Tanzania is home to some of the most iconic and diverse wildlife destinations in the world. The country’s combination of untouched wilderness, abundant wildlife, and world-class national parks makes it one of Africa’s premier safari destinations.
Choosing the best safari in Tanzania depends on what you want to see: the Big Five, the Great Migration, giant elephant herds, or rare wildlife found nowhere else. With the right planning, every traveler can experience a safari that is thrilling, comfortable, and unforgettable.
Below are the best national parks and reserves that guarantee exceptional safari experiences.
The Serengeti is where you’ll find the classic African safari. Endless golden plains, lions on kopjes, cheetahs hunting, and the legendary Great Migration make it the number one choice for the best safari in Tanzania. The wildlife density here is unmatched.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera. It offers one of the easiest places to see the Big Five in a single day. The crater floor is packed with elephants, lions, buffalo, rhinos, zebras, and thousands of wildebeest.
Known for its massive elephant herds and ancient baobab trees, Tarangire is perfect for those who want a quieter and more intimate safari. During the dry season, the Tarangire River attracts hundreds of animals.
Famous for its tree-climbing lions and vibrant birdlife, Lake Manyara is a beautiful and compact park that offers unique scenery, including forests, hot springs, and lakeshores.
One of Africa’s largest protected areas, Selous offers a different type of safari experience. It’s ideal for boat safaris, walking safaris, and seeing large predators in a less-crowded environment.
Remote, wild, and untouched, Ruaha provides one of the most authentic safari experiences. It is known for large lion prides, rare antelope species, and rugged landscapes.
The timing of your trip plays a major role in your safari experience.
Best wildlife visibility
Ideal for the Great Migration river crossings
Fewer mosquitoes and clear skies
Peak safari season
Lush, green landscapes
Excellent birdwatching
Lower prices and fewer tourists
Best time to see baby animals
Both seasons offer outstanding experiences, but the dry season is generally considered the best time for game viewing.
Tanzania offers a safari style for every type of traveler:
Five-star lodges, premium tents, and exclusive 4×4 vehicles designed for comfort and privacy.
Well-equipped lodges and tented camps offering quality service and excellent value.
Shared vehicles, public campsites, and affordable lodges that still offer strong wildlife experiences.
Custom itineraries tailored to your preferences, pace, and interests.
Child-friendly lodges and guides experienced in creating fun, educational experiences.
Expect to encounter:
Lion prides lounging under acacia trees
Elephants in large family groups
Leopards resting on tree branches
Cheetahs hunting on open plains
Black rhinos in Ngorongoro Crater
Giraffes, zebras, gazelles, and wildebeest in vast numbers
Over 500 bird species in various regions
Every park offers something unique, making Tanzania a paradise for wildlife lovers.
Define your budget and preferred level of comfort.
Decide which parks match your interests and travel dates.
Choose a reputable safari company with experienced guides.
Travel during the dry season for peak wildlife viewing.
Pack light clothing, sun protection, and a good camera.
The best safari in Tanzania is one that brings you face-to-face with the incredible natural world of East Africa. From the Great Migration in the Serengeti to the Big Five in Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania offers unmatched wildlife encounters and breathtaking landscapes.
With expert planning and the right safari operator, your Tanzanian adventure will be truly unforgettable.
Hike the Majestic Kilimanjaro, Mount Meru and Oldonyo lengai and enjoy your Tanzania adventure
Camping safaris Tanzania are more popular on Northern Tanzania than in the Southern.
Discover Zanzibar's best beaches with its spectacular sunsets, palm-fringed beaches, turquoise waters & colourful coral reefs
Lodge safaris are for the discerning traveller who wishes to experience Eastern Africa's wilderness in comfort and ease.
Tanzania Canoeing Safaris · is the ultimate in relaxing excitement to enjoy the astonishingly beautiful scenery.
We offer a blend of both Tanzania's wildlife and its cultural heritage safaris
We are pioneers in making bike safaris. Our experience and hard work have made us able to offer unusual routes.
Walking safaris are a great way to meet the magic of the bush. Encountering animals by stepping into their world awakens your senses.
Don’t wait any longer. Contact us!
We are true experts when it comes to Tanzania. We live, work and travel here. Serengeti African Tours arranges lodge and camping safaris, trekking and hiking tours and beach holidays. We carefully select our well-trained guides, drivers, cooks and porters.
