Best Safari Destinations in Tanzania

When it comes to luxury safari experiences, Tanzania is a destination that stands out for its outstanding landscapes. From plains to grasslands to forests and craters, all of these biomes are home to incredible wildlife encounters.

The best safaris in Tanzania offer diverse and awe-inspiring safari adventures. Tanzania is equipped with experiences suitable for anyone from safari novice to seasoned enthusiast, making the country a must-visit for a momentous African escapade.

Best for Watching the Great Migration

Imagine vast plains stretching as far as the eye can see, teeming with wildebeests, zebras, and other iconic African species. This is the Serengeti: a world-renowned destination famous for hosting The Great Migration. From around June to October, witness millions of animals making their epic journey across the savannah and raging rivers in search of greener pastures. The sight of this natural spectacle is truly awe-inspiring and a must-see for any safari enthusiast.

Boasting the ultimate Big Five viewing experience, the Serengeti isn't just about the migration. Year-round, the park offers exceptional game viewing opportunities with its abundant lion, leopard, and cheetah populations.

Look forward to a timeless safari experience of exciting game drives, guided walks, community visits, and hands-on conservation exercises. The luxury lodges and camps in the area provide unparalleled comfort and style, ensuring that your safari experience is not simply thrilling but also indulgent

Best for a Relaxed Safari

For those seeking a more exclusive and tranquil safari experience, Ruaha National Park is the perfect choice. As Tanzania's largest national park, Ruaha is characterised by its rugged landscapes, diverse habitats, and low tourist numbers, offering a sense of seclusion and serenity that is rare to find in other parks.

Here, you can immerse yourself in nature without the crowds, enjoying game drives through vast plains, along winding rivers, and into dense woodlands. Encounter a breadth of biodiversity including antelope, buffalos, giraffes, lions, and an impressive variety of bird species brought to the area by the Great Ruaha River. The park is particularly renowned for its large populations of elephants, boasting one of the highest concentrations in East Africa.

After a day of exploration, unwind in a luxurious camp for a chic retreat immersed within Tanzania’s untamed wilderness, where personalised service and comfort await.

Best for Chimpanzee Trekking

For a truly unique safari experience that combines adventure with primate encounters, Mahale Mountains National Park is a hidden gem. Tucked away on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, this remote park is home to one of the largest populations of wild chimpanzees in Africa.

Embark on an exhilarating trek through lush forests, guided by experienced trackers, to observe these fascinating primates in their natural habitat. Witness their playful antics, social interactions, and intricate communication skills up close, creating precious memories that will last a lifetime.

After a day of chimpanzee trekking, relax at Greystoke Mahale, nestled on the sandy beaches of Lake Tanganyika, and enjoy snorkelling in its crystal-clear waters or for the more daring traveller add the physical challenge of summiting the peak of Mahale Mountain to your itinerary.

Best for Spotting Lions

Step into the ancient world of the Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a paradise for wildlife enthusiasts. This geological marvel is home to a dense concentration of predators, including the iconic African lion. As you descend into the crater's vast bowl, prepare to be mesmerised by the abundance of animals thriving in this unique ecosystem, making it one of the best safaris in Tanzania.

Spot lions lounging in the golden grasslands, watch herds of elephants roam freely, and marvel at the beauty of flamingos gathered around the crater's soda lakes. The Ngorongoro Crater offers unrivalled opportunities for close encounters with wildlife against the backdrop of stunning panoramic views.

After a day of game viewing, retreat to a luxurious lodge perched on the crater’s rim, where you can unwind and soak in the natural beauty that surrounds you. The area offers a variety of activities to ensure your days here are full and exciting allowing you to choose from crater floor picnics, hiking, spending time with the Hadzabe people or taking a trip to the nearby Olduvai Gorge.

Best for Mount Kilimanjaro

No safari to Tanzania is complete without a glimpse of Africa's highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro.

Arusha National Park is the best safari in Tanzania for a breath-taking view of Kili. The park is a gateway to this majestic mountain and offers a blend of a classic safari expedition and spectacular mountainous landscapes.

Begin your journey with a game drive through the park's diverse habitats, from lush rainforests to open savannahs, encountering wildlife such as giraffes, buffaloes, and colobus monkeys along the way.

The park is home to a bountiful variety of fauna; however you should not expect the same premium game-viewing opportunities offered up by the region’s more renowned safari spots. Nonetheless, the draw of Arusha is the opportunity to see grazing elephants, galloping giraffes or the occasional lazing leopard in front of some of the clearest views of Africa’s most iconic mountain.

As you approach Kilimanjaro, marvel at its snow-capped summit towering above the clouds, a sight that never fails to inspire awe. For the adventurous at heart, embark on a guided trek to Kilimanjaro's lower slopes, immersing yourself in its pristine wilderness and panoramic vistas.

Tanzania's diverse and captivating national parks cater to every safari enthusiast's dream, from witnessing the awe-inspiring Great Migration to the rewarding chimpanzee trekking experience

If you are looking to book a luxury safari trip to visit the unique blend of animal encounters and stunning landscapes of Tanzania, get in touch with our expert travel team on +44 (0) 20 3821 5994 (UK), +1 (833) 215 9353 (US) or explore@niarratravel.com.