Tanzania Safari Destination – Serengeti & Ngorongoro
Experience Tanzania's legendary safari destinations, from the endless plains of the Serengeti to the wildlife-rich Ngorongoro Crater. Perfect for UK travellers seeking authentic African safari experiences with exceptional wildlife viewing and the world's greatest wildlife migration.
Tanzania suits wildlife enthusiasts wanting to witness the Great Migration, photographers seeking iconic African landscapes, families looking for accessible adventures, and travellers seeking the Big Five in one of Africa's most wildlife-rich countries. With diverse ecosystems from savannah plains to volcanic craters, Tanzania offers something for every type of safari traveller.
Big Five
All present
Great Migration
Year-round
Flight Time
9-10 hours
Best Season
June-October
Why Visit Tanzania?
Tanzania offers UK travellers some of Africa's most iconic safari experiences, with exceptional wildlife density, diverse landscapes, and world-renowned conservation initiatives. The country combines legendary wildlife spectacles with excellent tourism infrastructure and authentic African safari experiences.
Great Migration
Witness the world's greatest wildlife migration in the Serengeti, where over 2 million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles move in a continuous cycle. The migration creates dramatic river crossings and calving seasons, making Tanzania the ultimate destination for witnessing this natural spectacle year-round.
Big Five
See lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo in their natural habitat. Tanzania's parks offer some of Africa's best Big Five viewing, with the Ngorongoro Crater having one of the highest wildlife densities on the continent. The Serengeti provides excellent big cat viewing year-round.
Ngorongoro Crater
Explore the world's largest intact caldera, a natural amphitheatre teeming with wildlife. The crater's unique geography creates exceptional game viewing opportunities, with high concentrations of animals in a relatively small area. The dramatic landscape provides stunning photographic opportunities.
Diverse Landscapes
From the endless plains of the Serengeti to the volcanic crater of Ngorongoro, from Mount Kilimanjaro's snow-capped peak to the shores of Lake Manyara, Tanzania's diverse ecosystems support varied wildlife communities and create stunning photographic opportunities.
Mount Kilimanjaro
Africa's highest peak provides a dramatic backdrop to many northern circuit parks. While climbing Kilimanjaro is a separate adventure, the mountain's presence adds to the safari experience, with views from parks like Amboseli (in Kenya) and Arusha National Park.
Conservation Excellence
Tanzania has a strong commitment to wildlife conservation, with well-managed national parks and community-based initiatives. The country's conservation success stories, including the recovery of rhino populations in Ngorongoro, demonstrate effective wildlife protection and sustainable tourism practices.
Tanzania's Best Safari Regions and National Parks
Tanzania is divided into key safari circuits, each offering distinct wildlife experiences. The northern circuit includes the Serengeti and Ngorongoro, famous for the Great Migration and exceptional wildlife density. The southern circuit offers more remote wilderness experiences. Each region provides different experiences, making Tanzania ideal for comprehensive safari itineraries.
Serengeti National Park
Endless plains and the Great Migration with over 2 million animals
Best for: Great Migration, Big Five, Big Cats, Endless Plains
Ngorongoro Crater
World's largest intact caldera with exceptional wildlife density and Big Five
Best for: Big Five, High Wildlife Density, Crater Views, Photography
Tanzania's Premier Safari Parks in Detail
Serengeti – Great Migration & Endless Plains
The Serengeti National Park is Tanzania's most famous safari destination, renowned for hosting the Great Migration year-round. This vast ecosystem covers 14,750 square kilometres of endless plains, supporting over 2 million wildebeest, 200,000 zebras, and thousands of gazelles. The migration follows a predictable cycle: calving in the southern Serengeti (January-February), moving north through the central Serengeti (March-May), and reaching the northern Serengeti and Masai Mara border (July-October) for dramatic river crossings. The park offers exceptional Big Five viewing year-round, with high densities of lions, leopards, and cheetahs. The best months for migration viewing vary by location, with river crossings typically in July-August and calving in January-February. The Serengeti's open plains provide excellent visibility and photographic opportunities.
Learn more about Serengeti →Ngorongoro Crater – Wildlife-Rich Caldera
The Ngorongoro Crater is the world's largest intact caldera, formed by a collapsed volcano over two million years ago. This natural amphitheatre covers 260 square kilometres and has one of the highest wildlife densities in Africa. The crater's unique geography creates a self-contained ecosystem where animals rarely leave, resulting in exceptional game viewing. The crater floor supports large populations of elephants, lions, buffalo, and zebras, with the highest density of predators in Africa. The best time to visit is during the dry season (June-October) when wildlife is most visible, though the crater offers excellent viewing year-round. The dramatic landscape, with the crater walls creating a stunning backdrop, provides exceptional photographic opportunities. The crater is also home to a small population of black rhinos, making it one of the best places in Tanzania to see these endangered animals.
Learn more about Ngorongoro Crater →Wildlife You Can Expect in Tanzania
Tanzania is home to an extraordinary diversity of wildlife, from the iconic Big Five to the millions of animals that participate in the Great Migration. The country's varied ecosystems support different wildlife communities, making multi-park safaris particularly rewarding.
Big Five
Tanzania offers excellent Big Five viewing across multiple parks. The Ngorongoro Crater has one of the highest densities of Big Five animals in Africa, with all five species present. Lions are common in the Serengeti and Ngorongoro, with large prides often seen. Elephants are widespread, particularly in Tarangire and the Serengeti. Rhinos are best seen in Ngorongoro Crater, while leopards and buffalo are present throughout the major parks.
Great Migration Species
The Serengeti hosts the Great Migration year-round, featuring over 2 million wildebeest, 200,000 zebras, and thousands of gazelles. This annual movement creates dramatic river crossings in the northern Serengeti (July-August) and calving season in the southern Serengeti (January-February), attracting large predators and creating one of the world's greatest wildlife spectacles.
Big Cats
Tanzania is renowned for big cat viewing, with high densities of lions, leopards, and cheetahs in the Serengeti. The park's open plains provide excellent visibility, and the abundance of prey supports large predator populations. Lions are particularly common, with large prides often seen hunting or resting. The Serengeti has one of Africa's highest cheetah populations.
Birds and Other Wildlife
Tanzania boasts over 500 bird species, with Lake Manyara famous for its flamingos and tree-climbing lions. The Ngorongoro Crater supports diverse birdlife, including waterbirds around the crater lake. River systems support hippos, crocodiles, and diverse waterbirds. The country's varied ecosystems support everything from large mammals to small antelope species.
Best Time to Visit Tanzania for Safari
Tanzania's climate and wildlife patterns create distinct seasons, each offering different experiences. Understanding these seasons helps you choose the best time for your interests, whether you're seeking the Great Migration, optimal photography conditions, family-friendly weather, or better value.
June–October: Dry Season & Peak Migration
This is Tanzania's peak safari season, coinciding with the Great Migration in the northern Serengeti and dramatic river crossings (July-August). Weather is dry and sunny, with clear skies ideal for photography. Wildlife viewing is excellent across all parks, with animals congregating around water sources. This is the best time for photographers and wildlife enthusiasts, though prices are highest and accommodation books early.
Best for: Great Migration river crossings, photographers, optimal wildlife viewing, clear skies
December–March: Calving Season & Short Dry
The short dry season offers excellent wildlife viewing with good visibility. December to February sees the calving season in the southern Serengeti, with thousands of wildebeest calves born, attracting predators. This period is ideal for families and those wanting to escape the British winter. Wildlife viewing is excellent across all parks, with the Ngorongoro Crater particularly rewarding during this period.
Best for: Calving season, families, good weather, predator action
April–May: Long Rains & Green Season
The long rains bring lush green landscapes, fewer tourists, and lower prices. While some roads may be challenging and wildlife is more dispersed, this season offers excellent value and beautiful scenery. Birdlife is abundant, and the landscapes are at their most photogenic. Some lodges close during the wettest months, so check availability.
Best for: Value travellers, photographers (green landscapes), birdwatchers, fewer crowds
November: Short Rains Transition
November marks the transition between dry and wet seasons, with short afternoon rains that rarely disrupt safari activities. Wildlife viewing remains good, and the landscape begins to green. This is a good compromise period, offering decent wildlife viewing with fewer crowds and moderate prices. The Great Migration is typically in the central Serengeti during this period.
Best for: Balanced experience, moderate prices, good wildlife viewing
Practical Travel Tips for UK Travellers
Planning a Tanzania safari from the UK involves several practical considerations. Understanding flight options, time differences, currency, connectivity, and travel logistics helps ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Flight Routing
Flights from London to Tanzania typically take 9-10 hours with one stop (via Nairobi, Addis Ababa, or Dubai). Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is closest to the northern safari circuit, while Dar es Salaam serves southern parks. Most safari itineraries include domestic flights from Arusha or Kilimanjaro to airstrips near national parks, typically taking 1-2 hours.
Time Difference
Tanzania is GMT+3 year-round, meaning it's 3 hours ahead of UK time during GMT and 2 hours ahead during British Summer Time (BST). This time difference is relatively easy to adjust to, and most safari activities start early in the morning, aligning with natural wake times.
Money & Currency
The Tanzanian Shilling (TZS) is the local currency, though US Dollars are widely accepted at lodges, camps, and for tips. Credit cards are accepted at most lodges, but cash is useful for tips and local purchases. ATMs are available in Arusha and major towns, but less common in remote areas. Tipping guides and staff is customary.
SIM Cards & Data
Local SIM cards are available at airports and in towns, with Vodacom and Airtel offering good coverage. Data packages are affordable and provide reasonable coverage in most safari areas, though some remote locations have limited signal. Most lodges offer Wi-Fi, though speeds vary. Check with your UK mobile provider about roaming packages.
Safari Driving Times vs Flying
Tanzania offers both road and air transfers between parks. Road transfers can take 4-6 hours between major parks (e.g., Arusha to Serengeti), while flights take 1-2 hours. Flying saves time and provides scenic views, but road transfers offer more opportunities to see the countryside and are more cost-effective. Many itineraries combine both methods.
What to Pack
Pack neutral-coloured clothing (khaki, beige, olive), layers for early morning game drives, sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses), binoculars, camera equipment, and comfortable walking shoes. Evenings can be cool, especially at Ngorongoro's higher elevation, so bring a fleece or light jacket. Most lodges provide laundry services.
View our complete safari packing list →Safety, Health, and Entry Requirements
Tanzania is generally safe for tourists, with well-established safari tourism infrastructure. However, it's important to understand entry requirements, health precautions, and safety considerations before travelling.
Visa & Entry Requirements
UK passport holders require a visa to enter Tanzania. The most convenient option is the e-visa, obtainable online before travel through the official Tanzania e-visa portal. E-visas are typically processed within 2-3 business days. Visas on arrival are also available, though the e-visa is recommended to avoid airport queues. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date and has at least two blank pages.
Learn more about visa requirements →Vaccinations & Health
Yellow Fever vaccination is mandatory for entry into Tanzania, and you must carry your Yellow Fever certificate. Consult your GP or a travel health clinic 6-8 weeks before departure for the latest health advice. Recommended vaccinations may include Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, Typhoid, and routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP). Malaria prophylaxis is strongly recommended for all safari areas, with several anti-malarial medication options available. Consult your healthcare provider to choose the most suitable option.
Read our health and vaccination guide →Malaria Precautions
Malaria is present in Tanzania's safari areas, so taking anti-malarial medication is essential. In addition to medication, use insect repellent containing DEET, wear long sleeves and trousers in the evenings, and sleep under mosquito nets (provided at most lodges). The risk is generally lower during the dry season, but precautions should be taken year-round.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is essential for any Tanzania safari. Ensure your policy covers medical expenses, emergency evacuation (important for remote safari areas), trip cancellation, and loss of belongings. Check that your policy covers adventure activities and verify coverage limits, particularly for medical evacuation, which can be expensive from remote locations.
Read our travel insurance guide →Safari Safety
Safari activities are generally very safe when following your guide's instructions. Always stay in your vehicle during game drives unless your guide explicitly permits you to exit. Listen carefully to safety briefings, particularly regarding wildlife encounters. Lodges and camps have security measures in place, and guides are highly trained in wildlife behaviour and safety protocols.
Culture & Local Experiences
Tanzania's rich cultural heritage adds depth to any safari experience. Understanding the relationship between local communities and wildlife conservation enhances appreciation for the landscapes and animals you'll encounter.
Maasai Culture
The Maasai people are synonymous with Tanzania's safari regions, particularly around the Serengeti and Ngorongoro. Many areas have Maasai communities living alongside wildlife, and cultural visits to Maasai villages offer opportunities to learn about traditional lifestyles. It's important to choose responsible, community-run experiences that are respectful and educational, supporting community initiatives rather than exploitative tourism.
Community Conservation
Tanzania has strong community-based conservation initiatives, with many areas managed in partnership with local communities. These initiatives provide critical wildlife corridors and habitat, while generating income for communities through tourism. Supporting these initiatives helps ensure the long-term success of wildlife conservation in Tanzania.
Markets, Food & Cities
Arusha, the gateway to Tanzania's northern safari circuit, offers markets, restaurants, and cultural attractions. The city is often a starting or ending point for safaris, with opportunities to visit markets, sample local cuisine, or explore cultural sites. Local markets in towns near parks offer handicrafts and souvenirs, supporting local artisans.
Beach Extensions
Tanzania's Indian Ocean coast offers beautiful beaches and a different side of the country. Popular beach destinations like Zanzibar can be combined with safari itineraries, though this is typically arranged as part of a longer holiday. The coast offers water sports, marine life, and relaxation, providing a contrast to the safari experience.
Where to Stay: Tanzania Safari Accommodation Styles
Tanzania offers diverse accommodation styles, from luxury lodges to authentic tented camps. Understanding the different options helps you choose accommodation that matches your preferences, budget, and desired safari experience.
Safari Lodges
Safari lodges are permanent structures, typically built with stone, wood, or thatch, offering comfortable accommodation with en-suite facilities. Lodges range from mid-range to ultra-luxury, with amenities like swimming pools, restaurants, bars, and sometimes spas. They provide a comfortable base for safari activities, with reliable electricity, hot water, and Wi-Fi. Lodges are ideal for travellers seeking comfort and convenience, and are often family-friendly with family rooms or suites.
Tented Camps
Tented camps offer an authentic safari experience while maintaining comfort. Tents are typically spacious with proper beds, en-suite bathrooms (often with flush toilets and hot showers), and furniture. Luxury tented camps provide the romance of camping with the amenities of a lodge. The sounds of the bush at night and the feeling of being closer to nature make tented camps popular with safari enthusiasts.
Crater Rim Lodges
Unique to the Ngorongoro area, crater rim lodges offer stunning views over the crater floor. These lodges provide a special experience, with the opportunity to watch wildlife from above before descending into the crater. The higher elevation means cooler temperatures, and the views are spectacular, especially at sunrise and sunset.
What "Luxury" Means in Safari Context
Luxury in a safari context doesn't necessarily mean opulent decor, but rather exceptional service, prime locations, exclusive experiences, and attention to detail. Luxury camps and lodges typically offer smaller guest numbers, highly trained guides, excellent food, and unique experiences like private game drives or bush dining. The focus is on providing an authentic, comfortable, and memorable safari experience.
Family-Friendly Accommodation
Many lodges and camps offer family-friendly accommodation with family rooms, suites, or interconnected tents. Some properties have age restrictions for children on certain activities, while others are specifically designed for families with children's programs, family game drives, and flexible meal times. When travelling with children, consider properties that welcome families and offer appropriate activities and safety measures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Tanzania a great safari destination?
When is the best time to visit Tanzania?
What wildlife can I see in Tanzania?
How do I get to Tanzania from the UK?
How many days do I need for a Tanzania safari?
Is Tanzania safe for tourists?
Ready to Plan a Tanzania Safari Holiday?
If you're ready to turn this destination knowledge into a real trip, we can help you plan a tailor-made Tanzania safari holiday from the UK. Our team creates custom itineraries combining the best parks, luxury accommodation, and expert guides to match your interests, budget, and travel style.
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