Tanzania
With an estimated one-third of the country protected by National Parks & Game Reserves, Tanzania provides a wealth of wildlife experiences. From the more well-trodden paths of the ‘northern circuit’, to the remote and off-the-beaten track parks on the ‘Southern circuit’, not to mention the Marine reserves around the ‘spice islands’ – Tanzania is a naturalists dream.
Why we love it
One of the major draw cards is undoubtedly the Serengeti. This iconic park, which forms part of the ‘northern circuit’, plays host to the annual migration as they move seasonally from South to North each year, and with it of course follows the predators. Nine times the size of the Masai Mara, this vast landscape is so wonderfully varied that one can happily combine two different areas as part of your safari. As well as luxury lodges, seasonal tented camps are the way forward here, ensuring you are always staying in the heart of the action.
Other Northern parks complementing the Serengeti, are the famed Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire and Lake Manyara and when combined together, form a wonderful and varied itinerary.
For those seeking a wilder, more remote safari experience, you really cannot beat the Southern parks of Ruaha and Selous. Africa’s largest game reserve, but with only a handful of camps and lodges, the Selous Game Reserve offers adventure and authenticity in spades.
The spice islands of Zanzibar, Pemba and Mafia are the main coastal attractions. Old Arab towns, beautiful sun-kissed beaches, incredible diving and snorkelling, and a variety of accommodation styles to suit all tastes.
Good to know
Country
Tanzania
Visa requirements
British and North American passport holders will require a visa to enter. This can easily be purchased on arrival or prior to departure from your nearest embassy.
Health
You are advised to take anti-malaria pills for your trip. No specific shots are required to enter. We do recommend you visit a travel health clinic prior to departure to make sure your standard travel vaccinations are up to date.
Languages spoken
Mainly Swahili and English, but English is widely spoken everywhere.
Curency used
Tanzanian shilling & USD
Time Zone
3 hrs +GMT
Useful Information
How to get around
We recommend a combination of flying in shared or scheduled flights. If doing the northern circuit, then it is popular to be driven through the various areas by your driver/ guide. We do not recommend self-driving.
How to get there
There are flights via Amsterdam or Zurich. Or direct flights to Nairobi and then connect onto Kilimanjaro (if doing the northern circuit). Alternatively, you can fly via Johannesburg.
Is it for you?
It suits those wanting to see the migration in the north, or for adventurous types head south. Great for those that want to combine a bush & beach experience in one country. Ideal for honeymoons, older families, couples, and keen divers.
When is best?
Traditionally, Tanzania experiences two rainy seasons – the long rains in mid-April/May/ beginning of June and the short rains in November, so the best time for safari is anywhere in between. For migration, January/February is great in Southern Serengeti with lots of babies. July – October is perfect up in Northern Serengeti with the Mara crossings. The coast is generally lovely all year, except mid-April/May/June when many of the coastal properties are closed.
What should I combine it with?
Tanzania is a great destination on its own as it offers both fantastic safari and beach options. However, if you are wanting to extend your safari experience, then it combines very easily with Rwanda (gorillas) and also Kenya. For an alternative coastal add-on to your safari, Tanzania also works well with Kenya and Mozambique.
