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Tanzania Safaris

Introduction

Imagine this: You wake to the first golden light of dawn, the air alive with the sounds of the wild—a distant lion’s roar, the whisper of zebras moving through the grass. You’re not watching a documentary. You’re in it. This is Tanzania.

People call it a “trip of a lifetime,” but that barely scratches the surface. It’s being amazed by a towering elephant that passes by. It’s the breath-catching moment when a leopard jumps into a tree—right before your eyes. It’s an experience that changes you.

Tanzania is your perfect choice for Safari, because it is unique. It has the Serengeti, where millions of animals move in a rhythm older than time. The Ngorongoro Crater, a vast, natural amphitheater teeming with wildlife. And beyond that? Tarangire, Mikumi, Nyerere, Ruaha, Lake Manyara—each a world of its own, waiting to be explored.

Let us be your guide. We know where to go, when to go, and how to turn your safari into a journey that’s thrilling, unforgettable, and respectful of the land and its wildlife.

Best Time to Visit Tanzania for Safari

Choosing the right time to visit can make your safari go from just “nice” to truly amazing. When nature shows its best side, you’ll enjoy more animals, stunning views, and a smooth mix of excitement and comfort.

Best Months for Seeing Wildlife

If you want the best chance to see animals, plan your trip during the dry months—June to October or December to February. Here’s why:

  • Clear Skies – With very little rain, you’ll have bright days and good light to spot animals across open plains.

  • Easy to Spot Animals – Since the grass and trees aren’t thick, animals are much easier to see.

  • Lots of Animals in One Place – When water is hard to find, animals gather at rivers and ponds, giving you exciting moments to watch.

The Great Migration – A Wild Show

If your dream is to see the Great Migration, timing depends on which part of it you want to watch:

  • River Crossings (July to September) – In the Northern Serengeti, huge groups of wildebeest and zebras cross the Mara River, facing strong currents and hungry crocodiles.

  • Baby Season (January to Mid-March) – In the Ndutu area of the Southern Serengeti, thousands of baby wildebeest are born each day. This attracts lions and cheetahs, leading to thrilling scenes.

  • On the Move All Year – The herds keep moving year-round, but these months show the most exciting action.

Special Park Experiences by Season

Each park shines in its own way, depending on when you visit:

  • Tarangire (July to October) – Watch large groups of elephants gather around the Tarangire River.

  • Nyerere (June to September) – Great for boat safaris. See hippos, crocs, and elephants close up while floating down the river.

  • Nyerere Walking Tours (October) – Dry ground makes this month perfect for guided walks and game drives.

  • Bird Lovers’ Season (November to May) – Birds from faraway lands arrive, filling the skies with movement and song—especially in Nyerere and Lake Manyara.

Less Crowded, Still Beautiful

If you want peace and fewer people, try these special times:

  • Ngorongoro Crater (January & May) – Quieter months, so you can take in this natural wonder without the crowds.

  • Serengeti (November to March) – Known as the “Green Season,” this time offers fewer visitors, lush views, and stunning photos.

  • Tarangire (Even in High Season) – While other parks get busy, Tarangire stays calm and personal, even during popular travel times.

Top Tanzania Safari Destinations

Zanzibar is an island full of adventure, culture, and unique experiences that go beyond what you see in the guidebooks. Whether you’re soaking up the sun, exploring the history of Stone Town, or diving into the island’s marine life, you’re sure to have an unforgettable time.

Located in northern Tanzania, Serengeti National Park is famous for its endless plains and the Great Migration, where over a million wildebeests and zebras move across the land. Visitors can also see lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants, and crocodiles. Hot air balloon safaris offer a unique view of the park, while the Seronera Valley is great for spotting big cats. The best time to visit is from June to October for wildlife viewing and December to March for the calving season. Near the park, travelers can meet the Maasai people and learn about their traditions, dances, and way of life.

The Ngorongoro Crater, a massive volcanic caldera filled with animals, is inside the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, which is in northern Tanzania, neighboring the Serengeti.. Visitors can see rhinos, lions, elephants, hippos, and thousands of flamingos at Lake Magadi. The crater’s rich grasslands make it one of the best places to see wildlife all year. The best time to visit is from June to October for game viewing and from November to May for lush scenery. Nearby, the Maasai villages offer a chance to experience their culture, from traditional songs to daily life in their homes.

Located in northern Tanzania, Tarangire National Park is known for its large elephant herds and towering baobab trees. The Tarangire River attracts animals like giraffes, zebras, leopards, and wild dogs, especially in the dry season. Bird lovers can spot over 500 bird species. The best time to visit is from June to October when animals gather around the river. The nearby Maasai and Barabaig communities offer cultural visits where travelers can learn about their history, jewelry-making, and food.

Mikumi National Park is located in southern Tanzania, is known for its open grasslands that resemble the Serengeti. Visitors can see lions, buffalos, hippos, zebras, and the rare African wild dog. The Mkata Floodplain is a good place to spot wildlife, while the Vuma Hills provide scenic views. The best time to visit is from June to October for wildlife and from November to March for birdwatching. The nearby villages of the Wakamba and Waluguru people offer cultural tours, where visitors can see local crafts, music, and farming traditions.

Ruaha National Park is one of the parks in the Southern Circuit. It is Tanzania’s largest national park and a great place to see predators. It has one of the highest populations of lions, along with leopards, cheetahs, and hyenas. The Great Ruaha River attracts elephants, buffalos, and crocodiles. The best time to visit is from June to October, when animals gather around water sources. The Hehe people, who live near the park, offer cultural experiences where visitors can learn about their warrior history, dances, and traditional stories.

Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve) is located in southern Tanzania. This park is known for its mix of landscapes, from rivers to forests. It is home to elephants, wild dogs, giraffes, and hippos. The Rufiji River is perfect for boat safaris, where visitors can see crocodiles up close. The best time to visit is from June to October for game viewing and from November to March for birdwatching. The nearby villages of the Zaramo and Ndengereko people offer cultural experiences, including fishing traditions and local music.

Other Tanzania Safari Destinations you like

Located in northern Tanzania, Lake Manyara National Park is known for its tree-climbing lions and large flocks of flamingos. The park is home to elephants, buffalos, giraffes, hippos, and many bird species. The groundwater forest, acacia woodlands, and the alkaline lake make it a diverse habitat. The best time to visit is from June to October for game viewing and from November to April for birdwatching. Nearby, visitors can experience the culture of the Maasai people through village tours, traditional dances, and learning about their way of life.

This park is located near Arusha town in northern Tanzania, at the base of Mount Meru. It is a good place to see giraffes, zebras, buffalos, and colobus monkeys. Unlike many parks, Arusha National Park offers walking safaris, canoeing on Momella Lakes, and hikes to Mount Meru for great views of Kilimanjaro. The best time to visit is from June to February for hiking and wildlife viewing. Visitors can explore the local culture in nearby villages, where they can see traditional farming, coffee-making, and local markets.

Located in northeastern Tanzania, near the Kenyan border, Mkomazi is known for its efforts to protect endangered black rhinos and wild dogs. The park is also home to elephants, giraffes, zebras, and many antelope species. The landscape includes dry savannah and acacia woodlands, making it different from other parks in the north. The best time to visit is from June to October when animals gather near water sources. Visitors can learn about the local Pare and Sambaa communities, known for their farming, traditional healing practices, and storytelling.

Located in southern Tanzania, Udzungwa is a rainforest park famous for hiking and unique wildlife. It is home to rare primates like the Udzungwa red colobus and the Sanje mangabey. The park has no roads, so visitors explore on foot, with trails leading to waterfalls such as the beautiful Sanje Falls. Bird lovers can spot many species found nowhere else in the world. The best time to visit is from June to October for hiking and from November to March for birdwatching. Nearby villages offer cultural experiences, including visits to traditional healers and learning about local herbal medicine.

Safari Experiences in Tanzania

Game Drives – Explore the Wild by Car

Ride through the parks in a 4×4 safari vehicle, getting close to lions, elephants, and giraffes in their natural home. Sunrise drives let you see the animals waking up, while sunset drives show the land glowing in golden light as night creatures start to move.

Walking Safaris – Get Closer to Nature

Step off the vehicle and walk through the wild with an expert guide. You’ll notice the small details—a lion’s footprint, the smell of fresh grass, or the call of a hidden bird. It’s a slower, more personal way to experience the bush.

Hot Air Balloon Safaris

Float high above the Serengeti as the sun rises, watching herds of wildebeest, zebras, and elephants from the sky. The view is breathtaking. After landing, enjoy a champagne breakfast in the middle of the wilderness—an experience you’ll never forget.

Boat Safaris – See Wildlife from the Water

Move along the Rufiji River in Nyerere National Park, where you can spot hippos, crocodiles, and many colorful birds. Being on the water gives you a fresh way to see nature up close.

Tanzania Safari Accommodation

When you go on a safari in Tanzania, seeing amazing animals is only part of the fun. Where you sleep at night is also important. The right place to stay can make your trip even better. You can choose to sleep outside under the stars, stay in a cozy tent, or relax in a fancy lodge. Tanzania has places to stay  for every type of traveler.

Camping

Picture a fire, night animal sounds, and sleeping under a sky full of stars. Camping is the best way to feel Tanzania’s wild nature. It’s just you and the beautiful wilderness.

Good for: Adventurous people, backpackers, and anyone wanting to be close to nature.

Money: It’s the cheapest way to stay.

Good things:

  • Real safari feeling.
  • See animals up close.
  • Cheap and fun.

You’ll have simple places to wash and eat. But the feeling of being there is amazing.

Tented Camps

Want adventure and comfort? Try tented camps! They’re big tents with comfy beds and bathrooms, sometimes hot showers. You sleep in nature, but with nice things.

Good for couples, photographers, and those wanting nature and comfort.

They cost medium or high prices.

You’re close to nature, it feels like a real safari, and they’re often where animals are.

Medium-priced camps have good beds and food. Fancy ones have great food and personal butler.

Safari Lodges

Safari lodges are super comfy places in the wild. They have big rooms, fancy food, pools, and great service, all with amazing views of Tanzania.

Good for: Families, couples, and people who want comfort and luxury.

Money: They can be medium-priced or very expensive.

Good things:

  • Very comfortable and easy.
  • Beautiful buildings that fit into nature.
  • Great service and yummy food.

Medium-priced lodges have good rooms and food. Fancy lodges have pools, massages, and amazing food for a special trip.

Featured Safari Packages

More than 50% of our clients book both Kili and Safari with us. Here are our best selling Safari packages.

5 Days Safari Exploration

Discover Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro on a 5-day safari with expert guides, stunning views, rich wildlife, and cozy stays in Tanzania’s top parks.

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4 Days Safari Navigator

Enjoy a 4-day safari to Tarangire, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro with expert guides, Big Five sightings, epic landscapes, and smooth wildlife adventures.

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2 Days Wildlife Tempo Safari

Experience a 2-day safari in Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater with elephants, the Big Five, stunning landscapes, and expert guides.

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2 Days Nyerere National park Safari

Explore Nyerere National Park on a 2-day safari with thrilling game drives, diverse wildlife, stunning landscapes, and unspoiled nature in Tanzania’s largest park.

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6 Days Family Safari

Enjoy a 6-day family safari through Tarangire, Ngorongoro, Serengeti, and Lake Manyara with wildlife, game drives, stunning landscapes, and comfortable lodges.

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7 Days Honeymoon Safari

Enjoy a 7-day honeymoon safari in Tarangire, Ngorongoro, and Serengeti with wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, private dinners, and unforgettable romantic moments.

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3-Day Northern Circuit Safari

This 3-day safari covers Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Manyara—wildlife, game drives, scenic picnics, and unforgettable views in just three thrilling days.

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5 Days Mikumi and Nyerere National Parks Safari

Explore Mikumi and Nyerere with game drives, boat and walking safaris, stunning landscapes, and close encounters with diverse wildlife.

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3-Day Mikumi Safari

This Safari offers wildlife sightings, guided game drives, and stunning landscapes, including elephants, lions, zebras, and birds, just 300 km from Dar es Salaam.

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8 Days Mikumi , Ruaha and Udzungwa Safari

This 8-day safari covers Mikumi, Ruaha, and Udzungwa with game drives, nature walks, scenic hikes, and diverse wildlife, including elephants, big cats, and rare primates.

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Extend your Tanzania Safari

Zanzibar is a dream destination, but your adventure doesn’t have to start or end there. Whether you’re looking for more relaxation, cultural experiences, or thrilling safaris, here are some ideas to make the most of your time before or after your Zanzibar tour.

Climb Kilimanjaro

Climb Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, for stunning views, thrilling adventure, and a life-changing experience.

VIEW KILIMANJARO PACKAGES

Visit Zanzibar

Relax on pristine beaches, explore Stone Town and Prison Island, and enjoy spice tours, water activities, and more.

VIEW ZANZIBAR TOURS

Day Tours

Explore Arusha and Moshi for breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, thrilling adventures, and relaxing day trips tailored for you.

VIEW DAY TOURS

Tanzania Safari Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely! Here at Shayo Trekking and Safaris, we’ve got a team of seasoned pros who know these lands like the back of their hands. Your safety is our top priority, and we handle everything with care.

For the best wildlife viewing, we love the dry season, from June to October. That’s when the animals gather around the waterholes. Plus, you get to witness the incredible Great Migration!

It’s a thoughtful gesture. Our guides and lodge staff work hard to make your trip special, and a small tip is always appreciated.

Absolutely! We love sharing the magic of Tanzania with families. We can create family-friendly itineraries with activities that everyone will enjoy.

We usually start early for the best wildlife viewing, take a break in the midday, and head out again in the late afternoon. It’s a rhythm that works well with the animals.

Respect the wildlife by keeping quiet, avoiding flash, and staying in the vehicle. A good zoom lens is a must! We want to help you capture those perfect moments.

To truly soak in the magic, we suggest at least 5 to 7 days. That way, we can take you to a few different spots and show you the incredible variety of wildlife Tanzania has to offer.

While there’s no set list for everyone, you might need a yellow fever shot if you’re coming from certain countries. Let’s chat to find out specific requirements for your case.

Get ready for a show! We’re talking lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, and tons of birds. You might even spot the elusive Big Five! We aim to make sure you see as much as possible

Of course! That’s what we do best. Whether you’re a bird enthusiast or want to focus on the big cats, we’ll craft a trip that’s perfect for you. Just tell us what you’re dreaming of!

Yes, it’s a fantastic way to end your adventure! We can easily arrange a flight to Zanzibar, so you can relax on the beach after your safari. We have sample Zanzibar Tour itineraries for you.

The local currency is the Tanzanian Shilling, but US dollars are widely accepted. We recommend having a mix of both.