The continent of Africa is renowned for its spectacular wildlife. Undoubtedly, one of the most popular safari spots in Africa is the breathtaking country of Tanzania. If you are starting to plan your once-in-a-lifetime safari adventure in Tanzania, then you are in luck. In this article, I will outline the top 15 Tanzania safari locations for you to review.

Tanzania is renowned for its stunning wildlife and breathtaking landscapes, making it a top destination for safari enthusiasts. When it comes to experiencing the thrill of spotting the “Big Five” in their natural habitat, Tanzania offers some of the best opportunities in the world.

If you would like some assistance in putting together an itinerary for your dream safari in Tanzania, I can help you with that too! In the article below, I outline an incredible Tanzania safari itinerary that visits many of the top Tanzania safari locations. Feel free to use this itinerary as it is or modify it to create the safari adventure of your dreams!

Tanzania’s National Parks and Game Reserves

From the iconic Serengeti National Park to the magnificent Ngorongoro Crater, each of Tanzania’s parks and reserves has its own unique charm and diverse wildlife to offer. Visitors can witness the awe-inspiring wildebeest migration, encounter majestic elephants, or trek to find our nearest relative the chimpanzee. With its rich biodiversity and captivating scenery, Tanzania promises an unforgettable safari experience for adventurers and nature enthusiasts alike.

The Ngorongoro Crater

The Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania is a natural wonder that demands attention. This unique geological formation is a haven for a diverse range of wildlife, making it a must-visit destination for any nature enthusiast. The vast expanse of the crater, complete with its own ecosystem, provides an unparalleled opportunity to witness the “Big Five” animals of Africa. With breathtaking vistas and an abundance of wildlife, the Ngorongoro Crater promises an unforgettable experience for any traveler seeking to visit the top Tanzania safari locations.

Animals You Could See

The Ngorongoro Crater is widely considered to be one of the top safari destinations in Africa for good reason. It offers visitors the best chance of spotting all of the “Big Five” animals of Africa in one visit. Most of the animals that are found in the crater live there year-round. Because of this, the amount of wildlife found in the crater is always abundant.

Best Times to Visit

There is a permanent water supply inside the Ngorongoro Crater, which means that the animals that live there don’t need to migrate to find water. Because of this, the zebra, wildebeest, buffalo, and other grazing animals in the crater stay there year-round. And with the constant source of prey, predators such as lions, hyenas, leopards, and cheetahs are a constant presence inside the crater. This means there really isn’t a bad time to visit the Ngorongoro Crater.

Serengeti National Park

Serengeti National Park in Tanzania is a must-visit destination for anyone going on safari in Tanzania. This expansive park is renowned for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. From the sweeping plains to the majestic wildlife, every corner of Serengeti National Park is a sight to behold.

Embark on a safari adventure to witness the iconic wildebeest migration, or simply immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the African wilderness. With its rich biodiversity and breathtaking scenery, Serengeti National Park offers an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking to visit the top Tanzania safari locations.

Animals You Could See

You will be hard-pressed to find a better wildlife-viewing destination in Africa better than the legendary Serengeti. Renowned for the great wildebeest migration, which is the world’s largest mammal migration, the sheer density of animals in the Serengeti is staggering. From large herds of grazing animals to one of the largest densities of lions in Africa, the Serengeti has it all.

Best Times to Visit

While wildlife viewing is good throughout the year in the Serengeti, certain times of year are better than others. Most people who visit the Serengeti come to see the wildebeest migration. The good news is that it lasts from January to October. Depending on when you visit, you can plan your visit to the part of the park where the herds are expected to be at that time.

For instance, if you are looking at an August or September visit, you will want to target the north of the park towards the border of Kenya. Here, you might even be able to catch some of the famed river crossings. If you are looking for some predator activity, I suggest considering the months of January and February, as this is the wildebeest birthing time in the Ndutu region.

Tarangire National Park

Another of the top Tanzania safari locations, Tarangire National Park is renowned for its diverse landscapes, including sweeping savannahs, ancient baobab trees, and the meandering Tarangire River. Visitors can expect to encounter a rich array of wildlife, from majestic elephants and elusive leopards to colorful birdlife.

The park’s unspoiled natural beauty and abundance of wildlife make it a must-visit for anyone coming to Tanzania. Whether exploring the park on game drives, walking safaris, or simply appreciating the stunning vistas, Tarangire National Park offers an immersive and unforgettable journey into the heart of the African wilderness.

Animals You Could See

During the dry season from July until November, the Tarangire River is a wildlife magnet. You will typically see wildebeest, zebra, eland, buffalo, and elephant grazing around the river area. As expected, this draws predators such as lions and hyenas to the area to take advantage. If you’re lucky, you might even spot the elusive African wild dogs in the park.

Best Times to Visit

The dry season of July to November is undoubtedly the best time to visit Tarangire National Park. Water is less plentiful elsewhere in the park, so the animals tend to congregate near the Tarangire River. This makes it much easier and more predictable to spot wildlife within the park.

Lake Manyara National Park

Of all the top parklands in Tanzania, the breathtaking Lake Manyara National Park is amongst the most beautiful. The park showcases a diverse array of landscapes, ranging from dense woodlands to expansive grassy plains and the alkaline lake itself, which is often adorned with flocks of flamingos.

Above all else, Lake Manyara National Park is famed for its unique tree-climbing lions and its large herds of elephants. In addition, the park is a haven for migratory birds, which makes it one of the top Tanzania safari locations for bird watching. With its picturesque scenery and rich biodiversity, Lake Manyara National Park is an essential stop for any discerning traveler to Tanzania.

Animals You Could See

More than anything else, Lake Manyara National Park is known for its infamous tree-climbing lions and its large tusked elephants. The park is also home to several large, grassy plains. It is here that you will often find large herds of buffalo, wildebeest, and zebra grazing. Not to forget, the park is also home to one of the highest densities of leopards in Tanzania. If you’re lucky, you will get to spot one of these elusive animals during your safari.

Best Times to Visit

Ultimately, the best time to visit the park depends on what you want to see. The dry season, from June to October, is generally recommended for wildlife viewing, as the animals tend to gather around water sources, making it easier to spot them. However, the wet season, from November to May, offers a lush and green landscape, with migratory birds arriving at the park.

Gombe Stream National Park

Made famous by Jane Goodall’s studies at the park during the 1960s, Gombe Stream National Park is one of Tanzania’s most unique parklands. As the smallest national park in Tanzania, it offers a unique opportunity to observe chimpanzees in their natural habitat. The park’s diverse ecosystem, comprising rainforests, grasslands, and woodlands, provides an ideal setting for a variety of wildlife, including over 200 bird species.

Visitors can also enjoy hiking trails with breathtaking views of Lake Tanganyika. With its rich biodiversity and conservation efforts, Gombe Stream National Park promises an unforgettable and educational experience for travelers seeking to explore the top Tanzania safari locations.

Animals You Could See

Gombe Stream National Park offers a rare opportunity to witness a diverse range of wildlife, including the iconic chimpanzees that made this region famous. The park is home to two chimpanzee communities, with roughly 100 chimpanzees living in the park.

You may even get to see the same community that Jane Goodall studied during her infamous stay in the 1960’s. In addition to the chimps, the park is also home to olive baboons, red-tailed monkeys, and the Ugandan red colobus monkey.

Best Times to Visit

The optimal time to explore Gombe Stream National Park is during the dry season, from July to October when the weather is mild and the chimpanzees are usually spotted easily due to the minimized vegetation cover. This period allows visitors to indulge in tranquil excursions and wildlife observation, making it an ideal time to visit.

Ruaha National Park

Located deep in the heart of the Tanzanian bush, Ruaha National Park stands as a testament to the breathtaking beauty and diversity of East Africa. With a huge expanse of untouched wilderness, the park offers one of the most authentic safari experiences in all of Tanzania. This makes it one of the most popular Tanzania safari locations amongst frequent safari travelers.

Home to huge prides of lions, elephants, and even the elusive African Wild Dogs, this vast expanse of wilderness offers an unparalleled safari experience. As the largest national park in Tanzania, it provides visitors with a chance to witness nature at its most raw and untamed. Whether exploring the Great Ruaha River or admiring the rugged landscape, Ruaha National Park promises an unforgettable adventure for any traveler.

Animals You Could See

Ruaha National Park stands as a testament to the incredible diversity of wildlife in the top Tanzania safari locations. The park is home to an astonishing array of animals, including large herds of elephants and giraffes, and large prides of lions that can be more than 20 individuals. However, the biggest draw to visiting Ruaha National Park is the ease at which you can spot the highly endangered African wild dog.

Best Times to Visit

If you are going to explore the vast beauty of Ruaha National Park, the best time to do it is during the dry season, from June to October. During this period, the vegetation is less dense, making it easier to spot wildlife congregating around the water sources. Additionally, the weather is cooler, and the lack of rain ensures that game drives are not hindered by muddy roads.

Nyerere National Park

For travelers hoping to catch a glimpse of the endangered African Wild Dog, Nyerere National Park arguably offers you the best chance to see them. Comprised of territory that was once part of the famed Selous Game Reserve, Nyerere National Park boasts an incredible array of biodiversity, with its sprawling plains and meandering rivers serving as a refuge for diverse species.

From graceful giraffes to majestic lions, the park is a haven for those seeking an authentic safari experience. Its remote location makes it a little more difficult to get to, but the effort is more than worth it. Visitors to Nyerere National Park can immerse themselves in the untamed beauty and wonder of the African wilderness. It’s the perfect place to seek adventure while connecting with nature.

Animals You Could See

Speaking of wild dogs, the famed Nyerere National Park is one of the species’ biggest strongholds in Tanzania. If you are lucky, you will get to spot them during your safari. The string of lakes along the main safari circuit in the park is also a great place to spot buffalo, waterbuck, zebra, and numerous species of antelope. Make sure you keep your eyes peeled while on safari as the park is also home to a large population of stealthy leopards.

Best Times to Visit

Like most of the other top Tanzania safari locations, there are certain times of year when it is better than others to visit Nyerere National Park. The dry season, which spans from June to October, is the ideal time of year to visit the park.

During this period, the weather is cooler and drier, making wildlife sightings easier and enhancing the overall safari experience. Additionally, the dry season coincides with the park’s boat safari season, allowing visitors to explore the Rufiji River and its diverse ecosystem.

Mahale Mountains National Park

If you are coming to Tanzania to see Chimpanzees, you will be hard-pressed to find a better place to do it than the incredible Mahale Mountains National Park. Nestled along the eastern shores of Lake Tanganyika, the park offers a breathtaking escape into nature. This pristine wilderness is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including the largest known population of chimpanzees in the country.

As visitors hike through the lush forests and along the pristine shorelines, they are treated to sightings of other remarkable species such as red colobus monkeys and vibrant birdlife. It may not have the notoriety of Gombe Stream, but the park’s remote location ensures a true sense of tranquility. This makes it an ideal destination for travelers seeking an authentic and immersive safari experience.

Animals You Could See

While the prize attraction during any visit to the Mahale Mountains is the park’s roughly 900 chimpanzees, there is a wealth of other wildlife to see as well. This includes the endangered Ugandan red colobus, yellow baboons, blue monkeys, red-tailed monkeys, and vervet monkeys. On rare occasions, you might even spot elephants, giraffes, lions, or the extremely rare African wild dog.

Best Times to Visit

The best time to visit Mahale Mountains National Park is during the dry season, from August to October when the weather is ideal for outdoor activities and wildlife sightings. This time of year offers clear skies and an abundance of wildlife, including chimpanzees, which are a major attraction in the park. The dry season also allows for fantastic hiking opportunities and stunning views of Lake Tanganyika.

Saadani National Park

For travelers looking to combine beach time with some bush experience, the incredible Saadani National Park is exactly what you are looking for. his expansive wildlife sanctuary is home to a diverse range of fauna and flora, with the opportunity to spot elephants, buffalo, and giraffes against the breathtaking backdrop of the Indian Ocean.

Visitors can embark on game drives, and boat safaris, and even indulge in cultural experiences with the local communities. Saadani National Park’s pristine beaches, coupled with its rich biodiversity, provide an unparalleled setting for an unforgettable safari adventure.

Animals You Could See

While it is very rare to spot one of the big predators within the park, that doesn’t mean Saadani National Park isn’t worth visiting. The park is home to healthy populations of giraffes, buffalo, waterbuck, and hippos. And on the park’s savannah, you have a great shot of spotting one of the park’s large elephant herds amongst the grazing wildebeest, zebra, greater kudu, and eland.

Best Times to Visit

The best time to experience the park’s diverse ecosystem is after the seasonal rains in January and February and from June to August. During these times of year there is enough water left on the plains for the animals, which means more wildlife is still in the park. Really, the only bad time to visit the park is during the peak rainy season during April and May.

Arusha National Park

While it may not be the biggest park in Tanzania, what Arusha National Park lacks in size it makes up for in beauty. Lush green landscapes and diverse wildlife make it an ideal destination for nature lovers. From the majestic snow-capped peak of Mount Kilimanjaro to the unique flora and fauna, this park offers a remarkable spectacle of natural beauty.

Exploring the park’s diverse terrain, including the Momela Lakes and the spectacular Ngurdoto Crater, is a truly enriching experience. For avid hikers and bird watchers, the park provides an opportunity to witness some of Africa’s most stunning landscapes and wildlife. One of the most popular spots is the large fig tree tunnel that you can drive your car through.

While the park doesn’t often get the big predators that make some of the other top Tanzania safari locations popular, it does have its advantages. The lack of predators makes it a great park to enjoy a ranger-led walking safari. Not only that, but it is an easy park to self-drive through, which means you can go at your own pace. And because it is just a short drive from Arusha, it is easy to visit before or after your other scheduled safari adventures.

Animals You Could See

If you are looking to spot one of Africa’s big predators, then Arusha National Park may not be the park for you. However, the park is home to a wealth of other amazing animals to see. This includes plenty of giraffes, hippos, buffalo, zebra, and many antelope species. If you’re lucky, you may even see an elephant in the park. If you want to experience a walking safari during your visit, Arusha National Park is one of the top places to have that experience in Tanzania.

Best Times to Visit

The best time to visit Arusha National Park is during the dry season, which falls between June and October. This period provides optimal conditions for game viewing and hiking, as the weather is generally mild and the wildlife is concentrated around the water sources.

Additionally, the clear skies during this time offer spectacular views of Mount Kilimanjaro, adding to the overall experience. Visitors should plan their trip accordingly to fully appreciate the beauty and biodiversity that Arusha National Park has to offer.

Grumeti Game Reserve

Located in the Greater Serengeti National Park area, the beautiful Grumeti Game Reserve offers a unique and breathtaking safari experience. As one of the most prestigious safari destinations in Africa, Grumeti provides a rich tapestry of wildlife, striking landscapes, and luxurious accommodations. If you are looking for a luxurious safari experience, Grumeti is where you should be looking.

With its prime location in the Greater Serengeti area, the reserve is home to one of the highest concentrations of wildlife in all of Africa. This includes a front-row seat to the iconic annual wildebeest migration. From thrilling game drives to serene moments amid nature, Grumeti Game Reserve embodies the essence of a quintessential African safari adventure.

Animals You Could See

The Grumeti Game Reserve comes with all of the benefits of visiting the famed Serengeti National Park, but without all of the crowds of people to contend with. It shares an unfenced border with the Serengeti’s Western Corridor and all of the wildlife is free to travel between the park and the reserve. However, only guests within the exclusive camps inside the reserve can go on safari within the Grumeti. This is why it is one of the very top Tanzania safari locations.

If you plan your visit for June or July, you can typically catch the wildebeest migration going through the Grumeti Game Reserve. This is when you will see the most predator action within the reserve as well. Like the Serengeti, the Grumeti is also home to a wealth of elephants, giraffes, zebras, hippos, cheetahs, and a wide variety of antelope as well.

Best Times to Visit

The best time to visit the Grumeti Game Reserve is during the dry season from June to October. These months offer optimal wildlife viewing opportunities as the animals gather around water sources, making it easier to spot them in the open savannah.

Moreover, the weather is mild, with little to no rainfall, providing the perfect conditions for game drives and outdoor activities. Travelers can expect to witness the Great Migration during this period, where large herds of wildebeest and zebras move through the area in search of water and grazing land.

Katavi National Park

When it comes to the top Tanzania safari locations, the incredible Katavi National Park is a hidden gem. Located in the heart of western Tanzania, the park is a true wilderness gem that offers a unique and untouched safari experience. This remote and unspoiled park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts seeking an exclusive and authentic safari adventure.

As you explore the park, you’ll be greeted by the sight of immense herds of elephants, prides of lions, and an abundance of bird species, making it a paradise for wildlife photography and nature lovers. With its remote location and limited visitor numbers, Katavi National Park provides an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature in its purest form.

Animals You Could See

The park’s diverse landscapes provide a habitat for a wide variety of species, from the majestic African elephant to the elusive leopard. During the dry season, the Katuma River is jam-packed with hippos and crocodiles, which can often be seen basking in the sun on the banks. The park is also home to large herds of buffalo, topi, impala, and other antelope species. When water is low during the low season, visitors can often spot opportunistic lions or hyenas hunting near Lake Katavi or Lake Chada.

Best Times to Visit

The best time to visit Katavi National Park is during the dry season from June to October, when the park’s wildlife congregates around the available water sources, providing excellent game viewing opportunities.

Visitors during this time will be treated to the sight of vast herds of elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species along the Katuma River. The clear skies and sunny weather during this period also ensure optimal photographic opportunities and a comfortable outdoor experience.

Mikumi National Park

What makes Mikumi National Park one of the top Tanzania safari locations is its unique blend of accessibility and authenticity. It’s located just a short 4-hour drive from the city of Dar es Salaam, which makes it as easy to access as the more popular parks in the Arusha area. However, unlike the Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and their neighbors, Mikumi doesn’t typically have huge crowds of people to contend with.

Spanning over 3,230 square kilometers is teeming with diverse flora and fauna, including lions, zebras, giraffes, and elephants. The spectacular Mkata Floodplain has a Serengeti-esque feel, with enormous grazing herds being watched by a healthy population of lions, hyenas, and other predators. So, if you are looking to escape the crowds, but not miss out on a top-notch safari experience, Mikumi National Park may be the park for you.

Animals You Could See

The park is home to a diverse range of animals, from the majestic African elephant and graceful giraffes to the elusive leopards and charismatic zebras. From the iconic “Big Five” to a plethora of bird species, the park provides a captivating experience for wildlife enthusiasts. While rhinos disappeared from the park in the 1990s, the park has announced plans to reintroduce them.

Best Times to Visit

Mikumi National Park is a breathtaking destination that offers unique experiences throughout the year. However, the best time to visit Mikumi National Park is during the dry season, which runs from late May to early November. This period offers the best wildlife viewing opportunities as animals gather around water sources, making it easier to spot them.

Moreover, the weather is pleasant with clear skies, allowing for stunning photographic opportunities. Visitors can enjoy game drives and guided safaris in the park during this time while also experiencing the diverse flora and fauna that Mikumi has to offer.

Mkomazi National Park

Located in the northeastern part of Tanzania, Mkomazi National Park offers a unique and captivating wildlife experience. This vast and remote park is home to an array of exotic species, including the African wild dog, Grevy’s zebra, and giraffes. The park’s diverse landscapes, ranging from savannahs to rugged cliffs, provide an ideal environment for wildlife viewing and photography.

Visitors can also engage in guided walking safaris and birdwatching, immersing themselves in the natural beauty of this untamed wilderness. With its conservation efforts and stunning scenery, Mkomazi National Park stands as a testament to Tanzania’s commitment to preserving its natural treasures. These are just some of the things that make Mkomazi National Park one of the top Tanzania safari locations.

Animals You Could See

The breathtaking mountain backdrop of the park makes wildlife viewing in Mkomazi National Park even more enjoyable. Visitors are treated to large herds of Masai giraffes, plentiful zebra, Coke’s hartebeest, and various antelope species. However, the top wildlife attraction is the Kisima Rhino Breeding Sanctuary, which is located in the heart of Mkomazi National Park.

Best Times to Visit

The best time to visit Mkomazi National Park is during the dry season, from June to October. During these months, wildlife congregates around the water sources, making it easier to spot the diverse species that call the park home.

The clear skies and moderate temperatures also enhance the overall experience for visitors. Exploring the park during this time allows for clear visibility of the breathtaking landscapes and the opportunity to witness the fascinating behaviors of the park’s inhabitants.

Rubondo Island National Park

For those who are looking for a unique Tanzania safari experience, look no further than the incredible Rubondo Island National Park. Situated on the expansive Lake Victoria, this national park offers a unique opportunity to observe a diverse array of wildlife in a stunning island setting. From the elusive sitatunga antelope to the playful vervet monkeys, the park boasts a rich biodiversity that is sure to captivate visitors.

The tranquil waters surrounding the island are also home to a variety of fish species, making it a haven for fishing enthusiasts. If you are lucky, you may even spot chimpanzees within the park. With its unspoiled natural beauty and wealth of wildlife, Rubondo Island National Park is an exceptional destination for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience at one of the top Tanzania safari locations.

Animals You Could See

With its lush forests and extensive wetlands, Rubondo Island National Park provides a vital habitat for a variety of species. While the main attraction is the semi-habituated chimpanzees of the island, it also has a healthy breeding population of elephants and giraffes. You can take safaris by land or boat, where you might see the elusive bushbuck, numerous primate species, and the island’s plethora of amazing bird species.

Best Times to Visit

The best time to visit this pristine sanctuary on Rubondo Island is during the dry season, which falls between June and September. During this period, the park offers optimal wildlife viewing opportunities, including the chance to spot the endangered Sitatunga antelope, crocodiles, and a plethora of bird species. Exploring the park during this time allows visitors to fully appreciate the lush forest and diverse ecosystems.

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