Why Tanzania is the Best Safari Destination
Tanzania is the crown jewel of African safaris, home to breathtaking landscapes, abundant wildlife, and some of the most exclusive safari experiences in the world. From witnessing the Great Migration in the Serengeti to exploring the Ngorongoro Crater, every moment in Tanzania is unforgettable. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guide will help you choose the best-rated safari in Tanzania for an adventure of a lifetime.
Top 7 Must-Experience Safaris in Tanzania
1. Serengeti National Park – The Great Migration Safari
Best for: Witnessing the world-famous wildebeest migration
Highlight: Millions of wildebeest and zebras crossing crocodile-infested rivers
Best Time to Visit: June – October (River crossings), January – March (Calving season)
A safari in Serengeti National Park is the ultimate wildlife experience. Watch the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras thunder across the plains in search of fresh grazing. Expect dramatic river crossings, thrilling predator chases, and stunning golden sunsets.
Don’t Miss: A hot air balloon safari at sunrise for a breathtaking aerial view of the Serengeti.
2. Ngorongoro Crater – The Natural Wildlife Sanctuary
Best for: Seeing the Big Five in one day
Highlight: A breathtaking volcanic caldera packed with wildlife
Best Time to Visit: Year-round
The Ngorongoro Crater is one of the best places in the world to see the Big Five (lion, elephant, rhino, leopard, and buffalo). The crater floor is home to thousands of animals, including black rhinos, which are rare in many other parks.
Pro Tip: Combine Ngorongoro with the Serengeti for the ultimate safari adventure.
3. Tarangire National Park – The Elephant Kingdom
Best for: Close encounters with large elephant herds
Highlight: Iconic baobab trees and river-crossing wildlife
Best Time to Visit: June – October
Tarangire National Park is famous for its massive elephant herds, often seen splashing in the Tarangire River. It is also home to tree-climbing lions, leopards, and over 500 bird species. This park is less crowded than the Serengeti, making it perfect for a more intimate safari experience.
Top Tip: Stay in a luxury tented camp for a true African wilderness experience.
4. Lake Manyara National Park – Tree-Climbing Lions & Flamingos
Best for: Unique wildlife sightings
Highlight: Lions lounging in trees, pink flamingos at the lake
Best Time to Visit: June – October
Lake Manyara is one of the most scenic parks in Tanzania, featuring lush forests, open plains, and a shimmering soda lake. The park is famous for its tree-climbing lions and huge flocks of flamingos.
Did You Know? Ernest Hemingway once called Lake Manyara “the loveliest place in Africa.”
5. Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park) – Off-the-Beaten-Path Safari
Best for: Remote wilderness and fewer crowds
Highlight: Boat safaris, walking safaris, and wild dogs
Best Time to Visit: June – October
For an off-the-beaten-path safari, Selous Game Reserve (now Nyerere National Park) is the perfect choice. The reserve is four times the size of the Serengeti and offers boat safaris on the Rufiji River, where you can spot hippos, crocodiles, and elephants up close.
Pro Tip: Selous is the best place in Tanzania to see African wild dogs.
6. Ruaha National Park – The Hidden Gem of Tanzania
Best for: Authentic and untouched safari experiences
Highlight: Large predator population (lions, leopards, and cheetahs)
Best Time to Visit: June – October
Ruaha National Park is Tanzania’s best-kept safari secret. It has one of the highest lion populations in Africa, along with cheetahs, leopards, and massive elephant herds. The remote location ensures a private and wild safari experience.
Perfect For: Safari lovers who want to escape the crowds and experience true wilderness.
7. Zanzibar – The Perfect Safari & Beach Combo
Best for: Relaxing after a thrilling safari
Highlight: White sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and rich culture
Best Time to Visit: June – March
After an exciting safari, unwind on the pristine beaches of Zanzibar. Enjoy luxury beach resorts, explore the historical Stone Town, or take a dhow cruise at sunset. The island offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
Don’t Miss: A visit to Prison Island to see the giant tortoises.
How to Choose the Best Safari for You?
With so many incredible options, choosing the right safari can be overwhelming. Here’s a quick guide:
First-time travelers? Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater
Photographers? Serengeti for the Great Migration
Elephant lovers? Tarangire National Park
Bird watchers? Lake Manyara & Selous Game Reserve
Adventure seekers? Ruaha & Selous (walking & boat safaris)
Relaxation? Zanzibar Beach Escape
Book Your Dream Tanzania Safari Today
Tanzania offers some of the most spectacular safari experiences in the world. Whether you dream of seeing the Great Migration, exploring remote wilderness, or combining a safari with a beach getaway, Tanzania has it all.