Plan your Tanzania safari tours with Dav Safaris for top wildlife, expert logistics, and tailored itineraries across Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, and beyond.
Planning Tanzania safari tours requires more than just picking a destination it’s about timing, logistics, and choosing the right parks for your travel style. Tanzania offers a wide range of safari experiences, from the well-known Northern Circuit to the remote Southern and Western parks. Whether you're interested in the Great Migration, predator sightings, or birding, Dav Safaris helps you match your goals with the best season and route. With expert knowledge of wildlife movements, weather patterns, and park access, every itinerary is built to maximize sightings and minimize stress.
Dav Safaris focuses on practical value and traveler comfort, offering clear guidance from the moment you inquire. From selecting the right airport to arranging ground transfers and choosing accommodations, every detail is handled with care. Tanzania safari tours can be tailored to fit any budget or preference group tours, private safaris, or luxury experiences. You’ll receive honest advice, reliable service, and a team that understands the realities of travel in East Africa. This guide breaks down everything you need to know: when to go, where to stay, how to choose a tour operator, and what to pack. It’s designed to help you make confident decisions and enjoy a well-planned safari from start to finish
Top Tanzania Safari Tours
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Best time to go for Tanzania Safari Tours
The dry season from June to October is the top choice for Tanzania safari tours if your priority is wildlife visibility. Animals gather around waterholes, making sightings more predictable and rewarding. Vegetation is sparse, so guides can spot game more easily, and photography is clearer. Tanzania safari tours during this time are in high demand, so expect higher prices and more visitors in popular parks like Serengeti and Tarangire. The weather is cool and dry, which makes travel comfortable, but early booking is essential to secure quality lodges and guides.
From November to May, Tanzania safari tours shift into the green season, offering better value and fewer crowds. This period is ideal for birding and landscape photography, with migratory birds arriving and the plains turning vibrant. Tanzania safari tours during the short rains (Nov–Dec) still offer good game viewing, with brief showers that rarely disrupt activities. However, the long rains (March–May) can affect road access and lodge availability, so it’s best to plan carefully or choose areas ]with all-weather roads and year-round camps.
January and February mark calving season in the Southern Serengeti and Ndutu, a highlight within the green season for Tanzania safari tours. This is when thousands of wildebeest give birth, attracting predators and offering dramatic wildlife scenes. Tanzania safari tours during this window are perfect for travelers interested in animal behavior and predator-prey dynamics. The weather is manageable, and the crowds are lighter than in peak months, making it a smart time to visit with good guiding and flexible logistics
How to get to best Tanzania safari tours
To access the best Tanzania safari tours, start by choosing your arrival airport based on your itinerary. Most travelers fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) near Arusha, which is ideal for northern circuit safaris including Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire. For southern circuit tours like Ruaha and Selous, Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam is more practical. Dav Safaris helps streamline this process by aligning your flight choice with your safari route, ensuring smooth connections and minimal transit time. Booking early is key, especially during peak months, to secure top lodges and guides for your Tanzania safari tours.
Once in Tanzania, Dav Safaris arranges all ground and air transfers to safari parks. Depending on your route, this may include 4x4 vehicles, domestic flights, or a mix of both. Tanzania safari tours often begin with a briefing in Arusha or Dar es Salaam before heading into the bush. Dav Safaris prioritizes reliable logistics, using trusted drivers and charter partners to avoid delays and maximize wildlife viewing time. Whether you're heading to the Serengeti for the migration or exploring remote areas like Ruaha, every step of your Tanzania safari tours is planned to match your travel style and comfort level
Best destinations for Tanzania safari tours for best experience
Serengeti National Park
Serengeti National Park is the centerpiece of most Tanzania safari tours, offering unmatched wildlife viewing throughout the year. Its open plains host the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest and zebra move in search of fresh grazing, especially dramatic during the river crossings from July to September. Tanzania safari tours in the Serengeti deliver consistent sightings of lions, cheetahs, elephants, and hyenas, with excellent guiding and photography opportunities. The park’s vastness allows for multi-day exploration, with mobile camps and luxury lodges positioned to follow wildlife movements. Whether you visit during the dry season or green season, Serengeti remains reliable for game viewing. Dav Safaris ensures your route and timing match the migration patterns, maximizing your chances of witnessing key events without overcrowding or logistical issues.
Ngorongoro Crater
Ngorongoro Crater is a must-stop on Tanzania safari tours, especially for travelers seeking concentrated wildlife in a compact area. The crater floor is home to all members of the Big Five, including rare black rhinos, and offers high chances of spotting predators and large herbivores in a single game drive. Tanzania safari tours here benefit from the crater’s unique geography a collapsed volcano that traps wildlife in a fertile basin. The scenery is dramatic, and the density of animals makes it ideal for short stays or travelers with limited time. Dav Safaris typically includes Ngorongoro as part of a northern circuit itinerary, balancing it with longer stays in Serengeti or Tarangire. Early morning descents into the crater help avoid crowds and improve sightings, especially during peak season.
Tarangire National Park
Tarangire National Park is a strong addition to Tanzania safari tours, especially in the dry season when wildlife concentrates around the Tarangire River. Known for its large elephant herds and ancient baobab trees, the park offers a quieter, less commercialized experience compared to Serengeti. Tanzania safari tours here often include walking safaris and birding, with over 500 species recorded. The landscape is varied, with swamps, hills, and open savannah supporting diverse wildlife. Dav Safaris recommends Tarangire for travelers who want to avoid crowds and enjoy slower-paced game drives. It’s also a good fit for families or photographers looking for elephant behavior and scenic backdrops. Lodges range from budget to high-end, and the park’s proximity to Arusha makes it easy to include in short or extended itineraries.
Lake Manyara National Park
Lake Manyara National Park is ideal for short Tanzania safari tours or as a warm-up before heading to larger parks. Its compact size allows for a full experience in one day, with highlights including tree-climbing lions, flamingos, and hippos. Tanzania safari tours here benefit from the park’s diverse habitats groundwater forest, acacia woodland, and alkaline lake which support a wide range of animals and birds. The park is especially good for birding and primate viewing, with large troops of baboons and blue monkeys. Dav Safaris often includes Lake Manyara as a first stop on northern circuit itineraries, offering a gentle introduction to safari before tackling the Serengeti or Ngorongoro. It’s also a good option for travelers arriving late in Arusha and needing a nearby destination to start their trip.
Arusha National Park
Arusha National Park is a convenient option for Tanzania safari tours starting or ending in Arusha. Though smaller than other parks, it offers unique activities like canoeing on Momella Lakes and walking safaris near Mount Meru. Tanzania safari tours here are ideal for travelers with limited time or those interested in combining wildlife with light adventure. The park hosts giraffes, buffaloes, colobus monkeys, and a variety of birds, but it’s not a Big Five destination. Dav Safaris uses Arusha National Park for warm-up safaris, acclimatization, or as a soft landing before heading to more remote areas. Its proximity to the city makes it perfect for half-day or full-day excursions, especially for families or guests arriving early and wanting to maximize their time before heading deeper into the bush.
Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park)
Selous, now officially Nyerere National Park, is a top choice for Tanzania safari tours focused on privacy and variety. It’s one of Africa’s largest protected areas, offering walking safaris, boat safaris along the Rufiji River, and traditional game drives. Tanzania safari tours here feel more wild and less structured than in the north, with fewer vehicles and more flexible activities. The park’s mix of wetlands, woodlands, and open plains supports a wide range of wildlife, including wild dogs, elephants, and crocodiles. Dav Safaris recommends Selous for travelers who want a more personal experience and enjoy combining water-based and land-based exploration.
Ruaha National Park
Ruaha is a standout destination for Tanzania safari tours that prioritize raw wilderness and predator sightings. It’s known for its rugged terrain, dramatic baobab trees, and high concentrations of lions and elephants. Tanzania safari tours in Ruaha often include long, uninterrupted drives through remote valleys and rocky hills, with excellent chances of spotting big cats and large herds. The park’s isolation means fewer lodges and visitors, but Dav Safaris works with reliable partners to ensure comfort and safety. Ruaha is best visited in the dry season when animals gather around the Great Ruaha River, and visibility is at its best.
Katavi National Park
Katavi is one of the most remote parks included in Tanzania safari tours, ideal for travelers who want complete solitude and intense wildlife action. During the dry season, thousands of buffalo and hippos crowd the remaining water sources, creating dramatic scenes rarely seen elsewhere. Tanzania safari tours in Katavi are logistically complex due to limited access, but Dav Safaris handles the planning with charter flights and experienced guides. The park’s isolation means you’ll often have entire areas to yourself, making it perfect for photographers and serious wildlife watchers. Lodging is limited but high quality, designed to match the park’s wild character.
Combining Southern and Western Circuits
Tanzania safari tours that combine Selous, Ruaha, and Katavi offer a deeper, more adventurous experience than the northern circuit. These parks are less visited, which means better privacy and more authentic wildlife behavior. Tanzania safari tours in these regions require careful planning due to long distances and limited infrastructure, but Dav Safaris specializes in crafting seamless itineraries that balance comfort with exploration. Whether you’re tracking lions in Ruaha or cruising past hippos in Selous, the southern and western circuits deliver unmatched value for travelers who want to go beyond the usual routes
Best safari type for your Tanzania safari tours
Group joining safaris are the most budget-friendly way to experience Tanzania safari tours. You’ll share a 4x4 vehicle with other travelers, following a fixed itinerary and schedule. This setup works well for solo travelers or those looking to keep costs low while still visiting top parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro. Tanzania safari tours in this format often include basic lodges or camps and are ideal for short trips with limited flexibility. Dav Safaris ensures group tours maintain quality guiding and reliable logistics, even with shared arrangements.
Private safaris offer more control over your Tanzania safari tours. You get a dedicated guide and vehicle, allowing you to choose your pace, activities, and accommodations. This format suits couples, families, or small groups who want personalized service and the freedom to adjust plans on the go. Tanzania safari tours in this category range from mid-range to luxury, depending on your lodge choices and route. Dav Safaris customizes every detail from game drive timing to meal preferences so your experience reflects your travel style and priorities.
Luxury safaris elevate Tanzania safari tours with premium lodges, top-tier guides, and exclusive experiences like hot air balloon rides or private bush dinners. These tours focus on comfort, privacy, and high-level service, often including fly-in access to remote parks and tailored wildlife encounters. Tanzania safari tours in this category are perfect for honeymooners, milestone celebrations, or travelers who value detail and refinement. Dav Safaris selects properties known for exceptional hospitality and designs itineraries that combine relaxation with high-quality game viewing
Best things to do on Tanzania safari tours
Game drives are the core of Tanzania safari tours, offering close-up views of wildlife in their natural habitat. Whether you're tracking lions in Ruaha or watching elephants in Tarangire, the experience is shaped by your guide’s skill and your timing. Tanzania safari tours typically include morning and afternoon drives, with some lodges offering full-day options to reach remote areas. Dav Safaris ensures each drive is tailored to your interests whether it’s predators, birding, or photography so you get the most out of every hour in the bush.
Walking safaris add a different layer to Tanzania safari tours, especially in parks like Selous and Ruaha. These guided walks let you explore the bush on foot, focusing on tracks, plants, insects, and smaller animals often missed from a vehicle. Tanzania safari tours that include walking safaris offer a slower, more detailed look at the ecosystem and are led by armed guides for safety. Dav Safaris selects routes that balance safety with interest, making sure guests feel confident while gaining a deeper understanding of the landscape.
Boat safaris are a highlight in areas like Selous, where rivers and lakes attract hippos, crocodiles, and birds. Tanzania safari tours that include boat excursions offer a peaceful way to view wildlife from the water, often at sunset when animals come to drink. These trips are ideal for photography and birdwatching, with guides pointing out species and behaviors unique to aquatic environments. Dav Safaris coordinates boat safaris with your lodge stay, ensuring timing and logistics match your overall itinerary.
Cultural visits are a valuable addition to Tanzania safari tours, especially in areas near Maasai communities or Hadzabe hunter-gatherer groups. These experiences offer insight into traditional lifestyles, crafts, and customs, and are best when arranged respectfully and with local involvement. Tanzania safari tours that include cultural stops help travelers connect with the human side of the region and support community-based tourism. Dav Safaris works with vetted partners to ensure visits are meaningful, ethical, and aligned with your interests
How Long Do You Need for Tanzania safari tours
The ideal duration for Tanzania safari tours depends on your goals and travel style. A 4–5 day itinerary gives you a solid introduction, covering highlights like Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater, and Central Serengeti perfect for travelers with limited time. For a fuller experience, 7–8 days is recommended, allowing you to explore the Northern Circuit in depth without rushing through game drives or transfers. Tanzania safari tours of 10 days or more are best for combining northern parks with remote areas like Selous or Ruaha, or for tracking the Great Migration across different regions. Dav Safaris tailors each itinerary to match your interests, ensuring every day adds value
Best Itineraries for Tanzania Safari Tours
The Classic Northern Circuit is a well-balanced 7-day itinerary ideal for first-time visitors looking to cover Tanzania’s most accessible parks. Starting in Arusha, this route includes Tarangire’s elephants and baobabs, Lake Manyara’s tree-climbing lions, and a full day in the Ngorongoro Crater. The final two days are spent in the Serengeti, exploring its vast plains and diverse wildlife. Tanzania safari tours following this plan offer consistent game viewing, smooth logistics, and a mix of landscapes. Dav Safaris ensures each stop is timed to avoid crowds and maximize sightings, with reliable guides and comfortable lodges throughout.
For travelers focused on wildlife events, the Great Migration itinerary offers 8–9 days of strategic game drives across Serengeti’s key regions. Tanzania safari tours built around the migration follow the herds through Central, Northern, and Western Serengeti, with chances to witness river crossings or calving depending on the season. A stop at Ngorongoro Crater adds variety, while the Ndutu area is included for January–March trips to catch newborns and predator action. Dav Safaris adjusts routes based on real-time wildlife movements, using mobile camps and expert trackers to keep you close to the action.
The Wild South itinerary is perfect for travelers seeking remote, less-visited parks. Tanzania safari tours in this region begin with a flight from Dar es Salaam to Selous, where boat safaris and walking safaris offer a different pace. After two days, you fly to Ruaha for rugged game drives among baobabs and rocky hills. This 7-day plan is ideal for those who want fewer crowds and more flexibility. Dav Safaris handles all internal flights and lodge coordination, ensuring a seamless experience in areas where logistics can be challenging
How to Choose a Reputable Tour Operator for Tanzania safari tour
Choosing the right company is the foundation of a successful Tanzania safari tour. Start by prioritizing local operators based in Tanzania they know the terrain, own their vehicles, and hire experienced local guides. This direct setup often means better value and smoother logistics. Always verify that the company is licensed by the Tanzania Tourist Board (TTB) and is a member of TATO (Tanzania Association of Tour Operators). These credentials confirm professionalism and accountability. Dav Safaris recommends checking reviews on platforms like SafariBookings.com, TripAdvisor, and Google to see consistent feedback on guide quality, vehicle condition, and customer service.
Clear communication is another key sign of a reliable operator. A good company will respond promptly, explain all details clearly, and provide a transparent quote with no hidden costs. Before booking your Tanzania safari tour, ask specific questions: What’s included or excluded in the price? Will you have a guaranteed window seat? Who will be your guide, and what’s their experience? Can they share recent client references? Dav Safaris encourages travelers to ask these questions upfront to avoid surprises and ensure the safari matches their expectations
Best Practical Tips and Checklist for Tanzania safari tours
Before starting your Tanzania safari tours, make sure your travel documents and health precautions are in order. Most travelers need a visa, which can be obtained on arrival, but applying for an e-visa in advance is faster and more secure. If you're coming from a yellow fever endemic country, carry your vaccination certificate—it may be required at entry. Malaria is present in safari regions, so consult your doctor about prophylaxis and bring insect repellent. Dav Safaris advises confirming these details early to avoid last-minute issues and ensure a smooth arrival.
Packing smart makes a big difference on Tanzania safari tours. Stick to neutral-colored clothing like khaki, beige, or olive to blend into the environment and avoid attracting insects. Layering is essential mornings can be cold, especially in Ngorongoro, while afternoons heat up quickly.
Bring a warm fleece or jacket, comfortable closed shoes, and a wide-brimmed hat. For gear, high-quality binoculars are a must, along with a camera with a zoom lens, power bank, and headlamp. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle round out your essentials. Dav Safaris provides a detailed packing list tailored to your route and season.
Budgeting for Tanzania safari tours depends on your travel style. Group camping safaris typically range from $250–$350 per person per day, covering transport, park fees, meals, and basic lodging. Mid-range and luxury safaris start around $500 and can exceed $1,000 per day, offering private guides, premium lodges, and added experiences. These prices usually include everything except international flights, drinks, and tips. Dav Safaris helps you choose the right tier based on your priorities, ensuring transparency and value without hidden costs
Best places to stay in during Tanzania safari tours
Lodges are a solid choice for travelers who want comfort and convenience during their Tanzania safari tours. These permanent structures offer hotel-style amenities like swimming pools, spas, and Wi-Fi, making them ideal for families or guests who prefer a more traditional setup. Lodges are often located near park entrances or scenic viewpoints, with spacious rooms and reliable services. Tanzania safari tours that include lodges tend to focus on ease of access and consistent comfort, especially in areas like Ngorongoro Crater or Tarangire. Dav Safaris selects lodges based on location, service quality, and how well they fit your itinerary and budget.
Tented camps offer a more immersive experience, with several styles to choose from depending on your travel goals. Standard tented camps are common in budget Tanzania safari tours, featuring shared bathrooms and basic facilities. Permanent tented camps provide en-suite bathrooms and elevated platforms, combining adventure with comfort. Mobile tented camps are the most dynamic, moving with the Great Migration to keep you close to the action in the Serengeti. Tanzania safari tours that include tented camps allow for deeper wildlife access and a stronger connection to the environment. Dav Safaris matches camp style to your preferences, ensuring the right balance of comfort, location, and value
Booking Tanzania safari tours with Dav safaris
Booking Tanzania safari tours with Dav Safaris means working directly with a trusted local expert who understands the terrain, wildlife patterns, and logistics inside out. From the first inquiry, you’ll receive clear communication, tailored itineraries, and transparent pricing no hidden costs or vague promises. Dav Safaris handles everything from airport transfers to park permits, ensuring your safari runs smoothly whether you choose a budget group tour or a luxury private experience. With deep knowledge of both popular and remote parks, Dav Safaris crafts each trip to match your interests, travel style, and seasonal highlights.