Tanzania is a beautiful country on the eastern coast of Africa. It has big green forests, rocky rivers, and a plethora of wildlife. If you are planning a trip to Tanzania, you must spend a day or two in the jungles. Safari in Tanzania has always been a big attraction for all tourists. Everyone loves to roam freely in open jeeps, spot the wild cats and enjoy the fresh air. It is an adventure packed with lots of thrill and excitement.
Top 9 Places For Enjoying A Safari In Tanzania
Getting all the details, deciding on the best time to visit, or just having a proper plan might seem arduous. So, here we have compiled a list of the best safaris in Tanzania that you can choose from:
1. Serengeti National Park
The safari in Tanzania experience is incomplete without visiting Serengeti National Park. The park is known to have the world’s best wilderness and hosts migratory birds for almost the entire year. If you are a lover of wild cats you must visit the Seronera region.
The Grumeti region and the Northern part of Serengeti National Park is one of the biggest river basin areas in Africa. The Ndutu region is where one can easily see the caving season and learn about animal lives up close!
2. Tarangire National Park
One of the most unique and best safaris in Tanzania, Tarangire National Park is a must-visit. This park is best known for the largest elephant population in the entire world. If you plan to visit Tarangire National Park, you will see the magnificent animals in all their glory!
The best time to visit Tarangire is during the summer. The dry season pulls all the animals to the Tarangire River. You can spot elephants, lions, giraffes, and zebras among other animals on the river banks.
3. Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park offers the most conducive environment for safaris. If you are looking for a budget safari in Tanzania, you can visit Arusha. The park does not boast of wild cats or other predatory animals but it offers the best safari experience.
You can take strolls, drive slowly, or opt for a canoe safari at this park without worrying about any harm. The main attractions at Arusha National Park are the different species of monkeys and birds which are not found anywhere else. A park is a beautiful place with plenty of options for nature lovers and explorers.
4. Lake Manyara National Park
The real fun of visiting Lake Manyara National Park is during the monsoon season. The park is in its full glory with plenty of flamingos and wallowing hippos. The park has its own charm owing to the trees with thick, hanging roots. It is also the only place where you will spot lions perched on trees.
Another reason to visit the park is the abundance of birds in the area. The park also offers canoe safaris for those who want to see the wildlife up close and personal. They also have night safaris which add a lot of thrill to the adventure. Head here to feel an adrenaline rush that you will never forget.
5. Ngorongoro Conservation Area
Located between Serengeti National Park and Arusha National Park, Ngorongoro is the best place to spot several animals, have serious drive games and enjoy the best safari experience ever!
The conservation area is home to elephants, buffalos, hyenas, hippos, and many other animals. It is however famous as the only park to have the biggest population of rhinos. The park has a very strategic location and the ride to the Ngorongoro crater is also worth it. In fact, it is the most expensive safari in Africa.
6. Empakaai Crater
Empakaai Crater is a great way to enjoy the birds and wildlife in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. The crater is on the off-side and is only accessible on foot. If you opt for this tour, you will be accompanied by an armed guide. The tour includes a walk to Lake Empakaai and bird watching. It is a good way to spend your evening at Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
7. Lake Eyasi
Safari in Tanzania becomes a complete experience only if you visit Lake Eyasi. It is an important stop to learn about the local traditions, customs, and culture. The Hadzabe tribe inhabits the lake region and is one of the most tourist-friendly tribes in Africa. The Hadzabe tribe has been one of the oldest tribes in Africa with an interesting culture. The tribe has survived by hunting and gathering from the forests. If you happen to visit Lake Eyasi, you can also embark on a hunting trip with the locals. Most people like to stay a night in their village and enjoy the hospitality.
8. Lake Natron
The Lake is located near Serengeti National Park and is a popular choice for safaris. The entire area has been created due to several volcanic eruptions over the centuries. The lake is home to the biggest flamingo population in Africa. It is an ideal place for those who wish to have a quick jungle safari. However, it is advisable that you visit the lake during the early morning hours. That is the best time to spot the birds plus, it will help you reach your hotel in time for dinner. There are not many lodges around Lake Natron.
9. Mount Kilimanjaro
A trip to Mount Kilimanjaro is a favorite of all travelers and explorers. You can either go for a traditional trip to the local villages or go for a one-day hike to the mountain. The “roof of Africa” is the most visited tour in this region. It offers a splendid view and a memorable experience for all the tourists. If you are not a climbing or hiking enthusiast, you must visit the local tribes and enjoy their culture.
Best Time For Safari In Tanzania
Here is the list of the best months when you can head to Tanzania for a safari:
1. June To September
The summers are the best time to visit any park in Tanzania. The herds are in motion either migrating to other areas or, at the river bank. It is also the best time to spot all the animals in the park. However, peak season also means that the parks will be crowded and the prices will be higher in general. If you want the whole experience and do not mind the crowd or prices, June to September is when you should visit.
2. April To May
This is the best season to watch birds like flamingos and animals like hippos, rhinos, etc. in their natural habitat. The river and lake water rises during the monsoon making the place conducive for all the birds and animals. This season is also a good time to visit if you want to have a luxurious stay at the hotels. The prices are usually low and rooms are easily available.
3. October To November
The best way to avoid the monsoon, as well as the crowd, is to visit during October or November. If you are looking for a good time with the best Tanzania safari tours possible, you can book for this duration.
The weather is generally very good, the crowd is less and the animals are also out in the open. You can easily explore the wildlife at your own pace during this time of the year.
4. December To March
If you want to visit Tanzania in good weather, avoid the crowd and enjoy the wildlife then December to March is the best time. The animals are usually in their calving phase and thus, easier to spot. You will see many calves taking their first steps and mother feeding their calves. The hotels are also quite cheap during this season and thus the best time for budget safaris in Tanzania.
Cost Of Safari In Tanzania
The cost of an entire day’s trip to any park in Tanzania is INR 4,200 and upward per group. If you opt for luxury tents or lodges, the prices will go up. If you are planning a safari trip, you must keep at least INR 2,100 to 3,500 per person as usual expense. The prices of Tanzania safari are dependent on the season and the kind of tour you opt for.