1. General Information About Tanzania Safaris

What makes Tanzania special for safari?
Tanzania is home to some of Africa’s most iconic parks, including the Serengeti (famous for the Great Migration) and the Ngorongoro Crater. You can see the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—plus a wide range of other animals in incredibly diverse landscapes. Tanzania also offers rich cultural experiences with tribes like the Maasai.

Safari Circuits in Tanzania

• Northern Circuit: Most popular, includes Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara

• Southern Circuit: Quieter, more remote parks like Nyerere (Selous) and Ruaha

• Western Circuit: For chimp trekking in Gombe and Mahale Mountains

• Coastal/Marine Parks: Combine safari with Indian Ocean beach time in Zanzibar, Mafia Island, or Pangani

2. Best Time to Visit Tanzania for Safari

Dry Season (June to October): Best wildlife viewing, especially in Serengeti and Ngorongoro. Animals gather at water sources and vegetation is sparse, making animals easier to spot. River crossings during the Great Migration occur around July–September.

Green/Wet Season (November to March): Calving season for wildebeest occurs in the Southern Serengeti (Feb–March), and it’s great for birdwatching with migratory birds present. Landscapes are lush and beautiful, but there may be occasional rain showers.

Long Rains (April–May): Few tourists and lush scenery. Some camps and roads may close due to heavy rains. This is the lowest price season.

3. Types of Safaris and Transportation

Private Safari: Tailored itinerary, personal guide and vehicle. Ideal for families, couples, or friends.
Group/Joining Safari: Shared vehicle and guide with other travelers. More affordable.
Fly-in Safari: Quick and scenic. Used for remote parks or luxury itineraries.
Mobile Tented Safari: Move with the Great Migration in Serengeti. Authentic, immersive experience.
Walking Safari: Guided treks in select parks like Selous and Ruaha.
Balloon Safari: Available in Serengeti. Expensive, but unforgettable. Usually at sunrise.

Transportation Tips:
Most safaris start from Arusha. Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is the main entry point. Domestic flights are common for connecting parks quickly. Roads can be rough, especially in rainy seasons.

4. Wildlife Viewing

Big Five: Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Buffalo, Rhino
Others: Cheetah, wildebeest, zebra, giraffe, hippo, crocodile, hyena, jackal, warthog, antelope
Birdlife: Over 1,100 species including flamingos, eagles, hornbills, bee-eaters, and storks
Best places for wildlife:

• Serengeti: Big cats, Great Migration

• Ngorongoro Crater: All Big Five in one place

• Tarangire: Elephants, baobabs

• Ruaha & Nyerere: Remote and wild, large lion prides

• Gombe/Mahale: Chimpanzee trekking

5. Accommodation Options

Public Campsites: Very basic; bring your own gear or rent from a tour operator
Tented Camps: Permanent or mobile, with real beds and en-suite bathrooms
Safari Lodges: Comfortable buildings with full facilities, some with pools and spas
Luxury Camps: Gourmet meals, all-inclusive service, excellent guiding
Mobile Camps: Set up in remote areas and follow migration patterns

Popular choices include:

• Luxury: &Beyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, Singita, Four Seasons Serengeti

• Mid-range: Maramboi Tented Lodge, Eileen’s Trees Inn

• Budget: Kudu Lodge (Karatu), Seronera Campsite (Serengeti)

6. Packing List for Safari

Clothing:

• Light, breathable clothing in neutral tones (khaki, beige, green)

• Long sleeves/pants for sun and mosquito protection

• Warm layers (early morning drives can be cold)

• Hat, sunglasses, and swimsuit (many lodges have pools)

• Sturdy shoes for walking/hiking

Gear:

• Binoculars

• Camera with extra memory cards and batteries

• Sunscreen, insect repellent, lip balm

• Power bank, flashlight/headlamp

• Travel adapter (Type G – UK plug)

• Soft-sided luggage (for light aircraft flights)

7. Health, Safety, and Travel Insurance

Vaccines:

• Yellow Fever: Required if coming from a country with yellow fever risk

• Recommended: Malaria prophylaxis, Typhoid, Hepatitis A/B, Tetanus

Other Tips:

• Use bottled or filtered water

• Follow guide instructions at all times

• Don’t wander off in the bush or leave camp at night

• Use mosquito nets and repellent at dusk/dawn

Insurance:
Get comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation, emergency evacuation, and medical coverage.

8. Visa and Entry Requirements

Visa Required: Yes, for most travelers

• Cost: $50 (single-entry); $100 for U.S. citizens

• Apply online via Tanzania’s eVisa portal or on arrival (for some nationalities)

Passport Requirements:

• Valid for at least 6 months after entry

• At least one blank visa page

9. Safari Costs and Tipping Guidelines

Typical Costs (per person/day):

• Budget: $200–$350

• Mid-range: $400–$700

• Luxury: $800–$1500+

Prices often include accommodation, meals, park fees, vehicle, and guide.

Tipping Guidelines:

• Safari Guide: $10–$20 per person/day

• Camp/Lodge Staff: $5–$10 per person/day

• Porter: $1–$2 per bag
  Tip in U.S. dollars or Tanzanian shillings. Many lodges have tipping boxes.

10. Connectivity and Technology

Wi-Fi: Available in most lodges, but slow and unreliable in remote areas
Mobile Coverage: Good in towns and main parks, poor in remote parks
SIM Cards: Buy a local SIM (Vodacom, Airtel, Tigo) for data and calls
Electricity:

• Voltage: 230V

• Plug Type: UK-style (Type G)

• Bring a power bank and adapter

11. Culture and Language

Language:

• Swahili is the national language

• English is widely spoken in tourism areas

Useful Swahili Words:

• Jambo: Hello

• Asante: Thank you

• Karibu: Welcome

• Kwaheri: Goodbye

• Pole Pole: Slowly (take it easy)

Cultural Etiquette:

• Dress modestly in towns and villages

• Always ask permission before taking photos of people

• Avoid discussing sensitive political topics

• Support authentic local experiences (e.g., Maasai cultural visits)