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Tanzania
Tanzania
Overview
Parks & Reserves
Wildlife
Birds
Best Time To Visit
Weather & Climate
Popular Routes
Getting There
Malaria & Vaccinations
Safety
By Fadhili Mlema
Fadhili is a seasoned East African safari expert with 15 years of experience crafting luxurious and authentic journeys. Deeply rooted in the region, his passion for wildlife and tourism has shaped his unparalleled expertise. Let Fadhili curate your ultimate African adventure.
- Live Location
- View Photos
- Open Map
Rates
$300 to $1,500+ pp/day
Best Time To Go
June-October (peak season); Jan-Feb (wildebeest calving in Serengeti).
High Season
July to March (crowded in Northern parks), June to October (crowded in Nyerere, less so in Southern and Western parks).
Size
947,303 km² / 365,756 mi²
Tanzania is a wildlife haven, teeming with iconic animals such as elephants, giraffes, buffalo, and hippos. The Serengeti offers a spectacular sight with millions of migrating wildebeest, gazelle, and zebra, often accompanied by predators like lions and hyenas. Endangered wild dogs can be found in Ruaha and Nyerere (Selous) National Parks. Black rhinos are easily spotted in the Ngorongoro Crater, while Mkomazi National Park provides an intimate experience with these magnificent creatures.
Tanzania’s breathtaking landscapes make it a premier destination for luxury safaris and wildlife photography. Capture the awe-inspiring wildebeest migration and encounter endangered species. Beyond the traditional safari, immerse yourself in the wild with walking safaris, night game drives, or thrilling boat safaris. Whether it’s witnessing nocturnal animals or dramatic scenes of crocodiles and hippos, Tanzania offers an unparalleled wildlife experience.
Tanzania’s adventures go beyond the classic safari. While morning and afternoon game drives reveal incredible wildlife, there’s more to explore. Experience a thrilling night drive under the moonlit sky, or take a walking safari to uncover hidden plant life and animal tracks. For a heart-pounding thrill, glide through waterways on a boat safari, especially in Nyerere National Park, where crocodiles and hippos await. Each activity offers a unique way to connect with Tanzania’s wild beauty, creating lasting memories.
Tanzania enjoys a tropical climate, making it ideal for wildlife safaris year-round. From June to October, the dry season offers excellent game viewing, with warm, sunny days and temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C. However, higher altitudes, such as the Ngorongoro Crater highlands, can be cooler.
The wet season runs from November to May, featuring the “short rains” from November to December and the “long rains” from March to May. While the rains bring lush landscapes, they also create unique opportunities for adventurous and photographic safaris. Whether you’re exploring during the clear, dry season or the vibrant, green, wet season, Tanzania offers unforgettable wildlife experiences throughout the year.
Tanzania offers unforgettable safari experiences year-round. The dry season (June to October) is ideal for game viewing, with clear skies and concentrated wildlife. Witness the Great Migration in the Serengeti, featuring dramatic river crossings. Visit in January or February for the calving season in the southern Serengeti. The wet season (November to May) brings lush landscapes and fewer crowds, though some parks may be less accessible. The northern safari circuit is open year-round, while the southern and western regions experience more rainfall. Your ideal visit depends on your priorities: wildlife encounters, crowd levels, or diverse landscapes.
- Classic Safari
- Classic and walking safaris
- Classic, boat and walking safaris
- Classic, walking and canoe safaris
- Classic and walking safaris
- Classic safaris
- Classic safaris
- Premier Parks & Reserves
- Best Park (not to be missed)
- Great Park (worth a detour)
By Fadhili Mlema
Fadhili is a seasoned East African safari expert with 15 years of experience crafting luxurious and authentic journeys. Deeply rooted in the region, his passion for wildlife and tourism has shaped his unparalleled expertise. Let Fadhili curate your ultimate African adventure.
Tanzania is renowned for its extraordinary wildlife encounters. From the iconic Big Five lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino to a diverse array of other species, this East African gem offers unparalleled opportunities to immerse oneself in nature. Explore the vast Serengeti plains, the Ngorongoro Crater’s dramatic landscapes, or the remote wilderness of southern Tanzania to experience the magic of Africa’s wildlife.
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Tanzania offers an unparalleled wildlife experience featuring the iconic Big Five: lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino. The vast plains of the Serengeti and the unique Ngorongoro Crater are prime locations for spotting these majestic animals. In addition to the Big Five, Tanzania is home to a wide range of predators, including cheetahs, spotted hyenas, and African wild dogs. The country’s diverse ecosystems also support a variety of other fascinating species, such as giraffes, zebras, hippos, and crocodiles, making it a top destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
The optimal time for wildlife viewing in Tanzania is during the dry season, from June to October. This period offers excellent game drives, with shorter grass and better visibility of animals, including the iconic wildebeest migration in the Western and Northern Serengeti. From November to May, the green season brings lush landscapes and fewer tourists, making it ideal for photography. However, accessibility to some parks in the southern and western circuits may be limited due to the long rains from March to May. For a chance to witness the wildebeest calving, visit the southern Serengeti, particularly the Ndutu area, between January and February.
- View Photos
By Fadhili Mlema
Fadhili is a seasoned East African safari expert with 15 years of experience crafting luxurious and authentic journeys. Deeply rooted in the region, his passion for wildlife and tourism has shaped his unparalleled expertise. Let Fadhili curate your ultimate African adventure.
Tanzania is a premier birding destination in Africa, offering over 1,100 bird species, including more than 800 residents, nearly 200 regular migrants, and around 40 endemics. The Northern Circuit is known for endemic species like the ashy starling, yellow-collared and Fischer’s lovebird, and grey-breasted spurfowl, while the Eastern Arc Mountains are home to many of the country’s other endemic birds. The optimal birdwatching season is from November to April, during the rainy season when bird activity peaks and migratory species are present.
Notable Birds in Tanzania
The prime birdwatching season in Tanzania is from November to April, coinciding with the arrival of Palearctic and intra-African migratory birds. During this time, birdlife is most vibrant, with resident species in breeding plumage and active nesting. While this overlaps with the Wet season, marked by higher temperatures and rainfall, it offers exceptional birdwatching opportunities. Tanzania’s birdlife remains impressive year-round, but the Wet season, particularly from November to April, is the best time to witness the full diversity of species, including migratory birds.
Bird Species
1,100+
Migratory Birds
Nov to Apr
By Fadhili Mlema
Fadhili is a seasoned East African safari expert with 15 years of experience crafting luxurious and authentic journeys. Deeply rooted in the region, his passion for wildlife and tourism has shaped his unparalleled expertise. Let Fadhili curate your ultimate African adventure.
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Tanzania offers the ultimate safari experience, especially during the dry season (June to October). This is when wildlife viewing is at its best, coinciding with the spectacular wildebeest migration in the Serengeti. Witness the magic of newborn wildebeest in January and February. While the northern safari circuit thrives year-round, the southern and western regions are best explored during the dry months.
Best Time
Peak Wildlife Viewing: June to October and January to February. These months offer clear skies, abundant wildlife, and the Great Migration. January and February also highlight the calving season.
High Season
Tanzania's northern parks, including Serengeti and Ngorongoro, see peak visitor numbers from July to March. The busiest period in the southern and western circuits, excluding Nyerere, is from June to October.
Low Season
Lodge Availability: In April and May, many lodges in the southern and western regions close due to the rainy season, limiting availability, though wildlife viewing remains rewarding.
Best Weather
Tanzania's best weather is during the dry season from June to October, with minimal rainfall, making it ideal for wildlife safaris.
Worst Weather
Tanzania's wet season, from March to May, brings heavy rains, limiting accessibility but offering lush landscapes and fewer crowds.
- View Photos
By Fadhili Mlema
Fadhili is a seasoned East African safari expert with 15 years of experience crafting luxurious and authentic journeys. Deeply rooted in the region, his passion for wildlife and tourism has shaped his unparalleled expertise. Let Fadhili curate your ultimate African adventure.
Tanzania boasts a richly diverse climate, perfectly tailored to create the ideal conditions for your classic and luxury safari adventure. Coastal areas bask in warmth and humidity, while the inland regions enjoy temperate days and refreshingly cool nights, especially at higher altitudes. The western and southern lowlands offer a warm, comfortable atmosphere with less humidity. This harmonious mix of climates, alongside distinct dry and wet seasons, sets the stage for an extraordinary safari adventure
Arusha, known as the gateway to Tanzania’s northern safari circuit, enjoys a relatively mild climate. In contrast, lower-altitude parks such as Lake Manyara, Nyerere (Selous), Mikumi, Ruaha, Gombe, Mahale Mountains, and Katavi are known for warmer and more consistently pleasant weather.
While Tanzania is celebrated for its tropical climate, it experiences distinct wet and dry seasons. April typically sees the peak of the rainy season, but many of the safari parks receive significantly less rainfall than Arusha. Additionally, higher elevations, like the Ngorongoro Crater rim, experience cooler temperatures, particularly during the evenings and mornings, due to their altitude of about 2,300 meters (7,545 feet).
- Live Location
From June to October, Tanzania’s Dry season offers ideal conditions for classic and luxury safaris. With minimal rainfall, low humidity, and daytime temperatures between 20°C (68°F) and 30°C (86°F), the weather is crisp and pleasant. Nights can be cooler, especially in the northern parks, so packing warm layers for early morning game drives is recommended.
June to September features clear skies and abundant sunshine, perfect for wildlife viewing and photography. October marks the transition to the wetter season, bringing warmer temperatures and the first signs of rain, refreshing the landscape.
- View Photos
Tanzania’s Wet season (November to May) offers a vibrant safari experience, ideal for classic and luxury travellers. The landscape transforms into a lush paradise teeming with wildlife. Afternoon temperatures average around 30°C (86°F), with cooler mornings in the elevated northern parks.
November and December: This period is marked by short rains and brief, sporadic showers that usually last about a month. Their timing can vary, but they rarely disrupt safari activities and bring a refreshing change to the landscape.
January & February: Northern parks and coastal areas often enjoy a break in the rains, offering a more comfortable climate, while other regions may still have light showers, enhancing the refreshing ambience.
March to May: The ‘long rains’ bring frequent, heavy showers, especially in southern and western parks, showcasing Tanzania’s landscapes and wildlife in a uniquely vibrant way.
- View Photos
By Fadhili Mlema
Fadhili is a seasoned East African safari expert with 15 years of experience crafting luxurious and authentic journeys. Deeply rooted in the region, his passion for wildlife and tourism has shaped his unparalleled expertise. Let Fadhili curate your ultimate African adventure.
The Northern Safari Circuit: A Wildlife Paradise
Tanzania’s Northern Safari Circuit is a crown jewel for safari enthusiasts, a premier safari destination renowned for its extraordinary wildlife and awe-inspiring landscapes. It is accessible via Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK).
Signature Safari Highlights:
 Arusha National Park: Stunning views of Mount Meru and Kilimanjaro. This park is an ideal starting point for your safari adventure.
 Lake Manyara National Park: Birdwatcher’s paradise and wildlife enthusiasts, with stunning Rift Valley views.
Tarangire National Park: Famous for vast elephant herds and iconic baobab trees.
 Ngorongoro Crater: A world-renowned natural wonder teeming with wildlife, including the Big Five.
Serengeti National Park: The ultimate African safari, famed for the Great Migration and unmatched wildlife encounters.
Must-Have Add-Ons: Enhance your journey with these unforgettable Add-Ons.
Island Retreat: Unwind on the pristine, idyllic beaches of these tropical paradises of Zanzibar Mafia Island.
Chimpanzee Trekking: Experience close encounters with primates in Gombe or Mahale Mountains National Parks.
Summit Kilimanjaro: Embark on an unforgettable adventure climbing Africa’s highest peak.
Southern Circuit Safari: Tanzania’s Untamed Wilderness
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through Tanzania’s untamed Southern Circuit, which is ideal for those seeking an immersive, off-the-beaten-path safari. Start your journey at Julius Nyerere (DAR) or Abeid Amani Karume (ZNZ) Airports with a seamless flight or drive to iconic parks like Ruaha, Nyerere, and Mikumi.
Signature Safari Highlights:
 Mikumi National Park: A wildlife haven known for its giant elephant and buffalo herds, with close encounters, especially in the Dry season.
Nyerere National Park: Once part of Selous Game Reserve, this park offers diverse safaris, including game drives, boat trips, and walking adventures.
Ruaha National Park: A wildlife haven home to diverse species, including rare wild dogs.
Must-Have Add-Ons: Enhance your journey with these unforgettable Add-Ons.
 Island Retreat: Unwind on the pristine, idyllic beaches of these tropical paradises of Zanzibar Mafia Island.
Western Circuit: Tanzania’s Off the Beaten Path Adventure
Explore Tanzania’s remote Western safari circuit, where a classic Katavi safari pairs perfectly with chimpanzee trekking in Mahale or Gombe National Parks.
Signature Safari Highlights:
Katavi National Park: A remote, pristine park with abundant wildlife and breathtaking landscapes, especially during the dry season.
Mahale Mountains National Park or Gombe National Park: Unparalleled opportunities to experience Africa’s finest chimpanzee trekking.
Must-Have Add-Ons: Enhance your journey with these unforgettable Add-Ons.
Island Retreat: Unwind on the pristine, idyllic beaches of these tropical paradises of Zanzibar Mafia Island.
By Fadhili Mlema
Fadhili is a seasoned East African safari expert with 15 years of experience crafting luxurious and authentic journeys. Deeply rooted in the region, his passion for wildlife and tourism has shaped his unparalleled expertise. Let Fadhili curate your ultimate African adventure.
Tanzania welcomes international travellers through three primary gateways. Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), located 50 kilometres east of Arusha, is ideal for starting Northern Circuit safaris, just a 1.5-hour scenic drive away. Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR), 12 kilometres southwest of Dar es Salaam, serves those exploring the southern parks. At the same time, Abeid Amani Karume International Airport (ZNZ) in Zanzibar offers access to pristine beaches and vibrant culture.
Travelers can choose domestic flights or ground transportation to reach Tanzania’s wildlife reserves. Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) also serves as a hub for domestic flights, with Arusha Airport (ARK) providing additional connections. Most visitors opt for comprehensive safari packages that include airport transfers and reliable ground transportation for a seamless experience.
Note: Driving times may vary due to traffic or unforeseen circumstances.
- Main Park Location
For the latest information on airlines and ticket prices to Tanzania, please visit:
Most safari packages include domestic flights, but independent travellers can also easily explore Tanzania’s diverse landscapes. A network of reliable domestic airlines connects major cities, national parks, and coastal destinations.
Airlines available for booking include Air Tanzania, Unity Air, My Fly Aviation, Fly Zanzibar, Jambo Aviation, Sindbard Air, Zantas Air, Precision Air, Regional Air, ZanAir, Safari Air Link, Coastal Aviation, Auric Air, Air Excel, and As Salaam Air. At Hola Africa, we ensure seamless travel logistics by expertly managing all your domestic flight arrangements, providing a smooth journey from start to finish.
Entry requirements are subject to change. Before your trip, we recommend contacting your nearest Tanzanian embassy or high commission to confirm the latest information.
- Passport: A valid passport with six months’ validity and a blank visa page is required for all foreign visitors.
- Visa: Citizens of most countries need a visa. Check if your country is exempt.
- Applying for a visa online in advance is recommended, but you can also apply through your local Tanzanian embassy or upon arrival.
- Yellow Fever: If you’re arriving from a yellow-fever-infected country, you’ll need a vaccination certificate.
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COVID-19: Verify entry requirements with your local Tanzanian embassy/high commission or government travel advisory.
By Fadhili Mlema
Fadhili is a seasoned East African safari expert with 15 years of experience crafting luxurious and authentic journeys. Deeply rooted in the region, his passion for wildlife and tourism has shaped his unparalleled expertise. Let Fadhili curate your ultimate African adventure.
Prioritise your health and safety before embarking on your Tanzanian journey. We strongly recommend consulting a travel doctor or specialised clinic at least three months before your departure. They can offer personalised advice on vaccinations, malaria prevention, and other health considerations based on your specific itinerary and activities.
Yellow Fever: Proof of yellow fever vaccination is mandatory if you’re arriving from or have recently travelled through a country with a yellow fever risk.
Other Recommended Vaccinations: While not mandatory, vaccinations for Hepatitis A and B, Rabies, and Typhoid are highly recommended. Your travel doctor can provide tailored guidance.
Malaria poses a significant risk in most parts of Tanzania, except in high-altitude areas above 2,000 meters (6,500 feet). Most safari parks fall within malaria-risk zones. The risk is heightened during the rainy season, from November to May. Consult your travel doctor to discuss effective malaria prevention strategies, including antimalarial medication and protective measures.
The information provided here is a general overview. For the most up-to-date and comprehensive health advice for travel to Tanzania, refer to official government health resources and reputable travel clinics.
By Fadhili Mlema
Fadhili is a seasoned East African safari expert with 15 years of experience crafting luxurious and authentic journeys. Deeply rooted in the region, his passion for wildlife and tourism has shaped his unparalleled expertise. Let Fadhili curate your ultimate African adventure.
A secure haven for safari enthusiasts and renowned for its warm hospitality and breathtaking landscapes, Tanzania provides a safe and unforgettable experience for travellers, especially those embarking on organised safaris. As a premier tourist destination, the country welcomes millions of visitors annually who come to marvel at its diverse wildlife, rich cultural heritage, and stunning natural beauty.
While petty theft can occur in urban areas, such incidents are largely preventable with basic precautions. For added security and peace of mind, organised safaris offer a structured and well-protected way to explore the country’s wonders. To ensure your visit to Tanzania is both secure and enjoyable, we’ve compiled some helpful tips.
Your safety is paramount during wildlife viewing activities. Prioritise safety by following your safari guide’s instructions and park rules. Stay in your vehicle during self-drive and maintain a safe distance from animals. For additional safety tips.
At Hola Africa, your safety is our priority as you explore Tanzania. Like many destinations worldwide, urban areas can be prone to petty theft and pickpocketing, though violent crime is uncommon. Participating in guided tours greatly reduces any potential risks. If you decide to explore on your own, following a few basic precautions will help ensure a safe experience: consult with your hotel about the safety of the area for walking, carry only a small amount of cash, keep valuables out of sight, and choose a taxi for travel after dark. For more general safety tips for African cities, please refer to our comprehensive guide.
Please review the information below for essential details on malaria, vaccinations, and general travel safety precautions for your visit to anzania.
For detailed information on malaria, vaccinations, and general travel safety precautions for Tanzania, please refer to the following government travel advisory websites:
Unforgettable Tanzania Safari Tours
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Tanzania:
Private tour,
Mid-Range,
- 8 days
- 4 places
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Tanzania:
Private tour,
Semi-Luxury,
- 6 days
- 4 places
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Tanzania:
Private tour,
Semi-Luxury,
- 6 days
- 3 places
