Safari in Tanzania

Tanzania hosts the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Mount Kilimanjaro - three of Africa's most iconic destinations. The country's vast network of...

Tanzania Safari at a Glance

5 safari regions, 89 parks & reserves, 316 wildlife species recorded.

Travel Advisories for Tanzania

UK FCDO: Advises against all but essential travel to parts.

Best Time to Visit Tanzania

The best months to visit Tanzania are May, June, July, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Good, temperature 21.9°C, rainfall 154.2mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 74.8%
  • February: Good, temperature 22.4°C, rainfall 117.1mm, sunshine 10.3 hrs, humidity 73.5%
  • March: Good, temperature 22.4°C, rainfall 138.9mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 73.5%
  • April: Good, temperature 21.4°C, rainfall 177.9mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 79.1%
  • May: Great, temperature 21.2°C, rainfall 45.2mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 69.7%
  • June: Great, temperature 20.6°C, rainfall 14.7mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 61.1%
  • July: Great, temperature 20.3°C, rainfall 12.9mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 57.5%
  • August: Great, temperature 21.3°C, rainfall 15.1mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 56.2%
  • September: Great, temperature 22.5°C, rainfall 20.6mm, sunshine 10.9 hrs, humidity 56.2%
  • October: Great, temperature 23.5°C, rainfall 36.8mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 56.7%
  • November: Great, temperature 22.7°C, rainfall 122.8mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 67.9%
  • December: Good, temperature 22.1°C, rainfall 136.3mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 73.5%

Wildlife in Tanzania

Home to 316 recorded species including 126 iconic birds, 66 birds of prey, 65 waterbirds, 17 tropical birds, 9 antelope & gazelle, 7 big herbivores.

Notable Species in Tanzania

Recommended Packing List for Tanzania

Based on average temperature of 21.9°C, typical conditions, humidity 67%.

  • Light layers - comfortable for 22°C weather
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Safety & Health - Tanzania

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.

Visa

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.

Safari Calendar - 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 Southern Serengeti, where predator action is intense. If your dream is to see the dramatic Mara River crossings, July through September in the Northern Serengeti is unparalleled, though crowds are at their peak. For a quieter, more intimate safari with lush landscapes and excellent birding, we love the shoulder seasons of May-June and October-November, which also offer better value.

January - Green Season

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

February - Green Season

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

March - Green Season / Long Rains begin

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

April - Long Rains

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

May - Long Rains ending

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

June - Dry Season begins

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

July - Dry Season

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

August - Dry Season

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

September - Dry Season

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

October - Dry Season / Short Rains begin

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

November - Short Rains / Green Season begins

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

December - Short Rains / Green Season

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

Safari Regions

Tanzania FAQs

When is the best time to witness the Great Migration in Tanzania, and where should I focus my safari?

The Great Migration is a year-round cycle, but specific events dictate the best viewing times. For the dramatic calving season, visit the Southern Serengeti from January to March; for river crossings, target the Western Corridor (Grumeti River) in May-July or the Northern Serengeti (Mara River) from July to October.

What's the main difference between Tanzania's Northern and Southern safari circuits, and which is best for a first-time visitor?

Tanzania's Northern Circuit (Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire) is more popular, accessible, and offers classic savanna landscapes with high wildlife density, ideal for first-timers. The Southern Circuit (Ruaha, Selous) provides a wilder, more remote experience with fewer crowds, often requiring fly-in safaris and featuring different ecosystems and species like wild dogs.

How much does a typical 7-day mid-range to luxury safari in Tanzania cost, and what factors influence the price?

A 7-day safari in Tanzania can range from approximately $4,000 to $8,000+ per person, depending on the level of luxury. Key factors influencing cost include accommodation choices (tented camps vs. lodges), private versus group tours, the time of year (peak season is pricier), and the inclusion of internal flights or specific activities like hot air ballooning.

What essential health and safety precautions should I take for a safari and potential Kilimanjaro climb in Tanzania?

For safaris, malaria prophylaxis is highly recommended, and a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate may be required if arriving from an endemic country. For Kilimanjaro, acclimatization is crucial to prevent altitude sickness, so choose an itinerary with sufficient ascent days. Always use reputable tour operators and follow guides' instructions for wildlife safety.

Beyond the 'Big Five,' what unique wildlife encounters or conservation efforts can I expect to see in Tanzania?

Tanzania offers unique opportunities like tracking chimpanzees in Mahale Mountains or Gombe Stream National Parks, or spotting rare wild dogs in Ruaha and Selous. The country is also a stronghold for diverse birdlife and has significant conservation initiatives, including anti-poaching units and community-based programs protecting its vast wilderness areas.

Recommended Books for Tanzania

  • Stuarts' Field Guide to National Parks & Game Reserves of East Africa by Chris & Mathilde Stuart - Park-by-park guide with maps, species lists, and practical information. Perfect for planning which parks to visit and what to expect.
  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Bradt Guide: Northern Tanzania by Philip Briggs - The best single-country safari guide - covers Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara in extraordinary detail with expert local knowledge.
  • Birds of East Africa by Terry Stevenson & John Fanshawe - Covers Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and Burundi - 1,388 species illustrated with range maps. The essential birding companion for East African safaris.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Lonely Planet East Africa by Lonely Planet - Comprehensive travel guide covering Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and beyond. Practical information on visas, transport, accommodation, and detailed park guides.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • Lonely Planet Tanzania by Lonely Planet - Comprehensive guide covering Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar, and beyond. Practical transport, accommodation, and itinerary advice for independent and guided safari travellers.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • A Field Guide to the Reptiles of East Africa by Stephen Spawls, Kim Howell, Harald Hinkel & Michele Menegon - Comprehensive coverage of snakes, lizards, turtles, and crocodilians found across East Africa. A niche but appreciated guide for the thorough naturalist.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Wildlife of East Africa (Princeton Pocket Guide) by Martin B. Withers & David Hosking - Compact pocket guide covering mammals, birds, reptiles, amphibians, and insects of Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Rwanda. 500+ colour photographs. The best quick-reference guide to carry on game drives.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.

Other Safari Countries in East Africa