Tanzania is the safari country par excellence, with a multitude of national parks and reserves that host spectacular wildlife and landscapes. But how do you navigate and choose the parks that best match your expectations? Here is a guide to help you get a clear picture and plan the safari of your dreams.
Serengeti National Park
Famous for: The Great Migration, the Big 5, its vast plains. Serengeti is the image of the African safari that everyone knows. It's the ideal place to witness hunting scenes and see lions in abundance.
- Best time to visit: Year-round, but especially from July to October for the Great Migration.
- Experience: Classic safari, wildlife observation, stunning landscapes.
To learn more about wildlife movements, read our article on the Great Migration. It is also a prime spot for the Big 5, although rhinoceroses are rarer here.
Ngorongoro Crater
Famous for: Its wildlife density, volcanic crater, Big 5. Ngorongoro is a unique and preserved ecosystem. Its animal density is impressive, making it one of the best places to spot black rhinoceroses.
- Best time to visit: Year-round, but the dry season is easier for travel.
- Experience: Unique safari, spectacular landscapes, opportunity to see the Big 5 in a single day.
Tarangire National Park
Famous for: Elephants, baobab trees. Tarangire is a lesser-known but equally exceptional park. It is famous for its massive elephant herds and landscapes dotted with majestic baobabs.
- Best time to visit: Dry season (June to October) for elephants.
- Experience: More intimate safari and observation of large elephant herds.
Lake Manyara National Park
Famous for: Tree-climbing lions, flamingos, birdlife. This small park can be visited in a single day. It offers varied landscapes and a great diversity of birds.
- Best time to visit: Dry season (tree-climbing lions), rainy season (birds).
- Experience: Short and intense safari, ideal for starting a circuit.
Southern Parks: Ruaha and Selous
Famous for: Authenticity, wildlife. The southern parks are less visited and offer a wilder, less touristy safari experience. They host significant populations of wild dogs and buffaloes.
- Best time to visit: Dry season (June to October).
- Experience: Off-the-beaten-path safari, total immersion.
