Tanzania safari

Tanzania Travel Guide

We offer safaris in wild and amazing Tanzania National Parks: Serengeti and Ngorongoro, Tarangire and Manyara, Selous and Ruaha. We can also include remote destinations like Lake Eyasi and Lake Natron, as well as you can enjoy a relaxing beach extension in Zanzibar, Mafia or Pemba islands.

Accordingly to our experience we provide useful hints and tips for your trip to Tanzania.

 

Tanzania Weather

The climate in Tanzania is sub-tropical and coastal areas are usually hot and humid but regulated by sea breezes. There are two rain seasons in Tanzania: the heavy rain run from late March until late May and the landscape is green.

The hottest time of the year is December to March and the coolest months are June, July, and August.

In high-altitude areas such as Kilimanjaro or the Ngorongoro highlands, temperatures can fall close to zero Celsius degrees (freezing).

Tanzania Food

Tanzania is a country rich in fruits and vegetables, food is fresh and tasty. During the safari, you can try local food like ugali or pilau.

The safari meals consist of a pic-nic lunch and a tasty dinner with soup, pasta and/or rice as well as lamb, chicken, pork, fish or beef.

Breakfast usually consists of eggs, bacon and sausages, but there are also yogurt, cookies, toast, honey and jam.

You can drink fresh juice, coffee, tea and milk. At the bar or restaurant you can find local beers, wine, soft drinks and spirits.

Tanzania Lodges

There are several accommodation options during the safari spanning from the most luxurious to the standard level.

We regularly visit the accommodations for site inspection and classify the accommodation offerings in the lodge and tented camps into three standard categories: Standard, Plus and Luxury.

Our advice is a mix of lodges and tented camps inside the parks or in a strategic position for your safari. The experience at the tented camp in Serengeti is unforgettable, you overnight in the middle of the bush and at night can hear animals call and the sounds of the bush.

• What’s a mobile tented camp in Tanzania?
• Tanzania Camping Safaris

Currency and Money

Tanzania currency is Tanzanian Schilling but USD (American dollars) are accepted in the tourism circuit.

Changing money in Tanzania is not a problem in most populated areas, our guides can help you, the Forex office (aka Bureau de Change) for the cheapest rates. ATMs (cashpoints) are located in almost all banks with 24-hour access and give the same exchange rate as the bank, VISA, and Mastercard usually work.

20 USD, 50 USD, and 100 USD banknotes are accepted only if printed after 2003 and in good condition.

We recommend you change a little amount in Tanzanian Schillings for little expenses (souvenirs etc.).

Health and Safety

Tanzania is a peaceful country, travelling to Tanzania is completely safe. Tourism VISA is necessary to enter the country and most tourists can apply for it online or at the international airport on arrival. In case you are sick there are different private clinics and hospitals which provide a good service. During our safari, you are covered by AMFER Flying Doctors Insurance for transport to the hospital and we strongly recommend you purchase your medical travel insurance.

• Yellow Fever and Safari in Tanzania

Tanzania National Parks

Tanzania is a simply amazing for its wildlife and nature, during safari you can spot the famous Big Five (lion, African elephant, leopard, buffalo and rhinoceros) and see the Great Migration is Serengeti and Ngorongoro. Kilimanjaro National Park includes Mount Kilimanjaro, 5985 m, well known as the "Roof of Africa", there are national parks and conservation areas in Zanzibar’s archipelago in the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean.

Tanzania winned and continue to win the award for the best safari destination in Africa for years.

The boundless plain of the Serengeti, the Great Migration, the Ngorongoro crater, Mount Kilimanjaro known as the "Roof of Africa" are all must-see attractions within the parks of Tanzania.

Ngorongoro Conservation Area

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a protected area of over 8000 square kilometers, a UNESCO heritage site, where Masai warriors and their cattle coexist with wild animals. The main attraction is the Ngorongoro crater, an unmissable destination for all safaris in Northern Tanzania.

The Ngorongoro crater is the area with the highest density of wild animals in all of Africa. During the photo safari in the crater you can spot several species of typical African mammals, including the very rare black rhino. The crater is located within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a unique project where the tribe of Masai warriors and shepherds and wild animals still coexist in the same environment. For more information:

• Ngorongoro Conservation Area
• Map of the Ngorongoro

Serengeti National Park

The boundless plain of the Serengeti is the ideal place to spot lions and other savannah predators, we recommend spending at least two nights in this park. The overnight stay in a tented camp allows you to fully experience the safari experience, sleeping in the middle of the savannah and hearing the calls of animals and the noises of the night at night is truly an unforgettable experience. For more information:

• Serengeti National Park
• Map of the Serengeti
• Balloon Safari in Serengeti National Park

Tarangire National Park

The Tarangire park is definitely one of our favorites for the variety of the landscape, the close encounters with elephants and the huge baobab trees.

For those on a budget, an extraordinary experience is an overnight stay in the park where you can also experience the thrill of a night safari and a walking safari.

With a bit of luck we will be able to spot predators, numerous in the park, and many other animals typical of the savannah. For further information:

• Tarangire National Park
• Map of the Tarangire Park

The other parks

Mount Kilimanjaro is inside the homonymous park, the Lake Manyara park is famous for biodiversity and arboreal lions, the Arusha park contains Mount Meru, the fifth highest mountain in Africa.

Then there are the less traveled parks such as Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous), Ruaha, Mikumi, Ruaha and many others. Finally, we must mention the marine park of the island of Mafia where we can swim with the whale shark and make wonderful snorkeling excursions. For more information on other parks and destinations in Tanzania:

• Parks and tourist destinations of Tanzania
• Tanzania: The Northern Circuit Safari Map
• The most important Tanzanian attractions

The Great Migration in Tanzania

Admiring the spectacle of the Great Migration in Tanzania is a unique experience, the herds after hesitating perhaps for hours decide to cross the Mara river, challenging the steep and slippery banks, and the crocodiles to reach the other side and continue their movement in search of fresh pastures and water.

The month of February is the birth period in the Ndutu area where the herds gather to give birth and wean the puppies.

In order to witness the Great Migration we offer specific programs such as

• Great Summer Migration Safari
• Great Winter Migration Safari
• Safari Great Migration and River Crossing

Tanzania Safari Cost 2021/2022

Tanzania is one of the best tourist destinations in Africa and the tourism industry is among the key economic contributors to this country. There is no specific way to determine the exact Tanzania safari price due to several factors. The average cost for a safari roughly starts from 450 USD per person per day for mid-range level and 600 USD per person per day for luxury safari based on 2 pax. Even if the program involves 4 pax or more, the costs will be around 400 USD per person per day for mid-range safari and 550 USD for luxury safari.

Safari vehicle, private safari guide, and entrance fees

Safari vehicle and private safari guide prices are fixed unless you share the safari with more people, meaning that for many people the cost will be lower compared to a few people. Also, the entrance fee for the National Parks varies from one protected area to the other. For example, driving in Ngorongoro crater with a safari vehicle costs 295$ per day excluding the entrance of 71$ per person and other fees.

Accommodation

On accommodation, you can be able to save money because this will depend on the level (luxury/mid-range) that a customer wants. We can choose or mix:

• Luxury accommodation: Luxury accommodation has the best price-quality balance. These hotels/lodges/camps are located at beautiful locations with awesome views and very good service that matches the price. This is surely no budget accommodation and we always recommend the luxury accommodation if the customer has a good budget so that he/she can enjoy the accommodation at its fullest. 
• Mid-range accommodation: If the customer has a low budget and cannot afford the luxury accommodation then he/she can go camping or mid-range accommodation. Tanzania has a lot of good camping sites where you can stay in small dome tents and enjoy the safari.

Safari Cost Zanzibar

Zanzibar is an island that has different costs compared to safari accommodation on the mainland, Zanzibar is much cheaper. On this tropical island, you can stay in luxury accommodation for only $300 per person per night. These lodges are located at the beach in Zanzibar’s most beautiful village.
We always recommend our guests determine their safari budget. How much do you want to spend on a safari? It makes it easier to create an itinerary that suits you.

Zanzibar and Beach Holidays in Tanzania

Talking about beach holidays, Zanzibar archipelago means dreaming the white beaches and the crystal clear water of the Indian Ocean. After your safari or trekking you can relax on the beaches of Zanzibar, Mafia and Pemba.

For the most adventurous, we can organize excursions to discover Stone Town and the slave market, Chumbe Island and the best snorkeling and diving sites.

For the more romantics we will organize dinner at "The Rock" restaurant. To discover the Zanzibar archipelago we offer some tours, contact us:

• Email: info@savannahexplorers.com
• Whatsapp +255 765 972 458

Kilimanjaro Trekking

Trekking on Kilimanjaro is a unique experience that attracts tens of thousands of tourists to Tanzania every year to conquer the summit of the "Roof of Africa".

The trek is simple from a technical point of view, but demanding due to the altitude, the cold and the distance traveled. During the ascent you will be accompanied by professional guides, a cook and porters who will take care of assembling and disassembling the camp every day.

The ascent to the summit usually begins before midnight, to reach the summit and see the sunrise before starting the descent. The four most famous trekking routes on Kilimanjaro are:

• Machame Route
• Marangu Route
• Lemosho Route
• Rongai Route

You can learn more about the trekking on Kilimanjaro by reading:

• Mount Kililmanjaro
• Trekking on Kilimanjaro
• The routes for trekking
• Kilimanjaro trekking training
• Frequently asked questions

Tanzania FAQ

Below you see the frequently asked questions about the safari in Tanzania accordingly to our experience. If you have any other question you can contact us by mail or chat.

Is Tanzania The Best Place To Go On A Safari?

Tanzania is a good destination to visit throughout the year, with peak season from June to February for the safari sector. For Zanzibar Island, June to February are the best months to visit the islands, while March, April and May are the least popular times to visit Zanzibar.

In Tanzania, you will get a chance for superb wildlife viewing in top-class parks, authentic African wilderness with unfenced parks and endless plains. A wide range of budget, mid-range and luxury safari options.

Factors why Tanzania is the best place to go on safari:

• It has a big quantity of wildlife due to the large size of the country.
• The Great Migration takes place most in Tanzania side, meaning that you have a greater chance of seeing the Great Migration during more months of the year while in Tanzania.
• Tanzania has fewer visitors meaning less crowded game parks and safaris which is especially great considering covid-19 protocols.
• More iconic natural landmarks can be found in Tanzania, like Mount Kilimanjaro, the vast plains of the Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater and The Great Rift Valley Escarpment.
• A Tanzania safari is a safe destination for safari.
• National Parks are bigger and game drives will take longer hours spotting a lot of animals.
  

Is Kenya or Tanzania better for safari?

Both Tanzania and Kenya are good countries for safari, although Tanzania is considered to be the best one. When it comes to a safari experience, Tanzania has got very good and famous destinations such as Serengeti National Park, as Africa's Leading National Park since 2005 up to date by World Travel Awards. The Great Migration happening in this park is considered as one of the ten wonders of the natural world. Serengeti is also UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other UNESCO World Heritage Sites and attractions making Tanzania the best country are Ngorongoro Conservation Area, one of the greatest natural wonders of the planet. Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa and the tallest freestanding mountain in the world. Zanzibar with clear beaches is another factor making Tanzania the best for safaris and beach holidays. Not only do these attractions make Tanzania the best destination, but also political stability that brings peace to the country.

Kenya has got good attractions too, starting with National parks, Masai Mara Reserve is the best one due to the Great Migration happening in this reserve, although this Migration happening here is the same as the one in Serengeti National Park in Tanzania. And it is believed that the Migration happening in Serengeti Park is the best one because Serengeti Park is a huge park, hence huge herds to be seen. Other attractions in Kenya are Amboseli National Park, Lake Nakuru, Lake Naivasha, and others. Mount Kenya, Kenya’s highest mountain and the second-largest in Africa after Tanzania’s Mount Kilimanjaro, and beaches such as Diani beach are also good attractions in Kenya.

When is the best time to travel to Tanzania?

Our safari programs are tailored to seasonal movement of the animals in all parks. The best time to travel in Tanzania depends on the month, interests and attractions that you wish to see while you are on the safari. Whatever month you wish to travel, we will arrange a nice program for you with the best wildlife viewing in relation to your budget. However, the best time to travel to Tanzania is during the dry season from June to October because many animals are easier to track and spot.

How is the weather like in Tanzania?

In Tanzania, there are two well-defined seasons, which are dry and wet seasons. The dry season is around June to October and wet season around November/December to May with short dry season on January and February. The parks in Tanzania’s Northern Circuit safari are located on high altitude and so creating conducive environment for game drive. We normally recommend clients to travel with a light jacket for evenings and early morning cold weather.

What kinds of clothes recommended for Safari?

We kindly recommend carrying both light and warm clothes. You can opt to wear clothes with neutral or khaki colors, however avoid wearing black and blue on safari, these colors attract the tse-tse fly.

Please see below list for some of items that you can pack for your safari:

• T-shirts (long and short sleeve)
• Warm fleece jacket
• Socks
• One pair of comfortable walking shoes
• One pair of sandals
• Sunglasses
• Mosquito repellent and many other items of personal nature that you think could be helpful during your safari.
  

What children age is suitable when planning for my safari?

Children of any age are welcomed however due to bumpy roads, dusty and long hours’ drive with constant animal sightseeing not guaranteed, we normally recommend children from 5 years old. For children below 5 years old we recommend a safari in Tarangire, Manyara and Ngorongoro, because Serengeti is usually a too long drive for a very young child.

What safari vehicle do you use?

Our safari vehicle are either 4x4s Land Rover or Toyota Land Cruiser with pop-up roof, fridge, radio and inverter. Our vehicles are well serviced and maintained before and after the safari. Our experienced safari guides will drive the jeep and on board you have bonocular and wildlife books.

What currency should I bring?

The mostly used currency are US dollars and the Tanzanian Shilling (Tsh.). It is possible to change them in banks in Arusha or Karatu town. In addition, be aware that ATMs only issue shillings and not dollars. For US dollars, you must come with notes dated after 2009. Kindly note, Tanzania do accept US dollars only printed after 2009.

How does the payment work for my safari?

At the time of confirmation, we request that you deposit 30% to secure the booking either by wire transfer or credit card. The balance amount can either made by bank transfer or credit card or sometimes on arrival in cash. Our sales consultant can advise you further.

Is there anyone who can assist us with the Tanzania Visa process?

You can kindly check with Tanzania Embassy in your country for up to date information concerning visa application or you can apply your visa online using the link:
https://eservices.immigration.go.tz/visa/
To avoid long queue at the entry point we recommend getting your visa prior to your safari or otherwise you can get it at the entry point. The cost of most tourist visa are 50 USD and for American citizen is 100 USD.

Do I need to tip?

If you think you enjoy the service given by either guide or in accommodation, we appreciate if you can tip them.
Guide: A typical tip is 10 - 20 USD per person per day. If you wish to give more that, we will appreciate since the guide work long hours to ensure smooth running of your safari.
Accommodation: Most of accommodation facilities have tipping box. At the end of your stay, we recommend at least 5-10 USD for 2 pax.

Is Tanzania safe?

Tanzania is the best country for Safari holidays and is famously known as the land of Kilimanjaro, the Serengeti and Zanzibar. As far as nowadays, covid-19 pandemic has become the major threat for travelers, everyone before traveling checks the safeness of destination to be visited.

As of today, Tanzania is considered a safe destination for covid-19. The first case of covid-19 was discovered on 16 March 2020 and up to now, there are only 26,03 total cases with 724 deaths. Tanzania is now putting more effort into limiting the spread of coronavirus through vaccination programs going on all over the country. About 1 million people are already fully vaccinated and most of them are those working in the tourism industry such as guides, hotel staff and hospitality workers.

Moreover, Tanzania is still educating people to follow other measures to avoid coronavirus spread, such as social distances, wearing masks, hand washing, sanitization, etc. Apart from Covid-19, in Tanzania malaria and yellow fever diseases are not common, hence making the country safe for every traveler or tourist.

Last but not least, being vaccinated and aware of these threats remains ultimately a personal choice, considering that Tanzania doesn’t require vaccination certificates for yellow fever unless if someone comes from endemic countries. And for Covid-19, only a negative RT-PCR tested within 96 hours of departure to Tanzania is required. This is according to Travel Advisory No. 8 released on 13th September 2021 by the Ministry of Health Tanzania.

Can you go on safari from Zanzibar?

Zanzibar is a famous destination for beach relaxation holidays and the historical nature of the city Stone Town. Most of the flights usually land there. Also, some travelers or tourists prefer to start beach holidays and then combine wildlife safaris at the end while others when they arrive there, usually go on safari and later fly back to Zanzibar for beach relaxation. All in all, tourists can go on safari especially to Tanzania mainland from Zanzibar. It’s very easy and the best way to reach Tanzania mainland attractions is by domestic flight.

Tourists doing a safari in the Northern Circuit of Tanzania are advised to fly into Kilimanjaro or Arusha Airport since are the closest airports to some of the northern circuit destinations such as Arusha Park, Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro and Serengeti National Park. It’s also possible to fly directly from Zanzibar to national parks and common routes to fly are Zanzibar to Serengeti and Zanzibar to Manyara. Customers flying to Manyara airstrip can easily experience game drives to Lake Manyara Park, Tarangire Park, and Ngorongoro because these parks are near this airstrip.

For the Southern Circuit, tourists can fly to Dar Es Salaam city that is close to destinations such as Mikumi National Park, Selous Game Reserves nowadays known as Nyerere National Park, Udzungwa Mountains Park, etc. Also here is possible to fly direct from Zanzibar to Selous Game Reserves, Mikumi or Ruaha National Park and others. It is also possible to fly directly from Zanzibar to Western Circuit destinations such as Katavi, Mahale, and Gombe National Parks although it’s far and flights are quite expensive, hence the reason for these parks being visited by a few tourists. Also, there are flights to the Eastern Circuit such as Saadani National Park although even a boat is considered to be a good mode of transport to reach this park from Zanzibar. Furthermore, some of the destinations can be reached by boat and road transfer but this takes long time to reach the destination as it is far especially in Southern and Western Circuit destinations.

Zanzibar and Tanzania mainland are separated in between by the Indian Ocean, and usually to reach Tanzania mainland destinations tourists should take a domestic flight or a boat to reach Dar Es Salaam Cit, and then from this city tourists should take public or private transport to reach the destinations. Driving from Dar Es Salaam to Southern Circuit such as Mikumi and Selous is about 4 to 6 hours while reaching Northern Circuit Kilimanjaro or Arusha City is about 12 hours. If someone drives from Dar Es Salaam to Western circuit destinations such as Katavi National, it takes 3 to 4 days. For this reason, it’s recommended to use flight instead.