Top 5 Tanzania Best Safari Parks You Must Visit Now

Top 5 Tanzania Best Safari Parks You Must Visit Now

Discover Tanzania best safari parks Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, Manyara and Selous for epic wildlife, Big Five, and unforgettable safari adventures.


Tanzania is a land where the wild reigns supreme, and its best safari parks offer a front-row seat to nature’s most breathtaking spectacles. From the vast golden plains of the Serengeti to the lush, wildlife-filled bowl of the Ngorongoro Crater, each park delivers its own magic. Whether you're tracking the Big Five, witnessing the Great Migration, or cruising the Rufiji River among hippos and crocodiles, the experiences are as diverse as the landscapes. Tarangire’s massive elephant herds and ancient baobabs, Lake Manyara’s tree-climbing lions, and Selous’ raw wilderness make every stop unforgettable. These parks, recognized among Tanzania best safari parks, also offer opportunities for cultural encounters, photography, birdwatching, and off-the-beaten-path adventures. Best of all, they can be visited year-round, with seasonal highlights that cater to every kind of traveler. If you’ve ever dreamed of a real African safari, now is the time Tanzania’s best await with stories only the wild can tell

Top 5 Tanzania Best Safari Parks You Must Visit Now

1 Serengeti National Park

 Serengeti National Park is the crown jewel of Tanzania best safari parks, famed for its endless golden plains and the awe-inspiring Great Migration. Each year, over a million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles thunder across the savannah in search of fresh grazing, creating one of the most dramatic wildlife spectacles on Earth. From June to October, visitors can witness thrilling river crossings and predator-prey encounters. The park also boasts year-round sightings of the Big Five and offers unique experiences like sunrise hot air balloon safaris. As one of the Tanzania best safari parks, the Serengeti delivers unmatched biodiversity, cinematic landscapes, and unforgettable safari moments that define the essence of African wilderness.


2. Ngorongoro Crater

Ngorongoro Crater is a natural marvel and one of the most unique ecosystems among Tanzania best safari parks. Formed from a collapsed volcano, this vast caldera shelters an incredible density of wildlife, including all members of the Big Five. The crater floor is a lush, self-contained habitat with grasslands, swamps, and Lake Magadi, which attracts flocks of flamingos. Visitors can spot rare black rhinos, lions, elephants, and hippos in a single game drive. The surrounding highlands offer cultural encounters with the Maasai people. As one of the Tanzania best safari parks, Ngorongoro combines geological wonder with exceptional wildlife viewing in a compact, awe-inspiring setting.


3. Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park is often overlooked but stands tall among Tanzania best safari parks for its massive elephant herds and iconic baobab trees. During the dry season from June to October, wildlife congregates around the Tarangire River, creating spectacular viewing opportunities. The park is also home to tree-climbing lions, leopards, and over 550 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers and photographers alike. Its varied terrain of swamps, woodlands, and savannahs supports a rich diversity of animals. As one of the Tanzania best safari parks, Tarangire offers a quieter, more intimate safari experience with fewer crowds and abundant wildlife.


4. Lake Manyara National Park

 Lake Manyara National Park may be compact, but it packs a punch as one of the Tanzania best safari parks. Nestled at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment, it features a mosaic of habitats—from groundwater forests to alkaline lakes. The park is famous for its tree-climbing lions, large baboon troops, and flocks of pink flamingos that blanket the lake. Visitors can enjoy canopy walks, hippo pools, and panoramic views of the Rift Valley. Despite its size, Lake Manyara delivers a rich and varied safari experience, earning its place among the Tanzania best safari parks for those seeking diversity and beauty in a single destination.


5. Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park)

Selous Game Reserve, now part of Nyerere National Park, is the largest protected area in Africa and a hidden gem among Tanzania best safari parks. Spanning over 50,000 square kilometers, it offers a remote and wild safari experience with fewer tourists and vast, untouched landscapes. The Rufiji River winds through the park, enabling unique boat safaris alongside traditional game drives and walking safaris. Selous is home to wild dogs, crocodiles, hippos, and large herds of elephants and buffalo. As one of the Tanzania best safari parks, it provides an adventurous, off-the-beaten-path escape for travelers seeking raw nature and solitude

Best things to do in the top 5 Tanzania best safari parks

Serengeti national park


1. Witness the Great Migration

 One of the most iconic experiences in Tanzania best safari parks is witnessing the Great Migration in Serengeti National Park. From December to July, massive herds of wildebeest and zebras thunder across the southern plains, while from August to November, they brave the crocodile-infested Mara River in the north. This epic journey of over 1.5 million animals is a breathtaking spectacle of survival and instinct. Visitors can witness dramatic river crossings, predator ambushes, and the birth of thousands of calves during calving season. As one of the Tanzania best safari parks, the Serengeti offers front-row seats to nature’s most powerful drama.


2. Big 5 Safaris

Serengeti National Park is a premier destination among Tanzania best safari parks for spotting the legendary Big Five lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and the elusive black rhino. Game drives across the park’s diverse ecosystems, especially in the Seronera Valley, offer excellent chances to see these majestic animals in their natural habitat. Lions lounge on kopjes, elephants roam the woodlands, and leopards stealthily perch in acacia trees. While rhinos are rare, they can occasionally be spotted in the park’s northern reaches. For wildlife lovers, Tanzania best safari parks like the Serengeti deliver unforgettable encounters with Africa’s most iconic creatures.


3. Hot Air Balloon Safari

Floating silently above the Serengeti at sunrise is a magical way to experience one of Tanzania best safari parks. A hot air balloon safari offers panoramic views of the golden plains, herds of grazing animals, and even predators on the move. The flight typically lasts about an hour and concludes with a champagne breakfast in the bush—an elegant touch to an already unforgettable adventure. This unique perspective allows travelers to appreciate the vastness and beauty of the Serengeti in a way few experiences can match. Among Tanzania best safari parks, the Serengeti stands out for offering this once-in-a-lifetime thrill.


4. Photography Tours

For shutterbugs, Serengeti National Park is a dream destination within Tanzania best safari parks. The golden light of dawn and dusk, dramatic skies, and abundant wildlife create perfect conditions for capturing stunning images. Whether it’s a cheetah sprinting across the plains, a lion pride basking on a kopje, or a wildebeest herd kicking up dust, every moment is a frame-worthy shot. Specialized photography safaris offer expert guides who understand lighting, angles, and animal behavior. As one of the Tanzania best safari parks, the Serengeti provides endless inspiration for both amateur and professional photographers.


5. Stay in a Mobile Tented Camp

Sleeping under the stars in a mobile tented camp is one of the most immersive ways to experience Tanzania best safari parks. These luxury camps move with the Great Migration, placing guests right in the heart of the action. With en-suite tents, gourmet meals, and crackling campfires, you’ll enjoy comfort without losing the thrill of the wild. The sounds of lions roaring or hyenas laughing at night add to the authenticity. Serengeti’s mobile camps offer a rare blend of adventure and elegance, making it a standout among Tanzania best safari parks for those seeking a truly unforgettable safari.


2. Ngorongoro Crater


Crater Floor Game Drive

A Crater Floor Game Drive in Ngorongoro Crater is one of the most thrilling experiences in Tanzania best safari parks. As you descend into the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera, you’ll encounter an astonishing density of wildlife—lions, elephants, zebras, flamingos, and the rare black rhino—all within a compact 260-square-kilometer area. The crater’s enclosed ecosystem creates a natural amphitheater for game viewing, offering unmatched opportunities to spot the Big Five in a single day. Morning drives are especially rewarding, with predators on the hunt and grazers feeding in the cool air. Among Tanzania best safari parks, Ngorongoro stands out for its concentrated biodiversity and dramatic scenery.


Maasai Village Visit

Visiting a Maasai village near Ngorongoro Crater offers a rich cultural dimension to your journey through Tanzania best safari parks. The Maasai people, known for their vibrant attire and warrior traditions, welcome guests with traditional dances, storytelling, and insights into their pastoral lifestyle, You’ll learn about their deep connection to the land, how they coexist with wildlife, and their unique customs, such as cattle-based wealth and polygamous family structures. These visits not only support local communities but also deepen your understanding of the human heritage within Tanzania best safari parks, making your safari experience more meaningful and memorable.


Picnic at Hippo Pool

A picnic at the Hippo Pool in Ngorongoro Crater is a serene and scenic break during your adventure through Tanzania best safari parks. Located in the southern part of the crater, this tranquil spot is home to a bloat of hippos and a variety of birdlife. It’s one of the few places where visitors can safely step out of their vehicles, enjoy a packed lunch, and soak in the natural beauty. The peaceful ambiance, combined with the sounds of grunting hippos and chirping birds, creates a magical moment. Among Tanzania best safari parks, Ngorongoro offers this rare blend of relaxation and wildlife immersion.


Walking Safari on the Crater Rim

A Walking Safari along the Crater Rim is a refreshing and immersive way to explore one of Tanzania best safari parks. Guided by experienced naturalists and accompanied by armed rangers, you’ll trek through montane forests and grasslands with panoramic views of the crater floor below. This activity offers a chance to spot smaller wildlife, unique plants, and a variety of birds while learning about the region’s ecology and geology. Encounters with Maasai herders and their livestock add cultural richness to the journey. For those seeking a deeper connection with nature, Ngorongoro’s rim walk is a standout feature of Tanzania best safari parks.


Birdwatching at Lake Magadi

 Lake Magadi, nestled within Ngorongoro Crater, is a birdwatcher’s paradise and a highlight of Tanzania best safari parks. This shallow soda lake attracts flocks of pink flamingos, storks, eagles, and other waterbirds, creating a vibrant and colorful spectacle. The lake’s mineral-rich waters and surrounding wetlands provide ideal feeding grounds, especially during the dry season. Whether you're a seasoned birder or a casual observer, the diversity and density of avian life here are captivating. As part of Tanzania best safari parks, Ngorongoro offers not just big game but also delicate, feathered wonders that complete the safari experience.


3. Tarangire National Park 


Elephant spotting

Tarangire National Park is renowned for its massive elephant herds, making it a standout among Tanzania best safari parks. During the dry season, over 300 elephants gather around the Tarangire River, creating unforgettable scenes of social interaction, mud bathing, and playful calves. These gentle giants are often seen up close during game drives, offering rare photographic opportunities and a deeper appreciation for their complex behavior. As one of the Tanzania best safari parks, Tarangire provides a front-row seat to observe Africa’s largest land mammals in their natural habitat, surrounded by baobab-studded landscapes and golden savannahs.


Baobab Sunset Views

The ancient baobab trees of Tarangire create one of the most iconic silhouettes in Tanzania best safari parks, especially at sunset. These towering giants, some over a thousand years old, dot the landscape and serve as vital water reservoirs for wildlife. As the sun dips below the horizon, the sky ignites in hues of orange and purple, casting dramatic shadows of elephants and giraffes against the baobabs. Photographers and nature lovers alike are drawn to this magical hour, where the beauty of Tanzania best safari parks is captured in every frame. It’s a moment of serenity and awe that lingers long after the sun sets.


Night Game Drives

Night game drives in Tarangire, offered in select nearby areas, reveal a hidden world that few get to witness in Tanzania best safari parks. As darkness falls, the bush comes alive with nocturnal creatures leopards on the prowl, genets darting through the underbrush, and hyenas calling in the distance. Guided by spotlights and expert trackers, these drives offer a thrilling contrast to daytime safaris. The mystery and excitement of the night add a new dimension to wildlife viewing, making Tarangire one of the most dynamic experiences among Tanzania best safari parks.


Birdwatching

With over 550 recorded species, Tarangire is a birdwatcher’s paradise and a jewel among Tanzania best safari parks, From the vibrant yellow-collared lovebird to the stately kori bustard, the park’s diverse habitats swamps, woodlands, and riverbanks support an astonishing variety of avian life. Whether you're a seasoned birder or a curious traveler, the melodic calls and vivid plumage of Tarangire’s birds offer endless fascination. The park’s rich birdlife enhances its reputation as one of the Tanzania best safari parks, where every glance skyward reveals a new feathered wonder.


Silale Swamp Walk

The Silale Swamp, located in the southern reaches of Tarangire, offers a unique walking safari experience that sets it apart from other Tanzania best safari parks. This lush, green oasis acts as a sponge during the rainy season and slowly releases water in the dry months, attracting lions, buffaloes, elephants, and rare antelopes. Guided walks through the swamp allow for intimate encounters with wildlife and a deeper understanding of the park’s ecosystem. The chance to explore on foot, surrounded by birdsong and the rustle of reeds, makes Tarangire’s Silale Swamp a must-visit highlight of Tanzania best safari parks.


Tree-Climbing Lion Sightings

 Lake Manyara National Park is one of the few places in Africa where you can witness the rare and fascinating behavior of tree-climbing lions, making it a standout among Tanzania best safari parks. These lions are often seen lounging on the sturdy branches of acacia and sausage trees, especially during the heat of the day. Scientists believe they climb to escape biting insects or to enjoy a better vantage point for spotting prey. This unique spectacle draws wildlife enthusiasts and photographers eager to capture lions in such an unusual pose. As part of Tanzania best safari parks, Lake Manyara offers this rare encounter in a lush, compact setting.


Canopy Walkway

The Canopy Walkway in Lake Manyara National Park is a thrilling sky-high adventure that sets it apart from other Tanzania best safari parks. Suspended 18 meters above the forest floor, this 370-meter treetop bridge offers panoramic views of the lush jungle and its inhabitants, As you walk among the treetops, you may spot monkeys, butterflies, and a variety of birds flitting through the canopy. The walkway ends at viewing platforms built around massive tree trunks, perfect for soaking in the scenery. This immersive experience adds a fresh perspective to your safari and highlights the diversity found in Tanzania best safari parks.


Boat Safaris (at Lake Manyara)

Boat safaris on Lake Manyara offer a tranquil and intimate way to explore one of Tanzania best safari parks. Gliding across the shallow alkaline waters, you’ll encounter pods of hippos, flocks of flamingos, and vibrant kingfishers darting along the shoreline. The lake’s reflective surface and surrounding escarpments create a stunning backdrop for wildlife photography. Unlike traditional game drives, boat safaris provide a peaceful rhythm and a chance to observe aquatic life up close. This unique activity enhances Lake Manyara’s reputation as one of Tanzania best safari parks for diverse and immersive safari experiences.


Biking and Cultural Tours

 Cycling through the nearby village of Mto Wa Mbu offers a cultural twist to your adventure in Tanzania best safari parks. These guided biking tours take you past banana plantations, rice paddies, and bustling local markets, offering a glimpse into everyday Tanzanian life. You’ll meet artisans crafting wood carvings, taste local dishes, and learn about the more than 120 tribes that call the area home. This blend of nature and culture enriches your safari experience, making Lake Manyara not just a wildlife destination but a cultural gateway among Tanzania best safari parks.


Night Game Drives

Night game drives in Lake Manyara National Park reveal a hidden world that few get to see, making it one of the most dynamic Tanzania best safari parks. As the sun sets, the bush transforms porcupines shuffle through the underbrush, bushbabies leap between branches, and predators like leopards and hyenas emerge to hunt. Guided by spotlights and expert trackers, you’ll explore the forest and lake edges under the stars. The thrill of nocturnal sightings and the eerie sounds of the wild create an unforgettable safari experience. Among Tanzania best safari parks, Lake Manyara stands out for offering this rare and exhilarating nighttime adventure.


5. Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere NP) 


Boat Safari on Rufiji River

 A boat safari on the Rufiji River is one of the most exhilarating ways to explore Tanzania best safari parks, offering a unique aquatic perspective of Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park). As you glide along the river’s winding channels, you’ll encounter pods of hippos, basking crocodiles, and even elephants swimming or drinking at the water’s edge. The riverbanks teem with birdlife, including fish eagles and kingfishers, making it a paradise for nature lovers and photographers. This serene yet thrilling experience sets Selous apart from other Tanzania best safari parks, blending wildlife encounters with the tranquility of the water.


Walking Safaris

Walking safaris in Selous Game Reserve provide an intimate and adrenaline-filled way to connect with the wild, making it a standout among Tanzania best safari parks. Guided by armed rangers and expert trackers, you’ll follow animal trails on foot, learning to read tracks, identify plants, and observe wildlife behavior up close. These safaris often lead to sightings of lions, buffaloes, giraffes, and even elusive wild dogs. The immersive nature of walking through the bush engages all your senses, offering a raw and authentic safari experience. Among Tanzania best safari parks, Selous is unmatched for its freedom to explore on foot.


Fly Camping

Fly camping in Selous is the ultimate wilderness adventure, offering a night under the stars in one of Tanzania best safari parks. Set up in remote bush locations, these lightweight camps provide just the essentials—canvas tents, a campfire, and the sounds of the African night. Guests enjoy simple meals, storytelling under the stars, and the thrill of sleeping in the heart of nature. It’s a back-to-basics experience that deepens your connection to the land and wildlife. For those seeking solitude and authenticity, fly camping in Selous is a rare gem among Tanzania best safari parks.


Fishing (Catch and Release)

Fishing in the Rufiji River adds a refreshing twist to your safari in one of Tanzania best safari parks. Anglers can try their luck with fierce tigerfish or hefty catfish, all while surrounded by breathtaking scenery and the occasional visit from hippos or elephants. Guided by local experts, these catch-and-release excursions are both sustainable and thrilling. Whether you’re a seasoned fisherman or a curious beginner, the challenge of landing a tigerfish in such a wild setting is unforgettable. Selous’ blend of aquatic and terrestrial adventures makes it one of the most diverse Tanzania best safari parks.


Wild Dog Tracking

Selous Game Reserve is one of the last strongholds for African wild dogs, making it a top destination in Tanzania best safari parks for tracking these endangered predators. With the largest population of wild dogs in Africa, Selous offers a rare chance to observe their complex social behavior, coordinated hunts, and playful interactions. Guided by skilled trackers, you’ll follow fresh spoor and listen for distant calls, increasing your chances of a sighting. The thrill of encountering a wild dog pack in its natural habitat is unmatched, reinforcing Selous’ reputation as one of Tanzania best safari parks for conservation-focused safaris

Getting to top 5 Tanzania best safari parks

Reaching the top 5 Tanzania best safari parks Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and Selous (Nyerere) is easier than you might think, thanks to well-connected air and road networks. Most travelers begin their journey by flying into Kilimanjaro International Airport or Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam. From Kilimanjaro or Arusha, you can access Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, and Lake Manyara via short domestic flights or scenic overland drives along the Northern Safari Circuit. These parks are relatively close together, making them ideal for a combined itinerary. To reach Selous (Nyerere National Park) in the south, daily charter flights from Dar es Salaam are the fastest option, though adventurous travelers can also take a 5–7 hour road trip or even the TAZARA railway. Whether by air, road, or rail, each route to Tanzania best safari parks offers its own slice of adventure and stunning scenery

Best time to visit Tanzania best safari parks

The best time to visit Tanzania best safari parks is during the dry season from June to October, when wildlife viewing is at its peak. During these months, animals gather around water sources, vegetation is sparse, and skies are clear ideal conditions for spotting the Big Five and witnessing the Great Migration in the Serengeti. This period also offers excellent game viewing in Tarangire, Ngorongoro Crater, and Selous (Nyerere), with fewer mosquitoes and cooler temperatures.For a different kind of magic, January to February is perfect for the calving season in the Southern Serengeti, where thousands of wildebeest give birth, attracting predators and dramatic interactions. Birdwatchers will also love the wet season from November to April, when migratory birds arrive and the landscapes turn lush and green.While April and May are the wettest months and considered low season, they offer lower rates and fewer crowds in Tanzania best safari parks, making them a great option for budget-conscious travelers who don’t mind a little rain

Where to sleep eat and drink during Tanzania best safari parks.

During your adventure through Tanzania best safari parks, you’ll find a wide range of places to sleep, eat, and drink that blend comfort with the wild. In the Serengeti, options like Four Seasons Safari Lodge and Melia Serengeti Lodge offer gourmet dining and luxury stays, while mobile camps like Kati Kati provide authentic bush experiences. Ngorongoro Crater features lodges such as Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge, where you can dine with crater views. In Tarangire, Tarangire Safari Lodge and Sanctuary Swala Camp serve up local cuisine and sundowners overlooking elephant herds. Lake Manyara’s Escarpment Luxury Lodge and Lake Manyara Serena Lodge offer fresh meals and drinks with Rift Valley vistas. Down south in Selous (Nyerere), Siwandu Camp and Beho Beho combine riverside dining with starlit cocktails. Whether you crave rustic charm or five-star indulgence, Tanzania best safari parks deliver unforgettable hospitality in the heart of the wild

Why book the Tanzania best safari parks with Dav safaris

Booking the Tanzania best safari parks with Dav Safaris means choosing a team known for expertise, personalized service, and a deep passion for wildlife, Our experienced guides are not only skilled in tracking animals but also in sharing rich insights into Tanzania’s ecosystems, making every game drive more meaningful. Dav Safaris offers tailor-made itineraries that cater to solo travelers, couples, families, and a photographer ensuring your safari matches your interests and pace. We also prioritize sustainability, using eco-friendly practices that protect the environment and support local communities. Whether you're exploring the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, or Selous, Dav Safaris delivers seamless logistics, authentic cultural encounters, and unforgettable moments across Tanzania best safari parks

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