Tanzania Safari Packages

Tanzania, located in East Africa, is a diverse and enchanting destination known for its remarkable natural beauty and cultural richness. Spanning approximately 945,000 square kilometres, Tanzania's allure lies in its diverse offerings, from wildlife safaris and mountain adventures to beach escapes and cultural experiences.

One of Tanzania's most iconic treasures is the Serengeti National Park, renowned for hosting the Great Migration, a breathtaking wildlife phenomenon. The country also lays claim to Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's tallest peak, drawing adventurers from across the globe.

Tanzania's coastline along the Indian Ocean offers destinations like Zanzibar and Pemba Islands are renowned for their idyllic beaches, coral reefs, and vibrant marine life, making them ideal for snorkelling, diving, and water sports. The nation's cultural richness comes to life in cities like Dar es Salaam and Stone Town, blending African, Arabic, and Indian influences into a unique tapestry of traditions.

Abundant wildlife thrives not only in the Serengeti but also in national parks like Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tarangire, and Manyara, offering thrilling safari experiences. Tanzania's commitment to wildlife conservation and sustainable tourism ensures future generations can continue to enjoy its natural wonders.

Tanzania provides opportunities for cultural experiences, connecting with diverse ethnic groups like the Maasai and Chaga. Visitors can engage in cultural tours and homestays, exploring bustling markets, vibrant festivals, and lively music and dance performances to enrich their travel experience.

Tanzania is also a gateway to East Africa, with easy access to neighbouring countries like Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda. This makes it an excellent starting point for travellers interested in exploring multiple African destinations.

In summary, Tanzania is a multifaceted destination that showcases Africa's finest attributes: breathtaking landscapes, diverse wildlife, rich cultures, and warm hospitality, making it an exceptional choice for travellers seeking a well-rounded and rewarding adventure.

Why Visit Tanzania:

• Spectacular Wildlife Safaris: Tanzania is renowned for its incredible wildlife and is home to some of Africa's most famous national parks and game reserves, including the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park. These areas offer opportunities to witness the "Big Five" (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros) and numerous other species in their natural habitats.
• Great Migration: The Serengeti hosts the world-famous Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other animals migrate in search of water and grazing. Witnessing this natural spectacle is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
• Stunning Landscapes: Tanzania boasts a diverse range of landscapes, from the iconic plains of the Serengeti to the stunning beaches of Zanzibar, lush rainforests in the Mahale Mountains, and the towering Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's highest peak.
• Cultural Diversity: Tanzania is home to more than 120 ethnic groups, each with its own unique culture, traditions, and languages. You can immerse yourself in the vibrant local cultures by visiting Maasai villages or experiencing the rich history of Stone Town in Zanzibar.
• Incredible Birdwatching: Bird enthusiasts will be delighted by Tanzania's birdlife. The country is home to over 1,000 bird species, making it a prime destination for birdwatching.
• Zanzibar Archipelago: This tropical paradise off the coast of Tanzania is known for its white-sand beaches, clear turquoise waters, and rich cultural heritage. Explore historic Stone Town, relax on pristine beaches, and enjoy water activities like snorkelling and scuba diving.
• Adventure Activities: Tanzania offers a wide range of adventure activities, from hiking Mount Kilimanjaro, the tallest free-standing mountain in the world, to hot air ballooning over the Serengeti and exploring the depths of Lake Tanganyika, one of the deepest lakes in the world.
• Friendly People: Tanzanians are known for their warm hospitality and friendliness, making visitors feel welcome and at home.
• Sustainable Tourism: Tanzania has made efforts to promote sustainable tourism, ensuring that wildlife and natural beauty are preserved for future generations to enjoy.
• Affordable Travel: Compared to some other African destinations, Tanzania offers relatively affordable travel options, including budget-friendly accommodations and safari packages.

Places to Visit in Tanzania:

• Serengeti National Park: This iconic park is world-famous for its annual Great Migration and incredible wildlife viewing opportunities. It's one of Africa's most renowned safari destinations.
• Ngorongoro Conservation Area: Home to the Ngorongoro Crater, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a natural wonder and a hotspot for wildlife viewing. The crater is a self-contained ecosystem with a high concentration of animals.
• Mount Kilimanjaro: Embark on a trek to the roof of Africa, Mount Kilimanjaro. Whether you're attempting to summit or just exploring the lower slopes, the mountain offers breathtaking scenery and a sense of adventure.
• Zanzibar Archipelago: Explore the historic Stone Town, relax on the white-sand beaches of Zanzibar, and dive into the crystal-clear waters to discover vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
• Tarangire National Park: Known for its large elephant populations, Tarangire offers excellent wildlife viewing, especially during the dry season when animals gather around the Tarangire River.
• Lake Manyara National Park: Famous for its tree-climbing lions, this park is a great stopover on the way to Ngorongoro or the Serengeti. It's also a birdwatcher's paradise.
• Mahale Mountains National Park: A remote and beautiful park on Lake Tanganyika's shores, Mahale is known for its chimpanzee population and offers hiking, wildlife watching, and stunning landscapes.
• Arusha National Park: Located close to Arusha, this park features diverse landscapes, including forests, lakes, and the spectacular Mount Meru. It's a great place for hiking and birdwatching.
• Ruaha National Park: Tanzania's largest national park is known for its rugged landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a sense of wilderness. It's a less-visited gem for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path safari experience.
• Mikumi National Park: Easily accessible from Dar es Salaam, Mikumi offers a wide variety of wildlife and stunning views of the Uluguru Mountains.
• Pemba Island: A quieter and less touristy alternative to Zanzibar, Pemba Island is known for its lush landscapes, diving opportunities, and traditional Swahili culture.
• Ruins of Kilwa Kisiwani and Songo Mnara: These UNESCO-listed archaeological sites on the southern coast of Tanzania offer a glimpse into the historical importance of the Swahili Coast.
• Lake Victoria: Explore the largest lake in Africa and visit the fishing villages along its shores for a unique cultural experience.
• Katavi National Park: A remote and wild park in western Tanzania, Katavi is known for its buffalo herds, crocodile-filled rivers, and untamed wilderness.
• Gombe Stream National Park: Another chimpanzee sanctuary, this park is famous for the groundbreaking research conducted by Jane Goodall. It offers trekking and the chance to observe wild chimpanzees.

Why to Buy a Tanzania Tour Package?

1. Convenience: These packages streamline your travel arrangements, covering accommodations, transportation, meals, and activities. This convenience frees you from the hassle of planning, enabling you to concentrate solely on enjoying your Tanzanian adventure.
2. Expert Guidance: Tour operators possess in-depth knowledge of Tanzania's attractions, ensuring you visit the most captivating destinations, stay in suitable accommodations, and engage in enriching activities that showcase the country's beauty and culture.
3. Safety Assurance: Navigating a foreign country like Tanzania can raise safety concerns, but tour packages often include experienced guides who prioritize your well-being, providing peace of mind throughout your journey.
4. Cost-effectiveness: While independent planning might appear cost-effective initially, tour packages often offer competitive rates due to their partnerships with local service providers, coupled with potential group discounts and exclusive deals.
5. Cultural Immersion: Many tour packages facilitate meaningful interactions with Tanzanian communities, allowing you to immerse yourself in the country's rich cultural heritage through guided tours, traditional activities, and encounters with locals.
6. Diverse Itineraries: Whether you seek wildlife safaris, beach retreats, cultural experiences, or adventurous expeditions such as trekking Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania's tour packages cater to a wide range of interests, ensuring there's something for everyone.
7. Peace of Mind: Traveling to Tanzania may seem daunting, especially if you're unfamiliar with the local language or customs. However, with a tour package, you benefit from a support network comprising guides and operators who offer assistance and guidance, ensuring a stress-free and enjoyable experience throughout your Tanzanian journey.

How to Choose the Right Tanzania Tour Package?

• Define Your Tanzania Goals: Determine your main objectives, such as wildlife safaris, cultural immersion, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, or exploring Zanzibar's beaches.
• Set Your Tanzania Budget: Establish a clear budget that encompasses accommodation, activities, and meals, as prices can vary in Tanzania.
• Tanzania Itinerary: Review package itineraries to ensure they cover your desired destinations and experiences, whether it's a Serengeti safari or a visit to Stone Town.
• Group Size in Tanzania: Decide if you prefer a group tour for social interaction or a private tour for a more personalized experience.
• Tanzania Accommodation: Assess the quality and style of accommodations included in the package, ranging from luxury lodges to budget-friendly options.
• Inclusions in Tanzania: Check what's part of the package, such as transportation within Tanzania, national park fees, guided tours, and meals.

Is it Safe to Visit Tanzania:

Tanzania has historically been considered a safe destination for travellers. While petty crime can occur in some urban areas, overall safety risks have been relatively low. However, it's important to stay informed about the current political climate, health precautions, and safety guidelines.
Wildlife encounters, a highlight of Tanzanian tourism, should be approached with caution, following the guidance of experienced guides. Staying informed and taking common-sense precautions can contribute to a safe and enjoyable visit to Tanzania.

Best Time to Visit Tanzania:

The best time to visit Tanzania is during the dry season from June to September when you can enjoy not only excellent animal spotting on safaris but also outdoor activities like hiking, cultural experiences, and exploring diverse landscapes while avoiding heavy rains.

• June-September (Cool and Dry): Great for safaris with dry weather, ideal for animal spotting near water sources. Hotels can be crowded and costly.
• October-February (Slightly Wet and Warm): Good for safaris but hotter, with occasional short rains starting in late October.
• March-May (Wet): Heavy rains can make roads muddy and some areas inaccessible. Landscapes are lush, and some hotels may offer discounts, though some could be closed.

How to Reach Tanzania:

Reaching Tanzania is convenient through its international airports, road border crossings, and waterway access points.

• By Air: The most common way to reach Tanzania is by air. You can fly into major international airports like Julius Nyerere International Airport in Dar es Salaam, Kilimanjaro International Airport near Arusha, or Abeid Amani Karume International Airport in Zanzibar.
• By Road: Tanzania shares land borders with several neighbouring countries, including Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, and Zambia. You can enter Tanzania by road through border crossings.
• By Waterway: If you're on the islands of Zanzibar or Pemba, or if you're travelling from nearby coastal areas, you can reach Tanzania by ferry. There are regular ferry services connecting Zanzibar to Dar es Salaam and other coastal towns. Additionally, some cargo and passenger ships may offer waterway access to Tanzania's ports.

Ideal Duration to Spend in Tanzania:

The ideal duration for your visit to Tanzania varies with your interests. A classic wildlife safari typically takes 7-10 days. Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro requires about 6-8 days, plus acclimatization. For a relaxing Zanzibar beach vacation, 5-7 days is ideal. If you want to explore Tanzania's culture and history in-depth, plan for 2-3 weeks. If you are combining experiences, allocate 2-3 weeks or more for a comprehensive trip.

Travel Tips for Tanzania:

1. Embrace the 'Mzungu' Tag: Don't be surprised if locals call you 'Mzungu,' which means 'explorer' or 'restless.' It's a common term for foreigners, and it's often used in a friendly manner.
2. Capture Wildlife: Carry a good quality camera with a telephoto lens to capture stunning close-up shots of wildlife in their natural habitat during safaris.
3. Price Check: Prices may be inflated for foreigners, so consult your tour guide before making significant purchases to ensure you're getting a fair deal.
4. Malaria Prevention: Tanzania has chloroquine-resistant malaria, so consult a healthcare professional for the appropriate anti-malaria medication before your trip.
5. Beware of Impersonators: Be cautious of individuals posing as police officers, especially in tourist areas. Stick to well-lit and populated areas if you're out after dark.
6. Migration Timing: To witness the annual migration of zebras and other wildlife, plan your visit for February and March, the prime months for this incredible natural spectacle.
7. Safari Attire: Wear light or neutral-coloured clothing on safari to blend in with the surroundings. Avoid wearing contact lenses due to potential dust.
8. Kilimanjaro Care: If climbing Kilimanjaro, carry Neosporin to treat frostnip, and follow your tour guide's detailed checklist for a safe and successful journey.
9. Local Cuisine: Try local Tanzanian dishes and street food for an authentic culinary experience, but ensure the food is prepared and served hygienically.
10. Respect Local Customs: Respect local customs and traditions, such as covering shoulders and knees when visiting religious sites or rural communities.
11. Currency Exchange: Exchange currency at authorized bureaus or banks rather than on the street to get the best rates and avoid counterfeit money.
12. Learn Basic Swahili: Learning a few basic Swahili phrases can enhance your interaction with locals and make your trip more enjoyable.
13. Travel Insurance: Purchase comprehensive travel insurance to cover unexpected events, such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage.
14. Environmental Responsibility: Practice responsible tourism by minimizing your environmental impact, such as avoiding single-use plastics and respecting wildlife habitats.
15. Tipping: Tipping is customary in Tanzania. Consult with your tour guide or check locally accepted tipping guidelines to ensure you show appreciation for good service.