10 most popular National Game Parks in Tanzania for Tanzania wildlife safaris

10 most popular National Game Parks in Tanzania for Tanzania wildlife safaris

The most popular national game parks in Tanzania and for Tanzania wildlife safaris, Tanzania is a premier destination for Africa wildlife safaris, offering some of the most spectacular national game parks in Africa. Safari to Tanzania takes you to home of the best Africa safari national game park like the Serengeti (Serengeti tour) and Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania provides the best Great wildebeest Migration experiences abundance of wildlife in the entire Africa safari destinations.

Tanzania wildlife safaris from the vast savannahs of the Serengeti, where you can witness the Big Five, to the lush landscapes of Lake Manyara, each park offers unique adventures tailored for every type of traveler.

Travelers on a Tanzania safari interested in chimpanzee tracking in the most Tanzania national game park of Gombe Stream National Game Park and Mahale also famous for chimps or exploring the remote wilderness of Katavi, Tanzania’s National Game Parks promise unforgettable experiences. Ideal for Tanzania safari tours and Africa vacation packages, these parks are perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. Discover why Tanzania is a top choice for your next African safari adventure

Tanzania Safari All-Inclusive Packages to best Tanzania parks

2-days-fly-in-serengeti-safari-in-tanzania

2-days-tarangire-national-park-and-ngorongoro-crater-safari

3-days-tanzania-safari-in-serengeti-national-park

3-days-tanzania-wildlife-safari

4-days-epic-tanzania-wildlife-and-culture-safari

5-day-kenya-and-tanzania-safari

5-days-circuit-wildlife-safari-in-tanzania

6-days-ndutu-migration-safari-calving-season

8-day-serengeti-ngorongoro-crater-and-zanzibar

8-days-wildlife-and-beach-holiday-tanzania

8-days-wildlife-safari-tanzania

9-days-zanzibar-and-wildlife-safari

10-days-uganda-and-tanzania-safari-gorillas-chimpanzees-and-wildlife

5-days-mount-kilimanjaro-marangu-route

6-days-mount-kilimanjaro-machame-route

7-day-climbing-kilimanjaro-via-the-machame-route

8-days-kilimanjaro-climbing-safari-lemosho-route-mount

9-days-kilimanjaro-climb-lemosho-route

12-days-mount-kilimanjaro-climb-and-tanzania-safari-tour

4-days-tanzania-birding-safari-to-lake-manyara-national-park

5-days-birding-tour-in-tanzania

9-days-birding-and-wildlife-safari-in-tanzania

12-days-birding-safari-in-tanzania

 

 


List of best and most famous Tanzania national game parks

Here’s a list of the most popular national game parks in Tanzania, ideal for wildlife safaris:

  1. Serengeti National Park
  2. Ngorongoro Crater
  3. Tarangire National Park
  4. Lake Manyara National Park
  5. Ruaha National Park
  6. Selous Game Reserve
  7. Katavi National Park
  8. Gombe Stream National Park
  9. Mikumi National Park
  10. Mahale Mountains National Park

 

 


Serengeti National Game Park

Serengeti National Game Park located in northern Tanzania, is the most famous national game park for the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebras traverse the plains. Its vast savannahs and iconic wildlife sightings make it a unique destination. Visitors can enjoy activities such as game drives, hot air balloon rides, and cultural experiences.

Serengeti is home to the Big Five—lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos, as well as cheetahs and hippos. Many people visit to witness the migration and experience abundant wildlife, making it synonymous with wildlife safaris.

Serengeti proximity from Arusha is about 335 km, with various accommodation options ranging from luxury lodges to budget tented camps. The Masai community inhabits the area, known for their rich culture. Nearby parks include Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara. The best time to visit is from June to October for optimal wildlife visibility.



Ngorongoro Crater

The Ngorongoro Crater, located in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area is the second most famous, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its massive volcanic caldera teeming with wildlife. Its uniqueness lies in being one of the largest intact calderas in the world.

Ngorongoro activities include game drives, guided walks, and cultural tours. Wildlife examples include black rhinos, elephants, lions, and hyenas. The crater attracts many visitors due to its unique geological features and high-density wildlife, providing a compact viewing experience. It is about 190 km from Arusha, requiring a 3-hour drive.

Ngorongoro accommodation ranges from luxury lodges to mid-range options. The Masai people coexist with the wildlife, contributing to the area's rich cultural heritage. Nearby parks include Serengeti and Lake Manyara. Year-round visits are recommended, with peak visibility from June to September.



Tarangire National Game Park

Tarangire National Game Park, located in northern Tanzania, is renowned for its large herds of elephants and iconic baobab trees. Its uniqueness is highlighted by the high density of elephants during the dry season. Visitors can engage in activities such as game drives, walking safaris, and bird watching, with wildlife examples including elephants, lions, and over 500 bird species.

Many people visit for the fewer crowds and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. The park is considered one of the best for diverse ecosystems and rich wildlife experiences. It is approximately 120 km from Arusha, with accommodations ranging from luxury lodges to budget campsites. Historically, it has been inhabited by the Masai and Hadzabe tribes. Nearby parks include Lake Manyara and Ngorongoro Crater. The best time to visit is from June to October for optimal wildlife sightings.



Lake Manyara National Game Park

Lake Manyara National Game Park, situated in northern Tanzania, is famous for its scenic landscapes and diverse birdlife. Its uniqueness includes tree-climbing lions and large flocks of flamingos. Lake Manyara best activities like game drives, canoeing, and bird watching provide unique wildlife encounters and stunning views. The park is home to flamingos, elephants, and baboons. Visitors are drawn to its compact size and varied ecosystems. The park is about 126 km from Arusha, with accommodations that include lodges and campsites nearby. The Masai community inhabits the area, known for their rich culture. Nearby parks include Tarangire and Ngorongoro Crater. The best time to visit is from June to October for wildlife visibility.



Ruaha National Game Park

Ruaha National Game Park, located in southern Tanzania is also among the most famous Tanzania national game parks, features untamed wilderness and large elephant herds. Its uniqueness as one of Tanzania’s largest parks means it is less crowded than many others.

Ruaha activities include game drives and walking safaris, with wildlife examples like elephants, lions, and African wild dogs. Visitors come for a remote and authentic safari experience, appreciating the diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. The park is about 130 km from Iringa and a short flight from Dar es Salaam.

Accommodations in Rauha include lodges and tented camps. The Hehe people, known for their resilience, inhabit the region. Nearby parks include Selous Game Reserve. The best time to visit is from June to October for wildlife visibility.



Selous Game Reserve

Selous Game Reserve, located in southern Tanzania, is one of the most famous national Game Park, largest protected areas in Africa and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its extensive wildlife. Selous unique offerings include walking safaris, boat safaris, and game drives. Visitors can see elephants, hippos, crocodiles, and diverse bird species.

Many people visit for unique safari experiences in a less commercialized area. It is considered one of the best parks for abundant wildlife and remote wilderness. The reserve is about 220 km from Dar es Salaam.

Accommodations in selous include lodges and tented camps within the reserve. The area's rich cultural heritage includes local tribes engaged in conservation efforts. Nearby parks include Ruaha National Game Park. The best time to visit is from June to October.



Katavi National Game Park

Katavi National Game Park, located in western Tanzania is also famous national Game Park in Tanzania much known for its remote wilderness and large populations of hippos and crocodiles. Its uniqueness lies in its less crowded, pristine landscapes.

Visitors in Katavi can engage in game drives and walking safaris, with wildlife examples including hippos, buffalo, and various bird species. Many people visit for the untouched nature and unique wildlife experiences. Katavi is considered an authentic, off-the-beaten-path safari destination.

Katavi is about 600 km from Dar es Salaam, reachable via charter flights. Accommodations are limited to a few lodges and camps. The area is home to local tribes with rich traditions. Nearby parks include Ruaha National Game Park. The best time to visit is from June to October for wildlife visibility.




Gombe Stream National Game Park

Gombe Stream National Game Park, located in western Tanzania, is famous for its chimpanzee tracking. Its uniqueness as the smallest National Game Park focused on primate conservation attracts visitors. Activities include chimpanzee trekking and guided nature walks, with wildlife examples like chimpanzees, red-tailed monkeys, and various birds.

Many people visit for the unique opportunity to see wild chimpanzees. Gombe is noted for its focus on primate research and conservation efforts. It is about 350 km from Kigoma, accessible by boat. Accommodation options are limited, including basic lodges.

The area is historically significant due to research established by Jane Goodall, with local communities engaged in conservation. Nearby parks include Mahale Mountains National Game Park. The best time to visit is from May to October for optimal chimpanzee tracking.



Mikumi National Game Park

Mikumi National Game Park, located in eastern Tanzania, is famous for abundant wildlife and scenic landscapes. Its uniqueness lies in its easy accessibility from Dar es Salaam. Activities include game drives and bird watching, with wildlife examples such as elephants, lions, and giraffes. Many people visit for a convenient safari option for quick trips. Mikumi is considered a great introductory park for first-time visitors. It is about 283 km from Dar es Salaam, with various lodges and camps available nearby. The local communities are involved in tourism and conservation efforts. Nearby parks include Selous Game Reserve. The best time to visit is from June to October for wildlife visibility.



Mahale Mountains National Game Park

Mahale Mountains National Game Park, located in western Tanzania, offers stunning mountainous landscapes and chimpanzee tracking. Its uniqueness includes views overlooking Lake Tanganyika, one of the deepest lakes in the world. Activities involve chimpanzee trekking and hiking, with wildlife examples including chimpanzees, various monkeys, and diverse bird species. Many people visit for the remote location and unique primate experiences. Mahale is known for exceptional scenery and wildlife viewing opportunities. It is approximately 300 km from Kigoma, accessible by boat. Accommodations are limited, including lodges and camps. The area is home to local tribes engaged in conservation efforts. Nearby parks include Gombe Stream National Game Park. The best time to visit is from May to October for optimal chimpanzee tracking.

These most popular Tanzania national game parks offer incredible opportunities for Tanzania wildlife safaris, showcasing the country’s rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. Each park provides unique experiences, ensuring that every visitor leaves with unforgettable memories of their African safari.



Best Time for Kenya Wildlife Safaris

The best time for Kenya wildlife safaris is during the dry seasons, from June to October and January to February. These months offer optimal wildlife viewing as animals congregate around water sources, making sightings easier. The Great Migration typically occurs from July to September in the Masai Mara, providing a spectacular backdrop for your safari adventure.

Best Accommodation Options on a Kenya Wildlife Safari

When planning a Kenya wildlife safari, accommodation options range from luxury lodges to budget camps. Top choices include Mara Serena Lodge and Giraffe Manor, offering unique experiences. For a more rustic adventure, consider tented camps like Elephant Bedroom Camp in Samburu. Each option provides comfort and proximity to wildlife, enhancing your safari experience in Kenya.


Booking Kenya Wildlife Safaris with DAV Safaris

When it comes to booking Kenya wildlife safaris, DAV Safaris offers comprehensive and tailored safari packages to meet your adventure needs. With years of experience, they provide expertly curated itineraries that include visits to iconic parks like Masai Mara, Amboseli, and Tsavo. DAV Safaris prioritizes customer satisfaction, ensuring that every detail, from accommodations to guided tours, is meticulously planned.

Their packages often include luxury lodges, tented camps, and unique experiences such as hot air balloon rides over the savannah. Additionally, DAV Safaris is known for its knowledgeable guides who enhance your wildlife viewing experience. Booking with them is straightforward through their website, where you can customize your safari itinerary. For an unforgettable adventure in Kenya, consider DAV Safaris for your next wildlife safari

 















Our Popular Tours