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The best time to visit Tanzania for safari depends on your goals. June to October offers the famous river crossings, while January is best for the calving season. See how the weather in Tanzania impacts wildlife viewing month by month.
Blue skies, golden plains, and the dramatic Mara River Crossing.
Best for first-timers, river crossings & easy wildlife spotting.
Expert Verdict: If witnessing a Mara River crossing is on your bucket list, this is the only time to go. It offers the classic 'National Geographic' scenes you expect. Just be prepared for higher rates and more vehicles at major sightings.
Don't rush the Serengeti. Due to road distances in Tanzania, we recommend a minimum of 5 to 7 days to explore the Tarangire, Manyara, and Serengeti ecosystem comfortably. For a more relaxed pace that includes cultural visits, a 9-day itinerary is ideal.
3-5 DaysQuick Explorer | 6-7 DaysClassic SafariMost Popular | 9+ DaysUltimate AdventureBest Experience | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Parks Visited | 1-2 Parks | 3-4 Parks | All + Remote |
| Big 5 Chance | Possible | High | Very High |
| Travel Pace | Rushed | Balanced | Relaxed |
| Serengeti Time | Little/None | 2-3 Nights | 4+ Nights |
| Migration | Unlikely | Good Chance | Best Chance |
| Cultural Visit | Rarely | Optional | Included |
| Ideal For | Budget trips & short safaris | Best itinerary for first-timers | Photographers & deep immersion |
Expert Verdict: While a 5 day safari is the most searched option, we recommend 6-7 days for first-timers. This gives you enough time to reach the Serengeti without rushing between parks. If you only have 5 days, consider flying one leg to save a full day of driving.
Arusha to Serengeti drive time is approximately 8-9 hours. On short 3-day trips, you spend most of your time on the highway. We recommend flying one way to save time.
Strict national park rules require all vehicles to exit by 6:00 PM. Safari gate fees are paid per 24-hour cycle, so a well-planned itinerary is crucial to avoid penalties.
Animals don't follow a schedule. A longer Tanzania safari itinerary increases your odds of seeing the Big 5 and rare predator action, simply because you have more time in the bush.
Your choice of sleep affects the price. We offer everything from luxury lodges in Serengeti with private pools to authentic tented camps inside the parks.
THE NORTHERN SAFARI CIRCUIT
Explore the famous route connecting Tarangire, Lake Manyara, the Ngorongoro Crater, and the Serengeti. These parks host the Big 5 and the Great Migration, all located within comfortable driving distance of each other.
Northern Safari Circuit Overview
Home of the Great Migration
Tanzania's most famous park and the stage for the Great Migration. It offers world-class Serengeti National Park safari experiences with vast plains and high predator density year-round.
Home of Tree-Climbing Lions
A compact gem known for its unique tree-climbing lions and thousands of flamingos painting the lake pink. A perfect first stop on your safari itinerary.
The Best Place to See the Big 5
A UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient volcanic caldera holds the highest density of wildlife in Africa and is the best place to spot the rare Black Rhino.
Elephants & Ancient Baobabs
Famous for its massive elephant herds and iconic Baobab trees. In the dry season, it rivals the Serengeti for wildlife density as animals flock to the Tarangire River.
Africa's highest peak (5,895 m) is about 4 hours from Arusha. The standard climb takes 6–8 days — many travellers pair it with a Northern Circuit safari before or after without extra international flights.
Most Northern Circuit itineraries pass through Maasai country — a guided village visit is a common half-day addition between parks. Olduvai Gorge, the "Cradle of Mankind," sits between Ngorongoro and the Serengeti and is an easy roadside stop.
How much does a safari cost? Prices range from $250/day (camping) to over $1,000/day (luxury). We provide a full breakdown of park fees, vehicle costs, and government taxes so you can see exactly where your money goes.
Serengeti National Park fees and conservation levies are set by TANAPA. Expect to pay ~$83 per person/day (including VAT) for entry, regardless of whether you sleep in a tent or a luxury lodge.
The biggest variable is where you sleep. A budget camping safari starts at $250/day, while luxury safari lodges can exceed $1,500/day due to the high cost of remote logistics and all-inclusive service.
Common "hidden" costs include the Tanzania visa fee ($100 for US citizens) and gratuities. The standard safari driver tip is $20-30 per day per group. Always check if drinks and laundry are included in your quote.
The main difference? Accommodation is what separates Budget from Luxury. The government taxes and park fees remain the same for everyone.
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Get answers to common questions about planning your Tanzania safari adventure.
Tanzania is located in East Africa, bordering Kenya and Uganda to the north, Rwanda and Burundi to the west, and Mozambique, Malawi, and Zambia to the south. It is home to some of Africa's most famous safari destinations, including the Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire National Park, and Mount Kilimanjaro. Tanzania is also known for Zanzibar, a popular beach extension after safari.
Yes. Tanzania is widely regarded as one of the safest safari destinations in Africa. Most travelers experience trouble-free visits, particularly on organized safaris where guests are accompanied by professional driver-guides at all times. National parks and safari lodges are very safe. As in any country, basic precautions are recommended in cities, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night and not displaying valuables openly.
A Tanzania safari typically costs between $250 and $1,000+ per person per day, depending on the season, accommodation level, and travel style.
Prices are highest during the peak season (July–October) and lower during the green season. Private safaris cost more than group-joining tours but offer full flexibility and a personal guide.
A Serengeti safari usually costs $450–$900 per person per day, depending on lodge quality, season, and whether you travel by road or small aircraft. The most expensive period is during the dry season (June–October) and the calving season (January–February), while the green season (March–May) and shoulder months (November–December) offer better value with fewer crowds.
Tanzania offers excellent wildlife viewing year-round, but the best time depends on your interests:
Tanzania has two rainy seasons:
Safaris continue year-round, including during the rainy season. While occasional showers are expected, the scenery is greener, wildlife is still abundant, and prices are generally lower.
Yes. US citizens require a multiple-entry visa costing $100, while UK and EU citizens typically pay $50. Visas can be obtained on arrival at major airports, including Kilimanjaro (JRO) and Dar es Salaam (DAR), but queues can be long. We strongly recommend applying for a Tanzania e-Visa online at least 2–3 weeks before travel to save time on arrival.
Most safari travellers fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO), which is the closest airport to the Northern Circuit parks. Dar es Salaam (DAR) is an alternative, especially if you're heading to the southern parks or Zanzibar first.
There are no direct flights from the US or UK — common connections include Doha (Qatar Airways), Amsterdam (KLM), Istanbul (Turkish Airlines), and Nairobi (Kenya Airways). From JRO, your safari operator will arrange a road transfer or domestic flight to your first park.
Pack light, comfortable clothing suitable for warm days and cool mornings. We recommend:
Avoid dark blue and black, which can attract tsetse flies, and bright white clothing, which shows dust easily.
Tipping is customary but not mandatory. For a private safari, the general guideline is $15–$20 per person, per day for your driver-guide. Many lodges also have a communal tip box for camp staff, where $10–$15 per group, per day is appropriate. Tips are usually given in US dollars (bills issued after 2013) or Tanzanian shillings.
Malaria is present in Tanzania, so most travelers are advised to take preventive medication after consulting a travel doctor. Yellow Fever vaccination is generally required only if arriving from a country with Yellow Fever risk, but entry rules can change. Most safari lodges provide mosquito nets, and we recommend bringing insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin for additional protection.
Yes. Tanzania is an excellent choice for families, couples, and first-time safari travelers. The infrastructure is well developed, guides are highly experienced, and private safaris allow pacing to be fully adapted to your needs. Many lodges welcome children and offer family-friendly accommodations and activities.
Browse our top-rated 2026 Tanzania safari packages. Use the filters above to find specific Great Migration routes, luxury family safaris, or romantic honeymoon itineraries. From 2-day escapes to 10-day adventures, every trip is private and fully customizable.
Genuine reviews from our guests and partner operators.
“A GREAT SAFARI EXPERIENCE¡¡😍😍”
My family and I took part in a nine-day safari in Kenya and Tanzania, and it was truly an amazing experience. I've seen all of the Big Five in the Masai Mara and the Serengeti. Our guide was very friendly and knowledgeable. Every day is a new experience, with beautiful scenery and amazing food. Lights on Africa arranged everything beautifully for us. The entire trip was unforgettable and memorable.
Review for Lights on Africa Destinations & Safaris
“Strongly recommend for safari at the top”
So first of all Calvin is kindness itself. He speaks French very well.
In addition, he is an excellent driver and knows all animals. He answers all our questions. And we asked him...
He is patient and thanks to him we have seen all the animals we hoped to see.
He prepared us two excellent meals and breakfast and so hearty with a lot of know-how.
He also took care of booking us the hotel in Karatu a little wonder. An oasis of peace surrounded by lush nature with an excellent dinner.
And surprised on the cake he took us to a typical Massai village where the villagers offered us a most beautiful dance and a visit to their village. A delight.
I can only advise this guide.
Review for Afrima Luxury Travel
“Thank you! 5/5 and more”
Lemali Safari Tours organized a 5-day amazing adventure for us that will stay with us for the rest of our lives.
A professional approach is what sets the guys apart.
We visited Tarangire National Park, Lake Natron, Serengeti National Park, and the Ngorongoro Crater.
Our guide Dismas is the best. His knowledge is immense, and he is always smiling and helpful.
We are glad that it was with him that we took this journey.
Trustworthy.
Once again, thank you!
Review for Lemali Tours and Safari
“Excellent Safari with Get Together Adventures!”
We had an incredible journey with Get Together Adventures in Tanzania, based in Arusha. The trip was perfectly organized, with excellent lodges and breathtaking safaris in several stunning national parks.
Our professional safari guide Emmanuel (and owner of Get Together Adventures) was truly the best guide we could have hoped for — incredibly knowledgeable about wildlife, animal behavior, and great knowledge birdlife! On top of that, he was extremely service-oriented, a pleasure to travel with, great safari car and always at the right place at exactly the right time.
In short: if you're planning a safari holiday in Tanzania, including a beach extension on Zanzibar, Get Together Adventures is the company to go with!
Thanks again Emmanuel & Savilinyi for this increadible experience with your company!!
Warm regards,
Manita & Robert
🐘🦓🦛🦒🦏
Review for Get Together Adventures
“Love these guys!”
Where to start…. Oh yeah CARLOS!!!!!!! This man is a Gem, he was our driver the entire time we needed one. He picked us up at the airport and took us on a 3hr drive to our hotel in Karatu! Along some rough roads in the pitch black night. We made sure to have tea with him and get to know him, and just lovely guy. He took us 2hrs to the start of our 1st safari as well! He also took us back to our airport hotel, giving us a little tour as well went along!
In terms of the safari, it was amazing we did the 3 day one, the 1st two days we had Augustine, who despite being a Liverpool fan was a legend! He made sure we saw as much as possible in Tarangire and Ngorongoro. Managed 4 out of the big 5! Walter took over for the last day at Manyara, and although I still loved it, he said he doesn’t enjoy that park and sadly you could tell, he did however make sure to find us lions and elephants in a very difficult area to see animals!
Rosemary in the office always kept us up to date even with slight changes in our plans and in their plans! We met her at the office and she gave my wife a huge hug which was lovely to see!
Fully recommend this company! And when we return we want Carlos to take us everywhere, especially on safari next time when he has a jeep!
Thanks guys!
Review for Mountain Warriors Tours and Safaris
“The best trip we’ve had. Exceeded all expectations!”
We have been very fortunate to have had some amazing tours in the past, but this was our best.
Throughout the whole experience, we felt genuinely looked after, Beatrice was very helpful and had lots of useful recommendations and advice whilst we were planning our tour, 7 days in total, 5 day safari with accommodation in Arusha the day before and two nights after. Wakanda definitely make you feel like this is a personalised tour, particularly through all of the team’s can-do attitude and the wonderful hospitality.
Our safari was an incredible experience. Our guide, Benedict, was superb, he is very welcoming, patient and is an incredible source of wildlife knowledge; a fantastic asset to the team.
Each day was built around what we hoped to see and do but with relevant and timely guidance from Benedict, who ensured we got the most from our tour, which we absolutely did.
We had our own combination of accommodation, including two nights at a tented lodge at Safari Haven in central Serengeti (highly recommended), and the Ngorongoro Simba Campsite before our morning game drive into the crater.
The campsite was safe, had stunning views and warm showers! Not to mention great freshly cooked meals from our chef Salim, with a nice variety of international and local cuisine throughout the tour.
We finished our trip with a city tour of Arusha with Joshua, who looked after us very well and ensured we got fair prices (and when to walk away!) in the markets.
We could not have asked for more, we will definitely come back to the beautiful wilderness of the Serengeti and without hesitation, will use Wakanda when we do.
Review for Serengeti Wakanda Tours and Safaris
