Tanzania Safari Planning Guide

Thinking of going on a Tanzania safari? You’re not alone! We understand that choosing from such a vast selection can be overwhelming. In this article, we highlight the most important factors to consider for your travel, such as your budget, what you want to see and do, your preferred type of accommodation, and your mode of transportation.

1. Tanzania Safari Destinations:

Where, which parks to go, and what you can see.

Tanzania safari destinations are divided into three circuits: the Northern, Southern, and Western Circuits. These circuits are far apart, requiring a flight or at least a 10-hour drive between them. With limited time, you’ll need to decide which destinations to prioritize. Below is a brief overview of each circuit and their highlights:

• Northern Circuit: This is the most popular circuit, home to iconic parks such as Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater. Other attractions include Mount Kilimanjaro, the Great Acidic Lakes (home to flamingos), Tarangire, Lake Manyara, Mount Oldonyo le Ngai (an active volcano), waterfalls, and Chemka Hot Springs.
• Southern Circuit: Includes Mikumi, Selous, and Ruaha (the largest park, home to over 10% of the world’s lions and the highest number of elephants in Tanzania). These parks are less accessible, requiring flights to Dar es Salaam followed by regional flights.
• Western Circuit: Known for chimpanzee trekking in Gombe National Park and the “Serengeti of Flowers” in Kitulo National Park. Accessibility is similar to the Southern Circuit, requiring multiple flights.

Tip: If you want to witness the Great Wildebeest Migration or see migratory birds like flamingos, the Northern Circuit is ideal.

2. Tanzania Safari Comfort: Your Safari Style

Choose a safari style that suits your budget and preferences. Options include:

• Private Safari: A tailored experience for you or your group with a private guide.
• Group Safari: Shared with other travelers (typically up to 6 people) for a more affordable option.

Accommodation: Inside vs. Outside the Parks

Inside the Parks: Offers better wildlife experiences, especially in the early morning and late evening when animals are most active. However, costs are higher due to park fees and concessions.

Outside the Parks: More affordable but limits early and late wildlife viewing opportunities.

Types of Accommodation

Camping: A budget option offering basic facilities. Campgrounds are not fenced, so wildlife encounters are possible but generally safe.

Lodges: Ranges from basic to ultra-luxury. Prices vary widely depending on amenities and location, with some luxury lodges costing over $10,000 per night.

Tented Lodges: Combines the comfort of a lodge with the adventure of camping. These range from budget to luxury options, offering varying amenities.

Seasonal/Mobile Tented Lodges: These follow the migration and offer a unique, immersive experience.

3. Tanzania Safari: Tour Length

The ideal length for a Tanzania safari depends on your goals, but 4-8 days is generally recommended. Longer tours allow for a deeper exploration of multiple parks or special events like the Great Wildebeest Migration.

Tip: Travelers staying only one night in Serengeti often wish they had extended their stay. Consider adding at least one more day for a more fulfilling experience.

4. Tanzania Safari Add-Ons

Enhance your safari experience with additional activities such as:

• Walking Safaris
• Archaeological Site Visits
• Horseback Safaris
• Night Game Drives ($200 per session)
• Balloon Safaris ($570 per person)
• Masai Village Visits ($10-20 per person)
• Bush Lunch
• Canoeing Safaris

Note: Many add-ons are best suited for private tours due to their customized nature and additional costs.

5. Tanzania Safari Budget

Here’s a general cost breakdown per person per day:

• Group Camping Safaris: $200-$250
• Private Camping Safaris: $250-$450
• Private Lodging Safaris: $350-$700
• Luxury Safaris: Over $1,200
• Balloon Safaris: $570 (per person per session)
• Tipping: $15-$20 per day (group tours) or $25-$50 per day (private tours)

Multiply the above rates by the number of days to estimate your total cost.