Top Safari Activities to Do in Tanzania

Top Safari Activities to Do in Tanzania

If you’re planning a safari in Tanzania, you’re in for an unforgettable adventure! Tanzania is home to incredible wildlife, breathtaking landscapes and cultural experiences that make it one of Africa’s top safari destinations. From seeing the Big 5 animals and primates to hiking Mount Kilimanjaro and experiencing the Great Migration, there’s something for every type of traveler. Here are the top safari activities you should consider during your visit to Tanzania.

Top Safari Destinations in Tanzania

Serengeti National Park: Wildlife and the Great Migration

Serengeti National Park is one of Tanzania’s most famous and iconic safari destinations. It’s the oldest and largest national park in the country and the heart of the world-renowned Great Wildebeest Migration. Serengeti offers stunning wildlife encounters, expansive savannahs and a variety of animals, including large herds of elephants, giraffes and zebras, along with the predators that chase them, like lions, cheetahs and hyenas.

Must-See Activity: The Great Wildebeest Migration

The Great Migration is an extraordinary spectacle, happening each year between June and October. During this time, over 1.5 million wildebeests and thousands of zebras travel from the southern Serengeti to the northern Masai Mara in Kenya. This grueling 3000-mile journey involves the animals rearing their young and crossing rivers, often encountering predators along the way. August and September are the peak months to witness this dramatic migration, with thrilling river crossings and intense predator-prey action.

Where to Stay in Serengeti National Park

• Mwiba River Lodge
• Mwiba Wildlife Reserve
• Mbali Mbali Soroi Serengeti Lodge
• Singita Sasakwa Lodge
• Zawadi Serengeti Safari Lodge

Tarangire National Park: Elephants and Baobab Trees

Tarangire National Park, just a short drive from Arusha, is another must-see destination for safari lovers. Known for its incredible concentration of elephants, Tarangire is often the second-best park in Tanzania for wildlife viewing after the Serengeti. The park is also famous for its striking baobab trees and beautiful landscapes.

What to See in Tarangire National Park

• Elephants: Tarangire is home to some of the largest elephant herds in East Africa, often numbering up to 300 elephants in a single herd.
• Baobab Trees: These ancient and unique trees are a major attraction. Legend has it that they were once “moving trees” but were punished by the creator and now stand upside down with their roots in the air.
• Wildlife: In addition to elephants, you’ll encounter wildebeests, zebras, buffaloes, gazelles, impalas and more. It’s a great place to see large herds of animals up close.

Where to Stay in Tarangire National Park

• Tanzania Baobab Tented Camp
• Kwa Kuchinia
• Roika Tarangire Tented Lodge
• Oliver’s Tented Camp
• Maramboi Tented Camp
• Tarangire Sopa Lodge
• Tarangire Safari Lodge

Lake Manyara National Park: Scenic Beauty and Tree-Climbing Lions

Nestled between Lake Manyara and the Great Rift Valley, Lake Manyara National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. At an elevation of 960 meters, the park is dominated by the stunning Lake Manyara, a shallow alkaline lake that sits in a depression within the Rift Valley. The park is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, which range from lush underground forests and woodlands to expansive swamps and grasslands. These varied habitats support a rich array of wildlife, including the famous tree-climbing lions, making Lake Manyara one of Tanzania’s most unique wildlife experiences.

Where to Stay in Lake Manyara National Park

• Tortilis Camp: A comfortable and eco-friendly option offering a more intimate safari experience.
• andBeyond Lake Manyara Tree Lodge: A luxury lodge nestled in the heart of the park, perfect for a unique, high-end safari.
• Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge: A mid-range option with spectacular views of the lake.
• Lake Manyara Kilimanjaro Lodge: Another mid-range choice offering excellent comfort and service.
• Lake Manyara Wildlife Lodge: A more budget-conscious option with stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

Selous Game Reserve: Remote and Untouched Wilderness

For those seeking a quieter, off-the-beaten-path safari experience, Selous Game Reserve is the place to go. Located in the southeastern region of Tanzania, Selous is one of the largest and least crowded protected areas in Africa. Covering 5% of Tanzania’s landmass, this vast reserve offers a variety of habitats, including miombo woodlands, riverine swamps, open grasslands and hills, making it a haven for wildlife. It’s perfect for travelers looking to explore untouched gems and enjoy a more secluded safari experience.

Where to Stay in Selous Game Reserve

• Sable Mountain Lodge: A stunning lodge set on a hill, offering breathtaking views.
• Selous Kinga Lodge: A luxurious, intimate lodge ideal for those seeking comfort.
• Selous Great Water Lodge: Perfect for nature lovers, offering proximity to wildlife and natural beauty.
• Selous Wilderness Camp: A more affordable option for those looking to experience the reserve in a rustic, authentic style.
• Selous Luxury Camp: Offering a blend of luxury and comfort in the heart of the wilderness.
• Selous Mbuyu Safari Camp: A charming and quiet camp nestled in the reserve.
• Mivumo River Lodge: A beautiful riverside lodge offering a tranquil escape.

Recommended Tanzania Safari Tours

Tanzania offers a variety of safari tours to suit different interests and time frames. Whether you’re looking for a short wildlife escape or a longer, more immersive experience, there are plenty of options to choose from:

• 3-Day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater Safari
• 4-Day Serengeti National Park Safari
• 5 Day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Safari
• 5-Day Safari to Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara
• 7 Day Tanzania Experience Safari
• 8 Day Tanzania Safari
• 10 Day Tanzania and Zanzibar Safari

Best Time to Go on Safari in Tanzania

Tanzania is a year-round destination but the best times to visit for a safari are from December to February and June to October. During these months, the weather is relatively dry, making it easier to spot wildlife as they gather around water sources. The rainy seasons (March-May and November) can make some roads impassable and wildlife harder to spot.

Why Book with Trek Africa Gorillas?

Trek Africa Gorillas is your trusted partner for an unforgettable safari experience in Tanzania. As a leading tour operator, we provide tailored and professional services across Uganda, Kenya, Rwanda, Congo and Tanzania. Our experienced team, made up of local experts, is dedicated to ensuring that your safari is seamless and memorable. We are full members of AUTO (Association of Uganda Tour Operators) and work closely with the Tanzania Tourism Board.

Highly recommended on TripAdvisor and SafariBookings, Trek Africa Gorillas is known for its exceptional customer service and up-to-date, reliable travel information. Our team has explored Tanzania extensively, offering you an authentic and knowledgeable experience. Contact us today to begin planning your next adventure in Tanzania!