Tanzania: What are the most popular safari destinations?

SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK (the most popular park in Tanzania and whole Africa)

The Serengeti is a vast ecosystem located in northwestern Tanzania and extends into southwestern Kenya. Here are some fascinating facts about the Serengeti:

  1. Great Wildebeest Migration: The Serengeti is famous for hosting the annual Great Wildebeest Migration, where over two million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles undertake a 1,200-mile circular trek in search of fresh grazing grounds, making it one of the most spectacular wildlife events in the world.
Wildebeest Herd, Connochaetus taurinus, Serengeti National Park, Tanzania, East Africa, Migration
Wildebeest Herd, Connochaetus taurinus, Serengeti National Park, Tanzania, East Africa, Migration
Blue wildebeest, brindled gnu (Connochaetes taurinus) herd crossing the Mara river during the great migration, seen from behind, Serengeti national park, Tanzania.
Blue wildebeest, brindled gnu (Connochaetes taurinus) herd crossing the Mara river during the great migration, seen from behind, Serengeti national park, Tanzania.
Blue wildebeest, brindled gnu (Connochaetes taurinus) herd crossing the Mara river during the great migration, Serengeti national park, Tanzania.
Blue wildebeest, brindled gnu (Connochaetes taurinus) herd crossing the Mara river during the great migration, Serengeti national park, Tanzania.
Group of wildebeests crossing the river in North Serengeti full of fear and braveness at the same time
Group of wildebeests crossing the river in North Serengeti full of fear and braveness at the same time
  1. Diverse Wildlife: The Serengeti is home to an incredible diversity of wildlife, including the “Big Five” – lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinoceros. Additionally, it harbors a multitude of other species such as giraffes, cheetahs, hyenas, and more.
Rhinos on the plains of the Serengeti
Rhinos on the plains of the Serengeti
A giraffe with beautiful panorama of the savannah in the plains of the Serengeti National Park Vertical view – Tanzania
A giraffe with beautiful panorama of the savannah in the plains of the Serengeti National Park Vertical view – Tanzania
Hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius). Serengeti National Park, Tanzania, Africa
Hippopotamus (Hippopotamus amphibius). Serengeti National Park, Tanzania, Africa
Serengeti plains Tanzania Africa wildebeest migration animals wildlife safari trees road grass
Serengeti plains Tanzania Africa wildebeest migration animals wildlife safari trees road grass
Herd of Zebra crossing river in the Serengeti, Tanzania.
Herd of Zebra crossing river in the Serengeti, Tanzania.
Rhino, Springboks, zebra, Elephant and lion in Serengeti National Park, Tanzania.
Rhino, Springboks, zebra, Elephant and lion in Serengeti National Park, Tanzania.
Elephant family at the river crossing  in Tanzania
Elephant family at the river crossing in Tanzania
  1. UNESCO World Heritage Site: The Serengeti National Park, established in 1951, was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981 due to its significant biological, ecological, and geological value. It is renowned for its natural beauty and exceptional biodiversity.
  2. Balloon Safaris: Visitors to the Serengeti have the opportunity to experience the unique thrill of a hot air balloon safari, providing an unparalleled perspective of the majestic landscape and the sweeping herds of wildlife below.
A bird'e eye view of hot air balloons in mid-flight
A bird’e eye view of hot air balloons in mid-flight
The Mara from above – the Mara River seen from above aboard a hot air balloon with other hot air balloons around, with beautiful morning light at sunrise - Serengeti – Tanzania
The Mara from above – the Mara River seen from above aboard a hot air balloon with other hot air balloons around, with beautiful morning light at sunrise – Serengeti – Tanzania
A very big group of wildebeest in the savannah during the great migration taken from above with a hot air balloon Vertical view  - Serengeti - Tanzania
A very big group of wildebeest in the savannah during the great migration taken from above with a hot air balloon Vertical view – Serengeti – Tanzania
Two hippos at sunrise in the Mara river taken from above with a hot air balloon - Serengeti – Tanzania
Two hippos at sunrise in the Mara river taken from above with a hot air balloon – Serengeti – Tanzania
The Mara from above – the Mara river seen from above aboard a hot air balloon, beautiful morning light at dawn
The Mara from above – the Mara river seen from above aboard a hot air balloon, beautiful morning light at dawn
The aerial view during the hot air balloon ride.
The aerial view during the hot air balloon ride.
Hot air balloon over the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania at sunrise
Hot air balloon over the Serengeti National Park in Tanzania at sunrise
Fish eye shot from  hot air balloon over Masai Mara -Mara river Kenia
Fish eye shot from hot air balloon over Masai Mara -Mara river Kenia
Serengeti, Tanzania - September 17, 2013: hot air balloon taking off during sunrise with cars and people assisting at The Serengeti National Park at dawn.
Serengeti, Tanzania – September 17, 2013: hot air balloon taking off during sunrise with cars and people assisting at The Serengeti National Park at dawn.

TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK

Tarangire National Park, located in northern Tanzania, is a captivating destination known for its unique features and impressive wildlife. Here are some fascinating facts about Tarangire National Park:

Elephants in African landscape at sunset in Tarangire National Park in Africa, Tanzania
Elephants in African landscape at sunset in Tarangire National Park in Africa, Tanzania
  1. Baobab Trees: The park is renowned for its large population of ancient baobab trees, which dot the landscape and create a striking backdrop for wildlife viewing. The sheer size and mystical appearance of these iconic trees make them a defining feature of the park.
Animal watching on safari in Tarangire National Park, Tanzania, Africa.
Animal watching on safari in Tarangire National Park, Tanzania, Africa.
Boabab
Boabab
  1. Diverse Wildlife: Tarangire is home to a variety of wildlife, including large elephant herds, as the park has one of the highest concentrations of elephants in the world. Visitors can also spot an array of other animals such as lions, leopards, giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, and numerous bird species.
View from above on herd of elephants crossing dry riverbed in Tarangire National Park, Tanzania.
View from above on herd of elephants crossing dry riverbed in Tarangire National Park, Tanzania.
Closeup view of an African zebra face, Tarangire National park, Tanzania
Closeup view of an African zebra face, Tarangire National park, Tanzania
A family of elephants in Tarangire National park, Tanzania.
A family of elephants in Tarangire National park, Tanzania.
Mongoose on alert in the plains of Tarangire National Park - Vertical View – Tanzania
Mongoose on alert in the plains of Tarangire National Park – Vertical View – Tanzania
Climbing lions - Tarangire National Park - Tanzania
Climbing lions – Tarangire National Park – Tanzania
Herd of elephants, close up, in Tarangire National Park Tanzania
Herd of elephants, close up, in Tarangire National Park Tanzania
Herd of common eland antelopes resting in the shadow at noon
Herd of common eland antelopes resting in the shadow at noon
A female lion looks out from a vantage point high in a tree. Taken in Tarangire National Park, Tanzania.
A female lion looks out from a vantage point high in a tree. Taken in Tarangire National Park, Tanzania.
  1. Seasonal Migration: During the dry season (from June to October), Tarangire National Park becomes a haven for wildlife as animals congregate around the Tarangire River, which serves as a vital water source. This congregation of wildlife presents excellent opportunities for game viewing and photography.
  2. Off the Beaten Path: Despite its remarkable offerings, Tarangire is often less crowded than some of the more popular parks in Tanzania, allowing visitors to experience a more secluded and authentic safari experience.
  3. Walking Safaris: The park offers the unique opportunity to explore the wilderness on foot with guided walking safaris. This allows visitors to connect with nature at a closer level and gain a deeper understanding of the park’s ecosystem.

Tarangire word came from the famous River that run through the park.

NGORONGORO CONSERVATION AREA (HERE IS WHERE THE MAGICAL CRATER FOUND)

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area, located in Tanzania, is a unique and awe-inspiring destination that is steeped in natural beauty and cultural significance. Here are some fascinating facts about the Ngorongoro area:

  1. This area is home to the Ngorongoro Crater, a massive volcanic caldera that is often referred to as the “eighth wonder of the world.” It is the largest unflooded and unbroken caldera in the world, creating a natural enclosure for a wide variety of wildlife.
Panoramic view of Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania created by a collapsing volcano
Panoramic view of Ngorongoro Crater in Tanzania created by a collapsing volcano
Zebras and wildebeests in the Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
Zebras and wildebeests in the Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
Ngorongoro Crater truly is a natural wonderland where more than twenty thousand animals live in an edenic environment, protected from the outside world by steep walls.
Ngorongoro Crater truly is a natural wonderland where more than twenty thousand animals live in an edenic environment, protected from the outside world by steep walls.
The west rim of the Ngorongoro crater at sunrise in Tanzania
The west rim of the Ngorongoro crater at sunrise in Tanzania
Baboons sitting on a branch in Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania.
Baboons sitting on a branch in Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania.
  1. Diverse Wildlife: The Ngorongoro Conservation Area boasts an exceptional concentration of wildlife, including the “Big Five” (lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinoceros). Additionally, the crater is home to numerous other species, making it a prime location for game viewing and photography.
Lesser flamingos (Phoeniconaias minor). Ndutu region of Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania, Africa
Lesser flamingos (Phoeniconaias minor). Ndutu region of Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania, Africa
Mother Cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) with cubs. Ndutu region of Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania, Africa
Mother Cheetah (Acinonyx jubatus) with cubs. Ndutu region of Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania, Africa
Safari vehicles with tourists in between large herds of Wildebeest (Gnu, Connochaetes) and Zebras (Equus quagga, formerly Equus burchelli) inside world famous Ngorongoro Crater. Location: Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Northern Tanzania. Shot in wildlife.
Safari vehicles with tourists in between large herds of Wildebeest (Gnu, Connochaetes) and Zebras (Equus quagga, formerly Equus burchelli) inside world famous Ngorongoro Crater. Location: Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Northern Tanzania. Shot in wildlife.
Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area, Tanzania
Ngorongoro Crater Conservation Area, Tanzania
  1. Maasai Culture: The conservation area is also inhabited by the Maasai people, who have traditionally coexisted with the region’s wildlife for centuries. Their traditional homesteads, known as bomas, can be found within the area, providing a glimpse into their unique way of life and cultural heritage.
View of Maasai village with huts and enkang barrier nearby Tarangire National Park - Tanzania.
View of Maasai village with huts and enkang barrier nearby Tarangire National Park – Tanzania.
Cattle Herd at Masai Mara early in the morning with Masai Warrior
Cattle Herd at Masai Mara early in the morning with Masai Warrior
Masai with zebu cattle in African bush. End of dry season, the thorn trees are turning green.
Masai with zebu cattle in African bush. End of dry season, the thorn trees are turning green.
  1. Paleontological Significance: The Olduvai Gorge, located within the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, is an important paleoanthropological site where some of the earliest hominid fossils, including those of Australopithecus and Homo habilis, have been discovered, providing valuable insights into human evolution.
Olduvai Gorge scenic view in the Great Rift Valley, Tanzania, East Africa. An important paleoanthropological site.
Olduvai Gorge scenic view in the Great Rift Valley, Tanzania, East Africa. An important paleoanthropological site.
Tanzania, Africa - March 12, 2023: Statue at the Olduvai Gorge Museum (Ngorongoro Conservation Area). Human Skulls of Paranthropus and Homo Habilis
Tanzania, Africa – March 12, 2023: Statue at the Olduvai Gorge Museum (Ngorongoro Conservation Area). Human Skulls of Paranthropus and Homo Habilis
Olduvai Gorge (Oldupai Gorge) is where Dr Leakey discovered an important paleoanthropological site.
Olduvai Gorge (Oldupai Gorge) is where Dr Leakey discovered an important paleoanthropological site.

UNESCO World Heritage Site: The Ngorongoro Conservation Area was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979 due to its exceptional natural beauty, remarkable natural phenomena, and the harmonious coexistence of humans and wildlife within the ecosystem.

MANYARA NATIONAL PARK

Lake Manyara National Park, situated in the northern part of Tanzania, is a captivating destination with its diverse landscapes and abundant wildlife. Here are some fascinating facts about Manyara National Park:

  1. Unique Ecosystem: One of the distinctive features of Lake Manyara National Park is its diverse ecosystem, which encompasses everything from the rift valley escarpment to the soda lake and groundwater forest. This diversity gives rise to a remarkable array of flora and fauna within the park.
In Lake Manyara In Tanzania
In Lake Manyara In Tanzania
  1. Tree-Climbing Lions: The park is renowned for its population of tree-climbing lions, which exhibit an unusual behavior of taking refuge in the branches of acacia trees. This phenomenon is a rare sight and adds an element of intrigue to wildlife viewing in the park.
Two lionesses in a tree in Lake Manyara National Park, Tanzania.
Two lionesses in a tree in Lake Manyara National Park, Tanzania.
A lioness relaxing in a tree in Lake Manyara National Park, Tanzania.
A lioness relaxing in a tree in Lake Manyara National Park, Tanzania.
  1. Ornithological Haven: Lake Manyara is a paradise for bird enthusiasts, as the park is home to over 400 bird species, including flamingos, pelicans, storks, and countless other waterfowl. The picturesque scenery surrounding the lake provides an ideal habitat for these avian species.
Yellow-billed Storks (Mycteria ibis) in Lake Manyara National Park, Tanzania
Yellow-billed Storks (Mycteria ibis) in Lake Manyara National Park, Tanzania
Leptoptilos crumeniferus, Lake Manyara National Park, Tanzania
Leptoptilos crumeniferus, Lake Manyara National Park, Tanzania
  1. Hot Springs and Waterfalls: Apart from its wildlife, Lake Manyara National Park is also endowed with hot springs and the Maji Moto (Hot Springs) waterfall. These natural features contribute to the park’s allure and offer visitors an opportunity to appreciate the diverse geology of the region.

Cultural Encounters: The park provides opportunities for cultural interactions with the local Maasai community, offering visitors a chance to gain insights into the traditional lifestyle and customs of these indigenous people.

MKOMAZI NATIONAL PARK (BEST PARK FOR RHINOS)

Mkomazi National Park is located in northeastern Tanzania and is known for its conservation efforts for endangered species such as the African wild dog and black rhino. The park is also home to a variety of bird species and offers stunning views of the Usambara and Pare mountain ranges.

ARUSHA NATIONAL PARK (ONE OF THE SMALLEST NATIONAL PARK IN TANZANIA)

Arusha National Park is located in northern Tanzania and is known for its diverse landscapes, including grasslands, montane forests, and the stunning Mount Meru. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including giraffes, zebras, and flamingos in the alkaline Momella Lakes. This park is only better for a day trip.

NYERERE NATIONAL PARK (FORMER SELOUS GAME RERVE)

Nyerere National Park, formerly known as Selous Game Reserve, is the largest protected area in Africa and is located in southern Tanzania. It is known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, hippos, and crocodiles along the Rufiji River, as well as the rare African wild dog. The park offers a unique and remote safari experience.

MIKUMI NATIONAL PARK, TANZANIA

Mikumi National Park is the fourth-largest national park in Tanzania and is known for its diverse wildlife, including lions, giraffes, and zebras. It offers stunning views of the Mkata River floodplain and the Uzungwa Mountains in the distance.

RUAHA NATIONAL PARK, TANZANIA

Ruaha National Park is the largest national park in Tanzania and is known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, and giraffes. The park also features the Great Ruaha River and stunning landscapes.

Other national parks include: Mahale, Gombe, Katavi and many other.

Find places and hotels in Tanzania.

Find more Africa gems.

Tags: