Best Places to Visit in Tanzania for African Safari. Tanzania is one of the most iconic destinations in Africa for wildlife safaris. Known for its rich biodiversity, majestic landscapes, and vibrant cultural heritage, Tanzania offers an unforgettable experience for safari lovers. Whether you’re tracking the Great Migration across the Serengeti plains or spotting endangered black rhinos in the Ngorongoro Crater, every journey through Tanzania’s wilderness is nothing short of magical.
Best Places to Visit in Tanzania for African Safaris
In this article, we’ll explore the best places to visit in Tanzania for an African safari, highlighting each destination’s unique features, top wildlife sightings, best travel times, and practical tips for planning your trip.
1. Serengeti National Park – The Crown Jewel of African Safaris
Why Visit:
The Serengeti is world-famous for the Great Wildebeest Migration, one of nature’s most awe-inspiring spectacles. Every year, over 1.5 million wildebeest, 200,000 zebras, and countless gazelles migrate in a massive loop across the ecosystem in search of greener pastures.
Top Wildlife:
- Lions (Serengeti has one of Africa’s largest populations)
- Leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas
- Elephants, giraffes, buffaloes
- Nile crocodiles during river crossings
Best Time to Visit:
- June to October: Dry season, best for general game viewing.
- July to September: River crossings in northern Serengeti.
- December to March: Calving season in southern Serengeti.
Tip: Book early during migration months, as lodges fill up fast.
2. Ngorongoro Crater – A Natural Wildlife Sanctuary
Why Visit:
Often described as the Eighth Wonder of the World, Ngorongoro Crater is the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera. This UNESCO World Heritage Site forms a natural enclosure for an incredible density of wildlife.
Top Wildlife:
- Black rhinos (rare and endangered)
- Lions, cheetahs, hyenas
- Huge elephant bulls with massive tusks
- Flamingos in Lake Magadi
Best Time to Visit:
- Year-round: The crater floor offers great game viewing in all seasons.
- Dry season (June–October): Easier visibility and travel conditions.
Tip: Combine Ngorongoro with Serengeti and Lake Manyara for a classic Northern Circuit safari.
3. Tarangire National Park – The Land of Giants
Why Visit:
Tarangire is often overlooked but offers one of the best elephant viewing experiences in Africa. The park is dotted with majestic baobab trees and the Tarangire River, which attracts large concentrations of animals during the dry season.
Top Wildlife:
- Large herds of elephants
- Lions, leopards, and cheetahs
- Oryx, kudu, impalas
- Over 500 species of birds
Best Time to Visit:
- June to October: Dry season draws animals to the river.
Tip: Ideal for photographers who want fewer crowds and dramatic landscapes.
4. Lake Manyara National Park – Compact Yet Diverse
Why Visit:
This small but diverse park offers a unique ecosystem with groundwater forests, soda lakes, and open grasslands. It’s famous for tree-climbing lions, which are rare in other parts of Tanzania.
Top Wildlife:
- Tree-climbing lions
- Hippos and flamingos in the alkaline lake
- Troops of baboons (among the largest in Africa)
- Giraffes and elephants
Best Time to Visit:
- July to October (dry) and January to February (short dry season)
Tip: Lake Manyara is ideal for a half-day safari and a perfect stop on the way to Ngorongoro.
5. Ruaha National Park – Tanzania’s Hidden Wilderness
Why Visit:
Ruaha is one of Tanzania’s largest national parks but remains off the beaten path. This remote destination offers raw and authentic safari experiences with minimal tourist traffic.
Top Wildlife:
- Predators like lions, leopards, wild dogs
- Elephants, kudu, roan and sable antelope
- Over 570 bird species
Best Time to Visit:
- June to October: Dry season, easier to spot wildlife as animals congregate near rivers.
Tip: Ruaha is great for travelers looking for serenity and exclusivity in nature.
6. Nyerere National Park (Selous Game Reserve) – Africa’s Untamed Safari Frontier
Why Visit:
Covering over 30,000 sq km, Nyerere is one of Africa’s largest protected areas. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its boat safaris, walking safaris, and rich predator population.
Top Wildlife:
- Hippos and crocodiles along the Rufiji River
- Wild dogs (one of the best places to see them)
- Elephants, buffaloes, lions
Best Time to Visit:
- June to October for best game viewing.
Tip: Unlike the northern parks, Nyerere is part of the Southern Safari Circuit, ideal for adventurous travelers.
7. Zanzibar Archipelago – Post-Safari Paradise
Why Visit:
After days of game drives and early mornings, unwind in Zanzibar, a tropical paradise known for its white-sand beaches and turquoise waters. It’s also rich in Swahili culture and historical charm.
Top Activities:
- Relaxing on Nungwi and Kendwa beaches
- Exploring Stone Town (a UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Snorkeling and diving in Mnemba Atoll
- Visiting spice farms and learning Swahili traditions
Best Time to Visit:
- June to October and December to February
Tip: Perfect for honeymoons or family vacations post-safari.
8. Mount Kilimanjaro National Park – For the Adventurous Spirit
Why Visit:
Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, is a thrilling addition to any Tanzanian safari. While not a traditional safari destination, the trek through varied climate zones is incredibly rewarding.
Wildlife in Lower Slopes:
- Blue monkeys, colobus monkeys
- Antelopes, bushbucks, and forest birds
Best Time to Climb:
- January to March and June to October
Tip: Combine a Kilimanjaro trek with a Serengeti or Ngorongoro safari for the ultimate adventure.
Planning Your Tanzanian Safari – Tips and Recommendations
Safari Circuits
- Northern Circuit: Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, Lake Manyara
- Southern Circuit: Ruaha, Nyerere
- Western Circuit: Katavi, Mahale Mountains (chimpanzee trekking)
Best Time to Visit Tanzania
- Dry Season (June–October): Best wildlife visibility, fewer mosquitoes, cooler weather.
- Green Season (November–May): Lush landscapes, birding, fewer tourists, lower prices.
Accommodation Options
- Budget: Public campsites and basic lodges
- Mid-range: Tented camps and safari lodges
- Luxury: Fly-in safaris, private lodges, mobile camps
Booking Tip:
To simplify your planning and get the best value, use platforms like SafariVendors.com. It allows you to:
- Request free quotes from multiple trusted tour operators
- Customize your itinerary
- Compare prices, services, and customer reviews
- Book directly with local providers
Final Thoughts
Tanzania’s wildlife experiences are unmatched whether you’re witnessing a lion chase in the Serengeti, marveling at elephants under baobab trees in Tarangire, or exploring the tranquil Rufiji River by boat in Nyerere National Park. Add in cultural encounters with the Maasai, luxurious lodges, and pristine beaches in Zanzibar, and you’ve got the ultimate safari destination.
No matter your budget or travel style, Tanzania has something unforgettable to offer. Choose your route, pack your binoculars, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime.
Start planning your dream safari today on SafariVendors.com – where Africa’s best safaris begin.