Where to go in Tanzania

Tanzania is such a diverse country, offering a huge range of experiences, so it can be a little overwhelming to work out where you need to go to see certain species, as well as the best time of year to visit. But don’t worry, we have you covered.

Northern Circuit

This includes the Serengeti, Lake Manyara and Tarangire National Parks and the Ngorongoro Crater and is by far and away Tanzania’s most popular safari area, for good reason. The game is outstanding and for the majority of the year you have good access to the migration. Be warned though, it is busy. It is rare that you’ll have time by yourself here due to its popularity so we suggest booking early to ensure you end up with your preferred lodging.

Best times to visit: January/February/March for the calving season in the Southern Serengeti; June/July/August for the migration headed north; the other months are also good but we would suggest these six are the best.

The South

The Selous and Ruaha are two enormous game rich areas that offer great game viewing and tend to be overlooked by first time safari goers. This means they’re much quieter and with fewer lodges the game experience is much more exclusive. Wildlife here is excellent but less ‘on tap’ than in the north, although there is a good chance you can sit on a sighting without disturbance. These spots are also great for walking safaris as well as boating safaris, adding another dimension to your Tanzania holiday.

Best times to visit: during the dry months of July to October, but don’t be put off travelling at other times aside from April/May. There are flights that connect Ruaha with the North.

The West

Tanzania’s great ‘wild west’ receives very few visitors, which is both a terrible shame that so much is being missed, and a blessing for those who venture this far. Anyone staying in this area will be treated to one of the best safari experiences on the continent. In Katavi National Park chances of seeing huge herds of Buffalo are high, as well as enormous pods of wallowing hippo and good predator action. And the best bit? You’ll probably have it all to yourself, as there are only about 24 beds in the entire National Park. In Mahale you’ll enjoy what is probably the best interactive chimp experiences ever, as well as being based on one of the most beautiful lakes in Africa. The major downside is that a safari in the west is expensive due to the long light aircraft flight, but we think it’s worth every penny and it gives great bragging rights! You can access the west via The Serengeti for the ultimate safari experience.

Best times to visit: during the dry months of July to October, but don’t be put off travelling at other times aside from April/May. There are flights that connect Ruaha with the North.

The East

The coastal areas of Tanzania offer interesting experiences in Saadani National Park, which is the only national park that comes down to the sea. The game is not as prolific but there is good birdlife and the flora is stunning. It makes for a great off the beaten track safari as you are unlikely to see many other visitors, and it also combines well with Zanzibar or the beaches on the mainland, so it’s suitable for people who don’t want too much travel.

Best times to visit: All year apart from April May