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    Safari in Tanzania
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    Safari in Tanzania

    East Africa · 89 parks

    Best time
    Jun–Aug
    Lodges
    from $105pp/night
    Visa & health
    See travel info

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    Tanzania hosts the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Mount Kilimanjaro - three of Africa's most iconic destinations. The country's vast network of national parks and conservation areas supports some of the continent's largest wildlife populations.

    Tanzania safari regions

    Safari Regions

    Best time to visit Tanzania

    When considering a safari to Tanzania, we find the timing significantly impacts the experience. For witnessing the Great Migration's calving season, we strongly recommend January and February in the...

    January

    Now
    moderate

    Green Season

    Warm and humid with occasional short rains, often followed by clear, sunny spells. The air is fresh and the landscapes are lush.

    The Great Migration herds are gathering in the Southern Serengeti and Ndutu, preparing for calving. This attracts a high concentration of predators.

    We love the intense predator-prey drama of the calving season in the Southern Serengeti, offering truly spectacular wildlife viewing.

    Serengeti (Ndutu)
    Ngorongoro Crater
    Tarangire National Park

    February

    high

    Green Season

    Generally warm and humid with intermittent showers, though dry spells are common. The vegetation remains vibrant and green.

    Peak calving season in the Southern Serengeti and Ndutu, with thousands of wildebeest calves born daily. Predator activity is at its highest.

    For sheer wildlife spectacle, we recommend witnessing the peak of the Great Migration's calving season, an unforgettable experience.

    Serengeti (Ndutu)
    Ngorongoro Crater
    Lake Manyara National Park

    March

    moderate

    Green Season / Long Rains begin

    Increasingly wet towards the end of the month as the long rains begin. Expect heavier, more frequent showers, but still plenty of sunshine.

    Calving continues, and the herds begin to disperse and move northwards. The landscapes are incredibly lush, and birding is excellent.

    We find the landscapes incredibly beautiful and the wildlife viewing still excellent before the heaviest rains truly set in.

    Serengeti
    Ngorongoro Crater
    Tarangire National Park

    April

    low

    Long Rains

    This is the wettest month, with heavy and consistent rainfall across most of the country. Some roads can become challenging, and some lodges close.

    The Great Migration herds are dispersed and moving north-west. Resident game is still present, and it's a fantastic time for birdwatching.

    While challenging, we appreciate the solitude and dramatic skies for photography, especially in the central and western Serengeti.

    Serengeti (central/western)
    Ngorongoro Crater
    Zanzibar

    May

    low

    Long Rains ending

    Rains begin to subside, but the landscape remains incredibly green and vibrant. Expect occasional showers, but increasingly dry days.

    The Great Migration herds continue their journey north-west. Resident game is abundant, and the birdlife is still prolific.

    We recommend this month for those seeking a quieter safari experience with lush scenery and excellent value before the peak season.

    Serengeti (western corridor)
    Ngorongoro Crater
    Lake Manyara National Park

    June

    moderate-high

    Dry Season begins

    Cooler, drier weather sets in with clear skies and comfortable temperatures. This marks the start of the prime safari season.

    The Great Migration herds gather in the Western Serengeti's Grumeti River area, preparing for crossings. Southern parks like Ruaha and Selous begin to shine.

    We love the beginning of the dry season for its comfortable weather and the start of the dramatic river crossings in the Western Serengeti.

    Serengeti (Western Corridor)
    Ruaha National Park
    Selous Game Reserve

    July

    high-peak

    Dry Season

    Cool mornings give way to warm, dry days with clear blue skies. This is ideal safari weather, with very little rain.

    The Great Migration herds move into the Northern Serengeti, with the first Mara River crossings beginning. Waterholes are busy with concentrated game.

    For classic safari action, we recommend focusing on the Northern Serengeti for the first Mara River crossings, a truly iconic sight.

    Serengeti (Northern)
    Ngorongoro Crater
    Ruaha National Park
    +1

    August

    peak

    Dry Season

    Very dry, warm days and cool nights characterize this month. Excellent visibility and comfortable conditions prevail.

    Peak Mara River crossings in the Northern Serengeti are in full swing, offering incredible drama. Southern parks are superb for game viewing.

    We consider August the prime time for witnessing the iconic Mara River crossings, a truly unforgettable spectacle of nature.

    Serengeti (Northern)
    Ruaha National Park
    Selous Game Reserve
    +1

    September

    high

    Dry Season

    Dry, hot, and often dusty as the dry season progresses. Water sources diminish, concentrating wildlife around remaining waterholes.

    Mara River crossings continue in the Northern Serengeti. Excellent predator viewing is common around the dwindling water sources.

    We find the dry, dusty conditions create a raw, intense safari experience with incredible predator opportunities and dramatic sunsets.

    Serengeti (Northern)
    Ruaha National Park
    Selous Game Reserve
    +1

    October

    moderate

    Dry Season / Short Rains begin

    Hot and dry, with the short rains potentially starting towards the end of the month. Humidity begins to rise.

    The Great Migration herds begin to move south from Kenya. Excellent game viewing around the remaining water sources in all parks.

    We recommend this month for a fantastic balance of excellent game viewing and slightly fewer crowds than the peak dry season.

    Serengeti (Northern/Central)
    Tarangire National Park
    Ruaha National Park
    +1

    November

    low-moderate

    Short Rains / Green Season begins

    Warm and humid, with short, often heavy, afternoon showers. The landscape rapidly transforms into a lush green paradise.

    The Great Migration herds are moving south, following the fresh grazing. Excellent birding as migratory species arrive.

    We love the fresh, green landscapes and the arrival of migratory birds, offering a different kind of beauty and photographic opportunities.

    Tarangire National Park
    Serengeti (Central/Southern)
    Lake Manyara National Park

    December

    high

    Short Rains / Green Season

    Warm and humid, with intermittent showers. The country is lush and green, and the air feels fresh.

    The Great Migration herds are arriving in the Southern Serengeti, preparing for the calving season. Resident game is abundant.

    We recommend the festive atmosphere and the anticipation of the calving season in the Southern Serengeti for a memorable holiday safari.

    Serengeti (Southern)
    Ngorongoro Crater
    Tarangire National Park
    Best months:
    June
    July
    August
    Jan
    Fair22°C155mm
    Feb
    Good22°C118mm
    Mar
    Good22°C140mm
    Apr
    Fair21°C178mm
    May
    Great21°C45mm
    Jun
    Excellent21°C15mm
    Jul
    Excellent20°C13mm
    Aug
    Excellent21°C15mm
    Sep
    Great23°C20mm
    Oct
    Great24°C37mm
    Nov
    Good23°C123mm
    Dec
    Good22°C137mm
    Great (4-5)
    Good (3)
    Poor (1-2)
    Best month

    What a Tanzania safari costs

    • Lodges: from $105pp/night up to $2,865, across 26 priced lodges
    • Add park fees, flights and transfers; most safaris are sold as packages that include them.
    Full Tanzania cost guide

    Top safari lodges in Tanzania

    More lodges in Tanzania

    Wildlife in Tanzania

    316 species recorded in Tanzania30 threatened

    Bookable safari packages

    Curated safari packages featuring Tanzania, bookable through Safari.com. Prices are guide rates; our partner finalises the itinerary.

    6 Day Great Migration Safari - Natures Most Spectacular Show

    6 Day Great Migration Safari - Natures Most Spectacular Show

    Featured

    Watch thousands of wildebeests and zebras crossing the grassland savannah is an experience to behold and surely one of Africa’s natural wonders.

    • 1 night at Sangaiwe Tented Lodge exploring Tarangire's baobab-dotted savannah
    • 3 nights at Kati Kati Tented Camp, positioned seasonally to track the herds
    From $3,654
    per person sharing, guide price
    Enquire
    7-Day All-Inclusive Masai Mara to Zanzibar Safari

    7-Day All-Inclusive Masai Mara to Zanzibar Safari

    This 7-day bush and beach safari delivers an unforgettable journey, blending the wild, open plains of the Masai Mara with the serene, turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean in Zanzibar. Guests will experience the freedom of the vast savannahs and the tranquil beauty of sandy beaches, creating a perfect contrast between adventure and relaxation.

    • 3 nights at Governors' Camp on the Masai Mara, then 3 at Nungwi Dreams in Zanzibar
    • Twice-daily game drives and guided bush walks in the Masai Mara
    From $4,064
    per person sharing, guide price
    Enquire
    3-Day Singita Faru Faru Luxury Fly-In Safari

    3-Day Singita Faru Faru Luxury Fly-In Safari

    Singita Faru Faru Lodge offers a luxurious and immersive safari experience in the heart of the African wilderness. The lodge is renowned for its contemporary design that harmoniously blends with its serene natural surroundings.

    • 2 nights at Singita Faru Faru Lodge in the Grumeti Game Reserve
    • Twice-daily open-vehicle game drives across the Grumeti plains
    From $5,700
    per person sharing, guide price
    Enquire
    9 Day Masai Mara, Serengeti & Manyara Safari

    9 Day Masai Mara, Serengeti & Manyara Safari

    Explore some of Africa's best game parks on this 10-day safari through Kenya and Tanzania. Set out on an adventure combined with 5-star luxury lodges, and enjoy game drives, fine dining, and five-star service — and keep watch for the "Big Five.

    • 1 night at Hemingways Nairobi on arrival
    • 2 nights at andBeyond Bateleur Camp in the Masai Mara tracking the Big Five
    From $10,254
    per person sharing, guide price
    Enquire
    10-Day Best of East Africa Migration Safari

    10-Day Best of East Africa Migration Safari

    Your adventure starts in Nairobi, showcasing modern Kenyan style, before heading to the Masai Mara to see the Big Five, Mara Cats, and the Great Migration (July-November). Stay at Kichwa Tembo Tented Camp for a classic safari experience. Next, travel to the Serengeti, spending two days at a mobile camp with prime views of the migration. Visit Ngorongoro Crater, a wildlife haven, and stay two nights at Melia Ngorongoro with stunning views. End your trip at Lake Manyara National Park, known for tree-climbing lions and flamingos, staying at the Lake Manyara Tree Lodge. A perfect mix of unique stays and incredible wildlife.

    • 2 nights at Karen Blixen Cottages with visits to David Sheldrick Trust and Giraffe Centre
    • 2 nights at Kichwa Tembo in the Masai Mara for Big Five game drives
    From $13,085
    per person sharing, guide price
    Enquire
    7-Day West and East Ultra-Lux Zanzibar Fly-in Package

    7-Day West and East Ultra-Lux Zanzibar Fly-in Package

    This 7-day West and East safari will guide guests through the iconic beaches of Zanzibar. Begin with breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean from Sea Cliff Resort and Spa, then indulge in extensive luxury and exquisite services at The Melia Zanzibar. Immerse yourself in the authentic Zanzibar experience with a captivating city, spice, and Prison Island tour.

    • 3 nights at Sea Cliff Resort & Spa with Indian Ocean views
    • Stone Town, spice plantation and Prison Island tour
    From $2,724
    per person sharing, guide price
    Enquire

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    Visa, health & safety in Tanzania

    Visa Requirements for Tanzania

    Check if you need a visa to visit Tanzania

    Health & Vaccinations for Tanzania

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    Travelling safely in Tanzania means being prepared and respectful of both its people and its incredible wildlife. We recommend thorough health precautions and a vigilant approach to personal safety, especially in urban areas. Trust your safari operator and guides implicitly; their expertise is your best asset for a secure and unforgettable adventure.

    Vaccinations

    Yellow Fever - Required if you're arriving from a country with a risk of yellow fever transmission, and we strongly recommend it for everyone else. Carry your vaccination certificate; it's often requested.
    Hepatitis A & B - We always advise these for travelers to East Africa, given potential food and waterborne risks.
    Typhoid - Essential, in our opinion, given the prevalence of typhoid in the region.
    Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis (Tdap) - Ensure your routine vaccinations are up-to-date.
    Rabies - If you plan extended stays, volunteer work, or anticipate direct contact with animals, we recommend discussing this with your doctor.

    Visa Requirements

    Most nationalities, including those from the US, UK, EU, and Australia, will need a visa to enter Tanzania. We find the easiest way is to apply online in advance through the official e-visa portal, though you can also obtain one on arrival at major entry points like Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Dar es Salaam's Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR). Always check the latest requirements for your specific nationality before you travel.

    Malaria

    Malaria is a significant risk across most of Tanzania, particularly in the low-lying areas, coastal regions, and within popular safari destinations like the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. The higher altitudes of Mount Kilimanjaro are generally lower risk, but it's not entirely absent. We cannot stress enough the importance of consulting your doctor about appropriate anti-malarial prophylaxis. Beyond medication, we always use strong insect repellent containing DEET, wear long sleeves and trousers at dusk and dawn, and ensure our mosquito nets are properly tucked in at night. The peace of mind is invaluable.

    Travel Insurance

    Comprehensive travel insurance is non-negotiable for a Tanzanian safari. We always ensure our policy includes robust medical coverage, emergency medical evacuation, and coverage for trip cancellations or interruptions. Given the remote nature of many safari camps, air evacuation can be incredibly expensive without proper coverage. Don't skimp on this; it's your safety net in a truly wild landscape.

    Emergency Numbers

    police: 999
    ambulance: 112

    Travel Advisory

    Tanzania is, by and large, a safe country for tourists, and we've always felt secure on our travels there. However, like any popular destination, petty crime, such as pickpocketing and bag snatching, can occur, especially in bustling city centers like Dar es Salaam and Arusha. We recommend exercising standard caution: avoid displaying valuables, use hotel safes, and don't walk alone at night in unfamiliar areas. On safari, the primary 'danger' comes from the wildlife itself-always listen intently to your guides; they are experts in animal behavior and your safety. Road conditions can be challenging, so we strongly advise against self-driving and instead rely on reputable safari operators with experienced drivers. The political climate is generally stable, but it's always wise to stay informed of current events.

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