Best National Parks for Safari in Tanzania – Discover Africa’s Wild Treasures

1. Serengeti National Park

The Serengeti is Tanzania’s crown jewel and one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife destinations.

• Famous for the Great Migration of wildebeest and zebras

• Home to the Big Five and abundant predators like lions, leopards, and cheetahs

• Endless plains ideal for photography and adventure safaris
  Tip: Visit between June and October for river crossings or December to March for the calving season.

2. Ngorongoro Crater

Often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” the Ngorongoro Crater offers a compact yet incredibly diverse ecosystem.

• Home to over 25,000 animals, including black rhinos and elephants

• Stunning scenery from crater rims and lush crater floor

• Great year-round game viewing in a unique volcanic setting
  Tip: Early morning game drives offer the best light and wildlife activity.

3. Tarangire National Park

Known for its giant baobab trees and large elephant herds, Tarangire offers a classic safari atmosphere.

• Diverse wildlife including lions, leopards, giraffes, and zebras

• Birdwatcher’s paradise with over 500 species recorded

• Peaceful environment with fewer tourists than Serengeti
  Tip: Visit during the dry season (June–October) when animals gather around the Tarangire River.

4. Lake Manyara National Park

Small but scenic, Lake Manyara is a hidden gem located at the base of the Great Rift Valley escarpment.

• Famous for tree-climbing lions and large flocks of flamingos

• Mix of lake, forest, and savannah habitats

• Ideal for short safaris and bird photography
  Tip: Combine Lake Manyara with Ngorongoro and Tarangire for a complete northern circuit safari.

5. Nyerere (Selous) National Park

One of Africa’s largest and most untouched reserves, Nyerere offers a remote and exclusive safari experience.

• Home to elephants, lions, wild dogs, and hippos

• Boat safaris and walking tours for unique wildlife encounters

• Fewer tourists, ensuring tranquility and authenticity
  Tip: Best visited between June and October during the dry season.

6. Ruaha National Park

Ruaha is Tanzania’s best-kept secret for travelers seeking solitude and wild adventure.

• High concentration of lions and elephants

• Dramatic landscapes of rocky outcrops, rivers, and plains

• Excellent for off-the-beaten-path safaris and photography
  Tip: Combine with Nyerere for a southern Tanzania safari circuit.

7. Arusha National Park

Close to the city of Arusha, this park is perfect for short safaris or pre-Kilimanjaro adventures.

• Diverse ecosystems from rainforests to volcanic craters

• Home to giraffes, zebras, colobus monkeys, and flamingos

• Activities include walking safaris and canoeing on Momella Lakes
  Tip: Spend at least a day here before heading to Serengeti or Ngorongoro.

8. Katavi National Park

Remote and wild, Katavi offers one of Tanzania’s most authentic safari experiences.

• Massive hippo and crocodile pods in the Katuma River

• Excellent dry-season game viewing with few visitors

• Perfect for photographers and seasoned safari-goers
  Tip: Visit between July and October for dense wildlife concentrations.

9. Mahale Mountains National Park

Mahale combines wildlife viewing with lakeside beauty and primate encounters.

• Renowned for chimpanzee trekking and pristine beaches along Lake Tanganyika

• Remote location accessible only by boat or plane

• Ideal for adventurous travelers seeking off-grid luxury
  Tip: June to October is best for chimp tracking and clear weather.

10. Mikumi National Park

Easily accessible from Dar es Salaam, Mikumi offers great safari experiences for first-time visitors.

• Open savannahs similar to Serengeti in miniature form

• Home to elephants, lions, buffaloes, zebras, and giraffes

• Perfect for weekend safaris or short getaways
  Tip: Combine with Udzungwa Mountains for hiking and waterfalls.

Why Visit Tanzania’s National Parks?

• Home to Africa’s greatest wildlife spectacles and natural wonders

• Variety of ecosystems – from savannahs to rainforests and volcanic craters

• Opportunities for classic game drives, walking safaris, and cultural experiences

• Excellent lodges, camps, and guiding services for all budgets

• Ideal for families, couples, photographers, and adventure seekers

FAQs About Tanzania’s National Parks

1. What is the best time for safari in Tanzania?
June to October (dry season) for best wildlife viewing; December to March for green landscapes and calving.

2. Which national park is best for first-time visitors?
Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater are perfect for classic safaris.

3. Can I visit multiple parks in one trip?
Yes, Tanzania’s northern circuit allows easy access to Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire, and Manyara in one itinerary.

4. Are Tanzania’s parks family-friendly?
Absolutely! Many lodges offer family rooms, kids’ programs, and safe safari experiences.

5. How can I get to these national parks?
Fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport or Julius Nyerere International Airport, then travel by road or light aircraft to the parks.