Tanzania is an African destination without equal! With a wealth of natural resources, it is a land of vast plains, tall mountains, fresh-water lakes, majestic acacia trees, and ocean coastlines with picture—perfect beaches and superb offshore dive sites. Philip Briggs, author of the Bradt Travel Guide to Tanzania, writes that Tanzania is “one of the world’s most understated destinations”, and we couldn’t agree more.
Tanzania is well known for its extraordinary wildlife. More than a quarter of its land mass has been set aside for conservation purposes, with the Serengeti National Park and Selous Game Reserve leading a rich array of preserved areas that collectively protect an estimated 20 per cent of Africa’s large mammal population. Each year Tanzania is the site of one of the most amazing wildlife spectacles on the planet: the annual migration of wildebeest and zebra through the Serengeti, which allows superb sightings of both these herd animals and the big cats and other hunters that follow.
Tanzania is home to the Big Five—elephant, rhinoceros, lion, leopard, and buffalo—but more than 80 other species of large mammals can also be found there, including giraffes, baboons, chimpanzees, and hippopotamus. With more than 1,000 species, Tanzania is also a bird-lovers paradise. It is home to more than 275 species of reptiles, and more than 1,000 butterfly species have been recorded.
The first time you see an elephant, giraffe, or cheetah in its natural environment is indescribably moving. And the sonic landscape—the low rumble of a lion’s roar, the exotic call of mating birds, the hoots of a baboon troop—is music you will never forget. Each safari in Tanzania is a unique and unparalleled experience.
And there is far more to Tanzania than just safaris. Mount Kilimanjaro is the highest peak on the African continent, and more than 30,000 people attempt the summit annually: is this your year? The country also contains the three largest freshwater lakes in Africa, and the shores of Lake Tanganyika are home to two national parks known as the best places in the world to track wild chimpanzees. Mahale Mountains National Park, one of the most beautiful parks in Africa, offers travellers an opportunity to track wild chimpanzees that are habituated to human visitors. And when you’ve finished tracking chimps, Lake Tanganyika will provide you with a glimpse of fish species—cichlids—that are found nowhere else in the world.
Zanzibar, the legendary spice island archipelago, is located just off the Tanzanian mainland in the Indian Ocean and offers pristine beaches, stunning dive sites, and fascinating architecture and medieval ruins. Beautiful coral reefs surround the island and offer incredible snorkelling and diving experiences.
Along the Swahili Coast north of Dar es Salaam the historic, World Heritage town of Bagamoyo offers a glimpse into the 18th-century maritime trade, the incredibly cruel slave trade, which thrived in the 19th century, and the Tanzanian art scene, which centers around the Bagamoyo College of Arts. Saadani, one of the newest national parks and the only one on an ocean beachfront, encompasses 415 square miles (1,052 square kilometers) of wilderness directly beside the Indian Ocean. Further up the coast is Pangani, a historic town with Arabic and colonial buildings that is becoming an attractive area of beach resorts. To the north lie the Usambara Mountains which contain some of the most important ecological and biodiverse montane rainforests in Tanzania, which are frequently described as the ‘Galapagos of Africa’. The Amani Nature Reserve is exceptionally rich in plant and bird species and is one of the most significant bird-watching locations in all of East Africa.
The population of Tanzania reflects enormous cultural diversity with more than 120 tribes (more than any other African nation), and a harmonious co-existence prevails. Experience the languages, the rhythms, the music, the dance, of tribal peoples committed to continuing the traditions of many generations. Visitors find Tanzania, a stable democratic country, to be one of the friendliest and most hospitable destinations in Africa.
You will find a wide range of accommodations in Tanzania: incredibly luxurious lodges and permanent tented camps, upscale migratory tented camps in the Serengeti, only feet from the migratory herd, and small, intimate camps and lodges set amidst beautifully landscaped gardens. You may decide upon a large lodge with all the comforts of home, a tented camp with those same comforts where wildlife wanders through the camp, or a charming lodge for an intimate few. There are properties to match your style and budget. We will take you off the beaten path where few other tourists travel.
With Safari ASAP, you will travel safely and securely in a comfortable and impeccably maintained Toyota Land Cruiser with a window seat for each guest. Your expert guide will ensure your comfort, ease, and enjoyment.
Let us develop a custom itinerary for you based on your interests, schedule, budget, and lodging preferences. We welcome your inquiry!
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Tanzania considered one of the best safari destinations in Africa?
Tanzania stands out because of its incredible combination of wildlife, landscapes, and authenticity. Places like Serengeti National Park offer vast open plains where animals roam freely, creating a true wilderness experience. Unlike some destinations, many areas in Tanzania feel untouched and less crowded. You also get the chance to see the famous Great Migration, which is one of nature’s most dramatic events. All of this makes a safari here feel raw, real, and unforgettable.
What unique wildlife experiences can I expect in Tanzania?
Tanzania is home to an amazing variety of wildlife, including the Big Five, lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino. In places like the Ngorongoro Crater, animals live in a natural enclosure, making sightings incredibly reliable. You can watch predators hunting, elephants roaming in herds, and hippos relaxing in waterholes. Bird lovers will also be amazed by the colorful species found across the country. Every game drive feels different, which keeps the experience exciting throughout your trip.
What makes Tanzania’s landscapes so special for safaris?
One of Tanzania’s biggest strengths is its diverse scenery, which adds magic to every safari. You can explore endless savannahs in Serengeti National Park, lush highlands, and volcanic craters all in one journey. The iconic Mount Kilimanjaro also provides a stunning backdrop, even if you’re not climbing it. Each park feels completely different, offering new views and experiences. This variety makes your safari visually rich and far from repetitive.
Can I combine a safari with other experiences in Tanzania?
Yes, and that’s one of the reasons Tanzania is so popular with travelers. After your safari, you can relax on the white sandy beaches of Zanzibar. The island offers crystal, clear waters, rich culture, and historic sites like Stone Town. You can also visit local communities to learn about traditions and daily life. This mix of adventure and relaxation makes Tanzania perfect for a well, rounded holiday. It’s not just a safari, it’s a complete travel experience.
Is Tanzania suitable for first, time safari travelers?
Tanzania is an excellent choice for first, time safari visitors because it offers both comfort and adventure. Many lodges and camps are well, developed, providing great service while still keeping you close to nature. Guides are highly experienced and help you understand animal behavior and the environment. The parks are also well, organized, making travel between them smooth. Overall, it’s a destination where you can feel safe, informed, and amazed at the same time.
Still have questions?
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