Tanzania Safari Guide: Serengeti, Zanzibar and More

Tanzania at a glance

Tanzania has the largest and most famous wildlife areas in East Africa, along with Africa’s highest mountain and a spice-scented island coast. About a third of the country is protected. That covers well-known parks in the north, remote wilderness in the south and chimpanzee forests in the west.

The country’s national parks are managed by TANAPA, and Ngorongoro by its own conservation authority. Park fees are a large part of a safari’s cost, and they are paid electronically.

The northern circuit

The northern circuit is the classic route: Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Ngorongoro Crater and the Serengeti. It’s accessible from Arusha and can be driven or flown. Most first-time visitors choose it for a good reason. It delivers many of Africa’s most famous wildlife sights in a compact route.

The south and west

For fewer visitors and more wilderness, look at the southern circuit. Ruaha is dry, wild and rich in predators. Nyerere offers boat and walking safaris on the Rufiji River, and it’s an easy flight from Dar es Salaam. In the far west, Mahale and Gombe offer chimpanzee trekking on the shore of Lake Tanganyika.

Kilimanjaro and the coast

Kilimanjaro is one of the world’s most popular high-altitude treks, taking five to nine days. After a safari or a climb, Zanzibar and the coastal islands offer beaches, snorkelling and Swahili culture. Mafia Island is quieter, with whale sharks between roughly October and March.

When to go

June to October is the dry season and the best time for most parks. January to March suits the southern Serengeti. April and May are the long rains. November brings the short rains. Coastal weather is hot and humid year-round.

Practical notes

Malaria risk is present across most of the country, so speak to a doctor about prophylaxis. A yellow fever certificate is needed if you arrive from a country with risk of transmission. Tanzania drives on the left. Tipping is customary on safari, and we cover it in our tipping guide. Card payments are common in cities and resorts, but bring cash for smaller places.