Tanzania Safari Guide - Tips for planning a successful safari

How to organize a safari in Tanzania - The parks to visit, where to stay, choosing the right operator, travel costs

A safari in Tanzania is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful travel experiences one can have in Africa. I have been on many safaris on the continent, and I find the ones in Tanzania to be the best, especially for those going on a safari for the first time.

The reason is quite simple: its national parks are among the richest in wildlife (meaning you always see a lot of animals), and here you can find some of the most important and unique parks, such as the Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater.

However, organizing a safari in Tanzania can be more complicated than one might imagine. There are many things to consider: Which parks in Tanzania are the best for a safari? How many days of safari are recommended? And finally, the million-dollar question: How much does it cost?

In this post, I will answer these and many other questions that I'm sure you are asking yourself if you are considering Tanzania as a travel destination. I have put down on paper what I have learned in many years of traveling in Tanzania, numerous game drives, and also 10 years of collaboration as safari designer with Kiboko Explorer, a tour operator in Arusha specialized in safaris in Tanzania. I hope this information can help you clarify and choose the safari that suits you best.

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Some important things to know before organizing a safari in Tanzania

Before delving into the details of organizing a safari, there are some things I believe you should know because they will have an impact on the itinerary you decide to follow, as well as on the actual realization of the trip (you can't always do everything unless under certain conditions).

Distances and driving times are very long (and unavoidable)

Distances in Tanzania are very large, and every day there will be many hours spent driving that are unavoidable. Four hours of driving to cover some distances can be the norm, and there are not always opportunities to break up the drive, especially because there may be no lodging facilities between destinations.

Prepare for long days in the car. On some days (for example, returning directly from the Serengeti to Arusha), driving hours can even reach 8. If you want to avoid long hours of driving (without game drives), carefully plan your itinerary and consider adding more days or excluding some parks that are too far away.

There are many hours of game drives every day

If you have been on a game safari in South Africa or Namibia using lodge vehicles, you will know that typically game drives are a couple of hours in the morning and a couple of hours in the afternoon. However, in Tanzania, things are different. You start in the morning and return in the afternoon (or continue to the next destination). You are out all day, every day, and lunches are typically had during the game drive in one of the authorized (and safe!) picnic areas. There are no restaurants in the parks, and generally, you do not return to the camp for meals.

Sleeping at Ngorongoro is not always a good idea

This year, I have noticed that many people ask to stay inside the Ngorongoro Conservation Area or spend 2 or 3 days there. The first thing to know is that there are very few accommodations in Ngorongoro, and they book out many months in advance (especially during high season). However, I do not recommend staying for more than one night. Apart from the game drive in the Conservation Area, unless you are traveling between December and March (migration period in Ndutu), there are no other game drives. It does not make sense to stay in Ngorongoro for more than one night if you are traveling between May and December. It is just an expensive choice that does not add anything to a safari that excludes it.

Tented camp is not camping

Staying in a tented camp does not mean camping, and it is not the most economical accommodation option (which is actual camping). In my post about accommodations during safaris, I distinguish the main types if you want to learn more. Camping involves the classic dome-style camping tent pitched on designated grounds. Tented camps are actual rooms built inside large tents and fall under the lodge category as they are the only options within national parks.

Lake Natron and the pink lake (which you won't see)

In the last two years, many requests have asked to add a detour to Lake Natron, which I personally like a lot because it is very different from the rest of the parks visited during the classic circuit. However, the first time I went, I too was deceived by the photos on the internet: a pink lake with petrified animals. I hope not to disappoint you, but that is not what you will see.

Lake Natron is a desert and arid area, a lunar and evocative landscape dotted with Maasai villages, but realistically, what you will see is like the photo below. If you want to go to Natron to see the pink lake, I advise avoiding this detour. However, if you want to explore this area where you will find numerous Maasai settlements, a hot and sometimes challenging but also remote and, in my opinion, fascinating terrain, then include it without overthinking. Below is a real photo of Lake Natron (taken by me).

fenicotteri lago natron

The great migration cannot be guaranteed

Documentaries about Tanzania and Kenya usually dedicate a part of the film to the Great Migration, a natural event that brings millions of wildebeest and zebras running in search of food. The most popular moment is probably the crossing of the Maasai River, which is quite bloody as the zebras and wildebeest have to overcome the river inhabited by crocodiles, so not all the animals will be able to pass to the other side. While on one hand this is indeed a unique event, on the other hand, even assuming the period when it should be seen, it can never be guaranteed.

It is a matter of luck. You have to be in the right place at the right time. For this reason, I advise you to be wary of those who guarantee the migration, because it is impossible to do so and everything depends on the April and May rains and the rhythm of the animals, which can be predicted up to a certain point.

It is not possible to go directly from Serengeti to Maasai Mara in Kenya

Serengeti borders Maasai Mara, and it would seem logical to be able to move from one park to the other, considering that the Mara is actually a small portion of the Tanzanian park. The problem is that this passage is not allowed, and to get from Serengeti to Maasai Mara, there are options but they are long, can take up to 2 days by car, and are expensive.

In addition, Tanzanian cars cannot drive in Kenya and vice versa. So, to cover both Serengeti and Maasai Mara, two tour operators, one in Kenya and one in Tanzania, have to cover their respective parts. The border crossing has to be done on foot independently because cars can only go up to a certain point. The most practical way, even though it may not seem so, is to fly from Kilimanjaro to Nairobi and from there depart for Maasai Mara (a circuit that can be completed in 4 days).

In Kilimanjaro National Park, game drives are not allowed, only trekking

The photo of the elephant with Mount Kilimanjaro in the background is always misleading. If you think that photo was taken in Kilimanjaro National Park, I'm sorry to inform you that it's not the case. That photo was taken in Amboseli National Park, which is located in Kenya. In Kilimanjaro, only trekking is allowed, usually lasting between 5 and 7 days. It is also possible to consider a one-day trek, which corresponds to the first day of the longer trek, but it is quite tiring and intense, considering the return trip as well.

SEEING KILIMANJARO
Kilimanjaro is the highest mountain in Africa, so much so that it is called the "Roof of Africa," and many people want to see it even from a distance. The good news is that on clear days, you might be able to see it just by landing at the Kilimanjaro airport without necessarily entering the park. The bad news is that during the day, the summit is often covered, and the best chances of seeing it clearly are in the morning and at sunset. For example, I was able to see it well during the safari in Amboseli because I was staying in a lodge right in front of it, so I could see it at dawn and sunset from my room.

Safari Serengeti

Safari in Tanzania - How to organize it step by step

Let's now delve into the organization of a safari in Tanzania. I hope to answer all the doubts you have, but in case you have other questions, you can leave a comment or contact me.

Thanks to the high number of National Parks (more than 20), including the famous Serengeti National Park and the Ngorongoro Crater - the world's largest crater populated by thousands of animals, including the rare black rhinoceros - Tanzania is one of the best safari destinations on the entire African continent.

Although the northern circuit - which covers Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, and Manyara, just to name a few - is the most famous, Tanzania offers many other parks, some of which are even located by the sea, and others in the southern part of the country, more remote and less touristy, but no less beautiful.

What is a game drive? What is the difference between a safari and a game drive?

Organizing a safari in Tanzania, you will surely come across the term "game drive". But what does it mean? And how does it differ from the word "safari"? Are they the same thing? A game drive is not synonymous with safari, which in Swahili means "journey", but it is a part of it. During a safari, game drives are done every day. This term, made up of two English words, refers to wild animals (game) and driving in a car among them, usually inside national parks.

A game drive is, therefore, an excursion by car through wild areas to spot some of Africa's most iconic wildlife. It is usually led by a certified naturalist guide who is familiar with the wildlife area. On the other hand, a safari refers to the complete journey, for example, in the case of a safari in Tanzania, a multi-day circuit that includes game drive activities.

tarangire game drive

The main safari parks in Tanzania and their main features

Tanzania is home to 22 national parks and reserves. Some of the most famous parks in Tanzania include the Serengeti National Park, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara National Park, Selous Game Reserve, and Ruaha National Park. Here is a brief description of the main national parks in Tanzania:

  • Serengeti National Park (North): Considered the best in Africa, the Serengeti National Park hosts the largest terrestrial mammal migration in the world, along with a rich variety of savanna wildlife.
  • Ngorongoro Conservation Area (North): With the Ngorongoro Crater, the largest unbroken caldera in the world, it is a natural amphitheater hosting a diverse array of wildlife.
  • Tarangire National Park (North): Known for its elephants and baobab trees, it offers the opportunity to go on walking safaris and night game drives.
  • Lake Manyara National Park (North): Famous for its tree-climbing lions and flamingos, it is a park that houses a variety of wildlife.
  • Selous Game Reserve (South): The largest reserve in Africa with an area of 50,000 square kilometers, it offers a boat safari experience along the Rufiji River.
  • Ruaha National Park (South): With its large population of elephants and rugged terrain, it is known for its wild beauty and diversity of wildlife.

For further information about national parks and reserves in Tanzania, click here.

principali parchi safari in Tanzania

Which parks to visit for the first safari in Tanzania? The Northern Circuit and the Southern Circuit.

When organizing a safari in Tanzania, the usual choice is between the Northern Circuit and the Southern Circuit. It is possible to cover both, but keep in mind that it will take a couple of weeks, involve long car journeys, and the cost can become quite high.

The Northern Circuit begins and ends in Arusha - the safari capital of Tanzania - or Moshi - the base for Kilimanjaro trekking. Following a circular route, it allows you to visit Tarangire National Park, Lake Manyara National Park, the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, and the Serengeti National Park, all the way to the remote and beautiful Lake Natron. This circuit, with its abundant wildlife and diverse ecosystems, is the one I recommend for those organizing their first safari.

The Southern Circuit, less traveled than the Northern Circuit, offers a wild and remote experience, away from the crowds. This circuit includes the Selous Game Reserve, which can be reached in half a day from Dar Es Salaam, and Ruaha National Park which is further away (and on rough roads), so it would be better to base yourself in Iringa. It is also possible to include Mikumi, but the roads are in poor condition, and the driving times between parks can be very long.

If it is your first safari in Tanzania, or even your first in Africa overall, my advice is to choose the Northern Circuit, which can be well covered in a 6-day itinerary. In fact, you will be able to go on game drives in Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater, and Serengeti, a crescendo of parks but above all an interesting variety of ecosystems.

I really like this itinerary because it offers the best compromise in terms of duration, national parks, and costs. It's no wonder it is the most popular and sold safari circuit. The important thing to know is that depending on arrival and departure times, the first and last day might be used differently. A classic 6-day circuit would be as follows:

  1. Arrival at Kilimanjaro Airport - Transfer to Arusha where you will spend the night. Arusha is considered the "safari capital of Tanzania", it is not particularly attractive as a city and is used exclusively as a pre and post-safari base.
  2. Game drive in Tarangire National Park - Overnight in Karatu. Tarangire National Park is also known as the park of the Giants due to the presence of large herds of elephants and enormous Baobab trees. The choice of sleeping in Karatu, a village near the Ngorongoro gate, is due to the fact that the next day you will enter the Conservation Area very early and then sleep in the Serengeti. It shortens the long day of the following day.
  3. Game drive in Ngorongoro Crater - Overnight in Serengeti. In the crater, you can stay for a maximum of 6 hours, and due to tax reasons and the limited availability of accommodations in the Conservation Area, after the game drive, it is common to drive to the Serengeti, which takes about 3 hours.
  4. Full-day game drive in the Serengeti.
  5. Half-day game drive in the Serengeti - Return to Karatu. After a half-day game drive, you start to return to Karatu for two reasons. The first is that Serengeti/Arusha would require an 8-hour drive (so we break up the driving time better). The second is that for those who want to save some money, sleeping outside the parks saves a few hundred dollars, so if time allows, it is better to start getting closer to Arusha.
  6. Transfer to the airport (with the possibility of extra activities such as bike tours of villages or game drives in Lake Manyara, if the flight is in the evening).
Leonessa Ngorongoro

Selous Game Reserve: if you have limited time and budget

If you have little time, land in Dar Es Salaam, or simply want to spend a little less without giving up the excitement of a safari, then the Selous Game Reserve is definitely the right option as it allows you to conclude a safari in 4 days (departing and returning to Dar Es Salaam) and costs between $1000 and $1150 per person (based on two people traveling).

I really like this itinerary for various reasons, besides the cost advantage. It covers the experience well in 4 days without any issues but above all, it allows you to include activities that are not done in the northern parks (or are done under certain conditions), such as the walking safari and boat safari.

The ideal 4-day itinerary is as follows:

  • Departure from Dar Es Salaam early in the morning - Drive to Selous (about 6 hours) - Lunch at the lodge - Boat safari in the afternoon. Due to heavy rains, some roads may have been damaged, and driving times may be slightly longer.
  • Full-day game drive in Selous
  • Walking safari in Selous (a couple of hours) - Rest of the day doing game drives
  • Visit to the local village Mloka - Transfer to Selous airport (recommended to take a flight to Zanzibar to avoid many hours by car) or transfer by car to Dar Es Salaam. If you need to go to Zanzibar, you can take the ferry at 5:00 PM.

WHY THE SOUTH IS CHEAPER THAN THE NORTH
One of the reasons, if not the main one, why a safari in Selous costs less than one in the north is mainly due to the fact that in the South, it is possible to stay outside the park (but very close to the entrance gate) while for example in Serengeti it is necessary to stay inside the park (which implies extra fees and higher accommodation costs). However, if you decide to stay in tented camps inside Selous, the costs might.

safari tanzania

The Great Migration in Tanzania - When and Where to See It

Many people associate the idea of a safari with one of the most incredible animal phenomena in the world: the Great Migration. This run of millions of wildebeest and zebras in a circular motion in search of fresh grass reaches its peak in two moments:

  • Maasai River Crossing in the northern Serengeti - From August to September (sometimes earlier, but there are no fixed dates)
  • Calving season in the southern Serengeti, especially in Ndutu - from January to March

The animals' run follows a circular path, the speed of which depends on the rains and therefore the grass available. So the indicated months are indicative and vary from year to year. Sometimes the crossing of the river happens as early as July (if it has rained little), other times it has happened in mid-August.

The circle of the run always follows the same path that takes the herds of wildebeest and zebras to the Maasai Mara in Kenya and then return to Tanzania, running along the same path that never changes.

TIP
The Great Migration is a natural and therefore unpredictable event. I advise against planning a safari focusing exclusively on this but instead recommend staying on a varied circuit with several parks, perhaps including the northern Serengeti or Ndutu (depending on when you go) and always keeping in mind that you may NOT see what you are hoping for.

Ngorongoro gnu

Prices of a Safari in Tanzania - How Much Does a Safari in Tanzania Cost?

What are the general prices for a safari in Tanzania? This is one of the first questions I am asked and I won't beat around the bush - it is expensive. The budget needed for a safari in Tanzania, even in the camping version, is quite substantial. I can summarize the approximate costs as follows (based on 2 people, if there are more than two people, the costs decrease but remember that a maximum of 6 people can be in the vehicle):

  • $330/350 per person per day for camping
  • $420/480 per person per day for moderate lodge accommodations
  • From $700 to $2500 per person per day for upgraded and luxury lodge accommodations

To get a more detailed breakdown of safari costs, read the post: How much does a safari in Tanzania cost and how to save money. Remember that safari prices in Tanzania are all-inclusive. So once on the trip, you won't have to consider any other expenses apart from souvenirs, alcohol and potential tips.

Daily Park Entry Fees and Concession Fees

A significant portion of the safari cost is from daily park entry fees and concession fees (extra fees to pay if sleeping in a lodge or tented camp inside national parks or under their jurisdiction).

In recent years, the new development is that some of the fees and concession fees vary depending on the season, not significantly but it is still a variation. I will mention some because changes in costs do not apply to all parks but only to some.

  • The high season runs from July 1st to March 14th and from May 15th to June 30th
  • The low season runs from March 15th to May 15th
  • For concession fees, the high season runs from July 1st to September 30th, and the low season runs from October 1st to June 30th

Click here to see updated entry costs for Tanzania National Parks for the season. Note that the costs indicated do not include the 18% VAT.

leonessa roccia serengeti

Can one do a self-drive in Tanzania or is it better to book a safari with a guide?

In Tanzania, self-drive safaris, unlike in other African countries such as South Africa or Namibia, are not common and are rather discouraged. It is not even an ideal choice for those looking to save money. The reasons why it is recommended to have a guide are many, and I particularly mention the following:

A guide will allow you to follow routes that you would otherwise find difficult to locate. Guides communicate with each other and with rangers via the onboard radio, exchanging information about actions in the National Park, allowing for quick changes in routes. The language they speak is Swahili, so it is incomprehensible to tourists.

They have an eye for spotting animals in the savanna, know the animals' habits, and are familiar with the roads to reach the tented camps, which are often in remote areas.The guides/drivers also know how to repair the vehicles, or in the event of a breakdown, they know where to go or who to call. Breakdowns can happen, and having one occur in the middle of a national park is the last thing we want!

They know the locations of lodges inside the parks, which should not be taken for granted.

IF YOU CHOOSE SELF-DRIVE CAMPING
If you are camping and traveling on a self-drive, remember that there are no restaurants or refreshment areas inside the parks. Obviously, wild camping is strictly prohibited (i.e., you cannot stop and camp wherever you want) and you must sleep in designated campsites (which must be booked in advance). If you opt for the camping tour, it will be necessary to have a cook on board who will travel with you at all times.

Io in macchina durante il safari in Tanzania

Is doing a self-drive safari cheaper?

What many do not expect is that self-driving in Tanzania can cost much more than with a guide. In fact, the costs of renting a 4x4 safari vehicle for self-driving are equivalent to, or even higher than if booked with a guided vehicle.

Given the complexity of driving in East Africa, few tour operators in Tanzania rent out their own 4x4 vehicles to tourists, who, not accustomed to driving in the country, pose a high risk. Moreover, to enter the National Parks, it is mandatory to have vehicles with licenses, which means that you must rely on a local tour operator who can provide the vehicle and pays annual permits that allow vehicles to drive in the National Parks and protected areas. This option is not recommended if the sole consideration is cost.

macchina lago natron

Group safari or private safari? Which one to choose?

Although group safaris are not very common in Tanzania, fortunately I have not encountered trucks with 30 people on board. Some agencies put together 2 or more travelers to lower the final cost per person.

The maximum number of people per car is 6 to allow everyone to be able to stand up and look out from the roof without taking turns to take photos. Each person has their own window seat, and most importantly, this number still allows the experience to be unique and personal, without having to wait for others, which in some cases can be long and prevent you from doing what you want.

Those who choose a group safari obviously do so to save money, but they also have the limitation of less flexibility in terms of departure dates and itinerary. Also, keep in mind that group safaris are usually cost-effective when traveling as a pair, but if you are already traveling with a group of 4 people, you will pay less with a private safari.

Where to stay during a safari in Tanzania - Lodges, tented lodges, permanent tented camps, and camping.

A significant portion of the final cost of a safari is determined by the type of accommodation chosen. There are four accommodation options: Luxury lodges, Standard lodges, Permanent tented camps, and Camping.

  • Luxury lodges: These are the most expensive and exclusive options, simply beautiful. However, the costs can be prohibitive, with a night's stay costing US$2000/3000 or more. The quality and standards of these facilities are top-notch. Are the costs worth it? Honestly, in my opinion, no. They are very expensive, and most of the time, you only stay there in the evening to sleep. But if cost is not an issue for you, then you will certainly have the best sleeping experience.
  • Standard lodges: Standard lodges are equivalent to our 3/4-star accommodations. Some have a pool and bar, and all have a restaurant. All rooms have private bathrooms and air conditioning. This is a great compromise between camping and permanent tented camps within the parks.
  • Permanent tented camps: In some cases, permanent tented camps have better quality than standard lodges. This is the ideal solution for those who want to be immersed in nature without walls. These are permanent tents with beds, private facilities, and hot showers. All tented camps offer restaurants and bars, and some even have a pool. Tented camps can be categorized as standard or luxury.
  • Camping (public and special): This is the cheapest and most basic option. It is the option I chose! In camping sites, there are basic facilities, shared bathrooms, and a dining area set up with tables for breakfast and dinner. Meals are served outdoors or in covered areas. Those who choose to camp must have their own cook. There are no restaurants or bars available. This option is perfect for budget travelers or those with a high adaptability level. However, keep in mind that these are still tents, there is no hot water, and there are approximately 4 bathrooms (4 for women and 4 for men) for the entire camping area. It's also worth noting that in the public camping sites in Serengeti, you are in the heart of the park with no walls or fences, so it's possible that elephants, regular visitors to the camp, may come to scavenge for leftovers, or hyenas may roam around the tents at night.

Remember that if you stay in lodges or tented camps within the parks or protected areas, you will have to pay an extra fee (concession fee), the cost of which varies depending on the park. Operators usually include these costs in the final price.

campo tendato tanzania

Sleeping Inside or Outside National Parks - The Differences

Staying inside the parks offers a better experience as animals tend to be more active during cooler temperatures, typically in the early morning and evening hours.

This type of experience is almost inaccessible to those staying outside the parks due to the strict scheduling of guided safaris that limit entry and exit from the parks beyond certain hours.

TO KNOW: Only safaris that exclude the Serengeti can choose exclusively to stay outside the National Parks. All safaris that include the Serengeti involve overnight stays inside the park. Generally, there is an attempt to alternate between nights inside and outside the parks, always seeking the best balance between the circuit, distances, and travel expenses (safaris in Tanzania are quite expensive, and sleeping inside the park every night would make the safari very costly).

Staying Inside the Parks vs Staying Outside - Pros and Cons

Sleeping Inside the Parks

  • PROS: Sleeping inside the parks allows you to witness animal activity during the early morning and evening hours. Additionally, nights in tented camps are a true experience as the sounds of the savannah become incredibly intense in the silence of the night; you might hear lions roaring or hippos grazing near your tent.
  • CONS: Higher costs compared to sleeping outside the parks. The cheapest accommodation cost is $160 per person in the Serengeti, $200 in Ngorongoro, and $120 in other parks, plus concession fees (about $40/60 per person).

Outside the Park

  • PROS: More economical as accommodation and camping outside park areas are less expensive, and there are no camping fees or concession fees.
  • CONS: Sleeping outside the parks means missing out on the experience of sleeping in the midst of nature, even though the facilities are always surrounded by greenery, and there won't be opportunities to see animals roaming nearby, which can happen frequently when sleeping inside the parks.

What is a tented camp and why is it different from a lodge?

When I receive requests to organize a safari in Tanzania, I notice that most people confuse camping and tented camps. Others believe that tented camps are a lower-category accommodation solution than lodges or that they are basic structures without any comforts. Therefore, I believe it is necessary to explain what a tented camp is and how it differs from a lodge and traditional camping.

The main difference between a tented camp and a lodge lies in their construction and general atmosphere. A lodge features structures made of cement with stone or wooden walls. Typically, these structures are located outside national parks.

A tented camp (or luxury tented lodge, which is a higher category than a camp) consists of rooms built in large safari tents, all with private bathrooms and some quite luxurious.

In general, during a safari in Tanzania, the main accommodation options inside the national parks are typically tented camps. This is because environmental regulations limit permanent structures to preserve natural habitats. Although there are some lodges inside the parks, they are exceptions to the rule. Tented camps should not be confused with traditional camping: they are not makeshift tents but luxurious accommodations that offer all the comforts of a hotel room, sometimes even more. They can be described as "glamping" and harmoniously blend into the surrounding environment.

campo tendato tarangire. camera

Children and safari – Is it a good travel experience for the little ones too?

Safari is a wonderful experience for both adults and children due to the multitude of animals that can be seen. However, consider that it is a rather challenging journey, which will involve a lot of dust and many hours of driving. When planning, try to follow an itinerary that strikes the right balance between driving hours and safari hours.

Camping, unless one is accustomed to Spartan and uncomfortable situations, may not be suitable for very young children. In particular, camps inside the parks do not have fences, making sleeping in a tent potentially problematic and dangerous for children (for example, it is not possible to leave the tents at night, even to go to the bathroom, as animals often roam around the tents).

For those traveling with children, the best choice in terms of comfort and safety is to choose tented camps or lodges. Not all lodges and tented camps within the parks accept children under 5 years old.

Those traveling with children are directly responsible for their safety. It is important to never let children play outside, especially at dusk, as the areas are still dangerous and require caution, regardless of the chosen accommodation situation.

Despite this, children always have a great time during safaris. The guides pay special attention to the little ones, and I am sure that seeing so many animals will excite them just as it does adults! I organized a safari for my sister and my nephews, aged 1 and a half and 6 years old, and they had a great time. It was tiring, but the children were very well, especially the 6-year-old, who didn't want it to end.

Bambini in safari

What are the best months to go on a safari in Tanzania?

The season is important when deciding when to go on your safari. The peak seasons correspond to the migration periods i.e. January/February and July/August/September. Apart from the rainy months, April/May (heavy rains and low season), the rest of the year offers exceptional safari opportunities. However, even during the low season months of heavy rain, it is hoped that the vegetation is particularly green and the parks are less crowded, allowing for a better experience without tourists around. Costs in the low season months are also more affordable.

The Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater offer excellent wildlife observation throughout the year, but August and September are considered the best months to witness the Great Migration in the North of the Serengeti, the famous Maasai River crossing, while February is good for the Great Migration in Ndutu. The Tarangire National Park and the Southern and Western Parks (Katavi, Selous, and Ruaha) are wonderful when visited during the dry season from June to October.

Ippoopotami Ngorongoro

How to choose the right safari tour operator in Tanzania

Choosing the right tour operator in Tanzania is crucial. Having the assurance of traveling in good condition vehicles that do not break down frequently, being accompanied by experienced guides who are well-versed in the parks, and staying in quality lodges and tented camps are just some of the things to keep in mind when planning a safari. So how do you choose the right operator before booking? Are there things to verify or check?

Tour operator with a license and operating legally

The first thing you need to ensure is that the operator you are relying on is duly authorized, therefore registered on the list of tour operators of the Ministry of Tourism (you can find the list of official operators here).

Traveling with a licensed tour operator guarantees that you are relying on a company that truly exists and is committed to providing good services, collaborates with selected lodges and tented camps of quality, and is part of a network of professionals who are interested in ensuring that tourists return and do not lose them for a few dollars.

Flexibility in planning and during the safari

Another factor to consider is the flexibility offered, even during the planning phase. A good operator will guide you in choosing the right safari by listening to your needs and designing a tailor-made itinerary that aligns with what you have in mind and will be able to adapt routes during the journey.

Choosing accommodations (best value for money and location)

Most safari accommodations do not sell rooms directly to guests simply because in most cases, a guide and a vehicle are needed to get there, a service that a tour operator provides. Booking accommodation in Serengeti but not knowing how to get there is a problem.

Tour operators have their selection of accommodations chosen over the years with whom they have confidential pricing contracts. The choice of accommodations is based on 3 factors: location, services, and comfort. A tour operator is familiar with the challenges of driving in the parks and the time required to move between one park and another. The choice of accommodations is also influenced by this, and every safari is realized by prioritizing the necessary hours to cover certain distances (which otherwise might be too extensive).

Ensures responsible and ethical safari

Do not hesitate to ask the operator you are negotiating the safari with if the costs also include the daily pay for their guides. A responsible operator, in addition to ensuring vehicles in good condition, a choice of selected lodges, respect for parks and animals, must also be responsible towards their staff. So do not be afraid to ask.

elefanti tarangire tanzania

Why can a safari organized by a tour operator cost much less than a self-drive?

Many people erroneously believe that booking a safari with a tour operator costs much more than if organized independently. While this may be true for many destinations, it is not the case in this specific situation.

4x4 car rental

Renting a car is not cheaper if you choose to travel through parks without a guide because it is not possible to enter the parks with cars that do not have a permit. Tour operators, in addition to the various taxes to pay, also have to pay a license fee for cars to allow them to bring tourists into the parks (the tour operator's cars have a white license plate, while private cars have a yellow plate).

Since the Land Cruiser 4x4 cars are like tanks (they are very large and heavy), they are not easy to drive for someone without experience. Furthermore, driving inside the parks (where there are no maps or predefined circuits) is potentially difficult and dangerous for a tourist who does not know the parks. For this reason, a potential rental for self-drive could cost much more than with a guide (who is generally also a mechanic and knows how to fix any problems during the safari). Some car rental companies do not allow entry into the Serengeti because the risks increase significantly if you opt for self-drive.

The costs of lodges and tented camps are lower for a tour operator

Another reason why a safari offered by an operator is cheaper than DIY is due to the cost of lodges and tented camps. The tour operator benefits from significantly lower rates than what an individual can find online and on booking websites.

Tour operators benefit from special rates - called rack rates - which they manage directly in quoting the safari, always keeping them lower than the direct selling price. The difference is substantial.

Lodges, in fact, work about 80% with tour operators and for this reason they have every interest in offering special costs to those who contribute significantly to their business. This is why booking a safari with an operator actually saves money by offering preferential rates that you could never obtain independently.

National park fees, concession fees, and management of game drive times and guide

A tour operator takes care not only of managing the safari, including booking accommodations, cars, and guides, but also pays the park entrance fees and concession fees to expedite park entry. This avoids long waiting times and ensures the correct management of time within the parks.

Park fees are valid for 24 hours. Even a 5-minute delay in exiting would result in having to pay the fee for the following day. A tour operator and their guides know the parks and driving times well, ensuring park entries and exits as planned and defined without incurring in additional costs if driving alone. In Tanzania, it is not advisable to rely on Google maps for timing since there always is an unforeseen factor that is not rare.

In case of mechanical breakdowns, the guide knows how to handle them

The Land Cruiser 4x4s used for safaris in Tanzania are old 4x4s modified to drive on the rugged and complicated terrains of the National Parks. Although the necessary checks are done by the mechanic before each safari, a breakdown during the safari could happen (especially during the high season months when the cars are under stress due to working continuously for months).

The guides also know some mechanics so they can solve the problem in most cases with minimal impact on the safari's outcome. If you opt for self-drive, these problems could turn out to be even bigger since you wouldn't know what to check, and the only alternative would be to wait for a replacement car or the arrival of a mechanic.

Elefanti Serengeti

What to pack for a safari

  • Memory cards for your camera - Novice explorers tend to take a lot of photos and videos.
  • Rechargeable batteries - Cameras and other electronic devices (not all campsites have electricity, but vehicles generally have a charging socket while on the move).
  • Large ziplock bags to protect your electronic gadgets from moisture and lots of dust.
  • Adapters - In Tanzania, the sockets are British.
  • Torch - A small head torch is ideal, especially for campsites and moving around in the dead of night when generators are off.
  • Antibacterial wipes.
  • Insect repellent.
  • Sunscreen.
  • Basic medications.
  • Hat or head covering.
  • Inflatable pillow.
  • Bandana or scarf to cover nose, mouth, and ears from dust.

What to Wear on a Safari in Tanzania:

When going on a safari in Tanzania, it's important to dress appropriately for the climate and activities you'll be engaging in. It's generally recommended to wear light, breathable clothing in neutral colors like khaki, beige, and olive, which will help you blend in with the surrounding nature and stay cool and comfortable under the hot African sun.

It's also a good idea to bring a jacket or warm sweater for early morning and evening game drives, as temperatures can drop significantly during those times.

Avoid wearing blue and black colors that attract tsetse flies, and white due to dust issues. Natural fiber clothing, such as breathable cotton, is very comfortable for a trip to tropical Africa. I recommend wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants from dusk till dawn when insects appear, and the risk of malaria increases.

During the dry season, it's good to have a sweatshirt or windbreaker for the early morning and evening. A bandana is also highly recommended to protect yourself from the dust that will inevitably swirl around when standing in the car meeting vehicles coming from the opposite direction; you will want to cover your nose, mouth, and ears.

Health and Vaccinations - Are there mandatory vaccines? Should I get insurance? Traveling safely in Tanzania

Malaria is endemic, therefore the risk of getting malaria exists in most African countries, except for Lesotho and South Africa. There are no vaccines against malaria, so the best course of action is to take anti-malaria prophylaxis along with using repellents every day and night. Mosquitoes tend to be particularly active at sunset and sunrise.

The yellow fever vaccine is mandatory if entering Tanzania from Kenya or a country where yellow fever is endemic.
While there are no mandatory vaccines, vaccines for Hepatitis A and B, polio, rabies, typhoid, and meningitis are recommended.

From May 2023, it will be mandatory to have travel health insurance that covers medical expenses in case of illness. For years, I have relied on Axa Assicurazione. It has excellent maximum limits, quick customer service, and all the refund procedures can be done online without having to spend endless hours on hold.

Beyond safari - What to see in Tanzania

A trip to Tanzania is not just about safari. This country is huge and offers numerous attractions, including some of the most beautiful diving spots in the world, trekking, or Swahili villages. Here are some of the most interesting options to combine with a safari:

  • Trekking on Mount Kilimanjaro. It takes from 6 to 9 days depending on the chosen route and is considered one of the best treks in Africa.
  • Tanzania's islands: Zanzibar, Pemba, and Mafia. These are Tanzania's islands. Zanzibar is the most touristy and cheapest of the three. The beaches are wonderful, Stone Town is a unique city, and those who want to stay busy can take part in numerous tours. To find out where it's best to stay, read the post Where to stay in Zanzibar. Mafia Island is instead paradise for those who want to do wonderful snorkeling or swim with whale sharks. Pemba has only recently opened up to tourism. To put it as my friend describes it: Pemba is Zanzibar without tourists. Not bad!
  • Gorilla Trekking in Uganda - An extension for animal lovers who want to add a meeting with the Mountain Gorilla.
  • Visit to the Maasai villages and homestay - An alternative to the beach that allows you to live in contact with the Maasai in the heart of Tanzania. The village is located in the Tanga region, about an 8-hour drive from Arusha (at least 6 nights are required).
  • Pangani and Ushongo beach on the northeastern coast of Tanzania, a touch of Swahili life where mass tourism has not yet arrived.
Aggiornato il: 29 Agosto 2024
Scritto da: Giulia Raciti
Categorie ,

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Scritto da Giulia Raciti

Esperta di Africa e Latino America sono in viaggio dal 2011. Attualmente a bordo di un van. Ho fatto un giro del mondo in solitaria durato 3 anni. Scrivo delle destinazioni che visito. Mi occupo di realizzazione viaggi personalizzati e su misura in Africa e Sud America sul sito dedicato Kipepeo Experience.

4 comments on “Tanzania Safari Guide - Tips for planning a successful safari”

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