Tanzania – Great Migration
TANZANIA (Great Migration)
Discover Tanzania: Home of the Great Wildebeest Migration
Tanzania is a treasure trove of wildlife and is known for the “Big Five” (rhinos, lions, leopards, buffaloes, and elephants). The northern part of the country boasts some of the best game viewing in Africa. A highlight of any trip to Tanzania is the Serengeti National Park, where the breathtaking wildebeest migration occurs. Every year, from July to October, millions of wildebeest, zebras, and antelopes traverse the plains. They migrate in search of fresh grass and water, facing the dangers of predators along the way as they cross the Mara River, creating one of nature’s most dramatic spectacles.
But a safari in Tanzania offers much more than just the Serengeti. You can explore stunning destinations like Lake Manyara National Park, known for its diverse birdlife and tree-climbing lions, and Tarangire National Park, famous for its large elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. The Ngorongoro Conservation Area, with its impressive volcanic crater teeming with wildlife, is another must-visit.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can hike up Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, or relax on the idyllic beaches of Zanzibar, where the crystal-clear waters and rich history await. Zanzibar’s blend of Swahili and Arab cultures is reflected in its stunning architecture, bustling markets, and flavorful cuisine.
In Tanzania, you can also encounter incredible wildlife up close. Explore the rainforests of Mahale or Gombe, home to chimpanzees, and experience their fascinating behaviors in their natural habitats.
As you travel through Tanzania, you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the vibrant cultures of the local people. Learn about the Maasai, renowned for their colorful dress and unique customs, and the Swahili people, who have a rich maritime heritage. Don’t miss the opportunity to taste traditional dishes like ugali (a maize porridge), pilau (spiced rice), and fresh seafood. Visiting spice farms will give you insight into Zanzibar’s nickname, the “Spice Island,” where you can learn about the cultivation of spices like cloves, nutmeg, and cinnamon.
With its breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and incredible wildlife experiences, a trip to Tanzania promises unforgettable adventures and memories that will last a lifetime.
Tanzania Safari Wonders
Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime! Our selection of Tanzania safari experiences reveals the incredible wildlife and stunning landscapes that await you. Each itinerary is crafted to reflect your personal interests, from witnessing the Great Migration in Serengeti National Park to exploring the unique ecosystem of Ngorongoro Crater, ensuring an unforgettable journey through Tanzania’s breathtaking wilderness.
- 3 Days, 2 Nights
- Tanzania
3 Day Ngorongoro Crater Safari
Explore the stunning landscapes and rich wildlife of Ngorongoro Crater on an unforgettable 3-day safari!
Carol N.
- 3 Days, 2 Nights
- Tanzania
3 Day Serengeti National Park Safari
Discover the incredible wildlife of Serengeti National Park on an unforgettable 3-day safari adventure!
Carol N.
- 4 Days, 3 Nights
- Tanzania
4 Day Tanzania Safari
Embark on a thrilling 4-day Tanzania safari, exploring diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes!
Carol N.
- 5 Days, 4 Nights
- Tanzania
5 Day Serengeti & Ngorongoro Safari
Experience the best of Tanzania on a 5-day safari through Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater's wildlife!
Carol N.
- 7 Days, 6 Nights
- Tanzania
7 Day Tanzania Experience Safari
Discover the wonders of Tanzania on a 7-day safari, exploring wildlife including the great migration with landscapes and culture!
Carol N.
- 8 Days, 7 Nights
- Tanzania
8 Day Tanzania Safari
Embark on an 8-day Tanzania safari, exploring stunning national parks and witnessing incredible wildlife!
Carol N.
Best Tanzania Safaris: Circuits & Routes
Planning a safari in Tanzania can be a bit overwhelming. With so many options, it’s hard to know where to start. Should you spend more time in the Serengeti? How about Selous or the Ngorongoro Crater? And is there time for a quick hike up Kilimanjaro? With all these questions, it’s easy to get confused.
To make things easier, take a moment to think about three must-see destinations or experiences for your trip. Once you have that figured out, we can work together to create the perfect safari itinerary just for you.
Tanzania Northern Circuit
The Northern Circuit is one of Africa’s most famous safari routes. It takes you through some of the most stunning landscapes and wildlife areas in Tanzania. You’ll visit the incredible Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti National Park, and Tarangire National Park, which are all known for their amazing wildlife, including lions, elephants, leopards, and cheetahs. The scenery is breathtaking, making this route perfect for both first-time and seasoned travelers.
Highlights:
- Serengeti National Park
- The annual wildebeest and zebra migration
- Tarangire National Park
- Ngorongoro Crater and Conservation Area
If you want a fantastic safari experience, the Northern Circuit is the way to go! You’ll see some of Africa’s most famous wildlife areas while enjoying great accommodations and service. So, why wait? Start planning your dream safari today!
Tanzania Southern Circuit
The Southern Circuit is the second most popular safari route in Tanzania. It takes you through beautiful and remote landscapes in the south, including Mikumi National Park, Ruaha National Park, and Selous Game Reserve (now called Nyerere National Park). This route is great for spotting lions, elephants, leopards, and hippos, especially if you want to escape the crowds found in the northern parks.
Highlights:
- Mikumi National Park
- Ruaha National Park
- Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park)
If you’re looking for a unique safari experience with stunning scenery, the Southern Circuit is a great choice. It offers a fantastic wildlife experience while being separate from the more crowded northern parks.
Tanzania Western Circuit
For an amazing safari, check out the Western Circuit, which includes parks along Lake Tanganyika, the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo. Gombe Stream National Park is famous for Jane Goodall’s research on chimpanzees. It’s a bit remote, but definitely worth the visit!
If you want more chimpanzee experiences, consider Mahale Mountains National Park too.
Highlights:
- Lake Tanganyika
- Gombe Stream National Park
- Mahale Mountains National Park
- Chimpanzee trekking
- Jane Goodall Research Centre
The Western Circuit is perfect for anyone interested in chimpanzees or looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure. Since accommodations are limited, these safaris are fully tailored to fit your needs.
Tanzania Coast and Islands
Tanzania’s coast and islands offer a fantastic way to enjoy the beauty of the Indian Ocean. This part of your safari is more like a relaxing beach holiday. You can spend your days lounging on the beach, going on short tours to explore scenic spots or cultural highlights, and simply unwinding.
Highlights:
- Pemba Island
- Zanzibar Island
- Dar es Salaam
- Mafia Island
- Saadani National Park
If you want to mix relaxation with your safari adventure, the Coast and Islands are perfect for you. With gorgeous beaches and vibrant towns, there’s something for everyone. Just remember to set aside time to relax—that’s what vacations are all about!
No matter what kind of safari you’re looking for, Tanzania has something special to offer. Whether you choose the Northern Circuit with the Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater or the Southern Circuit with parks like Selous and Ruaha, you’ll find plenty of amazing options.
For a unique twist, consider adding the Western Circuit for incredible chimpanzee sightings or exploring the beautiful coastline and islands of Tanzania.
At Trek Africa Expeditions, we offer a variety of gorilla trekking safari options at unbeatable prices. Contact us for the best rates at info@trekafricagorillas.com or call/WhatsApp us at +256788507489 to start planning your safari today!
Must-See Attractions in Tanzania
Explore the enchanting beauty of Tanzania! Our curated list of must-visit places showcases the country’s stunning landscapes and rich cultural experiences. From the iconic peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro to the breathtaking shores of Zanzibar, each destination offers unique adventures that highlight Tanzania’s incredible diversity and charm.
Best Time to Visit Tanzania
The best time to visit Tanzania is during the Dry season, which runs from late June to October. This period is ideal for spotting wildlife since animals tend to gather around water sources, making it easier to see them. If you’re keen on witnessing the famous wildebeest migration in Serengeti National Park, plan your trip for June and July. For those interested in seeing the wildebeest calving, the best time is between late January and February.
While the northern parks are great to visit year-round, the southern and western parks are best enjoyed during the Dry season.
Getting to Tanzania
By Air:
There are many direct and connecting flights to Tanzania from various international airlines. If you’re flying within the region, local airlines like Air Tanzania and Precision Air can take you to various destinations. For international travel, airlines such as Emirates, Kenya Airways, KLM, and Turkish Airlines operate flights to Tanzania.
By Road:
If you’re coming from Kenya, the most popular border crossing into Tanzania is at Namanga, which is halfway between Nairobi and Arusha. Another option is Lunga Lunga, south of Mombasa, leading to Tanga. There are also quieter crossings at Taveta and Isebania.
For those coming from other neighboring countries, the Songwe border connects with Malawi, and Tunduma connects with Zambia. Both of these crossings are in the southwest corner of Tanzania and can be reached via a good but lengthy road from Dar es Salaam. There’s a rough crossing with Uganda at Mutukulu, but it’s a bit remote. The easiest way to get from Tanzania to Uganda is via Nairobi, where daily buses run to Kampala.
Tanzania also shares a border with Rwanda at Rusomo, though this area is remote. There are bus services that run between Mwanza and Kigali. Lastly, Tanzania shares a border with Mozambique to the south, but road access between the two countries is quite limited.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Tanzania
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about visiting Tanzania. Feel free to ask if you have more specific questions about Tanzania or any other travel-related topics!
The best time to visit Tanzania is during the dry season, which runs from late June to October. This period is ideal for wildlife viewing, especially in national parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. For those interested in the wildebeest migration, June and July are peak months, while the calving season happens from late January to February.
Tanzania has several safari circuits, including:
- Northern Circuit: Features Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park, known for abundant wildlife and stunning landscapes.
- Southern Circuit: Includes Mikumi, Ruaha, and Selous Game Reserve, offering a more remote and less crowded safari experience.
- Western Circuit: Focuses on Gombe Stream and Mahale Mountains, known for chimpanzee trekking.
- Coastal and Island Safaris: Enjoy beautiful beaches and cultural experiences in places like Zanzibar and Mafia Island.
Yes, many safari operators offer family-friendly options, including accommodations and activities suitable for all ages.
Tanzania is generally safe for tourists, but it’s always wise to stay alert and follow local advice. Ensure your vaccinations are up to date, and consider getting travel insurance for peace of mind.
Tanzania offers a range of accommodations, from luxury lodges and tented camps to budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses. The choice depends on your budget and preferences. Some locations offer unique experiences, such as staying in a tented camp near wildlife.
Tanzania is accessible by air with many international airlines offering direct and indirect flights. Local airlines like Air Tanzania and Precision Air connect various domestic destinations. You can also enter Tanzania by road from neighboring countries, with the most common crossing being at Namanga from Kenya.
Tanzania is home to diverse wildlife, including the Big Five: lions, elephants, leopards, rhinoceroses, and buffaloes. You can also see zebras, wildebeests, giraffes, hippos, and a variety of bird species, making it a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts.
Pack light, breathable clothing in neutral colors to blend in with the environment. Essential items include comfortable shoes, a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, and a good camera. Don’t forget your travel documents and any personal medications.
You can book a safari through various tour operators, both online and in person. It’s a good idea to read reviews and compare different packages to find the one that best suits your needs. Working with a reputable operator will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Absolutely! Many travelers choose to combine a safari with a beach holiday in places like Zanzibar, Pemba Island, or Mafia Island. These beautiful locations provide a perfect way to relax after an exciting safari adventure.