Tanzania’s top Safari parks and game reserve
Tanzania is renowned for its incredible wildlife and stunning natural landscapes, making it one of the top safari destinations in Africa. famous for the wildebeest migration where large herds of about two million and more as well as Zebras and gazelles make their journey from the Serengeti plains through the infested crocodile mara river and the predators waiting to pounce on them.
Whereas the wildebeest movement is the famous at the highlight for the many Tanzania safaris, there is a lot more to the country both ranging from the different animal species and non-safari actions and besides the Big five game, you will also engage in various activities including Bird watching, chimpanzee one of the unique experienced you do not want to miss. As well as Africa history, Beaches on the coast and sone incredible trekking at Kilimanjaro.
These are just a few of Tanzania’s top safari parks and game reserves, each offering unique experiences and opportunities to witness the beauty of Africa’s wildlife up close. It’s worth noting that the best time to visit may vary depending on the specific park and the wildlife you wish to see, so it’s advisable to research and plan accordingly.
Are you planning a safari tour in Tanzania national parks, when to go, and what do to, below is some guiding information for you have one of the best and life time safari experience in Tanzania.
Tanzania’s best safaris
where to go?
Serengeti national parks
Lake Manyara National Park
Tarangire National Park
Ngorongoro Crater
Katavi National Park
Selous Game Reserve
Ruaha National Park
Mahale Mountain National Park
Tanzania’s best safari parks and camps
There are three main safari regions found in Tanzania that is the North, Southern Tanzania and Western Tanzania.
The North of Tanzania, which is easily reachable from the local Arusha Airport or Kilimanjaro International Airport, is by far the most well-liked safari zone. The renowned Serengeti, Tarangire National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and Lake Manyara are all located in this area, which together make up the well-known “Northern Circuit,” Tanzania’s top safari destination.
The parks in southern Tanzania, which receive far less visitors than the north, are ideal for people looking for a wilder experience after visiting the Serengeti or other well-known Big Five attractions. The Selous and Ruaha are the two main locations in this region.
Of the three primary safari regions, western Tanzania receives the least amount of tourism. It is expensive to come here because it is not conveniently located. From the major hubs of Arusha or Dar es Salaam, it takes around four hours by light plane to get there. There are two weekly scheduled flights, but they are also rather expensive; traveling by car will take a few days. If money is not a concern, though, you will be rewarded with a remote safari experience that is largely private. Many people will trek to the west to find the Mahale chimpanzees.
looking for the best Tanzania’s safari parks and reserves, listed below is some guiding information to help you plan your safari experience and Tanzania. for more information, contact us and will gladly answer all your questions and also plan your once in a life time safari experience in Tanzania.
Serengeti National Park: Located in northern Tanzania, the Serengeti is perhaps the most famous safari destination in the country. It is known for its vast grasslands, the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebra, and an abundance of predators, including lions, cheetahs, and leopards. The Serengeti offers exceptional game viewing opportunities year-round.
The park can get particularly crowded during the peak seasons from the months of July and August, when the famous wildebeest river crossings coincide with northern hemisphere summer vacations.
The Serengeti is divided into four primary geographic areas: the Western Corridor, the Seronera Valley, the northern Lobo/Kogatende, and the Southern Plains.
There are a number of privately owned reserves in the Serengeti that provide the same wildlife experience without the crowds, such as the Grumeti Reserve, although lodging costs are very high there.
The Seronera River and its adjacent valley are located in the Serengeti’s center. Big cats that live year-round and grazing herbivores are both welcome here. And the northern Kogatende and Lamai regions, which are located on the banks of the Mara River, are more remote and ideal for wildebeest migration during the dry season but often receive fewer visitors on this side of the park.
Best safari camps and lodges in Serengeti National Park
Singita Sasakwa Lodge: Situated in the Grumeti Reserves, Singita Sasakwa Lodge offers a refined and exclusive safari experience. The lodge features luxurious cottages with breathtaking views of the plains, personalized service, gourmet dining, and a variety of activities, including game drives and guided walks.
&Beyond Serengeti Under Canvas: This mobile tented camp moves around the Serengeti to ensure prime wildlife viewing. The camp offers spacious and comfortable tents with en-suite bathrooms and personalized butler service. It provides an authentic safari experience combined with elegance and luxury.
Serengeti Migration Camp: Located in the northern Serengeti, this camp offers panoramic views of the Grumeti River and the Great Migration. The camp features spacious tents with en-suite bathrooms, a swimming pool, and a central lounge area. Guests can enjoy game drives, guided walks, and hot air balloon safaris.
Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti: Set in the central Serengeti, this lodge offers luxurious accommodations with contemporary African decor. The lodge provides a range of amenities, including a spa, infinity pool, fitness center, and multiple dining options. Game drives, hot air balloon safaris, and cultural visits are also available.
Nomad Serengeti Safari Camp: This intimate and eco-friendly camp moves seasonally to follow the Great Migration. The camp offers spacious and comfortable tents with en-suite bathrooms, personalized service, and delicious cuisine. It provides an authentic and immersive safari experience.
Asilia Sayari Camp: Situated in the northern Serengeti, Asilia Sayari Camp offers breathtaking views of the Mara River and the Great Migration. The camp features luxurious tents with en-suite bathrooms, a swimming pool, and a central lounge area. Game drives, bush walks, and cultural visits are offered.
Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge: Overlooking the vast Serengeti plains, this lodge offers comfortable accommodations with traditional African design. The lodge features a swimming pool, spa, and various dining options. Guests can enjoy game drives, guided walks, and cultural experiences.
listed above among others, the best safari camps and lodges in the Serengeti. Each offers a unique experience, but they all provide excellent service, comfortable accommodations, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area: Situated in northern Tanzania, the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania is renowned for its incredible wildlife and stunning landscapes. There are several exceptional safari camps and lodges in the Serengeti that offer luxurious accommodations and unforgettable safari experiences.
Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the Ngorongoro Crater. The crater is a natural enclosure that supports a diverse ecosystem, including large populations of lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalos, and flamingos. It offers breathtaking scenery and an unforgettable safari experience.
Best safari lodges in Ngorongoro crater
The Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania is a stunning natural wonder and a popular tourist destination. While there are several lodges in and around the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, here are some of the best lodges known for their excellent accommodations and proximity to the crater:
Ngorongoro Crater Lodge: This exclusive lodge offers luxury accommodations with breathtaking views of the crater. The lodge is divided into three camps, each with its own unique design and ambiance. It provides exceptional service, fine dining, and an unforgettable safari experience.
The Manor at Ngorongoro: Located on a coffee plantation adjacent to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, The Manor offers an elegant and tranquil retreat. The lodge features luxurious cottages, personalized service, and various activities such as horseback riding and cycling.
Lemala Ngorongoro Tented Camp: Situated on the crater rim, this tented camp provides a comfortable and authentic safari experience. The camp offers spacious tents with en-suite bathrooms, delicious meals, and friendly staff. Its location provides easy access to the crater for game drives.
Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge: Perched on the rim of the crater, this lodge offers stunning views and a blend of traditional African design with modern comforts. The lodge provides comfortable rooms, a swimming pool, and guided nature walks to explore the area.
Neptune Ngorongoro Luxury Lodge: Nestled in a forested setting near the crater rim, this lodge offers luxurious accommodations in spacious cottages. The lodge provides a warm and friendly atmosphere, gourmet dining, and a variety of activities including cultural visits to nearby Maasai villages.
Tarangire National Park: Located in northern Tanzania, Tarangire is known for its diverse landscape and large herds of elephants. It is characterized by its iconic baobab trees, vast grasslands, and the Tarangire River, which attracts wildlife during the dry season. Visitors to Tarangire can spot lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, and numerous bird species.
As well as the Serengeti, there are a number of privately owned reserves in the Serengeti that provide the same wildlife experience without the crowds, such as the Grumeti Reserve, although lodging costs are very high there.
Best safari lodges and camps
Oliver’s Camp: Situated in a remote area of the park, Oliver’s Camp offers a classic safari experience with comfortable tented accommodation. The camp provides an authentic and intimate atmosphere, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the wilderness.
Tarangire Treetops: This luxury lodge features elevated rooms built on platforms, providing panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The spacious treehouse-style suites offer a unique and unforgettable experience, and the lodge provides excellent game viewing opportunities.
Sanctuary Swala: Located in a secluded area of the park, Sanctuary Swala offers luxury tented accommodation with modern amenities. The camp overlooks a waterhole frequented by elephants, making it a fantastic spot for wildlife enthusiasts.
Little Oliver’s Camp: As a smaller version of Oliver’s Camp, Little Oliver’s Camp provides an exclusive and personalized safari experience. The camp consists of just five tents, ensuring privacy and a tranquil setting in the heart of Tarangire.
Tarangire Safari Lodge: Situated on a ridge overlooking the Tarangire River, this lodge offers comfortable accommodation in traditional-style bungalows. The property features a swimming pool and a large dining area with panoramic views, allowing guests to relax and enjoy the surrounding wilderness.
Chem Chem Lodge: Although located just outside the park boundaries, Chem Chem Lodge offers a luxurious and eco-friendly safari experience. The lodge provides spacious tents with private decks, gourmet dining, and a variety of activities, including guided walks and game drives.
Selous Game Reserve:
As one of the largest game reserves in Africa, the Selous covers a vast area in southern Tanzania. It offers a more remote and off-the-beaten-path safari experience. The reserve is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, hippos, crocodiles, and an impressive bird population. Boat safaris along the Rufiji River are a highlight of the Selous.
Best safari lodges and camps
Selous Impala Camp; Offers mid-range accommodation and its not highly priced compared to other camps, best for family vacations.
Lake Manze Tented Camp: A good value camp on the shores of Lake Manze with plenty of resident wildlife close by.
Siwandu Camp: Super high-end camp in the Siwandu, with tents located on a picturesque river bank. Conveniently located for flights from Dar es Salaam.
Ruaha National Park: Situated in central Tanzania, Ruaha National Park is known for its rugged and untouched wilderness. It is home to a significant population of elephants, as well as lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species. Ruaha is an excellent destination for a more exclusive and private safari experience.
Best safari lodges ad camps.
Kwihala Camp: Kwihala Camp is a luxury tented camp located in the heart of Ruaha. It offers spacious and comfortable tents with en-suite bathrooms and outdoor showers. The camp provides excellent game viewing opportunities and guided safari experiences led by experienced guides.
Jongomero Camp: Jongomero Camp is a remote and secluded safari camp situated along the banks of the Jongomero River. The camp offers spacious and stylish tented accommodations with private verandas. It provides a tranquil setting and fantastic wildlife viewing, including large herds of elephants
Ikuka Safari Camp: Ikuka Safari Camp is perched on a hilltop, offering stunning panoramic views of the Ruaha landscape. The camp features luxurious guest tents with private decks and outdoor showers. It focuses on providing an intimate and personalized safari experience with expert guides.
Mdonya Old River Camp: Mdonya Old River Camp offers a classic safari experience in a beautiful wilderness setting. The camp provides comfortable tented accommodations with en-suite facilities. It is known for its friendly atmosphere, knowledgeable guides, and close encounters with a variety of wildlife.
Mwagusi Safari Camp: Mwagusi Safari Camp is a family-owned and operated camp with a prime location in Ruaha. The camp offers spacious and traditionally furnished tents with open-air bathrooms. It provides excellent game drives, walking safaris, and cultural experiences.
Ruaha River Lodge: Ruaha River Lodge is situated along the banks of the Great Ruaha River, offering stunning views and abundant wildlife sightings. The lodge features comfortable stone and thatch chalets with en-suite facilities. It provides game drives, boat safaris, and walking safaris led by experienced guides.
Katavi National Park: Located in western Tanzania, Katavi is one of the country’s most remote and least visited parks. It offers pristine and unspoiled wilderness, with large herds of buffalos, elephants, and antelopes. The park also boasts a remarkable concentration of hippos and crocodiles in its rivers.
The dry season are the great wildlife spotting seasons with large herds of wildlife including; big buffalos, lions, elephants and a variety of plane game including; Topis, Zebras and Impalas. during the dry season, the animals are usually seen concentrating in permanent water points which makes it the easiest spot for game viewing.
Best safari lodges
Chada Katavi: Chada Katavi is a luxury safari camp located in the heart of Katavi National Park. It offers stylish accommodation with spacious tents, comfortable beds, and en-suite bathrooms. The camp provides excellent game viewing opportunities, including lion and buffalo sightings, as well as walking safaris and fly camping experiences.
Katavi Wildlife Camp: Situated along the Katuma River, Katavi Wildlife Camp offers comfortable tented accommodation with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. The camp provides a rustic and authentic safari experience, with knowledgeable guides leading game drives and walking safaris to explore the park’s diverse wildlife.
Mbali Mbali Katavi Lodge: Mbali Mbali Katavi Lodge is a luxury safari lodge located on the edge of the vast Katisunga Plain in Katavi National Park. The lodge offers spacious and elegantly appointed rooms with private verandas, providing panoramic views of the wilderness. Guests can enjoy game drives, bush walks, and bird watching activities.
Nomad Katavi Camp: Nomad Katavi Camp is a seasonal tented camp that moves with the wildlife migration patterns in Katavi National Park. The camp offers spacious tents with comfortable beds and en-suite bathrooms, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the untouched wilderness. Game drives, walking safaris, and night drives are available for guests to explore the park’s wildlife.
Foxes Katavi Camp: Foxes Katavi Camp is a small, intimate safari camp situated on the edge of the Katuma River. The camp offers comfortable tents with en-suite bathrooms and a cozy dining area. Guests can enjoy game drives, walking safaris, and boat safaris along the river to witness the park’s abundant wildlife.
It’s worth noting that the availability and offerings of lodges in Katavi National Park may change over time, so it’s recommended to research the latest information and reviews before planning your safari trip. reach to us at adventure in the wild safaris and we will help plan and check for the availability of the best accommodation for you to ensure you get the unique safari experience.
Wildlife Viewing: Katavi is renowned for its impressive wildlife population. Visitors can expect to see large herds of elephants, buffalo, and giraffes roaming the open plains. Lions, leopards, hyenas, and other predators can also be spotted here. The park is especially famous for its hippos and crocodiles, which gather in enormous numbers around the Katuma River during the dry season.
Katuma River: The Katuma River serves as a lifeline for the park’s wildlife, attracting animals in large numbers. The river is a focal point for game viewing, as animals come here to drink and cool off. Visitors can witness thrilling interactions between predators and prey at the riverbanks.
Katisunga Plains: These vast open plains are a prime location for game drives, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. The plains are home to massive herds of buffaloes, zebras, impalas, and other antelopes. Predators like lions and cheetahs can often be found stalking their prey in this area.
Lake Chada: Located in the southern part of the park, Lake Chada is a seasonal lake that attracts a wide variety of bird species. It’s a paradise for birdwatching enthusiasts, with over 400 species recorded in the area, including pelicans, flamingos, storks, and numerous waterfowl.
Scenic Landscapes: Katavi National Park offers breathtaking natural beauty, with diverse landscapes ranging from floodplains and grassy savannahs to woodlands and seasonal lakes. The sunsets in Katavi are particularly mesmerizing, casting a golden hue over the plains.
Walking Safaris: The park offers guided walking safaris, allowing visitors to explore the wilderness on foot. Walking safaris provide a more intimate and immersive experience, giving you the opportunity to appreciate the smaller details of the ecosystem and observe wildlife from a different perspective.
Katavi National Park is an off-the-beaten-path destination that offers a truly authentic and wild safari experience. Its remote location and limited infrastructure make it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking a more secluded adventure.
Mahale Mountains National Park; Located on the sandy banks Lake Tanganyika, the park has got habituated chimpanzee that can be visited for chimpanzee trekking. There are also other primates that can be sighted here including; Vervet, red colobus monkey among others. August to October is categorized as the drier month, which is the best time of the year to visit the park ad trek the forest in search for the chimps.
Best safari camps and lodge
Greystoke Mahale Camp, a luxury safari camp located in the Mahale Mountains National Park in Tanzania. The camp is situated on the eastern shore of Lake Tanganyika, one of the largest and deepest freshwater lakes in the world.
The Mahale Mountains National Park is renowned for its population of wild chimpanzees, which are the main attraction for visitors to Greystoke Mahale Camp. The camp offers a unique opportunity to observe these primates in their natural habitat. Guests can participate in guided chimpanzee tracking excursions, led by experienced guides, to observe the chimpanzees as they go about their daily activities, including feeding, grooming, and socializing.
In addition to chimpanzee tracking, Greystoke Mahale Camp offers other activities such as birdwatching, hiking, and fishing. The camp itself provides comfortable and stylish accommodations in spacious thatched-roof bandas, which are open to the beach and the surrounding forest. The camp aims to provide a secluded and intimate experience, allowing guests to connect with nature and enjoy the tranquility of the wilderness.
Nkungwe Beach Lodge is a luxury beachfront lodge located in the Mahale Mountains National Park in Tanzania, near the same area as Greystoke Mahale Camp. It offers a unique combination of a beach and wildlife experience
Nkungwe Beach Lodge provides guests with a tranquil and secluded retreat surrounded by the beauty of Lake Tanganyika and the nearby Mahale Mountains. The lodge offers comfortable accommodation options, including spacious thatched-roof bandas with private verandas overlooking the beach and lake. The rooms are designed to blend harmoniously with the natural environment, providing a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere.
One of the main attractions of Nkungwe Beach Lodge is its proximity to the Mahale Mountains National Park and the opportunity to encounter wild chimpanzees. Guests can participate in guided chimpanzee trekking excursions into the forest to observe and interact with these incredible primates. The lodge employs knowledgeable guides who lead the treks and provide insights into the behavior and conservation of the chimpanzees.
Apart from chimpanzee trekking, Nkungwe Beach Lodge offers a range of activities to enjoy the surrounding natural beauty. Guests can go snorkeling or swimming in Lake Tanganyika, take boat trips to explore the lake’s picturesque islands, try their hand at fishing, or simply relax on the beach and soak up the sun.
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park is a beautiful national park located in northern Tanzania, East Africa. It is named after Lake Manyara, which is one of the main features of the park. The park is known for its diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and birdlife with various activities to do while in the park. Lake Manyara National Park is located about 126 kilometers (78 miles) west of Arusha and can be reached by road or air. It is often visited as part of the Northern Circuit safari itinerary, which includes other famous destinations like Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park. The park offers a unique wildlife experience and is a popular choice for nature lovers and safari enthusiasts visiting Tanzania.
Key features of Lake Manyara National Park:
Lake Manyara: The park is famous for Lake Manyara, a shallow alkaline lake that stretches along the western boundary. The lake attracts a wide variety of bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, storks, and many others. It is also a habitat for hippos and various aquatic animals.
Although Lake Manyara National Park is relatively small compared to other parks in Tanzania, it is home to a wide range of wildlife species. Visitors can spot elephants, buffalo, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and impalas. The park is also known for its tree-climbing lions, which is a unique behavior not commonly seen in other areas.
Lake Manyara National Park is a paradise for bird enthusiasts. The park offers a unique birding experience for the visitors having interest in birding activity. There are over 400 bird species recorded in the park, including migratory birds, it offers incredible birdwatching opportunities. Apart from the flamingos and pelicans, you can spot various species of herons, kingfishers, eagles, and hornbills, among others.
Furthermore, the park boasts with diverse landscapes, ranging from the lush groundwater forest near the lake to the open grassy plains and acacia woodlands. The dramatic Rift Valley escarpment forms a picturesque backdrop which has contributed greatly to the scenic beauty of the park.
Canopy Walkway: Lake Manyara National Park features a unique treetop walkway, allowing visitors to explore the forest from an elevated perspective. The canopy walkway provides a thrilling experience and an opportunity to observe the park’s flora and fauna from a different angle.
Cultural Encounters: The area surrounding Lake Manyara National Park is inhabited by the Maasai people. Some cultural tourism programs offer visitors a chance to interact with the Maasai community, learn about their traditions, and experience their way of life.
Best safari camps and lodges
Lake Manyara National Park is a popular destination in Tanzania known for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. While there are several excellent camps and lodges in the area, here are some of the best options:
&Beyond Lake Manyara Tree Lodge: This luxury lodge offers an exclusive and intimate safari experience. Nestled within a mahogany forest, the lodge features elegant treehouse suites with private decks, spacious bedrooms, and luxurious bathrooms. The lodge offers game drives, night drives, and guided walks to explore the park’s abundant wildlife.
Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge: Located on the edge of the Mto wa Mbu escarpment, this lodge provides breathtaking views of Lake Manyara. It offers comfortable rooms with local decor and modern amenities. The lodge features a swimming pool, spa, and a terrace restaurant serving delicious cuisine. Game drives and guided walks are available for guests to enjoy the park’s wildlife.
Kirurumu Manyara Lodge: Situated on the Great Rift Valley escarpment, this lodge offers panoramic views of Lake Manyara and the park. The lodge provides spacious tents and cottages with en-suite bathrooms and private verandas for evening relaxation. There is also swimming pool where guests can relax during the day or enjoy guided walks, night drives, and cultural visits to nearby Maasai villages which offers a great opportunity to get to learn about other cultures and their different ways of life.
Lake Manyara Kilimamoja Lodge: This lodge offers a blend of luxury and tranquility. Set on the rim of the Rift Valley, it features spacious suites and villas with modern amenities and private balconies offering stunning views. The lodge has a swimming pool, spa, and a restaurant serving a variety of cuisine. Game drives and birdwatching excursions are also offered in the lodge for the visitors.
Migunga Tented Camp: For those seeking a more authentic and rustic experience, this camp offers comfortable tented accommodation surrounded by lush forest. The camp provides en-suite tents with cozy beds and a restaurant serving delicious meals among other activities including; Guided walks, birdwatching, and cultural visits are available for guests to enjoy.
These are just a few examples of the best camps and lodges in the Lake Manyara area. Each offers unique experiences and amenities, so it’s worth considering your preferences and budget when choosing the perfect accommodation for your trip. For a unique and once in a life time experience while considering the best accommodation option to ensuite your safari, do not hesitate to contact us at adventure in the wild safaris, incase you are planning to visit Tanzania national park and get to explore some of the interesting attractions with a wide range of activities to do in the various national parks.