Top 20 things to do on Tanzania safari tours from river crossings and walking safaris to chimp trekking, birding, and sleeping under the stars in wild Africa.
Tanzania safari tours offer one of the richest wildlife experiences in Africa, blending dramatic landscapes with unmatched animal encounters. From the sweeping plains of the Serengeti to the lush forests of Mahale, each region reveals a different side of the country’s natural beauty. Whether you’re watching thousands of wildebeest cross crocodile-filled rivers or spotting lions lounging in trees, the variety is staggering. These tours are not just about ticking off sightings they’re about understanding the rhythm of the wild, guided by experts who know the land and its creatures intimately. With options ranging from luxury lodges to remote bush camps, travelers can tailor their experience to match their comfort and curiosity.
Beyond the game drives, Tanzania safari tours offer cultural depth and personal connection. Visiting Maasai villages, walking through ancient rock art sites, or listening to the sounds of the bush under a star-filled sky adds layers to the adventure. The country’s parks are well-managed, and many operators focus on conservation and community support, making your trip meaningful as well as memorable. Whether you’re planning your first safari or returning for a deeper look, Tanzania delivers with authenticity, diversity, and moments that stay with you long after the dust settles.
The Best 20 Things to Do on Tanzania Safari Tours includes
Witness the Great Migration River Crossing
Tanzania safari tours in Serengeti offer front-row seats to the Great Migration river crossings, one of the most intense wildlife events in Africa. Between August and October in the north and May to July in the west, thousands of wildebeest and zebras plunge into crocodile-filled rivers like the Mara and Grumeti. Timing is everything being in the right region during the right month is key. Tanzania safari tours that focus on migration often include mobile camps near crossing points and guides who track herd movements daily. It’s not just about watching animals—it’s about understanding survival and movement. Book early, as these tours fill quickly and require precise planning for the best experience.
Descend into the Ngorongoro Crater
Tanzania safari tours that include Ngorongoro Crater give you access to one of the most wildlife-packed areas in the country. The crater is home to over 25,000 animals, including lions, elephants, and the rare black rhino. Because of its enclosed geography, sightings are frequent and close-range. Tanzania safari tours often pair Ngorongoro with Serengeti or Lake Manyara, making it a convenient stop on the northern circuit. The crater floor is easy to navigate, and game drives here are productive even in a single day. If you’re short on time but want strong wildlife viewing, this is one of the most efficient places to visit.
Track the Big Five
Tanzania safari tours often focus on tracking the Big Five: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and black rhino. Serengeti and Ngorongoro are the best parks for spotting all five, especially with skilled guides who know animal behavior and movement. Tanzania safari tours that prioritize Big Five sightings usually include multiple game drives and flexible schedules to increase your chances. Seeing all five takes patience, especially for elusive species like leopards and rhinos. Choose tours with private vehicles or small groups for better positioning and less noise. If ticking off these major animals is your goal, make sure your itinerary includes the right regions and enough time.
Go on a Walking Safari
Walking safaris offer a different pace and perspective. Tanzania safari tours that include walking options are available in parks like Nyerere, Tarangire, and private conservancies. With an armed guide, you’ll learn to read tracks, spot insects, and understand the bush beyond big game. Tanzania safari tours that offer walking safaris usually schedule them in the early morning or late afternoon when temperatures are cooler. It’s not about chasing animals it’s about noticing the small details and feeling the land underfoot. These walks are ideal for travelers who want a more personal and grounded experience. Always check safety protocols and guide credentials before booking.
Experience a Hot Air Balloon Safari over the Serengeti
Hot air balloon safaris are a highlight of many Tanzania safari tours in the Serengeti. You’ll lift off at sunrise and float quietly above the plains as animals begin their day. Tanzania safari tours that include balloon rides often pair them with a bush breakfast, making the experience even more memorable. It’s a peaceful way to see the landscape from a new angle, and you might spot herds, predators, or even the Great Migration from above. Balloon safaris are weather-dependent and must be booked in advance. If you’re looking for a unique activity that adds variety to your safari, this is worth considering.
Watch a Lion Hunt or Cheetah Chase
Tanzania safari tours in Serengeti and Nyerere National Park offer rare chances to see predators in action. Lions work in teams, while cheetahs rely on speed and precision. Tanzania safari tours that focus on predator behavior often include early morning or late afternoon drives when hunting is most likely. Guides track movements and anticipate behavior, giving you a better chance of witnessing a chase or kill. These moments are raw and intense, showing nature’s reality without filters. If predator sightings are a priority, choose tours with experienced trackers and flexible schedules that allow you to follow leads as they develop.
Marvel at Thousands of Elephants in Tarangire
During the dry season, Tarangire National Park becomes elephant central. Tanzania safari tours here reveal massive herds gathering around the Tarangire River, surrounded by ancient baobab trees. Tanzania safari tours in this region are best between June and October, when water sources are limited and animals concentrate near rivers. You’ll see elephants of all ages babies playing, matriarchs leading, and bulls sparring. The park is less crowded than Serengeti, offering a quieter experience. If you love elephants or want to avoid the busiest parks, Tarangire is a smart addition to your itinerary.
Search for Tree-Climbing Lions in Lake Manyara
Lake Manyara is known for its lions that rest in trees, a behavior rarely seen elsewhere. Tanzania safari tours that include this park often combine it with Ngorongoro and Tarangire for a compact northern circuit. Tanzania safari tours in Manyara also offer great birdlife and lush groundwater forests. The park is small, so game drives are short but productive. Tree-climbing lions are unpredictable, so guides rely on fresh sightings and local knowledge. If you’re looking for something different from the usual lion encounter, this is a great stop.
Go on a Boat Safari on the Rufiji River
Nyerere National Park offers boat safaris on the Rufiji River, a peaceful way to see hippos, crocodiles, and birds. Tanzania safari tours that include river activities give you a break from dusty roads and offer a fresh angle on wildlife. Tanzania safari tours in Nyerere often combine boat, walking, and vehicle safaris for variety. You’ll glide past sandbanks, watch animals drink, and spot kingfishers and fish eagles. It’s a slower pace, ideal for photography and relaxation. Always check water levels before booking, as boat safaris depend on seasonal conditions.
Trek to See Chimpanzees in the Wild
Mahale Mountains and Gombe Stream are the top places for chimp trekking. Tanzania safari tours to these parks are remote and require planning, but the reward is seeing wild chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Tanzania safari tours here involve hiking through rainforest with expert trackers who know the chimps’ routines. You’ll observe social behavior, grooming, and vocal communication up close. These parks are best visited in the dry season when trails are easier. If you’re interested in primates and want a deeper wildlife experience, this is a must.
Visit a Maasai Village
Tanzania safari tours often include cultural visits to Maasai villages. Choose community-run programs that support locals and avoid staged performances. Tanzania safari tours with ethical village visits allow you to learn about Maasai traditions, dress, and daily life. You’ll see how they live, hear stories, and maybe join a dance. It’s not about entertainment it’s about respect and learning. Ask your tour operator how they support the community and what portion of your visit benefits the people directly.
Enjoy Sundowners in the Bush
Sundowners are a simple pleasure on Tanzania safari tours. Your guide will stop in a quiet spot as the sun sets, pour a drink, and let you take in the view. Tanzania safari tours that include this tradition often choose locations with wide horizons or animal activity nearby. It’s a time to relax, reflect, and enjoy the sounds of the bush. Whether it’s gin and tonic or fresh juice, the ritual adds a personal touch to your day. Don’t skip it it’s one of the best ways to end a game drive.
Go Bird Watching
With over 1,000 bird species, Tanzania safari tours are perfect for bird lovers. Lake Manyara, Tarangire, and Nyerere are top spots, offering everything from flamingos to raptors. Tanzania safari tours that focus on birds often include early starts and guides with strong birding knowledge. You’ll spot colorful rollers, giant bustards, and rare endemics. Even if you’re not a birder, the variety and beauty of Tanzania’s birds will surprise you. Bring binoculars and a field guide to get the most out of it.
Sleep Under the Stars to the Sounds of the Bush
Tanzania safari tours with tented camps or star beds let you hear the bush at night lions roaring, hyenas laughing, and zebras calling. Tanzania safari tours that offer this experience prioritize safety and comfort, with mosquito nets and warm bedding. It’s not rough camping it’s designed for relaxation and connection to nature. Choose camps with good reviews and clear safety protocols. Sleeping under the stars is one of the most memorable parts of a safari, especially if you’re looking for something beyond luxury lodges.
Photograph the Acacia Trees on the Serengeti Plains
Tanzania safari tours in the Serengeti offer endless photo opportunities, but the acacia trees are a favorite. Their flat tops and solitary placement make them perfect subjects against golden grass and blue skies. Tanzania safari tours often include photography tips and guides who position vehicles for the best light. Whether you’re using a phone or DSLR, these trees help define the African landscape. Sunrise and sunset are ideal times to shoot, so plan your drives accordingly.
Experience the Remote Wilderness of Katavi National Park
Katavi is for travelers who want space and silence. Tanzania safari tours to Katavi are less common, but they offer huge buffalo herds, hippo pools, and untouched landscapes. Tanzania safari tours here require flights or long drives, but the payoff is privacy and raw nature. You won’t see many other vehicles, and animals behave more naturally. If you’ve done the northern circuit and want something deeper, Katavi is worth the effort.
Discover Ancient Rock Art
The Kondoa Irangi Rock Paintings are a UNESCO site with art dating back thousands of years. Tanzania safari tours that include this stop offer a cultural layer to your wildlife experience. Tanzania safari tours here involve short hikes and local guides who explain the symbols and history. It’s a chance to connect with Tanzania’s human past and see how people lived and expressed themselves long before modern times. Combine it with nearby parks for a well-rounded itinerary.
Relax on the Beaches of Zanzibar
After days of game drives, Tanzania safari tours often end with beach time in Zanzibar. White sand, turquoise water, and fresh seafood make it the perfect place to unwind. Tanzania safari tours that include Zanzibar usually offer snorkeling, spice tours, and visits to Stone Town. You can choose quiet resorts or lively beach towns depending on your style. It’s a great way to balance wildlife with rest and culture.
Experience a Night Game Drive
Night drives reveal a different side of the bush. Tanzania safari tours in Manyara, Tarangire, and private conservancies allow spotlight safaris to see nocturnal animals. Tanzania safari tours that include night drives often use open vehicles and trained spotters. You might see bushbabies, genets, owls, and predators hunting. It’s quieter and more mysterious than daytime drives. If you’re curious about what happens after dark, this is a great add-on.
Fly Between Parks on a Scenic Flight
Flying saves time and gives you a new view of the land. Tanzania safari tours that include flights between parks like Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Ruaha offer comfort and speed. Tanzania safari tours with air travel often use small planes with big windows, perfect for photos. You’ll see rivers, herds, and mountains from above. It’s more expensive than driving, but worth it if you want to cover more ground or avoid long transfers.
Best time to go for Tanzania safari tours
The best time to go for Tanzania safari tours is during the dry season from June to October, when wildlife viewing is at its peak. Animals gather around rivers and waterholes, making them easier to spot, and the weather is generally sunny with minimal rain. Tanzania safari tours in this period also align with the Great Migration river crossings in the northern Serengeti, especially from July to September. For travelers interested in predator action and baby animals, January to February is ideal for witnessing the wildebeest calving in the southern Serengeti. While the green season from November to May offers lush landscapes and fewer crowds, heavy rains in March to May can affect accessibility. Choosing your dates depends on what you want to see and how you prefer to travel.
How to get there to Tanzania safari tours
To get to Tanzania safari tours, most travelers fly into one of the country’s three international airports: Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) near Arusha for northern circuit safaris, Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) in Dar es Salaam for southern parks, or Abeid Amani Karume Airport (ZNZ) if combining with Zanzibar. Tanzania safari tours often begin with a pickup from your arrival airport, followed by short domestic flights or drives to parks like Serengeti, Ngorongoro, or Tarangire. International flights are available from Europe, the Middle East, and other African hubs via airlines like KLM, Qatar Airways, Ethiopian Airlines, and Kenya Airways. Visas are required for most visitors and can be obtained online or on arrival. Always confirm entry requirements and flight connections before booking.
What to carry for best Tanzania safari tours
For the best Tanzania safari tours, pack light but smart. Neutral-colored clothing like khaki or olive helps you blend in and avoid attracting insects. Include long-sleeved shirts, convertible pants, a warm fleece for chilly mornings, and a rain jacket if traveling during the wet season. Comfortable walking shoes or boots are essential, especially for bush walks. Don’t forget sunscreen, insect repellent, sunglasses, a wide-brim hat, and a refillable water bottle. Tanzania safari tours often involve long drives, so bring snacks, a camera with extra batteries, and binoculars for better wildlife viewing. A soft-sided duffel bag is preferred over hard suitcases, especially for small aircraft. Also carry travel documents, insurance papers, and some cash in small denominations. Staying prepared keeps your focus on the experience, not the logistics.
Top places to stay in during Tanzania safari tours
Top places to stay during Tanzania safari tours range from luxury lodges to authentic tented camps, each offering a unique way to experience the wild. In the Serengeti, Four Seasons Safari Lodge provides front-row views of wildlife with infinity pools and gourmet dining, while Nomad Lamai and Serengeti Under Canvas offer mobile tented camps that follow the Great Migration. Tanzania safari tours in Ngorongoro often include stays at Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge, perched on the crater rim with dramatic views. For budget-friendly comfort, Tloma Lodge in Karatu is a peaceful option near Lake Manyara. In the south, Siwandu Camp in Nyerere National Park combines riverfront luxury with boat and walking safaris. Choosing the right lodge or camp can elevate your Tanzania safari tours by matching your style, budget, and wildlife interests