Tanzania Safari

The best time for a safari is during the dry season, from late June to October. However, for special experiences like the calving season in Ndutu (December to March) or the Great Migration in the Serengeti (June to July), specific months are better.

Tanzania is home to the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino) and much more. You can also see wildebeest, zebra, giraffe, hippos, cheetahs, and various birds. Specific parks like the Serengeti are famous for the Great Migration, and Ngorongoro Crater has a dense population of wildlife.

• Popular parks include:
o Serengeti National Park (for the Great Migration)
o Ngorongoro Crater (for year-round wildlife)
o Tarangire National Park (for elephants and baobab trees)
o Lake Manyara (for flamingos and tree-climbing lions)

A typical safari lasts 5-10 days, with enough time to explore multiple parks. Shorter safaris (3-4 days) usually cover 1 or 2 parks, while longer safaris (7-10 days) can cover more areas, offering more varied experiences.

• Safari packages typically include:
o Park entrance fees
o Accommodation (lodges, camps, etc.)
o Meals (usually full board)
o Game drives
o Professional guide services
• Flights, drinks, and personal expenses may not be included unless specified.

Options range from luxury lodges and tented camps to mid-range camps and budget camping. The level of comfort and amenities will depend on your choice and budget.

Safaris are generally safe when you follow the guidelines provided by your guide and the lodges. Stay inside vehicles during game drives, avoid walking unaccompanied in wildlife areas, and listen to safety briefings.

• Essentials include:
o Light, neutral-colored clothing (for blending with the environment)
o Comfortable walking shoes
o Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
o Binoculars and a camera
o Insect repellent
o A jacket for cooler mornings and evenings

Visitors should ensure they are up-to-date on routine vaccines. You may need vaccinations for yellow fever (required if coming from an endemic area). It is recommended to take anti-malarial medication, especially if visiting during the rainy season or near water bodies.

The Great Migration involves millions of wildebeest, zebras, and antelopes moving through the Serengeti in search of fresh grazing. It occurs year-round, but the best time to witness it is from June to July (river crossings) and January to March (calving season in Ndutu).

The best time for the calving season is from December to March in the Ndutu region of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. Thousands of wildebeest calves are born during this period, attracting predators like lions and cheetahs, creating a dramatic wildlife spectacle.

Most visitors need a tourist visa, which can be obtained on arrival or online via Tanzania’s eVisa portal. A valid passport with at least six months of validity and proof of onward travel is required sometimes.

Yes, many travelers combine a safari with a beach holiday in Zanzibar. After a wildlife adventure, Zanzibar offers stunning beaches, historical sites, and water-based activities like snorkeling and diving.

Transportation is usually in 4×4 safari vehicles equipped with pop-up roofs for better wildlife viewing. Private charters or domestic flights between parks are also available for quicker travel.

Meals are typically Western-style with local influences, including meats, vegetables, fruits, and grains. Special dietary requirements (vegetarian, gluten-free, etc.) can be accommodated if requested in advance.