Close your eyes. Picture your dream safari. At this moment, you are likely conjuring up images of the magnificent plains of Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park. There you’ll find epic wildlife viewing in high concentrations and a plethora of bird species which inhabit an endless sea of grass. Star in your own wildlife documentary as over a million wildebeest migrate in the true circle of life and resident species play their part as daily dramas unfold. The renowned northern parks also deliver massive elephant herds and ancient baobab trees in Tarangire National Park, the elusive black rhino in the Acacia forests in the UNESCO World Heritage site of Ngorongoro Crater, and the lion prides which reign supreme in the Serengeti. Along the way, you’ll experience a wide variety of accommodations; from well-appointed mobile camps to exclusive lodges and boutique camps.
Often overlooked are the prolific southern regions, which offer less-visited yet enriching safari options. Cruise the Rufiji River in Nyerere National Park, or get your boots dusty walking through the wilds of Katavi National Park. If primates pique your interest, pay homage to the legendary wildlife researcher Dr. Jane Goodall and her beloved chimpanzees at Gombe Stream National Park and Mahale Mountains National Park. These critical habitats for the endangered chimpanzees are tucked along the shores of the crystal-clear Lake Tanganyika — a world apart from the big game viewing on the plains.
If you need more to entice you to Tanzania, look to the soaring peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru for trekking or the shimmering beaches and reefs around the Zanzibar archipelago. At every turn, there are learning opportunities, majesty, beauty, and genuine hospitality waiting for you. Karibu sana!
What We Love About Tanzania
The Roof of Africa—The snows of Kilimanjaro have captivated man for centuries and rightfully so. This powerful dormant volcano stands regally along Tanzania’s northern border and offers impressive and challenging trekking for those interested in standing on its peak. At 19,430 feet, trekkers often summit above the clouds and are rewarded with sunrise splendor. Various routes to the summit showcase the different biomes in terms of flora, fauna, and birdlife. Camps full of creature comforts and well-trained camp crews assist you throughout your quest. It is the ultimate rush of adrenaline to stand on the snowy peak with all of Africa spread before you.
Jungle Paradise—Mahale Mountains National Park is nestled on the sandy shores of Lake Tanganyika, Its verdant mountains soar above the clear water beneath blue skies. Settle into your Robinson Crusoe-like cottage on the beach and prepare to explore the rainforest in search of the rare chimpanzee. Set out on foot through the dense jungle with your expert guide to observe the chimpanzees as they go about their day, eating, grooming, and building nests. Cruise the lake and connect with fishing villages and communities which live in harmony with nature.
Island Living—The exotic allure of Zanzibar captivates many with its spice plantations, colorful history, and slow-paced palm tree lifestyle. Wander the cobblestone maze of winding streets in Stone Town with their impressive wooden doors and vibrant shops. A crossroads of many cultures, absorb the Arabic and African influences on this tiny island. Find the endemic red colobus monkey amidst mangroves or simply perfect the art of doing nothing on a stunningly beautiful beach. Need to slow down even more? Book some time on Pemba or Mafia islands in the archipelago or on the mainland coast to explore the ruins at the UNESCO Heritage Site of Kilwa Kisiwani.
Best Time To Visit
Tanzania offers good wildlife viewing all year long in most areas, with just a few locations closing during the long rainy season between April-May. The high season is when conditions are dry and days are sunny and warm; mostly from July to October and mid-December to mid-March. During the shoulder or green seasons, you can expect afternoon showers and challenging overland routes. Dramatic skies, verdant landscapes, and less tourists more than make up for the mediocre weather. We can help you decide when it’s best to plan your Tanzanian safari!
How Much Does A Tanzania Trip Cost
Madagascar offers exclusive accommodation in remote areas. Camps and lodges tend to be less expensive than those in mainland African destinations. However, the infrastructure in the country is rudimentary and we often will recommend charting flights. This can increase costs substantially.
Prices vary widely from as low as $250 to $1000 (per person daily), dependent on season, accommodation, type of internal transportation, and individual needs/preferences.
Big Journeys Start With Small Steps
~ African Proverb