Tanzania Safari Trips & Holidays
At the intersection of east and southern Africa, is Tanzania; one of the top safari destinations on the continent. In fact, in 2013, it was voted on the safari bookings platform by travelers and expert safari guides as the best safari destination on the continent. Much of Tanzania’s charm lies in her unapologetic-ally stunning wilderness. This is why most travelers on Tanzania tours have referred it to as the “authentic African wilderness.” On safari here, one can enjoy globally sought-after wildlife specials such as the Big5 and the “Great Wildebeest Migration”.
Furthermore, mountain climbing on Tanzania safari trips is quite like no other in Africa. This is because Mount Kilimanjaro is not only the highest point in Africa but the highest world’s free standing Mountain. Reaching this summit is an experience worthy of your holiday. Tanzania’s location off the tropical coast of the Indian Ocean allows it relatively warm weather all year round, and beautiful white sand beaches. Your Tanzania safari tours and holidays can be spent exploring Zanzibar and learning about the history and culture of stone town.
With Ameera Africa Safaris, you get to experience the very best of safari trips in Tanzania. From late night game drives, mind blowing mountaineering trips to birding and vacations in Zanzibar, we create the perfect Tanzania tours for you and your family. We are a premier tours and travel company, with an experienced team in planning and executing tours all over East Africa! Get in touch today with Ameera Africa Safaris for that perfect safari experience that you have always dreamed of.
CHECKOUT OUR
Other Safari Destinations
At approximately 100 miles from the East African Rift Valley and near the Tanzania – Kenya border,is Mount Kilimanjaro; the highest single free standing mountain above sea level in the world. This Tanzania safari delight comprises of three volcanic cones; Kibo, Shira and Mawenzi.
The youngest and most recent of the three volcanos; Kibo, stands at 5,895 meters above sea level, making it the highest point in Africa. Its summit is crowned with a crater and a seven-milecorridor stretching to Mawenzi. Mawenzi stands at 5,149 meters while Shira at 3,962 m.
Mount Kilimanjaro is not only Africa’s highest mountain but one of the most breathtaking destinations for our Tanzania safari trips. The slopes of this dormant volcano are covered in rare and beautiful vegetation delicately balanced between open moorland, dense tropical rainforest and desert alpine.
The unique Tanzania safari vegetation cover that only exists on East Africa’s mountains allows for some spectacular prominence of giant lobelia and groundsel occasionally entwined with moss and lichen; the perfect presentation for your safari trips in Tanzania.
Explore Mount Kilimanjaro National park on your Tanzania safari; nestled just at the foot hills of Mount Kilimanjaro. It is home to a variety of animals such as; Elephants, Buffalo, Eland, black and white colobus monkeys, blue monkeys, bushbuck and duikers among others.
Visiting Mount Kilimanjaro on our safari trips Tanzania presents great birding opportunities with specials such as; Abott’s Starling, Hartlaub’s Turaco, Silver cheeked Hornbill, Narina Trogon, Schalow’s Turaco, Emerald Cuckoo, Rock Dove and Speckled Pigeon among others.
Serengeti National park is typically the highlight of Tanzania safari tours and holidays. It is located in northern Tanzania covering an area of 14,763 square kilometers. The plains of this park are covered in open tree savannah mixed with acacia and woodland.
Known to many as the “true African wilderness”, Serengeti National park is the ultimate destination for your Tanzania trips. It is home to what often seems like an unlimited variety of wildlife such as; 4,000 Lions, 1000 Leopards and 550 Cheetahs.
In addition, it is home to the highly sought after “Great Annual Migration” on Tanzania safari holidays. During this time, over 1.5 million wildebeest and about 200,000 Zebras cross to the northern plains of Tanzania into Kenya in search of grazing pastures and fresh water supplies.
Birding is also a great part of your Tanzania safari in Serengeti. There are about 500 bird species inhabiting these endless open plains and some of these include; Ostriches, Kuri bustard, Fischer’s Lovebird, Grey throated spur fowl and Schalow’s wheatear among others.
Tanzania safari trips in Serengeti National Park are not only about the abundance of wildlife and scenery but the captivating culture as well. Meet the Massai on these Tanzania trips and encounter a bright culture, rich beyond your imagination
Stretching off the eastern arm of the Great Rift Valley, Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a definite attraction for Tanzania safari trips. It is located within the Arusha region, south east of Serengeti National park; covering an area of 8,300 square kilometers.
Safari trips Tanzania within the northern circuit, explore the magnificent Ngorongoro; a wildlife haven with a range of habitats from open grasslands, savannah woodlands and forests to volcanic craters, lakes, rivers, Mountains and wetlands.
Such a diversity in habitat only allows the fauna to thrive and while on your Tanzania safari tours and holidays, you can enjoy great sightings of the Big 5. Other animals here include; ungulates, plains Zebras, Cheetahs, Gazelles, wild dogs and spotted Hyenas among others.
Tanzania safari trips in Ngorongoro Conservation Area, are equally a great way to meet special animals like the endangered black Rhinoceros. There is an equally impressive birdlife in Ngorongoro with daily specials like Flamingos, Hornbills, Starlings and sunbirds.
There, however, is more to enjoy on your Tanzania safari in Ngorongoro Conservation Area than the wildlife. Treat yourself to a scenic hike to Ngorongoro crater; one of the largest unbroken calderas in the world.
The two volcanos; Empakaai and Olmotitower over the game area offering spectacular views of the surrounding plains. Sight-seeing around the volcanos and caldera is the perfect blend for your Tanzania safari tours.
In addition, Ngorongoro Conservation Area is home to archaeological sites; Olduvai Gorge and Laetolil that are believed to be as old as 2.1 and 3.6 million years respectively. Archaeological trips can be conducted as part of your Tanzania safari tours and Holidays.
Popularly known for the gallant display of pink flamingos on its soda ash lake, Lake Manyara National Park is one of the best destinations for Tanzania safari tours. It is located within the northern circuit, south of Arusha.
Owing to the fact that Lake ManyaraNational Park lies within the Great East African Rift valley, it enjoys a great Tanzania safari landscape entailing an alkaline soda lake, open plains, wood land, swamps and dense rainforests.
When it comes to the wildlife, visitors on Tanzania safari holidays are often torn between the elegant pink hues of flamingos on Lake Manyara and the tree climbing Lions of the open savannah. These two immense wildlife phenomenon make for the perfect Tanzania trips.
Among others, animals to see on Lake Manyara safari trips Tanzania include; Elephants, Cheetahs, Klipspringers, Warthogs, Impalas, Buffalos, Hippos, Gazelles and Leopards.
Out of the many birds in Lake Manyara National Park, you can expect to see species such as Ostriches, Hornbills, Pelicans, Grey crowned cranes, Herons and storks on your Tanzania safari trips.
Also known in Swahili as “Unguja”, Zanzibar is an island in the Indian Ocean about 35 kilometers off the eastern coast of Tanzania. It occupies an area of 1,554 square kilometers and is part of the United Republic of Tanzania as of 1964.
Zanzibar, much like Pemba island, is believed to have once been apart of Africa but broke off, drifting further into the Indian Ocean during the Pliocene Epoch era (between 5.3 to 2.6 million years ago). The base of the island is lined with coral limestone, red earth and alluvium.
There isn’t quite an adventure as a Tanzania safari in Zanzibar. The warm weather transcends into clear open skies and white sand along the beaches. In fact, the beauty of Zanzibar is a true reward for our Tanzania safari trips.
Although most of the island is open plains, a few patches of ever green forests can be encountered on the flat plains. Among the animals spotted here on safari trips Tanzania include; Leopards, Mongoose, Civets, Lemurs, African forest pig, Pigmy antelope, Forest duikers and Zanzibar Red Colobus Monkey.
Look out for the adventure on Tanzania safari tours and Holidays in Zanzibar. The warm weather allows for fun activities such as swimming, snorkeling, fishing and diving. For cultural tours, a visit to stone town is a must for all travelers.
Discover the point where the southern and eastern eco systems collide on your Tanzania safari tours and holidays. Ruaha National park is located within the transition of central and southern Tanzania about 130 kilometers west of Iringa.
It spans a total area of 20,226 square kilometers; inevitably earning the “largest protected area in Tanzania and East Africa” title. Ruaha National park enjoys a rich eco-system mainly composed of both eastern and southern natural elements; making for spectacular sightings on Tanzania safari holidays.
Named after the Great Ruaha River, this massive expanse is home to a diversity of inhabitants including the largest population of savannah Elephants in East Africa. During game drives on your Tanzania trips, crucial and sometimes even rare animals such as Cheetahs, Leopards and Wild dogs are widely spotted here.
When it comes to scenery, Ruaha National Park will definitely make your safari Trips in Tanzania all the more memorable. Take in the golden horizons highlighted by open savannah plains, towering mountains and a persistent river that magnetically draws all the wildlife to its banks all year round.
Although it may seem like Ruaha National Park is hidden behind the “shine” of the northern circuit, it is in every way a dashing destination for Tanzania safari trips. Ruaha definitely stands out through her vast landscape and amazing wildlife; a scene fit for Tanzania trips in the southern circuit.
Within the northern plains of Tanzania, where the Masaai Steppe meets the interlacustrine region, is Tarangire National park; a popular wildlife haven often explored on our Tanzania safari tours and holidays.
Tarangire National Park is based within the Tanzania northern circuitcovering an area of 2,600 square kilometers just a short drive from Arusha. It was named after River Tarangire; a permanent river that crosses through the southern part of the park providing a life-line for all life here especially in the dry season.
A Tanzania safari in Tarangire National Park is all about discovering the immense wildlife spread throughout the park. For instance; during the months of June to October, herds of herbivores, Lions and other animals flood the park from the nearby Lake Manyara National park.
In a bid to escape the ravaging dry season and obtain solace from the permanent River Tarangire, this “seasonal migration” offers some of the best game scenes you mightnever encounter anywhere in Africa other than on safari trips Tanzania.
Equally, this park is abounding in an unspoken landscape wealth such as Kitibong hill, Matete woodlands and the Silale swamp where many water birds can be spotted during birding adventures for Tanzania safari tours and holidays.
Moreover, Tarangire National Park is such a formidable birding destination that notable birds such as; Crested Francolins, Yellow necked Spur fowl, Steppe Eagles, White bellied Go-away bird, lappet faced vulture and brown Parrots can often be seen on our safari trips Tanzania.
Katavi National Park is a protected game area located at the edge of the Rukwa rift in south western Tanzania. It is the third largest national park in Tanzania occupying approximately 4,471 square kilometers of wild savannah plains.
Owing to the fact that there are only about a hundred visitors to this secret park, Katavi is the best destination for private Tanzania safari trips. The serene and quiet environment allows you to enjoy and fully explore the park at your pace.
Katavi is part of the western safari circuit and lies along the edge of Lake Tanganyika and the Mahale Mountains. This location coupled with an abundance of water from River Katuma, Lake Chada flood plains and the seasonal River Katavifosters survival of life here.
During Tanzania safari holidays, wildlife in Katavi National Park is plentiful with common sightings of African Buffaloes, Elephants, Wildebeest, Giraffes, Zebras, Lions, Leopards, Cheetahs and Crocodiles. The swampy plains along River Katuma are specially a refuge for Hippos, more so in the dry season.
Although secluded, the western circuit is a definite must visit on your Tanzania safari holidays. You can have the opportunity for landscape viewing and game drives in a calm yet private environment that might just not be found anywhere else.
Selous game reserve is not only the largest game reserve in Africa but the second largest conservation area on the continent as well. It covers a massive area of 50,000 square kilometers; almost four times larger than the Serengeti plains.
With such a large wild expanse, your safari Trips in Tanzania to Selous game reserve are often filled with a number of animals. In fact, there are approximately 110,000 Elephants, 35,000 Zebras, 40,000 Hippos, 25,000 Impalas and 150,000 Buffalos recorded here.
Similarly, Selous is home to about 4,000 Lions; one of the largest Lion population in Africa. Other animals here include; Rhinos, Brindled Gnu, Nyasaland Gnu, Sable Antelope, Eland, Greater Kudu, Waterbuck, Hartebeest, Giraffe, Reedbuck, Warthog, Hyenas, Crocodiles, Leopards and African hunting dog.
On the same note, there is plenty of bird life to captivate all birders on Tanzania safari tours and holidays. Species to look out for include; White backed night Heron, Spur winged lapwing, Palm nut vulture, Brown necked Parrot and Black winged stilt among others.
Selous game reserve also enjoys a dramatic landscape covered by un usual vegetation which sets her apart from the rest of Tanzania. Most of the reserve is dominated by wooded savanna grasslands and deciduous Miombo. Rocky out crops, thick shrubs and grand water woodlands also occur.
CHECKOUT OUR
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to travel for Tanzania safari trips?
Timing on Tanzania safari tours is everything. For wildlife lovers, safari is always best during the dry season from June to early October. Between June and July, the dry season is at its peak and you can start following the Great Migration in the Serengeti plains. The dry season equally draws animals towards watering holes and river banks in a quest for survival. Some game will even cross through national parks into new plains bringing with them territorial battles and unique game viewing on Tanzania trips. It is quite rewarding to take some pictures over open savanna during the dry season on Tanzania safari tours and holidays because the grass is shorter. However, for birding Tanzania safari tours and holidays, it is best to go between November and May.
When is the Great Wildebeest Migration on Tanzania trips?
As the dry season sets in and grazing fields grow scarce, over 1 million Wildebeest in the company of Zebra, Gazelles, Impala and Eland move through a relatively predictable pattern across Tanzania and Kenya’s savanna game parks to ensure their survival. This is definitely one of the highlights of Tanzania safari tours. The Great Wildebeest Migration happens every year and basically begins within the Serengeti and Ngorongoro ecosystem at the end of the short rains in late November and December. The herds stay here; calving and feeding on fresh pasture till around May when they start moving north. By June, the Great Migration often crosses the Grumeti River and continues north through Serengeti and Grumeti game reserve until August. Events unfold in September as many animals succumb to the trials of the Mara River in an attempt to access the grazing fields of Masaai Mara game reserve. The migration finally starts to move southwards by the end of October; crossing throughLoliondo and into Serengeti. As the short rains fall in late November, the herds arrive to take advantage of lush pastures and start the journey all over again. The best time to catch the Great Wildebeest Migration on Tanzania safari trips is between June and October as the animals cross River Grumeti through the outskirts of Serengeti and into Masaai Mara across the unforgiving Mara river. This is the period to witness untold drama and capture some unforgettable moments.
Is Tanzania a family-friendly safari destination?
Yes, Tanzania is one of the top family-friendly safari destinations in Africa. There are plenty of adventures this savannah clad country has to offer on your Tanzania safari holidays for you and your entire family. One of the best activities on Tanzania safari tours and holidays is savannah game drives. However, these are recommended for children at least 6 years and above of age. Other family-friendly Tanzania safari activities to look into include; cultural trips, swimming, city tours and cuisine trips among others.
Is Tanzania safe for travel?
According to the 2019 Global Peace Index, Tanzania is considered the seventh safest country in Africa. So yes, Tanzania is safe for travel. Most of the Tanzania safari holidays destinations such as Kilimanjaro, the northern and southern circuit are extremely safe. Most importantly, our team will be with you from the point you are picked up from the airport, all around your Tanzania safari destinations and back to the airport for your departure. In regards to vaccinations, ensure you have received all necessary shots before setting off for your safari. However, there are some safety guidelines that you can follow to maximize safety on safari trips Tanzania such as; Always keep your valuables in the safe of your lodge or hotel room and do not carry them to the park with you. Always stay around people or in groups and avoid lonely stretches especially at the beach. At night, opt for a cab instead of walking and if possible travel in groups. Always consult with your guide in cases where you need clarification or are unsure of what to do.
What should I wear and take on safari in Tanzania?
The most important thing when considering what clothes to wear or pack for your safari trips Tanzania, is the decency rule. All clothes should not be too revealing as this does not often rub well with the locals. Otherwise, some general tips for choosing your outfits on Tanzania safari tours include; Loose shirts and shorts with breathable fabric, especially on savannah game drives. Instead of bright colours like white and darker tones such as black, opt for neutral or safari tones such as Khakis, Light or mid-tone browns, beige, olive and mid tone greens. If trekking Mt Kilimanjaro is on the horizon for your safari trips Tanzania, opt for long sleeved shirts and trousers. These can also come in handy to protect from mosquitoes when camping. Other things to pack include; sunglasses, a hat, backpack, insect repellant, personal effects and any personal medicine.
What languages are spoken in Tanzania?
The national language for Tanzania is Swahili. This is widely spoken throughout urban and rural areas and is also the major language for trade. English is spoken as well especially within the tourism industry and throughout most sections of the formal sector. Among others, native languages such as Maa, Datooga, and Heheare spoken but this is mainly within tribal territories and rural regions. However, during your Tanzania safari holidays, you shall be accompanied by an English speaking guide.
How much does a Tanzania safari cost?
Several factors are put into account when costing Tanzania safari tours and holidays. For instance, one has to look at what activities are to be enjoyed, means of transport to safari destination (whether road or air, meals, length of Tanzania safari and nature of accommodation (whether budget, mid-range or luxury). With that said, budget safari trips Tanzania will cost from around USD 250pp per day. Mid-range trips may cost from about USD 350 while luxury Tanzania safari trips may cost from around USD 600 upwards… depending on how much you are willing to spend on your experience.
How do I book a safari in Tanzania?
The first step in securing yourself Tanzania safari tours and holidays is to visit our website at https://ugandasafaritour.com or email us at info@ugandasafaritour.com to send in your inquiry. The inquiry mainly contains preferred travel dates, the activities you are interested in,where you would like to go and at what cost. Our team will then get back to you with a cost for the safari and availability of activities requested for and together, an adventure package will be crafted specifically for you. The final step will be making a deposit payment to confirm your safari trips Tanzania. The deposit you make will not only secure your spot for safari on your desired dates, but it will also be used to book hotels and other destinations before they are sold out. From here, you need only arrive at the airport for your well planned Tanzania safari holidays.
Which safari is better, Kenya or Tanzania?
While comparing Kenya and Tanzania might come natural to Tanzania safari trips travelers, it is important to remember that these two countries offer a different touch of the African wilderness. Kenya is a magical land with vast opportunities for adventure. It offers a diverse range of animals in top destinations such as MasaaiMara, Amboseli and Tsavo along with thrilling mountain climbing tours on Mt Kenya. When it comes to accommodation and infrastructure, Kenya has some of the best in Africa! Tanzania on the other hand is famous for the Great Wildebeest Migration, enormous game parks such as the Serengeti and Selous and most importantly, Mt Kilimanjaro; Africa’s highest point. Not to mention Zanzibar, a beautiful island set within the Indian Ocean. With that said; choosing either a Kenya safari or safari trips Tanzania should entirely depend on what safari activities you are looking to experience and the nature of your safari. For instance; if you prefer a private and quieter adventure, Tanzania safari trips might just be ideal for you.
How much money should I carry on my Tanzania safari?
Technically, by the time of your safari, the cost will be already laid out; from transportation and accommodation to park entry fees and cost of activities. Therefore, you only need to carry money for extra costs such as tipping, drinks and personal effects. The most crucial thing is to carry abit of cash. Credit cards might not be widely used especially in the deep reaches of the savannah. Additionally, if you wish to change your money into shillings, you should opt for a good bureau within the city centre. Take note that newer bills of $100 USD have a better rate and older bills before 2003 might not even be accepted. Purchase small items on your Tanzania trips such as drinks at your lodge with shillings and where you must use USD, have smaller bills on hand. Tips to porters and waiters can also be given in shillings.
Do I require a visa and passport to travel to Tanzania?
Yes, when traveling for Tanzania safari tours, you are required to present a Visa and passport at the airport. You can apply for your visa online at www.immigration.go.tz then make payment by credit card or bank transfer. If your application is accepted, you will receive a “grant notice” via email. Upon arrival for your Tanzania trips at the airport, present a copy of the grant notice and you will have your visa. Travelers can also obtain a tourist visa upon arrival at $100 USD. However, you must be prepared to pay in cash for your tourist Visa at the airport where required and your passport must be valid for a minimum of 6 months beyond Visa issuance or date of entry. You must also have at least one blank visa page.
What is accommodation like on Safari in Tanzania?
Like most African countries, accommodation on Tanzania safari trips ranges from Luxury to Mid-range and budget. Safari lodges are often between mid-range and luxury and they offer en-suite bathrooms and fully furnished rooms. Tented lodges offer accommodation in the form of rooms raised on wooden platforms with a roof. They present with hot and cold running water and flush toilets as well. Safari and tented lodges might feel like you are staying at a hotel in the wild. They are usually lavished with a swimming pool and gardens. Camp sites range from luxurious to spacious and comfortable. They often work well for nature lovers who want to stay in tune with the Tanzania trips wilderness. Luxury camps might come with a private bush breakfast while the budget might be more basic.
What transport will be used on safari in Tanzania?
The main means of transport for getting around on Tanzania safari tours is a 4*4-wheel vehicle. The roads within the game areas are not paved and its often bumpy as you attempt to scour the landscape. These vehicles are specifically built to overcome the African wilderness. When it comes to urgency and extra comfort, both international and domestic flights can be used. Larger aircrafts are flown between major cities such as Zanzibar, Arusha and Dar-es-Salam while smaller aircrafts can be employed to fly around and land directly inside the national parks.
How do I make an emergency call on safari trips Tanzania?
It is quite important to have some emergency contacts in the country or area where you are travelling to or having your safari. For example, while on Tanzania safari trips, you can dial 112 and request for assistance. In case of medical emergencies, especially during hiking Mount Kilimanjaro, air ambulance services such as Medevac can be contacted to evacuate you to the nearest private hospitals in bigcities such as Arusha, Mwanza, Dar-es-salaam and even Nairobi.
Where are Tanzania’s best birding spots?
There are about 1,100 bird species in Tanzania. 800 of these are residents, 200 migrants, 43 are near endemics and 22 are endemics; unique to Tanzania. So here are some of the top birding spots to meet the amazing birdlife of Tanzania safari trips. Ruaha National Park; a unique range of habitat (East African Savannah and Southern Africa Miombo) supports 450 species such as; Crested berbet, Ashy starling and Yellow collared lovebird. Serengeti National Park; home to over 500 bird species and forms the Mara-Serengeti eco-system where at least 5 birds that cannot be found anywhere else have been recorded. Specials include among others; Grey breasted spur fowl and Fischer’s lovebird. Tarangire National Park; bird count of 500 species especially the restricted dry savannah birds such as; northern pied babbler, vulturine Guinea fowl, rufous tailed weaver and yellow collared lovebird Lake Manyara National Park; Famous for thousands of pink-hued flamingoes on Lake Manyara, it is also home to more than 400 species. Expect a variety of water birds such as Pelicans and predatory birds like crowned Eagles. Ngorongoro Crater; 500 bird species roam the crater and surrounding highlands. Diversity in forest and savannah species like; White eyed slaty flycatcher, Livingstone turaco, Kori bustard, Ostriches, secretary birds and crowned cranes. Arusha National Park; 400 bird species recorded with a diverse habitat such as lake Momella where water birds like flamingoes, pelicans, herons and grebe are abundant. The Ngurdoto Crater is home to birds such as; Augur buzzard, Verreaux’s eagle and raptors.
How can I get to Tanzania?
There are two major Airports in Tanzania and each one of them provides easier access to different regions of the country. For instance, the northern circuit can be accessed for Tanzania safari tours via Kilimanjaro International airport; located about 46kilometres east of Arusha. On the other hand, the southern circuit is easily accessed via the Julius Nyerere International Airport, located about 13 kilometers south west of Dar es Salaam. Local flights can then be chartered to land directly into the national parks or at Arusha airport.