10 best Tanzania wildlife safari Parks to visit

10 best Tanzania wildlife safari Parks to visit

10 best Tanzania wildlife safari Parks to visit, Tanzania stands out as a premier destination for Tanzania wildlife safari parks. Home to breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems, the country features renowned parks like the iconic Serengeti National Park and the lush Ngorongoro Crater, which are among the best in the world for wildlife viewing.

On a Tanzania wildlife safari, you can witness the dramatic wildebeest migration, climb the majestic Mount Kilimanjaro, relax and unwind on the pristine beaches of Zanzibar, or indulge in luxury safari experiences. Each option offers a unique way to connect with the stunning natural beauty of Tanzania.

This comprehensive guide will showcase the top best Tanzania wildlife safari parks, ensuring your adventure is both unforgettable and immersive.

These are the 10 best Tanzania wildlife safari parks to visit on any safari in Tanzania

 Serengeti National Park

Ngorongoro Crater

Tarangire National Park

Lake Manyara National Park

Ruaha National Park

Selous Game Reserve

Gombe Stream National Park

Mikumi National Park

Arusha National Park

Katavi National Park

Discover the magic of Tanzania’s wildlife on your next best Tanzania wildlife safari, and explore the best safari experiences the country has to offer! With its rich biodiversity and iconic landscapes, Tanzania promises an extraordinary adventure for every wildlife enthusiast

The 10 best Tanzania wildlife safari Parks to visit

Discover Tanzania's top wildlife parks, offering diverse experiences for every traveler, from luxury and budget options to family adventures and eco-friendly journeys


1. Serengeti National Park (The best Tanzania wildlife safari park)

Serengeti National Park is arguably the crown jewel of Tanzania’s wildlife safari parks. Spanning approximately 15,000 square kilometers, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its vast savannahs and abundant wildlife. The park is particularly famous for the wildebeest migration, which occurs annually from July to October. This migration is one of Africa’s most spectacular wildlife events, attracting tourists from around the globe seeking an unforgettable Tanzania wildlife safari.


How to Access Serengeti National Park on a Tanzania wildlife safari

Accessing Serengeti National Park is relatively straightforward. Most visitors fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) or Arusha Airport (ARK). From there, you can book a domestic flight to one of the park's airstrips, such as Seronera or Ndutu, which significantly reduces travel time.

Alternatively, you can drive from Arusha or Moshi, which takes around 6-8 hours, depending on your route. Many safari operators offer guided tours that include transportation, making it easy to explore the park's vast landscapes and wildlife.

With its incredible wildlife and unique experiences, Serengeti National Park remains a top destination for anyone looking to embark on a Tanzania wildlife safari

 

Major attractions of Serengeti National Park on a Tanzania wildlife safari

Wildebeest Migration Serengeti National Park: The migration is the highlight for many visitors, offering an unforgettable spectacle as millions of wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles traverse the plains in search of greener pastures. Witnessing this event is a must for anyone on a Tanzania wildlife safari.

Big Five Serengeti National Park: The Serengeti is home to lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinoceroses, making it an ideal spot for those looking to see the Big Five on their Tanzania wildlife safari.

Diverse Ecosystems of Serengeti National Park: From grasslands to woodlands, the Serengeti offers various habitats, each supporting different wildlife species, enhancing the Tanzania wildlife safari experience.


Best time to visit Serengeti National Park on best Tanzania wildlife safari park

The best time to visit Serengeti for the wildebeest migration is between July and October. However, the park is a year-round destination, with distinct attractions in each season. December to March is excellent for spotting baby animals during the calving season, making it a rewarding time for a Tanzania wildlife safari.



2. Ngorongoro Crater (Second best Tanzania wildlife safari park)

The Ngorongoro Crater is another highlight of Tanzania’s wildlife safari parks. Formed by a collapsed volcano, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is often referred to as a "Garden of Eden" due to its rich biodiversity. The crater is home to a variety of wildlife, including the endangered black rhino, making it a key stop on any Tanzania wildlife safari.


How to access Ngorongoro national park on a Tanzania wildlife safari

The Ngorongoro Crater is accessible by both air and road. You can fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and then take a domestic flight to a nearby airstrip. For road access, the crater is just a two-hour drive from Arusha. Most visitors combine their trip to Ngorongoro with a visit to the Serengeti, making it easy to experience both parks on your Tanzania wildlife safari.


Major attractions Ngorongoro Crater national park

Diverse wildlife in Ngorongoro Crater national park: The crater hosts around 30,000 animals, including lions, elephants, and flamingos, providing a unique opportunity to see a variety of species in a compact area during your Tanzania wildlife safari.

Scenic Views in Ngorongoro Crater national park: The steep walls of the crater provide stunning panoramic views and numerous vantage points, perfect for photography enthusiasts on a Tanzania wildlife safari.

Cultural Experiences: Visitors can engage with the Masai people, who live in the area, offering insights into their traditional lifestyle and enhancing the cultural dimension of your Tanzania wildlife safari.


Best time to visit Ngorongoro Crater

The best time to visit Ngorongoro Crater is during the dry season from June to October when wildlife viewing is at its peak. The cooler months of December and January are also pleasant for visits, making it a flexible option for your Tanzania wildlife safari.


3. Tarangire National Park (Third best Tanzania wildlife safari park)

Tarangire National Park is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors but offers a unique Tanzanian wildlife experience, Tarangire National park known for its large elephant herds and iconic baobab trees, Tarangire is a must-visit for wildlife lovers on a Tanzania wildlife safari.


How to get to Tarangire national park on a Tanzania wildlife safari

To reach Tarangire National Park, you can fly to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and then take a short domestic flight to Tarangire Airstrip. Alternatively, it’s about a 2-hour drive from Arusha, making it easily accessible for those looking to explore this unique park known for its large elephant herds


Major attractions Tarangire National Park


Elephant Population in Tarangire: Tarangire is home to one of the largest elephant populations in Tanzania, with herds frequently seen near the Tarangire River, making it a highlight of your Tanzania wildlife safari.


Baobab Trees in Tarangire: One of the park's most iconic features is the ancient baobab tree. Known for their distinctive shape and impressive size, these historical trees are scattered throughout the park. They serve as a striking backdrop for your safari experience and are often referred to as the "upside-down tree" due to their unique appearance. The baobab trees not only add to the park's scenic beauty but also provide important habitats for various wildlife species.

With its incredible elephant herds, diverse birdlife, stunning landscapes, and iconic baobab trees, Tarangire National Park is a must-visit destination on your


Tanzania wildlife safari.

Bird watching in Tarangire: With over 500 bird species, Tarangire is a paradise for birdwatchers, providing additional excitement for those on a Tanzania wildlife safari.

Scenic Landscapes of Tarangire: The park features varied landscapes, from open savannahs to dense woodlands, making every corner of the park a fantastic spot for wildlife observation during your Tanzania wildlife safari.


Best time to visit Tarangire National Park on a Tanzania wildlife safari

The best time for a Tanzania wildlife safari in Tarangire is during the dry season, from June to September, when animals congregate around the river, offering unparalleled viewing opportunities.



4. Lake Manyara National Park (fourth best Tanzania wildlife safari park)

Lake Manyara National Park is famous for its stunning scenery and diverse wildlife. The park is home to a variety of ecosystems, including a soda lake, dense forests, and open grasslands, making it an excellent destination for a Tanzania wildlife safari.


How to get to Lake Manyara on a Tanzania wildlife safari.

Lake Manyara National Park can be accessed by air and road. Fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) and take a domestic flight to Manyara Airstrip. If you prefer driving, the park is approximately a 2-hour journey from Arusha, making it a convenient stop on your Tanzania wildlife safari itinerary


Major attractions Lake Manyara National Park on a Tanzania wildlife safari


Tree-Climbing Lions in Lake Manyara: Manyara is renowned for its unique tree-climbing lions, which can often be seen lounging on branches, providing a rare sight for visitors on a Tanzania wildlife safari.


Birdlife in Lake Manyara: The Park is a birdwatcher’s paradise, with thousands of flamingos often seen along the lake, enhancing the avian aspect of your Tanzania wildlife safari.


Cultural Experiences in Lake Manyara: Visitors can also experience the local culture through guided tours with the native communities, enriching the overall experience of your Tanzania wildlife safari.


Best time to visit Lake Manyara National Park on a Tanzania wildlife safari

The best time to visit Lake Manyara is during the dry season from June to October, when wildlife is easier to spot, making it a great addition to your Tanzania wildlife safari itinerary.



5. Ruaha National Park (fifth best Tanzania wildlife safari park)

Ruaha National Park is Tanzania’s largest national park and is often considered one of the hidden gems of the best national parks in Tanzania. The park’s remote location ensures fewer crowds, offering a more intimate wildlife experience for those on a Tanzania wildlife safari.


How to get to Ruaha National Park on a Tanzania wildlife safari

Ruaha National Park is accessible primarily by air. You can fly into Ruaha Airstrip from Dar es Salaam or other domestic airports. While driving to Ruaha is possible, it’s less common due to its remote location. Most visitors opt for air travel to enjoy a more efficient journey.


Major attractions Ruaha National Park on a Tanzania wildlife safari

Diverse Wildlife: Ruaha is home to large populations of elephants, lions, and wild dogs, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts on a Tanzania wildlife safari.


Scenic Beauty: The Park’s diverse landscapes include savannahs, mountains, and the Great Ruaha River, providing stunning backdrops for your Tanzania wildlife safari photos.


Photographic Opportunities: The stunning sunsets and dramatic landscapes provide excellent photography opportunities, making it a fantastic choice for photographers on a Tanzania wildlife safari.

Best time to visit Ruaha National Park on a Tanzania wildlife safari

The best time to visit Ruaha is from May to October, coinciding with the dry season when wildlife viewing is optimal. This period is ideal for a Tanzania wildlife safari focused on game viewing.



6. Selous Game Reserve (six best Tanzania wildlife safari park)

The Selous Game Reserve is one of the largest protected areas in Africa and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its vast wilderness and diverse wildlife, Selous offers a unique safari experience that is perfect for those on a Tanzania wildlife safari.


How to access Selous Game Reserve on a Tanzania wildlife safari

The Selous Game Reserve is reachable by air and road. For air travel, fly into Selous Airstrip from Dar es Salaam or other domestic airports. If you prefer to drive, be prepared for a longer journey from Dar es Salaam (approximately 6-8 hours), though this is less common due to the distance.


Major attractions Selous Game Reserve Tanzania wildlife safari


Varied Ecosystems: Selous features a mix of savannahs, rivers, and lakes, supporting a wide range of wildlife, making it an exciting destination for your Tanzania wildlife safari.


Walking Safaris: Selous is one of the few places in Tanzania where you can enjoy walking safaris, offering a different perspective on wildlife that adds depth to your Tanzania wildlife safari experience.


Boat Safaris: The Rufiji River provides opportunities for boat safaris, allowing visitors to see animals from a unique vantage point, enhancing the adventure of your Tanzania wildlife safari.


Best time to visit Selous Game Reserve

The best time for a Tanzania wildlife safari in Selous is during the dry season from June to October, when wildlife congregates around water sources, providing incredible viewing opportunities.



7. Gombe Stream National Park (seven best Tanzania wildlife safari park)

Gombe Stream National Park is renowned for its chimpanzee populations and stunning landscapes. This small park, located on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, offers a unique wildlife experience, particularly for primate lovers on a Tanzania wildlife safari.


How to access Gombe Stream National Park Tanzania wildlife safari park

Gombe Stream National Park is best accessed by air and boat. Fly into Kigoma Airport, then take a boat from Kigoma to Gombe, located on the shores of Lake Tanganyika. Driving to Gombe is impractical due to its remote location, making air and boat travel the preferred options for visitors.


Major attractions Gombe Stream National Park Tanzania wildlife safari


Chimpanzee Trekking: Gombe is one of the best places in the world to see wild chimpanzees, thanks to the pioneering work of Jane Goodall. This experience is a highlight of any Tanzania wildlife safari.


Stunning Landscapes: The Park features steep hills and lush forests, offering a beautiful backdrop for wildlife viewing during your Tanzania wildlife safari.


Bird watching: The Park is also home to numerous bird species, making it a great spot for bird watching enthusiasts on a Tanzania wildlife safari.


Best Time to Visit Gombe Stream National Park on a Tanzania wildlife safari

The best time to visit Gombe is during the dry season from June to September, when chimpanzees are more active and easier to spot, making it an ideal stop on your Tanzania wildlife safari.



8. Mikumi National Park (eighth best Tanzania wildlife safari park)

Mikumi National Park is one of the most accessible national parks in Tanzania, located just a few hours from Dar es Salaam. This makes it an excellent choice for those short on time but still wanting to experience Tanzania’s wildlife on a Tanzania wildlife safari.


How to get to Mikumi National Park on a Tanzania wildlife safari

Mikumi National Park is one of the most accessible parks in Tanzania. You can fly to Mikumi Airstrip, which has limited flights from Dar es Salaam. Alternatively, it’s about a 4-hour drive from Dar es Salaam, making it a convenient choice for those short on time but eager to experience wildlife


Major attractions of Mikumi National Park on aTanzania wildlife safari


Diverse Wildlife: Mikumi is home to a variety of animals, including elephants, giraffes, and various antelope species, providing ample opportunities for wildlife observation during your Tanzania wildlife safari.


Scenic Views: The park’s landscapes feature open plains, acacia woodlands, and the stunning backdrop of the Udzungwa Mountains, making every view a postcard moment during your Tanzania wildlife safari.


Bird watching: With over 400 bird species, Mikumi is a great destination for birdwatchers, enhancing the diversity of your Tanzania wildlife safari experience.

Best time to visit Mikumi National Park on a Tanzania wildlife safari

The best time to visit Mikumi is during the dry season from June to October, when wildlife is easier to spot, making it a convenient addition to your Tanzania wildlife safari itinerary.


9. Arusha National Park (ninth best Tanzania wildlife safari park)

Arusha National Park is a hidden gem located near the city of Arusha. This small park offers a variety of landscapes, including volcanic mountains, lush forests, and open savannahs, making it a fantastic option for a Tanzania wildlife safari.


How to get to Arusha National Park on a Tanzania wildlife safari park

Arusha National Park is easily accessible from Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). After landing, it’s about a 30-minute drive to the park. This proximity makes Arusha a fantastic option for a quick wildlife experience on your Tanzania wildlife safari.


Major attractions Arusha National Park on a Tanzania wildlife safari


Mount Meru: The Park is home to Mount Meru, an active volcano that offers hiking opportunities and stunning views, adding an adventurous element to your


Tanzania wildlife safari.


Wildlife: Visitors can see various wildlife, including giraffes, buffalo, and numerous bird species, enhancing the wildlife viewing aspect of your Tanzania wildlife safari.


Cultural Tours: The Park provides opportunities to engage with local communities and learn about their culture, enriching the overall experience of your Tanzania wildlife safari.


Best time to visit Arusha National Park on a Tanzania wildlife safari

The best time to visit Arusha National Park is during the dry season from June to October, providing excellent conditions for a Tanzania wildlife safari.



10. Katavi National Park (tenth best Tanzania wildlife safari park)

Katavi National Park is one of Tanzania’s most remote parks and is often overlooked by tourists. However, this park offers a truly wild experience, with abundant wildlife and stunning landscapes, making it a fantastic choice for a Tanzania wildlife safari.


How to get to Katavi National Park on a Tanzania wildlife safari

To reach Katavi National Park, fly into Katavi Airstrip from Dar es Salaam or other domestic airports. The park is quite remote, and while it is possible to drive, it usually requires a long journey through rugged terrain. Therefore, air travel is the preferred choice for a hassle-free experience.


Major attractions Katavi National Park


Large Animal Populations: Katavi is known for its large populations of hippos, elephants, and crocodiles, providing thrilling encounters during your Tanzania wildlife safari.


Remote Wilderness: The Park’s isolation ensures a genuine wilderness experience, away from the crowds, ideal for those seeking solitude on a Tanzania wildlife safari.


Scenic Landscapes: From vast plains to swampy areas, Katavi’s diverse landscapes are breathtaking, offering unique photography opportunities during your Tanzania wildlife safari.


Best time to visit Katavi National Park on a Tanzania wildlife safari

The best time for a Tanzania wildlife safari in Katavi is during the dry season from June to October, when wildlife viewing is at its peak, ensuring unforgettable experiences.
















Where to sleep on a Tanzania wildlife Safari

When planning a Tanzania wildlife safari, accommodation options vary widely to suit different preferences and budgets. From luxury lodges and tented camps to budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses, there’s something for everyone. Many safari lodges are strategically located near national parks and game reserves, offering stunning views and easy access to wildlife viewing. Tented camps provide an immersive experience, allowing guests to fall asleep to the sounds of nature. No matter your choice, staying close to the action enhances your safari experience by maximizing your time spent in the wild.


Best time for Tanzania wildlife Safari parks

The best time for Tanzania wildlife safari parks largely depends on the specific parks and wildlife events you wish to experience. Generally, the dry season from June to October is ideal for wildlife viewing, as animals congregate around water sources, making them easier to spot. This period coincides with the famous wildebeest migration in the Serengeti, attracting visitors from around the globe. However, the wet season, from November to May, offers unique opportunities such as witnessing newborn animals during the calving season. Each time of year has its own attractions, so planning your safari around your interests is key to a fulfilling experience.


Why you may need DAV Safaris for your Tanzania wildlife Safari

Choosing the right safari operator can significantly enhance your Tanzania wildlife safari experience, and DAV Safaris stands out for its expertise and personalized service. With a deep understanding of Tanzania’s diverse ecosystems and wildlife, DAV Safaris offers tailored itineraries that cater to your specific interests, whether that’s tracking the Big Five, bird watching, or cultural experiences with local communities. Our knowledgeable guides provide valuable insights, ensuring you don’t miss any of the incredible wildlife encounters. DAV Safaris takes care of all the logistics, from accommodation to transportation, allowing you to focus on enjoying the breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable wildlife moments.

 

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