Tanzania is Africa’s leading safari destination. It allows travelers to explore the unique landscapes, wildlife, and authentic African culture. Tanzania safari expeditions are adventures of a lifetime and this Tanzania safari guide will provide essential tips to those considering visiting the country for the first time.
Choosing the time for your Tanzania safari
Choosing the time for your Tanzania safari is essential. Tanzania lies within the tropics and has temperate weather. It receives sunlight throughout the year with only two seasons: the dry and wet seasons. The dry season starts from June to September and from mid-December to February. Wildlife viewing and all Tanzania safari adventures are best executed during this time of the year.
It is also the best time to catch up with the wildebeest migration in Serengeti. The wet season covers the months of March to May and October to November. It is still a great time for a Tanzania safari featuring birding journeys. Most birds are in full plumage and migratory birds from as far as Europe visit the region.
The rains favor the growth of lush vegetation, which makes the scenery more impressive. The rains discourage some travelers, and the reduced tourist numbers favor exclusive Discovery Journeys.
Choosing the Right Safari Destinations
Tanzania has several safari destinations, each with unique experiences. Northern Tanzania is renowned for its open savanna adventures and high wildlife concentrations. Serengeti National Park is the most popular northern Tanzania safari destination. It is iconic for its wildebeest migration, Big Cats experience, and impressive scenery.
The Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest unfilled caldera, is also in Northern Tanzania. It has diverse ecosystems, including open savannas, a Lake, a Riverine forest, and a highland. These ecosystems are home to several wildlife species, including the Big Five, Elands, and birds.
Southern Tanzania has exclusive and well-preserved safari destinations, including Ruaha and Nyerere National Parks. Nyerere (formerly Selous Game Reserve) is Tanzania’s largest protected area. It is home to wild dogs, lions, elephants, giraffes, and buffaloes.
Western Tanzania offers off-the-beaten-path adventures including chimpanzee tracking in the Mahale Mountains and Gombe National Parks. It is important to select the right destination based on your safari needs.
Budgeting for Your Tanzania Safari
The cost of a Tanzania Tour depends on the accommodation choice, safari type, and the time of the year you visit. Budget accommodation facilities charge from USD 50 per person, while luxury lodges charge up to USD 1000 per person per night.
Park activity fees vary, with the balloon safari costing about USD 600. other fees include transportation, park entrance, community visits, extra meals, Visas, and airfares. We customize all-inclusive safari packages that are easily managed and reduce unnecessary spending.
Cultural Etiquette
Cultural etiquette is an important aspect of any Tanzania safari guide. Tanzania has over 100 ethnic groups, each with unique values and traditions. It is important to respect traditional customs to avoid cultural clashes. This applies to the dress code as ladies are expected to dress modestly.
It is important to ask permission before taking photos of people and engage with a local guide to avoid miscommunication. Cultural respect and inclusion are part of sustainable tourism since they directly impact host communities.
The Packing List
Packing the right items for your safari is essential. We recommend packing light with a mixture of neutral-colored and light-weight clothes. Temperatures during the dry season go as high as 25 degrees, which is hot if you are not dressed appropriately. In some areas, temperatures drop to 10 degrees at night, and you would require a sweater to keep warm.
You can, therefore, pack long and short-sleeved shirts, a warm jacket, and short pants to wear on a hot day. Sunscreen, sunglasses, and hats are also essential items to pack. We recommend both open and closed shoes for hiking.
Cameras, extra batteries, and adaptors are important if you are keen on wildlife photography. Ensure to carry a zoom lens that will enable you to capture safari moments at a distance.
Safety Precaution
Your safety is important to have the best of your Tanzania safari. If you have any underlying medical issues, check in with your doctor before you travel. Ensure to get the right vaccinations if applicable and have the right prescriptions.
Always follow the guidelines and safety precautions as advised by your safari guide. Game drives are done on open savanna ecosystems where it is risky to get out of the car without your guide’s permission.
Keep your distance from animals while on nature walks and avoid making noise that could disrupt them. These guidelines are also applicable to other safari destinations like Rwanda and Uganda.
As a first-time traveler, having everything prepared saves you a lot. Follow this Tanzania safari guide for the ultimate and long-awaited Discovery Journeys adventure of a lifetime.