Are you planning a trip to Tanzania? Renowned for its incredible beauty and spectacular game viewings, it is one of the best destinations in the world to have the ultimate safari. There are 22 national parks, protected and managed to preserve the rich biodiversity of plants, birds and animals and provide the best experience for visitors.
Serengeti National Park
One of the biggest and most popular national parks in the northern part of Tanzania, it is one of the greatly desired safari destinations. Home to the magnificent African ‘Big Five’, hippos, giraffes, impalas and black rhinos. The wildlife you will experience is one of a kind and includes the crocodile-filled Grumeti River and the Great Wildebeest Migration. Encounter the Maasai culture personally and witness the Sergenti from a birdseye view in a Hot Air Balloon Safari over the savannahs.
When: The best times to visit are during January and February or June to October, although it is perfect timing all year.
If the Serengeti is not on your current ‘Bucket List’, we highly suggest this new addition.
Ngorongoro Crater National Park
Surrounding the Ngorongoro Crater, named after the largest intact volcanic caldera, a hollow in the earth formed after a volcanic eruption. The crater was formed millions of years ago and has been closed off from people, this resulted in the animals being free and unthreatened. The caldera provides a habitat for a wide variety of wild animals. You can spot the big five, cheetahs, birds, flamingos, elephants and even the endangered black rhino. The Maasai people live harmonies alongside the wildlife.
When: During the rainy season from April to May for the best viewings. There are fewer tourists during the low season, it depends on if you would like a more exclusive experience or if you don’t mind the crowds.
The national park is a must-see destination for history lovers, with fossil findings and British colonial history.
Lake Manyara National Park
This national park is any birdwatcher’s paradise location! It is described as a smaller Serengeti with lots of forests surrounding the lake. During the rainy season, thousands of flamingos make their way along the lake with hundreds of other bird species accompanying them. You will be very lucky if you spot some lions up in the acacia trees. Experience night safaris, hiking and trekking trails and canoeing on the lake like never before in this park’s natural beauty.
When: The best time is during the dry season, from June to October.
Mount Kilimanjaro National Park
Mount Kilimanjaro is Africa’s highest mountain (5 8965 meters) reaching the clouds. It includes 3 extinct dormant volcanoes, the Kibo, Mawenzi and Shira. You will be able to witness a wide variety of animals including warthogs, hippos, impalas, dik diks, zebras, elephants, buffalos, giraffes, elands, gazelles, cheetahs, lions and leopards. Mount Kilimanjaro National Park has an incredibly diverse habitat. Try and search for the ‘Impatiens Kilimanjari’, the unique flower only found on the jungle floor of Kilimanjaro.
When: During the warmest and driest months of the year from December to March and then from June until October.
Ruaha National Park
The Ruaha National Park is around the Great Ruaha River. It is home to the largest population of elephants in East Africa. Ruaha is a very untouched national park in comparison with other parks, it makes it a popular choice for frequent safari guests. You will have the chance to fly camp, which is the ultimate African bush experience. It is very adventurous and unique. Combined with a walking safari with an armed guide surrounded by incredible wildlife.
When: The best time to plan your trip is between June to October.
Tarangire National Park
Named after the Tarangire River, it is one of the less popular national parks in Tanzania creating a more private experience for its visitors. It prides itself on its diverse landscapes with river valleys, acacia woods and baobab trees. This park like the Ruaha National Park is also known for its large elephant population, with herds of over 300 each and vital for elephant conservation. It is a real paradise for the elephant lovers. You can take part in walking tours, game drives, night safaris and even a hot air balloon safari to get a different perspective on the park. This is one of Tanzania’s best-kept safari secret locations.
When: Between June to October when the number of animals to be seen increases.
It’s no secret that Tanzania offers some of the best safari experiences in East Africa. With so many National Parks to choose from, it can make your decision a little more difficult. You can book your trip through us to experience the culture and nature’s magnificence.
