Why Tanzania is Africa’s Premier Safari Destination

The magnificence of Tanzania extends far beyond the Wildebeest Migration. What sets it apart from other safari destinations in the region is the vast, untamed wilderness with diverse terrains – savannah plains, rainforests, bushlands, mountains and volcanoes .

A unique feature distinguishing Tanzania is the absence of fences between its National Parks. Here, abundant wildlife inhabit these spaces by choice, making Tanzania a haven for wildlife enthusiasts . Tanzania also has an unmatched wildlife density, and in addition to the celebrated Big Five – elephant, lion, rhinoceros, buffalo and leopard – the destination also plays host to the Great Migration, the largest annual movement of wildlife on the planet .

Tanzania is also the perfect destination for enjoying immersive safari experiences, which can range from traditional game drives in custom-built safari vehicles and guided walks through the African bush to boat trips along the numerous rivers and channels, and hot-air balloon rides over the vast plains .

Key Safari Destinations:

Serengeti National Park

Tanzania’s iconic Serengeti covers nearly 6,000 square miles of Northern Tanzania up to the border with Kenya’s Masai Mara . The park is world-renowned for its vast savannahs, incredible wildlife, and the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles make their dramatic journey across the plains . The Serengeti offers superb year-round game viewing, even at times when the migration isn’t around; big cat sightings are especially good . Activities include thrilling game drives, hot air balloon safaris, and diverse birdwatching opportunities .

Ngorongoro Crater

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ngorongoro Crater is the jewel in Tanzania’s crown – the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera and a haven to a wondrous array of animal life . It is one of the best places in Africa to see the Big Five in a single day and is home to over 25,000 large animals including black rhinos, lions, hippos, and flamingos .

Tarangire National Park

Tarangire is located south of Arusha and offers fantastic game viewing, especially from July to October . Known for its large elephant populations and ancient baobab trees, Tarangire is ideal for shorter and affordable safaris . The park is less celebrated than its neighbours, meaning you can enjoy it without the high visitor numbers .

Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park sits at the western end of the Great Rift Valley and is one of Tanzania’s most scenic parks . It is famous for its tree-climbing lions which can often be seen up in the Sausage Trees . The lake itself is known for boasting large flocks of flamingos, with the contrast of their pink against the shimmering blue waters making for fantastic photographic opportunities .

How Much Does a Safari in Tanzania Cost?

The cost of a Tanzania safari varies dramatically based on accommodation style and inclusions. Understanding the daily rates is the easiest way to compare packages . The average cost per person per day usually includes accommodation, meals, transport, park fees, and your guide’s services .

Budget Safari 

Budget safaris offer an authentic experience without the luxury price tag, focusing on clean, safe, and well-located lodges or camps without luxury extras .

What to Expect:

• Shared group tours

• Public or basic camping, or budget lodges

• Simple but comfortable beds, hot showers (sometimes solar-heated)

• Basic safari meals

• Good access to national parks

• No swimming pool or limited amenities

Best For: Budget travelers, students, schools, charity groups, and travelers spending most time on game drives .

Typical Locations: Outside park boundaries, Karatu area, Mto wa Mbu, Arusha outskirts .

Mid-Range Safari 

Mid-range accommodation is the most popular choice for safari travellers, offering comfort, great meals, and an authentic safari atmosphere at reasonable prices .

What to Expect:

• Comfortable tented camps or mid-range lodges

• En-suite bathrooms, comfortable beds

• On-site restaurants and bars

• Friendly local staff

• Private 4×4 vehicle (often)

Best For: First-time visitors, families, and most clients seeking the best value .

Luxury Safari 

Luxury safaris offer top-level comfort, exceptional service, and breathtaking locations inside or near national parks .

What to Expect:

• Exclusive and premium lodges, private tented camps

• Large luxury tents or suites

• Private en-suite with premium fittings

• 24-hour power, fine dining

• Pool, lounge, spa (property dependent)

• Prime wildlife locations

Best For: Honeymooners, VIPs, luxury travelers, and photographers who want to combine adventure with indulgence .

Key Budget-Saving Strategies

Choose the Right Parks

Not all national parks carry the same entry fees or operating costs. Tarangire, Lake Manyara, and Mikumi National Parks have lower daily entry fees than the Serengeti and still offer excellent wildlife viewing .

Join a Group Safari

Group safaris are widely considered the cheapest way to do a safari in Tanzania . They distribute costs such as vehicle use, fuel, guide fees, and park fees across multiple travellers, dramatically reducing the price per person .

Travel During Low Season

The long rainy season from March to May offers the lowest safari prices. During this period, park fees remain the same, but accommodation discounts can be substantial .

Choose Camping Safaris

Camping safaris use public or special campsites instead of lodges, significantly lowering accommodation costs. These safaris often involve dome tents, shared bathroom facilities, and basic amenities .

Book with Local Operators

Working with Serengeti Wildlife Safari which is a local Tanzanian safari operator in Tanzania. Local companies have lower overhead costs compared to international agencies and can offer more competitive pricing .

What Is Included and Excluded

Included:

• All accommodations

• All meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)

• National park fees

• Professional guide and safari vehicle

• Bottled drinking water

• All scheduled activities .

Excluded:

• International and domestic flights

• Visa and travel insurance

• Tips and gratuities

• Personal expenses (souvenirs, laundry)

• Alcoholic and soft drinks

• Optional activities (balloon safari, etc.)