all.

Whether it’s the mega great migration herds of Selous, Ruaha and Katavi; the habituated chimpanzees of Mahale and Gombe Stream; the wildebeest migration of the Serengeti; the giant tuskers of Tarangire; or the whale sharks swimming around Mafia Island, the variety and quality of wildlife safari experiences on offer on a Tanzania Safari is unrivalled within a single country. A Tanzania Safari tour is unquestionably a remarkable and incomparable African safari experience.

What Makes a Tanzania Safari Unique?

Tanzania is a large African country with over 25% of its land surface area set aside as some form of protected area – national park, game reserve, wildlife management area, etc. – for the benefit of wildlife and conservation.

Tanzania safari-goers benefit from this extensive and diverse wildlife estate, which is accessible in its entirety to anyone with a reliable 4×4 vehicle.

There are few – if any – other African safari destinations where self-sufficient 4×4 aficionados and nature lovers can experience enormous herds of buffalo and elephant, giant tuskers, the world-renowned wildebeest migration, the Eden-like Ngorongoro Crater, habituated chimpanzees, swimming with whale sharks and dolphins, and climbing Africa’s highest mountain all within the confines of a single spectacular country.

A quick Newbie Safari Guide to Tanzania

Tanzania is one of the biggest countries in East Africa. It also has the tallest mountain in Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro. A Tanzania Safari is a wildlife paradise, being home to the Big Five and most other animals. The most famous part about Tanzania is, of course, the Great Wildebeest Migration. The Great migration consists of almost two million wildebeest, making it the largest migration movement in the world.

Are you planning a Tanzania Safari and simply just have no clue where to begin? No worries, we will provide you with a clear and easy Tanzania Safari guide.

Ultimate Experience Destinations

A Tanzania safari consists of four different safari circuits, namely, the Northern, Southern, Eastern and Western circuit. Choosing a circuit is a struggle of its own, however, as a Tanzania newbie, we recommend the Northern circuit, as it is the most popular and has many diverse attractions and game parks.

These attractions include the Serengeti National Park, the Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara and the Tarangire National Park. The circuit also includes the migration and a great view of Mount Kilimanjaro. Here’s a highlight of each attraction.

1. The Serengeti National Park – The park is known for its famous migration. Just imagine hearing the wildebeest hooves drumming on the ground? Goosebump moment! One cannot go to East Africa and not visit the Serengeti National Park. This park is renowned all around the world.
2. The Ngorongoro Crater is the floor of a vanished volcano that erupted many years ago. The wildlife found here is impeccable. The area is very well known for its lion pride. The area makes for stunning views, as Mount Kilimanjaro overlooks the crater.
3. The Lake Manyara National Park – is famous for its elephants that they preserve and keep safe. The area is also known for its thousands of pink flamingos and tree-climbing lion.
4. Tarangire National Park – This park gets a rough time competing with their neighbouring National Park. Tarangire Park very solemnly experiences mass tourism. The wildlife experience here is just as great as any other area, however, it’s quieter and more exclusive. The same type of experience will be found at the Lake Manyara National Park.

When to Go on your Tanzania Journey

Deciding when to go on your Tanzania Safari all depends on why you’re travelling to Tanzania and what you are able to withstand during your safari trip. For example, if you are specifically travelling to see the great wildebeest migration calving season, then the time to go is between January and February.

The best time to go on a Tanzania Safari is during the “Dry season”: June to October. Game viewing is at its best during these months. As you can expect “Dry Season” is the most expensive time to travel to Tanzania. The worst of the rainy season is from March to May, however, this is also the cheaper time to go. Regarding the migration, this is an all-year-round occurrence, one just needs to know where to find them when.

What is your Budget for your Tanzania Safari?

If one were to cover the entire Northern circuit, we would recommend giving yourself seven to ten days to complete it. With that being said, one needs a budget to cover up to ten days. East Africa is generally quite expensive, however, they are very popular for group tours, making costs much less. If you are willing to travel with a group then you should have a budget of about USD 3000-5000 per person.

If one chooses to have a tour on a private basis, then there are some cheaper options as well, such as a Tanzania camping safari instead of staying in a Tanzania luxury safari lodge. All we can say is, a Tanzania Safari is worth every penny.

In conclusion, if this will be your first time going on a Tanzania Safari we recommend you do the Northern circuit. This way you cover all of Tanzania’s best attractions. Once completing the Northern circuit we can guarantee the next item on your bucket list will be “Tanzania Southern circuit”.

A Tanzania Safari will leave you wanting to come back for more.

The magic of an African safari is hard to beat as is the fabulous number of Safari tour options it presents.

Furthermore, when asking why to go to Tanzania, one should realize that the country is relatively well developed both inside and outside of its protected areas, making self-drive travel on a safari tour and Overlanding an appealing proposition, particularly when you consider that English is widely spoken throughout the region.

With choices ranging from adventurous safaris among African wildlife, the peaceful surrounds of the beautiful lakes, the highest mountain in Africa, and a simple stroll through the eclectic Stone Town, it is easy to see why one should go to Tanzania. Here are some of the many activities one of the most stunning regions of East Africa has to offer:

Canoe Adventure in Tanzania

While most associate a Safari with safari vehicles rather than canoes, there are a handful of beautiful places where visitors can enjoy a safari tour in Tanzania of a different kind.

Lake Duluti’s calm waters are ideal for activities like canoeing, kayaking, biking, and trips to Mount Meru and Arusha national parks, both of which offer exclusive wildlife encounters. This is a fantastic way to get started on this action-packed safari.

The lake’s high sodium content attracts flamingos all year. Hippo, bushbuck, giraffe, elephant, zebra, and smaller species of forest antelope are among the animals to be seen which makes it easy to see why one should go to Tanzania.

Book your canoe safari today

Explore the Coffee Plantation

Karatu, Tanzania’s popular northern circuits safari tour, is home to a coffee-growing village. It is a vibrant stopover with stalls selling fruits, tourist souvenirs, and, of course, coffee plantations. Tanzania has long produced coffee, and it is one of the country’s most important exports.

There are many coffee plantations in the area; learn more about the coffee production process and admire the lush coffee crops while you’re there.

Book your Coffee plantation Safari Today

Go on a Rift Valley Lake Tour in Tanzania

When the earth’s crust weakened and started to break apart over 20 million years ago, the Great Rift Valley was formed.

This culminated in several volcanic eruptions and earthquakes, causing the valley floor to sink lower and creating unique landscapes and some of the continent’s most prominent wildlife habitats.

One of these is Lake Manyara, and the picturesque lake is home to a plethora of birdlife and mammals.

Others, like Lake Tanganyika, the world’s longest lake, are home to brightly coloured cichlid fish, while Lake Eyasi’s purple lava walls contrast beautifully with its white alkaline shallows.

Book your Rift Valley Tanzania tour today

Climb Mount Kilimanjaro on your Tanzania Safari Tour

Those who are not willing to put in months of physical preparation before embarking on a five-day trek up mount Kilimanjaro will not be able to experience the mountain’s magic. Hikers should take a base walk to the Kinukamori Waterfall, which is a beautiful alternative to climbing the peak. Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the most popular reasons why people go to Tanzania

Climbing Mount KIlimanjaro

Continue on to Chagga Village, which is surrounded by banana and coffee plantations. A full-day hike up to the first stop-over hut on the mountain, or taking the plunge and going for the summit, are other options. The mountain takes five to six days to summit and is only recommended for the experienced and physically fit.

Book your tour to climb Mount Kilimanjaro

Explore the Northern circuit and Southern circuit

Most people on a Tanzania Tour throw themselves into the abundance of African wildlife for which the country is renowned and the wildlife is mostly why people come to Tanzania.

The northern safari circuit is the most often travelled game reserve and offers some of the world’s most diverse safari experiences in Tanzania including the lush and abundant Ngorongoro Crater, the world-famous Serengeti National Park, and the beautiful wilderness of Tarangire National Park.

The southern parks are more remote and provide open-sided vehicle game drives, walking safaris, and boat cruises, allowing for a more intimate safari experience and extensive game viewing.

Book your Northern circuit Tanzania Safari today

Book your Southern circuit Tanzania Safari today

Explore the White Sand Beaches of Zanzibar

Pemba Island is part of the Zanzibar Archipelago, and the canal that connects it to Tanzania’s mainland is home to incredible coral reefs and a plethora of marine life. Proving it to be one of the best safari destinations in Africa. These Indian ocean waters, which have fantastic visibility and a nice, warm temperature of 26°C (78.8°F), offer some of the best diving in East Africa.

Many who do not wish to dive can simply sit back and enjoy the magnificent turquoise shore, which contrasts stunningly with the white sand beaches. There’s no reason not to visit this beautiful gem, which is remote, pristine, and untouched.

Book one of the best safari tours in Zanzibar today.

While Tanzania boasts such a diverse safari tour offering, it also has extensive areas of true wilderness with limited tourist numbers frequenting many of its national parks and wildlife areas, especially on the wilder southern safari circuit this is most definitely a big factor when it comes to why one should go to Tanzania.

Are you planning an East African safari to Tanzania or Kenya where your time will be spent in nature, game viewing some of the best wildlife Africa has to offer, enjoying the radiant sunshine and building everlasting relationships with your fellow African travellers?

I am often asked to compare Kenya vs Tanzania safaris and tours, to see which would offer the best African experience. This is a great but difficult question as both Kenya and Tanzania are captivating African safari destinations with an abundance of wildlife, where you can have a Big Five Safari Experience.

Below you can find some destination comparisons, which will help you to choose the best Tanzania or Kenya safari option for you.

Tanzania

• When it comes to the quantity of wildlife, a Tanzania safari wins. One reason for this is that it’s the larger country when comparing a safari in Kenya vs Tanzania.
• More of the Great Migration takes place in Tanzania than in Kenya meaning that you have a greater chance of seeing the great migration during more months of the year when comparing safari in Tanzania vs Kenya.
• Tanzania has fewer visitors than Kenya meaning less crowded game parks and safaris which is especially great considering covid-19 protocals.
• Accommodation on a Tanzania Safari is a bit more expensive than a Kenya Safari when comparing a Tanzania Safari vs Kenya Safari.
• There are very few large hotels or resorts, so lodges and camps fill up very quickly over peak season.
• Vehicles used for safari drives in game reserves are closed vehicles.
• More iconic natural landmarks can be found in Tanzania, like Mount Kilimanjaro, Serengeti National park, Ngorongoro Crater and The Great Rift Valley Escarpment
• A Tanzania Safari is a safe destination for safari.
• National Parks are bigger and game drives will take longer to spot animals when comparing Tanzania vs Kenya safaris.
• Visa and Yellow Fever certificate is required.

Kenya

• A Kenya Safari is also bursting with African wildlife and hosts the great migration river crossings of the wildebeest.
• Kenya is wealthier than Tanzania and has a more developed infrastructure and tourism infrastructure when comparing Kenya vs Tanzania.
• You have a choice of more Hotels and Lodges in Kenya than in Tanzania.
• Game parks are more accessible. Nairobi is the capital and the hub of all flights.
• Attractions in Kenya are Amboseli, The Masai Mara with the Mara River, and Lake Nakuru.
• Accommodation in Kenya is less expensive than in Tanzania and offers more budget-friendly safaris when comparing Kenya vs Tanzania.
• Accommodation can vary from walk-in Meru tents to luxury African lodges.
• Vehicles used for safari drives are closed vehicles.
• National Parks are smaller and it is easier and faster to spot animals when comparing a Kenya Safari vs Tanzania Safari.
• Kenya is a safe destination for your African safari.
• More safari activities are offered in Kenya, which include walking safaris, boat cruises and, village tours.
• Visa and Yellow Fever certificate is required.

Both countries are in East Africa and have coastlines along the warm Indian Ocean. This being said, it is always a good idea to end your safari with a couple of days relaxing and enjoying one of the Zanzibar beach resorts along its pristine coastline.

When finding the best safari in Tanzania or Kenya both Tanzania and Kenya are known for their expansive savannah and golden grasslands. The wide-open bushveld terrain offers plentiful grazing and, where there are grazers, predators such as lions and leopards are to be found.

In a nutshell, Kenya is smaller and better equipped with more airports, lodges, and transport options. Tanzania has more land and more national parks and some jaw-dropping destinations such as Lake Manyara or Lake Victoria which should not be missed.

In general, your Tanzania safari will be more expensive than your Kenya safari when comparing a Kenya Safari vs a Tanzania Safari.

So Kenya is the better-known safari destination, but consequently, most of its prime national parks and game reserves are considerably busier than across the border in Tanzania. With a safari tourism model that tends to prioritise quantity over quality, Kenya has followed the route of low value and high impact tourism.

By contrast, Tanzania subscribes more to the model of high value and low impact tourism, which means you might have to pay somewhat more to gain access to explore many of its protected areas and prime attractions, but the upside is that very few of these areas will feel completely overrun by tourists.

In fact, many of Tanzania’s protected areas feel downright wild and remote. When comparing the best safari in Tanzania or Kenya, Tanzania would get our vote over Kenya if one is looking for a wild, relatively quieter safari experience, although both have their attractions in equal (but different) measures.

While Tanzania unquestionably has a far more extensive and diverse safari offering when comparing Tanzania Vs Rwanda, it does not have mountain gorillas!

Rwanda with just four protected areas in this heavily populated little country is quite simply outgunned by Tanzania on almost every safari metric, except primates.

With semi-habituated chimpanzees in the beautiful Nyungwe Forest and habituated mountain gorillas and golden monkeys in Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda trumps Tanzania when it comes to primate safaris when comparing Tanzania Vs Rwanda.

That said, with a single savannah park in Akagera, the overall safari experience and diversity of safari offerings cannot hope to compete with Tanzania’s range and variety of attractions.

My advice would be to go to Tanzania for your safari experience with a one-week add on to neighbouring Rwanda to get your fix of gorillas and other primates.

A day perusing the sobering genocide museum and some of the monuments and churches in and around Kigali is a must-do activity for your ‘add-on’ itinerary to Rwanda.

It is rare to encounter someone who has been on a safari in Tanzania but has not visited the northern region. Wildlife in Tanzania is dominated by the annual Tanzania wildlife migration, where visitors are blown away by the prolific herds of wildlife that also include large numbers of topi, eland and gazelles.

Predators are abundant here too with lion and cheetah dominating the Tanzania Wildlife spectrum, although leopard sightings are also reliable and wild dogs are making a strong comeback when it comes to Tanzania Wildlife Safaris.

The critically endangered East African black rhinos of Ngorongoro and Mkomazi, giant elephant tuskers of Tarangire, and abundant flamingos that visit Lake Manyara seasonally round out a wildlife experience in Tanzania unlike any other.

Although it has suffered badly at the hands of poachers in recent years, the southern region of Tanzania is still renowned for its large numbers of Tanzanian Wildlife such as elephants and huge herds of buffalo.

These mega-herbivores, along with the full suite of plains game, support healthy predator populations of Tanzania Wildlife with Selous being famous for its wild dogs and Ruaha for its carnivores like lions. In the west of this region of Wild Tanzania, abutting Lake Tanganyika, are the primate strongholds of the Mahale Mountains and Gombe Stream national parks with habituated chimpanzees being the prime Tanzania Wildlife attraction here.

With the exception of the endemic Zanzibar red colobus monkey, Aders’ duiker, Sykes blue monkey and the diminutive Suni antelope, the islands off the east coast of Wild Tanzania are all about marine wildlife. Dynamite fishing has done some damage here, but dolphins are still frequently seen on diving and snorkelling trips off the coast of Zanzibar and Mnemba, while harmless whale sharks frequent the warm waters around Mafia Island.

The lion’s share of safari visitors to Tanzania focus on the northern safari circuit. With its prime attractions located in close geographical proximity to one another, safari goers can explore the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire and Lake Manyara national parks, as well as have the opportunity to summit Africa’s highest mountain, in a single near-contiguous conservation area.

For the more adventurous safari aficionados and anyone allergic to the safari hordes, the wide open spaces and remoteness of the southern safari circuit beckons. To be honest, the word ‘circuit’ is incredibly misleading here, as it implies a well-trodden path that sees large numbers of visitors and nothing could be further from the truth. Southern Tanzania is lucky if it sees even five percent of the travellers to Tanzania with most opting for the more well-developed and well-known northern safari circuit and Indian ocean islands – where Zanzibar is the star attraction.

What are the Most Important Regions I should know About in Tanzania?

The northern safari circuit; the southern safari circuit; and Zanzibar and the Indian Ocean islands are the prime regions that every visitor to Tanzania should know about as they look to plan their ultimate safari itinerary. These key safari regions are explained and contrasted in greater detail below.

What Should I know when Travelling to Tanzania?

The following is a list of useful things to be aware of when travelling to Tanzania. Knowing and practicing these recommendations will ensure you are respectful of local customs and better able to assimilate into the Tanzanian culture.

• Don’t say “Jambo”. Although “jambo ” does indeed mean “hello” in Swahili, the first time most Tanzanians usually hear or use this word is when they are interacting with tourists. While your Swahili phrase book may tell you that it is a common greeting term, no locals actually use it in daily life. Instead rather say “habari yako?” meaning “what’s up?”

• Learn some Swahili phrases and slang. All primary school education throughout Tanzania is conducted in Swahili, and English is not widely spoken outside of the major cities, so – unlike in neighbouring Kenya or Uganda – it is difficult to get by in Tanzania without any Swahili unless you have a translator 24/7,

• Know when Ramadan is. Almost half of Tanzania’s population is Muslim, including the whole of Zanzibar, making Ramadan a noteworthy and important time for everyone in the country. Many (usually Muslim-owned) restaurants shut during the day and open only in the evening over this period. The social scene tends to be duller as many people are observing the holy month, and their non-Muslim friends are also staying home.

• It’s unavoidable, but as a tourist and you will get ripped off, so try to negotiate. Unless you speak fluent Swahili and look like you could be a Tanzanian, the chances are you will be paying a little extra for your souvenirs, street food and transport – basically anything that doesn’t have a fixed price. Most importantly, never get into transportation or use/eat something that you have to pay for (like food) without negotiating the price up front. If a taxi doesn’t budge on price, walk away, chances are they’ll call after you and agree to a lower price. Always pay for local purchases in Tanzania Shillings rather than foreign currency.

• Immerse yourself in local culture. It would be a real waste to travel halfway round the world only to go and hang out with other tourists just like you.

• Don’t take pictures of people without asking them first; it’s disrespectful and rude. Say, “Naomba kukupiga picha”, which means: “Can I please take a photo of you?” If you can’t remember that phrase, then try to ask in English or gesture with your hands, but if they remain unresponsive, then don’t take the picture and offend them.

• It is a case of every road-user for themselves on the roads of Tanzania with traffic ‘laws’ considered to be more ‘rough guidelines’ rather than rules. For instance, just because a green light says you may walk or you are standing on a zebra crossing for pedestrians, doesn’t mean that cars will stop for you. Only cross the street when cars are a good distance away, or you can see that they have stopped at a red light, or a traffic policeman tells you it is safe to do so.

The following practical information and travel advice is worth knowing as you look to plan your trip to Tanzania and embark on the safari of a lifetime:

• Tanzania’s unit of currency is the Tanzanian Shilling, which is necessary for purchasing souvenirs, drinks and food in local shops and restaurants, but all hotels, lodges and other tourist establishments readily accept US Dollars and Euros in cash. (However, it is important to note that due to the number of fake notes in circulation, only US Dollar bills printed after 2006 are accepted in Tanzania). Credit cards are also widely accepted with MasterCard and Visa being the most recognized. Traveller’s cheques are a challenge to use and typically incur hefty transaction fees, so they are not recommended. With ATMs found in every major towns and city, you can withdraw Tanzanian Shillings off your credit or debit card provided it has been cleared with your bank for international use.

• Tipping lodge staff and drivers/guides is customary for good service on a Tanzania safari, but check first to see whether a service charge has already been added to your bill. Tipping is always in addition to the price quoted by your operator and the amount varies depending on the size of your group, the level of luxury of the safari, and your assessment of the quality of service rendered. In major Tanzania cities, a 10% tip is customary in restaurants and bars when a service charge has not been included.

• Tanzania has an idyllic climate, especially in the higher altitude parks like Serengeti. The average summer temperatures range between 18°C and 30°C (although temperatures can rise into the mid-thirties on occasion. Average winter temperatures are only marginally cooler at 15°C to 26°C. The rainy seasons run from mid-March to May (“long rains”) and November to mid-January (“short rains”).

• When packing for your Tanzania safari, light casual clothing in practical: neutral colours for safari and a warm jacket for evening game drives are a good idea at any time of the year. When visiting Zanzibar it is important that women dress more modestly out of respect for Muslim cultural beliefs with shoulders covered and long skirts or linen pants being better options than tank-tops and hot-pants. If you plan to tackle one of Tanzania’s legendary volcanoes, such as Mount Meru or Kilimanjaro, then your packing list will look very different with sturdy boots, high quality cold weather clothing and rainproof gear.

• Religious beliefs are strong in Tanzania with Christianity and Islam dominating. Most of the Muslim population lives along the coast and within the Zanzibar archipelago; visitors should be aware of this as well as the more conservative nature of these destinations. Good etiquette demands that you should dress and behave accordingly. Tanzanians are renowned for being friendly and harmonious people; however it is courteous to ask permission before photographing people.

• Tanzania has been a multi-party democracy since 1992, but – in spite of a growing opposition – it has somewhat limited political freedom. While it is a stable and relatively safe African country, political demonstrations are possible across Tanzania at any time, especially in the semi-autonomous region of Zanzibar. You are advised to exercise sensible caution and avoid political rallies, large crowds or public demonstrations, which can disintegrate and turn violent without warning.

Visitors to Tanzania require a passport that is valid for at least six months after the initial date of travel. Almost all visitors to Tanzania require a tourist visa, which costs between US$20 and US$100 for a tourist visa that is valid for three months. While most embassy and travel websites will encourage you to get this visa before departing your home country (especially if you require a multiple entry visa); it is straightforward to obtain a single-entry 90-day tourist (or work visa) upon arrival at any of the country’s major entry points, such as Dar es Salaam and Kilimanjaro international airports, as long as you are able to pay for your visa in US dollars cash.

While most European and American nationals require a visa to visit Tanzania, South Africans are among the countries exempt from a visa for stays of up to 90 days. Because immigration rules and visa requirements are notoriously prone to change, it is essential that you enquire from your embassy or travel agent to find out exactly what is required before visiting.

Most visitors enter Tanzania by air, although the options for airlines are extremely limited. Dar es Salaam and Kilimanjaro international airports are serviced by Kenya Airways from Nairobi, Air Rwanda from Kigali, Ethiopian Airlines from Addis Ababa, and South African Airways from Johannesburg, as well as KLM from Amsterdam, Turkish Airlines from Istanbul, and Qatar Airways from Doha. There are no direct flights from Tanzania – or anywhere else in East Africa – to America, although this is set to change with the recent approval granted for direct flights from Nairobi and Kigali to the US east coast. The most reliable East African budget airline for regional flights connecting Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro and Mwanza to neighboring countries is a Tanzanian airline called Precision Airways. Fast Jet is notorious for frequently delaying and cancelling flights without warning, reason or compensation.

Only the most adventurous travellers will enter Tanzania by road or rail. For over landers, this is a relatively straightforward process provided all vehicle papers and documentation are in order. By contrast, the train option requires intrepid travellers to have plenty of time on their hands for the 21-26 hour Tazara train journey linking Dar es Salaam with New Kapiri Mposhi in Zambia. For those who have sufficient time, patience and adventurous spirit, train travel offers fine views of the countryside and a window into local life.

How do I Travel in and Around Tanzania?

The quickest and most convenient way to travel around Tanzania in by scheduled or charter flight. Precision Air offers a number of scheduled flights between the major cities, as well as Zanzibar and Seronera in the Serengeti National Park. There are also a whole host of airstrips scattered throughout the country’s parks and reserves that are serviced by local air charter companies, including Coastal Aviation, Auric Air, Regional, Air Excel, Northern Air and Grumeti Air. This is an extremely convenient way to get around the country, but it is quite costly.

A more budget-friendly option is to arrange a safari that includes a private 4×4 vehicle and driver to transfer you between the parks, reserves and other attractions on your safari itinerary. Having an experienced and knowledgeable driver reduces stress and allows you to concentrate on absorbing the scenery and culture around you. It might take longer then flying, but this is a considerably more affordable and immersive method of travel. Overlanders and experienced Africa hands will likely opt to be masters of their own destiny, driving their own vehicle and revelling in the freedom to choice and the flexibility this allows. Just make sure your vehicle and its paperwork conform to the latest Tanzanian requirements to avoid fines at the country’s many roadblocks and check points.

Backpackers, adventurous souls and those on a shoestring budget will tackle Tanzania by public transport with buses and shared taxis being the most common choice.

Tanzania is generally a safe, hassle-free country, but you still need to take the usual safety precautions and keep up with local travel advisories. Take note of the following safety tips in order to stay safe while in Tanzania:

• Avoid isolated areas, especially remote stretches of beach; and safety in numbers.

• In cities and tourist areas always take a taxi at night and only from established taxi ranks or hotels. Never enter a taxi that already has someone else in it other than the driver.

• When using public transport, don’t accept drinks or food from someone you don’t know. Take requests for donation support from ‘refugees’ or ‘students’ with a pinch of salt. Contributions to humanitarian causes are best done through an established agency.

• Be sceptical of anyone who approaches you on the street, at the bus station, or in your hotel, offering safari deals or claiming to know you.

• Never pay any money for a safari or trek in advance until you’ve thoroughly checked out the company, and never pay money outside of the company’s office. Demand a receipt.

• In western Tanzania, especially along the Burundi border, there are sporadic outbursts of banditry and political unrest. Get a local update before venturing into this area.

• In tourist areas, such as Arusha, Moshi and Zanzibar Island, touts can be quite pushy, especially around bus stations and budget tourist hotels. Do what you can to minimise the impression that you are a newly arrived tourist: walk with purpose and duck into a shop if you need to get your bearings or look at a map.

• Have your luggage as consolidated as possible – with your valuables well-hidden under your clothes – when arriving at a major bus station for the first time. Try to spot the taxi rank before disembarking and head straight for it. Walk with purpose. It is also a good idea to try and buy your bus tickets a day or two in advance (without your luggage).

• Carry your passport, money and other documents in a pouch against your skin, hidden under loose-fitting clothing. If there’s a reliable one, secure your valuables in a hotel safe and ideally inside a pouch with a lockable zip to prevent tampering.

• When travelling in a vehicle, keep the side windows up when stopped in traffic and keep your bags out of sight (e.g. on the floor behind your legs).

• When bargaining or negotiating prices, don’t do so with your money or wallet visible.

• Government travel advisories can be good sources of updated security information.

The lodges in Tanzania, even the most opulent and luxurious, are fairly low key when it comes to rules and regulations, but it is definitely worth remembering the following do’s and don’ts:

• Do exercise good safari etiquette; being polite and courteous costs you nothing.

• Do keep the volume down and any unnecessary noise to a minimum.

• Do make use of the night guard to escort you safely between the main lodge and your room/tent after dark.

• Do try to wear neutral coloured clothing when on safari.

• Do pack light because charter flights usually have a strict 15kg luggage allowance.

• Do learn some Swahili greetings and phrases; Tanzanians will appreciate your effort.

• Do tread lightly and safari responsibly, taking only photos and memories with you.

• Do tip your guides and always reward great service.

• Don’t get out of your vehicle without your guide first checking the area and giving the OK

• Don’t cut or remove anything from the reserve; this includes picking flowers.

• Don’t sit on your phone and social media instead of living in the moment.

• Don’t choose an inexperienced and unknown safari operator just to try and save a few bucks; you will undoubtedly end up paying for the decision.

Tanzanian cuisine is both unique and incredibly varied with a strong Indian influence permeating many of the dishes. Along the coast and throughout the Zanzibar archipelago spicy foods are common with coconut being a leading ingredient. Regions of Tanzania’s mainland also have their own unique local foods. Some typical mainland Tanzanian foods include: wali (rice), ugali (maize porridge), chapatti (a kind of tortilla), nyama choma (grilled meat), mshikaki (marinated beef), samaki (fish), pilau briyani and ndizi-nyama (plantains with meat). Vegetables commonly used in Tanzania include: bamia (okra), mchicha (a kind of spinach), njegere (green peas), maharage (beans), and kisamvu (cassava leaves). Tanzania produces at least 17 different types of bananas, which are used for soups, stews and chips.

Tipping lodge staff and drivers/guides is customary for good service on a Tanzania safari, but check first to see whether a service charge has already been added to your bill. Tipping is always in addition to the price quoted by your tour operator or travel agent, and the gratuity amount varies according to the size of your group, the level of luxury of the safari, and your assessment of the quality of service rendered. In major Tanzania cities, a 10 percent tip is customary in restaurants and bars when a service charge has not been included.

With almost half the country’s population being Muslim, it is important to respect their more conservative Islamic cultural norms by dressing less provocatively and covering up when exploring their ethnic strongholds, such as Zanzibar, the other Spice Islands, and along the east coast of Tanzania. The holy month of Ramadan, the religious importance of Fridays, and the need to pray five times per day are all import cultural factors of the Islamic faith that tourists to Tanzania should be aware of.

Most mainstream tourist destinations in Tanzania offer opportunities for souvenir shopping. Popular gifts to take back home include: Maasai tartan blankets and beadwork, Tanzanite jewellery, traditional woodcarvings and hand-printed batik fabrics. As a general rule, you’re much more likely to find a bargain at a local market as opposed to in a shopping centre or craft shop frequented by tourists.

The main shopping area of Dar es Salaam is to be found along Samora Machel Avenue. In and around this part of the city, visitors will find plenty of shops to peruse for some last-minute souvenirs, including printed cotton fabrics and local paintings. A cheaper option for souvenir searching is to visit one of Tanzania’s many indigenous markets. In Dar es Salaam, the largest local market is the vast Kariakoo Market, selling locally grown fresh produce (fruits and vegetables) and spices as well as some textiles and handcrafts. Although safe to explore, keep in mind that it can get very crowded. The colourful Arusha Central Market is another fascinating shopping experience and the local people are generally welcoming and friendly, although there are a number of young men who tend to stick to tourists like tsetse flies on a buffalo and if you are at the beginning of your excursion, it can severely detract from your overall market experience. When exploring these gigantic local markets, don’t expect too much in the way of tourist stuff to take home, mostly it will be memories and a dizzying array of smells that you will take away with you.

Back in Dar, visitors can also pick up hand-carved souvenirs at the Mwenge Carvers’ Market, located opposite the Village Museum. The Msasani Slipway Weekend Craft Market is a more expensive option, although it’s a much quieter affair, making it easier to browse in relative peace. A trip to the Dar es Salaam Fish Market might not be an obvious shopping destination, but it’s definitely worth a visit simply to soak up the atmosphere when fishermen deliver their catch at dawn – an early start is recommended.

With around 129 different ethnic groups, the Republic of Tanzania has evolved the greatest linguistic diversity in the whole of the African continent with four major African language bases, ranging from Bantu, Cushitic and the Nilotic languages to the less comprehensively spoken Khoisan. One of the founding directives of independent Tanzania was that no ethnic group should dominate, and this was made easier by the fact that none of the 129 tribes and sub-tribes exceeds much more than 10% of the country’s overall population. A governmental drive continues to reduce tribal differentiation by promoting Swahili.

With such a diversity of people contained within the boundaries of Tanzania, having Swahili as a national language has brought about the country’s strong sense of national identity. It is interesting to note that in Tanzania all primary school education is taught in Swahili, but when school children graduate from primary school and enter secondary school, the medium of instruction switches overnight to English. This makes for an incredibly difficult adjustment and many children drop out of school or fail their national exams at this point.

As the national language, Swahili is the most widely spoken language with English being largely absent from rural Tanzania and only really found in the larger towns, cities and tourist areas.

While travel in Africa inevitably involves a small element of health risk, and there is always an outside chance that you might contract malaria, tick bite fever, bilharzia or typhoid, the chances of actually getting sick in Tanzania are relatively slim provided you take care to avoid getting bitten and make sure to get the recommended vaccinations and prophylaxis before you travel.

In the unfortunate event you find yourself in need of urgent medical care, Arusha Medevac is the only air ambulance service based in Tanzania, providing high-level air evacuation and specialised medical air transport service out of Arusha Airport. AMREF Flying Doctors is another reliable medevac option, operating out of Nairobi. Steer clear of the overcrowded and under-resourced government hospitals. Tanzania has a number of decent private hospitals and healthcare facilities, but for serious medical emergencies you should medevac to Nairobi where you will find East Africa’s premier healthcare facilities, including Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital.

Malaria is relatively common in Tanzania, especially during the rains, and it is one of the biggest killers in the world, although the affect is worst on those under five years of age. It is strongly recommend that all visitors take anti-malarial drugs, however you should discuss this with your personal physician to decide which one and which vaccinations would be most suitable for you.

To maximize your enjoyment of the actual Tanzanian safari experience, make sure to bring binoculars, camera, appropriate clothing, sun hat and sunscreen, and a first aid kit. Ensure you also have sufficient US dollars and credit cards authorized by your bank for use in Tanzania.

Yellow Fever immunization is the only jab that is mandatory for entry into Tanzania, but you should also look at getting a tetanus booster and a typhoid vaccination, plus anything else your local healthcare professional or travel clinic recommends. It is recommended you consult with a specialized travel clinic regarding what vaccinations are suggested for travel to Tanzania over and above the mandatory Yellow Fever inoculation. And it is advisable to begin vaccinations approximately six weeks prior to your arrival so that you’ll have adequate time to get them all in.

In the unfortunate event you find yourself in need of urgent medical care, Arusha Medevac is the only air ambulance service based in Tanzania, providing reliable and professional air evacuation and specialised medical air transport service out of Arusha Airport. AMREF Flying Doctors is another long-standing and reliable medevac option operating out of Nairobi.

The best bet would be to request a medevac to the nearest private hospital in either Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Mwanza, Mbeya or Morogoro. Steer clear of the overcrowded and under-resourced government hospitals. For serious medical emergencies you should medevac directly to Nairobi where you will find East Africa’s foremost healthcare facilities, including the Aga Khan University Hospital and Gertrude’s Children’s Hospital.

Make sure to obtain comprehensive travel and international medical insurance, which will cover all overseas medical costs, including medical repatriation/evacuation, repatriation of remains and legal costs. You should check the fine print for any exclusions, making sure that your policy covers you for all the activities, such as scuba diving or climbing Kilimanjaro, which you wish to undertake while travelling around Tanzania.

• Tanzania’s currency is the Tanzanian Shilling. Important to know about money matters in Tanzania is don’t bring travellers cheques with you, as they are not accepted anymore.

• If you are carrying US dollars with you, then you’ll be in luck as Tanzania loves this currency. Dollars are widely accepted, sometimes even preferred over local currency. Euros are accepted but not as much as dollars.

• Paying with dollars is possible in all quality establishments, from hotels to safari lodges including safari agencies. As you will notice when doing research for Tanzania holidays, most of businesses quote prices in US dollars.

• For local shopping and smaller expenses, it’s best to carry shillings.

• Prices in dollars are oftentimes quoted higher than in Tanzanian Shillings, therefore is good to exchange the dollars to TSH.

• To exchange money in a Forex office, you will have to show your passport. Forex offices have fair exchange rates, but do not exchange money on the street.

• Having said that, the best and safest option is to have VISA with you, Mastercard is accepted on some ATMs, while withdrawals with VISA is always possible.

• Safari operators and hotels accept credit cards, but expect to pay additional surcharge with each payment, between 5-15 percent. it’s advisable to always ask if additional charges will be billed when paying with a credit card.

• If you plan to visit outlying areas in Tanzania, withdraw money in the city and have some extra amount of cash on the side.