First Timer’s Guide: Planning your Tanzanian Safari in 2023
Tanzania has long enjoyed an outstanding reputation among safari enthusiasts. Famous for its Great Wildebeest Migration, Africa’s highest mountain, stunning scenery, beautiful beaches and fascinating cultural diversity, Tanzania is the perfect destination for a safari adventure in Africa.
For most of us, the chance to go on safari in Tanzania will be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. You'll want to nail it our first time out. But since you're new to safari planning, where do you start? Faced with such a plethora of wildlife and scenic attractions, how do you create the perfect itinerary?
We're here to help ensure your Tanzanian safari exceeds your expectations. This guide will offer tips on what to expect and what to consider when putting your safari plan together. Let's get started.
Safari in Tanzania - What to Expect
To be clear, a safari is nothing like a trip to your local zoo. On a Tanzanian safari, you enter the wild habitat of lions and elephants, zebras and giraffes, rhinos, and buffalos. They've evolved to survive in harsh, unforgiving conditions.
Though you can expect to see many animals on your Tanzanian safari, there are no guarantees. It depends on the time of year you visit, the places you visit, and sheer luck! However, our safari guides have great experience in this area and can take you to the best places at the best times for mind-blowing sightings.
Over the decades, the safari industry in Africa has developed to cater to various interests and pursuits. From a laid-back scenic safari, birdwatching, active on-foot explorations and hiking, to sunbathing on Zanzibar’s beaches or shopping sprees in Stone Town, there is something for everyone.
And there are so many destinations, too. Most visitors opt for the northern safari circuit, exploring the Ngorongoro Crater, the Serengeti, or Lake Manyara and Tarangire national parks. But, because of their popularity, these locations tend to be a little busier than other lesser-known destinations.
Those who are hoping for quiet serenity have the choice between Ruaha, Nyerere or Katavi National Park, just to name a few. Honeymooners enjoy the scenic beaches of Zanzibar, with luxurious, secluded lodgings and private beaches. For chimpanzee lovers the pristine wilderness of the Mahale Mountains National Park or Gombe National Park in western Tanzania is the perfect place to go.
A typical safari starts early in the morning, since that is the time of day where animals are the most active. Then, there's lunch and time to rest when the sun is high, with the game drives continuing throughout the late afternoon. For people looking for activities outside the safari vehicle, there are walking safaris, balloon rides and even helicopter safaris.
Things to Consider when Planning your Tanzanian Safari
Traveling Alone or With Company
Are you planning to travel solo, as a couple, or with family and friends? This can make a massive difference in the flexibility of your itinerary or your choice of safari activities and destinations. Talk to us to see how best to accommodate the individual preferences of your friends and family on your trip to Tanzania.
Budget
Traveling to Tanzania for a once-in-a-lifetime safari experience is a big endeavor, no matter how you look at it. Please read our blog “Why a Safari to Tanzania is not a budget holiday” to get a better understanding of what costs to expect. Tanzania can be more affordable with some responsible planning of your itinerary, destinations, and activities. Cuisine and accommodation options cater to every taste and budget. And most of the money you spend goes towards developing the tourism industry in Tanzania and helping the local communities earn a livelihood. We promise you'll get your money's worth.
Time of Your Visit
There are three main seasons in Tanzania:
The Dry Season (June to October)
The Shoulder Season (November to February)
The Rainy Season (end of March to May)
The dry season is the best time to see the river crossings of the wildebeest migration in the Serengeti. Plus, the grass is short and animals often congregate around the watering holes. But it tends to be much more crowded and pricier than other months.
The new year through March is calving season in the southern Serengeti. This is the best time to witness new life and the struggle for survival, as thousands of newborn calves learn to walk and run, gaining strength for the upcoming migration north. Predators are never far and the circle of life is a harsh reality for many animals.
An excellent time for birdwatching, the rainy season runs from the end of March through May. If you are looking for huge discounts, this is the right time to visit. But be aware that the rain often causes flooding and washes out the roads. Water is abundant everywhere, so the animals are not gathering at the watering holes and are a bit harder to spot. But for those looking for peace and quiet, far from the hustle and bustle of peak season, the rainy season is a great time to enjoy the natural beauty of the savannah without the crowds. And the price is right.
Your Luggage
Luggage always needs special attention because you can only take so much--and not much of it--on safari. There are strict weight limitations on domestic flights and hard shell suitcases are not allowed. Prioritize your essentials; start with your necessary medications, supplements, or special requirements. Pack as light as possible, and layer your clothing to protect yourself from the elements. Mind you, safari nights can get surprisingly cold around dusk and dawn. And, of course, dress for the season. If it's May, take a light raincoat!
You'll also want to remember to bring a decent camera with good-quality zoom capability. And while binoculars are a must-have for birdwatchers, they almost always come in handy for everyone else too. We provide a pair of binoculars in each vehicle but you might want to bring your own.
Have You Started Packing Yet?
Now that you have a rough idea of what goes into planning a Tanzanian safari, it's time to talk about details. Send us a note or give us a call, and let us walk you through the various options and itineraries that suit your unique set of preferences. We'll help you make your Tanzanian safari adventure easy to plan and help you get on your way.
Related Reads:
10 Things to Know Before Going on a Safari in Tanzania