Tanzania is home to some of Africa’s most breathtaking wildlife and most impressive and iconic national parks and the dreamy beaches on the coast, making it a must-visit and top destination for safari enthusiasts around the world. It’s one of the best safari destinations in the whole world.
But planning a safari tour can be overwhelming, especially if you’re not familiar with the country or if you haven’t done an African safari before.
In this article covers everything for Tanzania safari, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable safari tour in Tanzania where we break down the planning process into easy and valuable steps.
Step 1: Understand What Tanzania Offers & Identify What Appeals to You
Planning a Tanzania safari can feel overwhelming with so many incredible parks and experiences available. This guide breaks down the key highlights to help you choose what matters most for your dream wildlife adventure.
Best Wildlife Viewing
Central Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire
These parks offer dense animal populations, giving you a high chance of seeing a wide range of wildlife in a single game drive.
The Big Five Safari
Ngorongoro Crater, Central Serengeti
Spot the iconic Big Five—lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo—in these prime safari regions with minimal effort.
Wildebeest Migration (Great Migration)
Central, Northern, Western, or Southern Serengeti (seasonal)
The world-famous migration moves through different parts of Serengeti depending on the time of year—plan your timing right to witness river crossings or calving season.
Big Cat Sightings
Central Serengeti, Ndutu Region
These areas are hotspots for lions, leopards, and cheetahs, especially during the migration when prey is abundant.
Best Birdwatching Spots
Tarangire, Central Serengeti, Lake Manyara
Ideal for birding enthusiasts, these parks are home to hundreds of species including flamingoes, pelicans, and raptors.
Cultural & Tribal Tours
Ngorongoro, Lake Eyasi, Lake Manyara
Experience authentic Tanzanian culture through visits to Maasai, Hadzabe, and Datoga communities with opportunities to learn about their traditions.
Unique or Beautiful Scenery
Lake Manyara, Lake Natron, Tarangire, Ngorongoro
From alkaline lakes to volcanic landscapes and lush craters, these locations offer breathtaking views and photo opportunities.
Scenic Hiking in Nature
Lake Natron, Ngorongoro Highlands, Arusha National Park
Enjoy guided hikes through waterfalls, volcanic terrain, crater rims, and forests rich with wildlife and panoramic views.
Add-On Tours & Special Activities
- Canoeing: Lake Manyara, Arusha National Park
- Hot Air Balloon Safaris: Serengeti, Tarangire
- Night Game Drives: Lake Manyara, Tarangire
These extras elevate your safari with adventure and unique perspectives of the wildlife.
Short or Easy Road Access
Tarangire, Lake Manyara
Perfect for shorter trips or those wanting less travel time—these parks are within 2–3 hours’ drive from Arusha.
Where to See Specific Wildlife
- Elephants: Tarangire is known for its massive elephant herds.
- Flamingoes: Lake Natron offers vivid pink hues across its alkaline waters.
- Rhinos: Ngorongoro Crater is one of the best places to spot the endangered black rhino.
Romantic Safari + Beach Combo
Serengeti/Tarangire + Zanzibar
Start with a luxury safari in intimate tented lodges, followed by a beach escape in Zanzibar—ideal for honeymoons or couple getaways.
Climb Africa’s Highest Peak – Mount Kilimanjaro
Mount Kilimanjaro National Park
At 5,895 meters (19,341 ft), Mt. Kilimanjaro is Africa’s tallest mountain and one of the world’s most iconic trekking destinations. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or taking on a bucket-list challenge, Kilimanjaro offers multiple scenic routes to the summit—all without technical climbing.
Step 2: Define Your Safari Budget
Safari in Tanzania is roughly more costly than other countries. So, you should define your budget based on your safari plan—how many days you want to spend, which parks you plan to visit, the type of stay you’re aiming for, and any special experiences you want to include.
What Does a Tanzania Safari Cost?
The average cost for two people on a private safari typically starts around USD 350 per person, per day. However, this can vary widely based on several factors:
- Group size
- Itinerary & number of days
- Time of year (high vs low season)
- Accommodation type (budget, mid-range, or luxury)
On the lower end, it can cost under USD 200 per person/day, while high-end luxury safaris can exceed USD 1500+ per person/day.
That means your total safari (excluding international flights) could range from under USD 500 to over USD 15,000 per person.
Given this wide range, we highly recommend travelers set a rough budget early on to narrow down options and focus their planning effectively.
We hope this chart gives you a clearer understanding of how to align your safari plans with your budget, helping you make informed decisions
| Safari Tier | Approx. Cost (Per Person/Day) | Accommodation Type | Typical Inclusions | Ideal For |
| Budget | USD 150–250 | Basic lodges / Budget tented camps | Shared safari vehicle, basic meals, park fees | Backpackers, young travelers, budget-conscious adventurers |
| Mid-Range | USD 250–500 | Comfortable lodges / Tented camps | Private guide, full-board, decent amenities | Couples, families, value-focused travelers |
| Luxury | USD 600–1500+ | High-end lodges / Luxury tented camps | Premium service, gourmet meals, exclusive locations, private vehicle | Honeymooners, premium travelers, photographers |
When planning a safari budget, several key factors influence the overall cost: Read it carefully
- Group Size Matters: Larger groups (e.g., 6 people) reduce per-person costs—around USD 250/day per person when sharing a vehicle.
- Child Discounts: Children under 15+ years receive 25–40% off adult rates, depending on age.
- Destination Costs: Serengeti is more expensive than other parks.
- 3-day safari to Manyara/Ngorongoro/Tarangire: USD 876/person
- 3-day Serengeti safari: USD 1228/person
- 3-day safari to Manyara/Ngorongoro/Tarangire: USD 876/person
- Accommodation Tier:
- Budget camping is ~20% cheaper than basic ensuite hotels.
- Luxury safaris can exceed USD 1500/day, such as a 6-day multi-park tour.
- Budget camping is ~20% cheaper than basic ensuite hotels.
- Seasonal Price Variations:
- Peak (Jul–Oct, late Dec–Feb): Highest prices
- Mid (June, Nov–mid-Dec): Moderate prices
- Low (Mar–May): Lowest prices
- Luxury packages see the most seasonal price variation, while basic camping changes very little.
- Peak (Jul–Oct, late Dec–Feb): Highest prices
- Additional Costs:
- Optional extras: Park flights, balloon rides, Zanzibar extensions, etc.
- Other expenses: International flights, visas, drinks, tips, souvenirs, etc.
- Optional extras: Park flights, balloon rides, Zanzibar extensions, etc.
Step 3: Decide How Many Days to Spend on Safari
The length of your safari affects both your experience and your budget.
From Africa’s highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro, to the wildlife-rich plains of the Serengeti and the tropical beaches of Zanzibar, Tanzania delivers the perfect blend of adventure, safari, and relaxation. Depending on your travel goals and pace, you might need anywhere from 7 days to over weeks to fully explore the country’s diverse highlights.
1. Classic Safari Lengths:
- Short Escape (3-4 days)
✓ Covers 1-2 premier parks (Ngorongoro + Serengeti)
✓ Ideal for first-timers or time-conscious travelers
✓ Focuses on Big Five sightings - In-Depth Exploration (7-10 days)
✓ Combines multiple ecosystems (Serengeti, Tarangire, Manyara)
✓ Higher chance for rare wildlife encounters
✓ More relaxed pace with full-day game drives
2. Safari + Beach Combinations:
- Popular Add-Ons:
✓ Zanzibar (4+ days): Pristine beaches & Stone Town culture
✓ Mafia Island (3+ days): Remote diving paradise
✓ Pemba Island: Luxury eco-retreats
Many travelers combine a 5-7 day safari with 3-4 beach days for the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
Step 4. Understanding Travel Distances
Most Important understand the distance while planning safari
Safaris often involve long drives between parks and game reserves. Many first-time visitors underestimate the distances and the time required to travel from one location to another.
Here’s a clear breakdown of distances between Tanzania’s key safari destinations, including approximate travel times by road and air:
Northern Circuit Safari Distances (Road Travel)
(Arusha as starting point)
| Route | Distance | Drive Time | Notes |
| Arusha → Tarangire NP | 120km | 2-2.5 hours | Paved road |
| Tarangire → Lake Manyara NP | 70km | 1.5 hours | Scenic route |
| Manyara → Ngorongoro Gate | 60km | 1.5 hours | Steep ascent |
| Ngorongoro → Serengeti (Naabi Hill Gate) | 145km | 3-4 hours | Rough terrain |
| Serengeti (Central) → Northern Serengeti | 150km | 5-6 hours | Seasonal mud roads |
Southern/Western Circuit Add-ons
| Arusha → Selous GR | 350km | 7-8 hours | Partly unpaved |
| Arusha → Ruaha NP | 625km | 10+ hours | Fly recommended |
Domestic Flight Times
(From Arusha or Dar es Salaam)
- To Seronera (Central Serengeti): 1-1.5 hours
- To Zanzibar: 1 hour
- To Selous: 1.5 hours
Key Insights:
- Road Conditions Matter:
- Northern Circuit roads are generally better maintained than southern routes.
- Serengeti internal transfers can take longer than the distance suggests due to rough terrain.
- Time-Saving Tips:
- Fly between distant parks (e.g., Serengeti to Selous)
- Cluster nearby parks (e.g., Tarangire + Ngorongoro + Manyara)
- Beach Transfers:
- Zanzibar is just a 1-hour flight from Arusha or Serengeti airstrips.
Step 5: Choosing the Best Time for a Tanzania Safari
While preparing for a safari in Tanzania, it’s important to understand that the country’s diverse ecosystems offer different experiences depending on the season. Each time of year brings its own highlights — from the Great Migration to lush green landscapes — so timing your visit right is key to making the most of your adventure.
Dry Season (June to October) – Best time overall for safaris
- Weather: Sunny, dry, and pleasant; excellent visibility due to sparse vegetation.
- Wildlife: Animals gather near water sources; best time for game viewing.
- Wildebeest Migration:
- Western Serengeti: Early July
- Northern Serengeti: July–October
- Best for river crossings: Late July to September (North Serengeti)
- Western Serengeti: Early July
- Fewer bugs: Less concern about tsetse flies, mosquitoes, and mud.
- Ideal for: Hiking, camping, and adventure tours (dry trails, comfortable camps).
- Downside:
- Higher costs: Peak season pricing on accommodations and park fees.
- Crowds: Parks can be busy; early bookings required for popular lodges.
- Higher costs: Peak season pricing on accommodations and park fees.
Low Season (March to May, and November to mid-December) – Wet season, fewer crowds, lower prices
- Weather: Long rains (March–May), short rains (Nov–Dec); frequent rain can disrupt activities.
- Wildlife: More dispersed due to water availability; harder to spot.
- Birdwatching: Best season for birders due to migratory species.
- Scenery: Lush, green landscapes.
- Fewer tourists: Greater solitude at sightings.
- Cost savings:
- Luxury/mid-range accommodations up to 50–70% cheaper than peak season.
- National park fees and tours are also lower.
- Luxury/mid-range accommodations up to 50–70% cheaper than peak season.
Short Dry Season (January to February) – Great for calving season
- Wildebeest Calving: Southern Serengeti & Ndutu plains host 100,000s of wildebeests.
- Calving peak: Mid-Jan to mid-Feb
- Calving peak: Mid-Jan to mid-Feb
- Wildlife: General sightings remain strong; some rain but manageable.
- Good alternative: Less rain than wet seasons; cheaper and less crowded than peak dry season.
The Dry Season (June–October) offers the best wildlife viewing and ideal conditions, especially for witnessing the wildebeest migration and river crossings. However, Low Season is perfect for budget-friendly, peaceful safaris, birding, and lush scenery, while the Short Dry Season (Jan–Feb) is ideal for calving and decent wildlife sightings with moderate weather and prices.
Step 6: Choosing Between Private and Group Safari
When planning your Tanzania safari, one of the key decisions you’ll face is whether to join a group safari or go for a private safari. Each option offers a unique experience, and the right choice depends on your budget, travel style, and personal preferences.
Group Safari – Budget-Friendly & Social
- Shared Experience: You’ll share the safari vehicle (max. 7 guests) with other travelers — a great opportunity to meet people from around the world.
- Cost-Effective: Ideal for solo travelers or couples on a budget. Group safaris are typically 40–50% cheaper for solo travelers and 15–20% cheaper for couples compared to private options.
- Fixed Itinerary: Group tours run on set schedules, so there’s limited flexibility in timing and activities.
- Best Time: Most group safaris are available during the dry season (June to October, late December to February). Also available during other times.
Insider Tips: You can also travel to Arusha and easily join a group safari on short notice, as many local tour operators regularly organize group departures.”
Private Safari – Personalized & Flexible
- Tailored Experience: You have full control over your itinerary, timing, pace, and destinations.
- Privacy & Comfort: Enjoy the safari with your travel partner(s) only, perfect for couples, families, or small groups.
- Higher Cost: Comes at a premium, but offers a more exclusive and customized safari experience.
- Flexibility: Choose where you go, when you leave, and how long you stay at each park.
Pro Tip: Many operators offer “semi-private” options where you can pay extra to join a smaller group (3-4 people).
Choosing between the two depends on your budget, travel personality, and desired experience. If you value flexibility, privacy, and tailored service — a private safari is worth the splurge. If you’re social and looking for a more affordable way to explore — group safaris are a great fit.
Step 7: Considering the Extra Activities
While the core of any safari is the thrilling game drives, Tanzania offers a wide range of add-on activities that can make your trip even more memorable. These optional experiences let you connect deeper with the land, its wildlife, and its people.
Popular Safari Add-On Experiences:
- Hot Air Balloon Safari (Serengeti) – Float above the savannah at sunrise and witness wildlife from a bird’s-eye view.
- Canoeing in Lake Manyara – A peaceful paddle along the lake with stunning views and birdlife.
- Walking Safari (Tarangire or Ngorongoro) – Get closer to nature with a guided walk in the wild.
- Maasai Village Visit – Join the Maasai for their traditional jumping dance and learn about their culture.
- Hadzabe Bushmen Experience (Lake Eyasi) – Go on an early morning hunt with the Hadzabe, one of Tanzania’s last hunter-gatherer tribes.
- Bush Sundowners – End your day with a drink in hand, watching the sunset over the African plains.
Please note: These activities usually require extra time and come at an additional cost. Availability may also depend on your itinerary and lodge location.
For tailored advice and to explore which experiences best fit your route and budget, consult with your safari planner or travel consultant.
Step 10: Blocking Your Rooms and Booking Terms & Policies
Once your travel dates and itinerary are set, ask your tour operator to block rooms at your preferred lodges—especially in popular areas like Serengeti and Ngorongoro, which often fill up 6 months in advance during peak season (July–September).
- Act Early:
- If your first choices aren’t available,Popular lodges in Serengeti/Ngorongoro are 70% booked 6+ months in advance (Jul–Sep). Especially in pick season.
- Tour operators can suggest alternatives if your preferred lodges are unavailable.
- Confirmation Window:
- Typically 3–7 days to pay a deposit after rooms are blocked.
To avoid disappointment and rising costs, book your safari early—while minimizing last-minute stress.so delayed safari bookings may impact your overall travel budget.
especially with top-tier operators whose vehicles and guides are often booked well in advance.
- Book Early:
- More accommodation choices; avoids last-minute vehicle/guide shortages.
- Delayed bookings may increase international flight costs.
Before confirming your booking:
- Review payment terms and cancellation policies carefully.
- Most operators require a 20–50% deposit to confirm, with the balance due closer to departure.
- Ensure that cancellation terms are clearly mentioned in your booking voucher.
- Check whether you qualify for any free cancellation window, which can be helpful if your plans change unexpectedly.
Step 11: Packing Essentials
- Clothing:
- Light, neutral-toned clothes (avoid dark colors—attracts tsetse flies).
- Warm layers (mornings/nights are chilly).
- Footwear:
- Comfortable shoes (game drives/walks) + sandals (lodges).
- Health:
- Malaria prophylaxis (consult doctor), mosquito repellent, first aid kit.
- Lodges provide mosquito nets.
- Gadgets:
- Type D/G travel adaptor.
Money Matters
Please budget enough cash for VISA (if getting it on arrival), purchasing souvenirs, getting extra meals or drinks, or giving tips or donations etc.
- Currency:
- Tanzanian Shilling (TZS); USD widely accepted and keep some Tanzanian cash
- ATMs available, but cards may incur 3.5–7.5% fees.
- Cash Uses:
- Visas, tips, souvenirs, extras.
Step 12: Travel Documents and Mental & Physical Prep
- Passport:
- Valid for 6+ months with blank pages.
- Visa:
- eVisas (2–3 days) or visa on arrival for most nationalities.
- Some require referral visas (apply months ahead).
- Health:
- Yellow fever certificate if arriving from endemic countries (e.g., Kenya).
- Copies:
- Print + digital copies of passports, visas, and bookings.
- Expectations:
- Long drives (8–10 hours/day on rough roads).
- Wildlife sightings not guaranteed (weather-dependent).
- Mindset:
- Embrace unpredictability—adventure is part of the experience!
Most Important:
Choosing the Right Safari Operator
There are two ways to experience a safari in Tanzania – booking through a tour operator or organizing it yourself. However, about 99% of travelers (myself included) choose to go with a tour operator, and I strongly recommend this option. They will handle your everything. Try to book a local operator. Contact me to help you find the right local tour operator.
The real challenge comes in selecting the right tour operator. Some helpful resources I’ve used include TripAdvisor, Viator, and SafariBookings to compare options and read authentic reviews from fellow travelers.
Private vs Group Tour: Private tours offer full flexibility and personalized service but are more expensive. Group tours are budget-friendly but run on fixed schedules and may require more coordination.
Choose Your Comfort Level: Safari tours come in budget, mid-range, and luxury categories. Budget options involve basic camping, mid-range offers comfortable lodges, and luxury provides high-end lodges and exclusive services.
A reputable safari operator can make or break your experience. Before booking, do the following:
- Read reviews on TripAdvisor or SafariBookings.
- Ask for references from past travelers.
- Verify their credentials (are they members of a professional safari association?).
- Have a video call with the company to ensure they are legitimate.
And that’s a wrap! Keep all these tips in mind as you plan your adventure, and don’t hesitate to reach out to us with any questions. We’re here to help you craft a smooth, stress-free, and truly unforgettable safari experience.
See you in Tanzania soon—for the trip of a lifetime!