Exclusive Tanzania Adventures
Home to the colossal heights of Kilimanjaro, one of nature’s greatest phenomena: the world-famous Great Migration, and vast national parks roamed by a spectacular array of wildlife, Tanzania is rightfully one of Africa’s most dazzling destinations.
From the great lakes in western Tanzania to the riverine forests and endless savannah plains, the largest country in East Africa has some of the most important national parks in the world, with the highest concentration of animals on the continent. In the north, witness the Great Migration spectacle in the world-renowned Serengeti National Park, where over two million blue wildebeest, zebra and gazelle follow the rains whilst attracting predators during their treacherous journey.
Nearby is the world’s biggest intact volcanic caldera at Ngorongoro Crater. Here you’ll discover a wide variety of animals from black rhinos to prowling lions and masses of flamingos heading to the vast permanent water source on the crater lake. Beyond these celebrated names lie lesser-known reserves where visitor numbers are low and encounters feel unhurried. Having spent extensive time on the ground here, we design journeys that balance Tanzania’s iconic highlights with regions offering space, privacy and depth — always shaped around how you wish to travel.
Signature Tanzania Journeys
Explore our handpicked collection of Tanzania's most extraordinary journeys — each signature journey is designed to immerse you in the heart of the wild.
Where to Go on Safari in Tanzania
Serengeti and the Great Migration
The Serengeti is one of Africa’s great wildlife arenas. Its open plains host the annual migration of wildebeest and zebra as they follow seasonal rains across the Mara-Serengeti ecosystem, attracting predators in remarkable numbers. Yet beyond the Migration headliners, the Serengeti offers exceptional year-round game viewing, particularly in private concessions and quieter corners where expert guiding allows for a more private and immersive experience.
Ngorongoro Crater & Highlands
The Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera, delivers extraordinary wildlife density within a dramatic natural amphitheatre. Black rhino, lion, elephant and flamingo can all be encountered here. Beyond the crater floor, the Ngorongoro Highlands offer cooler air, forested slopes and walking opportunities, adding scenic contrast to a northern circuit safari. They also provide a quieter and more private alternative after the relatively busy time in the Crater itself. Further afield watch flocks of flamingoes flying over Lake Natron and walk alongside Maasai guides as Ol Doinyo Lengai rises before you. For an epic journey, take the Great North Trek from the Empakaai Highlands to Lake Natron through the Rift Valley, or take a helicopter trip over the landscape and sip champagne on the rim of Ol Doinyo Lengai before descending into a crater to have a picnic lunch on the shores of a crater lake.
Tarangire
Often overlooked in favour of its more famous neighbours, Tarangire is defined by ancient baobab trees and large elephant herds that gather along the Tarangire River during the dry season. With fewer vehicles and strong predator sightings, it provides a rewarding start or end to a northern Tanzania journey.
Lake Manyara
Lake Manyara offers a compact yet diverse ecosystem of groundwater forest, soda lake and escarpment. Known for its tree-climbing lions and prolific birdlife, it adds variety and an accessible introduction to Tanzania’s wildlife landscapes.
Southern Tanzania: Ruaha, Nyerere (Selous) & Katavi
Southern Tanzania offers a different rhythm. In Ruaha National Park, vast grasslands and scattered baobabs frame large predator populations and some of East Africa’s most dramatic elephant sightings and one of the largest lion populations in Africa. Nyerere National Park (formerly the Selous) combines river systems, lakes and open plains, where boat safaris and walking excursions create a varied experience far from busier northern circuits. Further west, Katavi rewards adventurous travellers with raw, seasonal game concentrations and a powerful sense of remoteness.
Mahale Mountains & Gombe
In the forested mountains on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, Mahale and Gombe offer rare opportunities to observe wild chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Guided forest treks bring you into close proximity with habituated groups — a striking contrast to savannah safari.
Zanzibar, Pemba & Mafia Islands
After wildlife safaris and far-flung hiking adventures across the country, indulge in some relaxed downtime just off the east coast of Tanzania on the spice islands. Zanzibar blends Swahili culture and historic Stone Town with palm-fringed beaches. Pemba and Mafia offer quieter, more secluded retreats with exceptional diving and marine life. Together, they complete a journey that moves from inland wilderness to tropical coast.
Why Travel to Tanzania with Explorations Company
Experiencing Tanzania well requires careful planning. The scale of the country, seasonal wildlife movements and varying visitor densities mean that timing and camp selection are crucial.
Having lived and worked in the region, our specialists design journeys well beyond the tourist path, that balance Tanzania’s iconic highlights with lesser-known reserves. We have access to the finest accommodation options – from luxury private camps in the Serengeti to palm-fringed beach villas in Zanzibar. Whether it is your first safari or a return to Africa seeking greater depth, we shape each itinerary around access, guiding excellence and the understated privileges that elevate a safari beyond expectation.
When is the Best Time to Visit Tanzania
Tanzania is a fantastic safari destination for the majority of the year, though timing shapes the experience.
January to March: Calving season in the southern Serengeti brings large concentrations of wildebeest and heightened predator activity. Conditions are warm, landscapes green and birdlife abundant. The Indian Ocean islands are also fantastic now.
End of March to May: Long rains so avoided by most travellers. Dense vegetation makes wildlife viewing more difficult.
June to October (Dry Season): Excellent wildlife viewing across the Serengeti, Ngorongoro and Tarangire as animals gather near water sources. The Migration is moving through the Western Corridor and crossing the Mara River into Tanzania towards the end of this period. Southern parks such as Ruaha and Nyerere are particularly strong at this time, with clear conditions and concentrated game. Also a good time for mountain trekking and tropical beach retreats.
November & December: Short rains refresh the landscape and reduce visitor numbers. Wildlife remains active and photography can be especially rewarding. Some herbivores give birth to their young so there are great predator sightings. There is great birding over this time.
Our experts will help you select the best time of year and regions that offer the experiences you most want to prioritise.
Make a Difference
We work with camps and partners committed to conservation and community engagement across Tanzania. From supporting Maasai-led initiatives in the north to working with operators protecting fragile ecosystems in the south and west, your journey contributes to safeguarding these landscapes for the future.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tanzania Safaris
Is Tanzania good for a first safari?
Yes. The Serengeti and Ngorongoro offer exceptional wildlife density and established infrastructure, making Tanzania a strong choice for first-time safari travellers.
When is the Great Migration in Tanzania?
The migration moves year-round through the Mara-Serengeti ecosystem. Calving typically occurs in the southern Serengeti from January to March, while river crossings often take place further north later in the dry season from July to October and can be seen either from the Tanzanian or Kenyan side. Read our blog for more information about the Great Migration timings.
Is southern Tanzania less crowded?
Yes. Parks such as Ruaha, Nyerere and Katavi generally receive fewer visitors than the northern circuit, offering a more remote and exclusive safari experience.
Can I combine safari and beach in Tanzania?
Absolutely. Many travellers pair a safari in the Serengeti or southern parks with time on Zanzibar, Pemba or Mafia for rest and relaxation.
Is Tanzania good for a family safari?
Yes — Tanzania is one of Africa’s best destinations for a family safari, combining exceptional wildlife, cultural experiences, and easy beach extensions, with many camps offering the flexibility and facilities families need. Read our blog “Why Consider a Tanzania safari for a family holiday” for more information.
Begin Your Tanzania Safari
Speak to our luxury safari specialists to begin shaping your bespoke Tanzania safari itinerary. Call us on +1 855-216-5040 or UK +44 (0) 1367 850566 or make an enquiry.
Bespoke Tanzania Wildlife Journeys
Explore our exclusive collection of remarkable Tanzania wildlife journeys, where each itinerary offers a curated selection of the most awe-inspiring experiences created by our travel experts.
Unique Tanzania Experiences
Uncover a collection of extraordinary, tailor-made experiences waiting for you when you visit Tanzania.
