The endless plains of the Serengeti, the Ngorongoro Crater, the elephants of Tarangire: Tanzania is arguably the finest safari destination in Africa. It is also a country where you can climb the continent's highest peak and end your trip on the beaches of Zanzibar.
Yet planning a Tanzania safari raises many questions: which parks to choose, in which season, for how many days and on what budget? This guide brings together the answers of our local team, with links to our detailed articles to go further.
Tanzania safari: the essentials
For a first Tanzania safari, choose the northern circuit (Tarangire, Serengeti, Ngorongoro), travel between June and October or in January and February, and plan 6 to 7 days, or 9 to 15 days with Zanzibar. A private safari gives you the most freedom, and prices start from EUR 180 per person per day.
The must-see parks for a safari in Tanzania
The northern circuit brings together the most famous parks, all close to one another. It is the choice of the vast majority of travellers, especially for a first safari.
Serengeti National Park
The legend: endless plains, big predators and the Great Migration. A UNESCO World Heritage Site. Plan at least 2 nights, and see our Great Migration guide.
Ngorongoro Crater
The most spectacular: a UNESCO-listed caldera where you can see the Big Five in a single day.
Tarangire National Park
The kingdom of elephants: large herds and giant baobabs, two hours from Arusha.
Lake Manyara and Arusha National Park
Short and varied: forests, monkeys, flamingos and giraffes, perfect for half a day.
What about the south?
Nyerere and Ruaha National Parks offer a wilder safari far from the crowds, with boat and walking safaris. They suit a second trip well, or combine nicely with Zanzibar thanks to direct flights.
When to go on safari in Tanzania
- June to OctoberDry seasonThe best time: easy wildlife viewing, Mara River crossings
- January and FebruaryGreen seasonGreat Migration calving in the southern Serengeti
- November and DecemberShort rainsBrief showers, fewer visitors, softer prices
- March to MayLong rainsMuddy tracks, but almost empty parks
To know where the herds are each month, check our Great Migration calendar.
Which type of safari to choose?
How many days for a safari in Tanzania?
Allow at least 3 days to discover Tarangire and Ngorongoro, and 6 to 7 days to add the Serengeti without spending your days on the road. With Zanzibar, a 9 to 15-day trip is ideal.
What budget for a Tanzania safari?
| Level | Accommodation | Price per person per day |
|---|---|---|
| Budget | Camping or simple lodges | From EUR 180 |
| Comfort Most popular | Mid-range lodges and tented camps | From EUR 300 |
| Luxury | Exceptional lodges, private reserves | EUR 700 and more |
The price of a safari depends on four factors: park entry fees, set by Tanzania National Parks and the Ngorongoro authority, which make up a large part of the budget; the level of accommodation; the season, more expensive from July to September; and the group size, since the cost of the vehicle and guide is shared between travellers.
Visa, health and money: practical information
Visa
Most travellers need a visa. Apply online on the official e-visa portal before departure.
Mandatory insurance
Since 1 October 2026, a USD 44 inbound travel insurance is required to enter the mainland. See our full guide.
Health
See a travel doctor about vaccines and malaria prevention, and check the CDC advice for Tanzania. A yellow fever certificate may be requested depending on your route.
Arrival
For a northern safari, fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport, between Moshi and Arusha.
Money
US dollars are widely accepted. Bring recent banknotes and some cash for your crew's tips.
What to wear
Loose clothing in neutral colours, a fleece for cool mornings and a hat.
Combine a safari, Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar
Tanzania lets you live three trips in one. Many of our travellers start with a Kilimanjaro climb, continue with a safari in the north, and end with a few days at the beach.
Travelling as a couple? Read our honeymoon guide.
A Tanzania safari with children?
Tanzania is an excellent family destination, as long as you adapt the pace: short drives, lodges with pools and a private safari. Find parks, an itinerary and tips in our family safari guide.
Our tips for a successful safari
Don't overload the programme
Two nights per park are better than rushing from one park to the next.
Leave early in the morning
Animals are most active at sunrise, and the light is at its most beautiful.
Bring good binoculars
One pair per person transforms the experience, especially for birds and big cats.
Choose a local operator
Experienced guides, on-the-ground advice and direct benefits for the local economy. Read our TripAdvisor reviews.
Taste the local food
Nyama choma, pilau, chipsi mayai: see 10 Tanzanian dishes to try.
Explore beyond the parks
Waterfalls, coffee farms and culture: see the 10 best things to do in Tanzania.
Useful official links
Trusted sources to plan your safari.
Tanzania safari: FAQ
What is the best time for a safari in Tanzania?
The dry season, from June to October, is the most popular. January and February are also excellent for the Great Migration calving season. However, the long rains from March to May are best avoided if possible.
How many days do you need for a safari in Tanzania?
Plan 6 to 7 days for the northern parks, including the Serengeti and Ngorongoro. With Zanzibar, a 9 to 15-day trip is ideal.
Which parks should you visit on a first safari?
The northern circuit: Tarangire, the Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater. They are close to one another and offer exceptional wildlife.
Private or group safari?
A private safari gives you total freedom over the pace and stops, ideal for families and photographers. A group safari, on the other hand, reduces the cost by sharing the vehicle.
How much does a safari in Tanzania cost?
With Africa Bucket List, prices start from EUR 180 per person per day for a budget safari, EUR 300 for comfort and EUR 700 and more for luxury, excluding international flights.
Can you see the Big Five in Tanzania?
Yes. The Ngorongoro Crater is one of the few places where you can see all five in a single day, including the black rhino.
