Why Tanzania?
Where else can you find the incomparable Serengeti and the otherworldly Ngorongoro Crater, or climb to the superlative heights of Mount Kilimanjaro then relax along the jewel-toned waters of the Indian Ocean?
In our view, Tanzania has the best safari and adventure resources of any country in Africa. Serengeti National Park is readily accessible via bush planes and offers a wide range of exclusive accommodations. Wildlife is abundant – leopards hang out in sausage trees, wildebeest graze alongside zebra, topi and giraffe; lions laze in tall grass sometimes so close you could almost touch them. The towering walls of Ngorongoro Crater create a surreal backdrop for alkaline Lake Magadi, filled with hippo and flamingo and surrounded by warthogs and elephants.
Southern Tanzania is its own world of mountains, lakes and forests. Boat along the Great Rufiji River, witness mighty herds of buffalo roaming the Katavi plains, or track chimpanzees in the Mahale Mountains. After a thrilling safari, head over to Zanzibar and unwind next to the Indian Ocean. Enjoy beachfront resorts and fresh seafood flavoured with Zanzibar’s signature warm spices, or keep up the wildlife watching with a boating excursion to spot dolphins and snorkel.
In our view, Tanzania has the best safari and adventure resources of any country in Africa. Serengeti National Park is readily accessible via bush planes and offers a wide range of exclusive accommodations. Wildlife is abundant – leopards hang out in sausage trees, wildebeest graze alongside zebra, topi and giraffe; lions laze in tall grass sometimes so close you could almost touch them. The towering walls of Ngorongoro Crater create a surreal backdrop for alkaline Lake Magadi, filled with hippo and flamingo and surrounded by warthogs and elephants.
Southern Tanzania is its own world of mountains, lakes and forests. Boat along the Great Rufiji River, witness mighty herds of buffalo roaming the Katavi plains, or track chimpanzees in the Mahale Mountains. After a thrilling safari, head over to Zanzibar and unwind next to the Indian Ocean. Enjoy beachfront resorts and fresh seafood flavoured with Zanzibar’s signature warm spices, or keep up the wildlife watching with a boating excursion to spot dolphins and snorkel.
- Exceptional safari experiences from the Serengeti to the Katavi.
- Big Five wildlife and hundreds of species of other mammals and birds.
- Witness the migration of two million wildebeest.
- Remote reserves including Selous and Ruaha.
- Fantastic game viewing nearly all year round.
- Wide choice of accommodation.
- Easy to add a beach stay on sunny Zanzibar or Pemba.
Tanzania Locations
Serengeti
Acacia-dotted savannahs, winding waterways and spectacular sunsets – this is quintessential Serengeti. Spot prides of lions laying in the shade as elephants lumber past, or feel the energy of thousands of migrating wildebeest as they lope across the plains.
Arusha
Arusha is more than just a thriving city for passing through – it’s an excellent stopover for cultural experiences and hiking trails in the foothills of Mount Kilimanjaro or Mount Meru.
Ngorongoro Crater
Formed 2.5 million years ago after an ancient volcano erupted and then collapsed, the Ngorongoo crater is one of Tanzania’s most unique safari destinations. Thousands of birds and animals live here among the grasslands and Lake Magadi.
Tarangire
Over 2,500 elephants meander through Tarangire, but this park is also great for spotting leopard and admiring gigantic baobab trees that are hundreds of years old.
Lake Manyara
Famously described by Hemingway as the loveliest lake in Africa, Lake Manyara is home to flamingos, hippos and, curiously, tree-climbing lions. Flanked by the Rift Valley escarpment, this is one of the most scenic spots in northern Tanzania.
Katavi
Katavi National Park sits in western Tanzania with a high density of wildlife and a rather low density of visitors. It’s an exclusive safari destination that is easily paired with the Mahle Mountains.
Mahale Mountains
Dense rainforest cascades down the slopes of the Mahle Mountains to the shores of record-holding Lake Tanganyika. At 1,436 metres deep, this lake is a haven for wildlife and watersports alike.
Nyerere National Park
Nyerere National Park (previously Selous) may be the largest wildlife reserve in Africa – and it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site – but it’s surprisingly little visited. This is a marvellous destination for a private safari.
Ruaha
Ruaha National Park has Tanzania’s largest population of elephants with over 12,000 migrating through each year. Somehow, the park remains one of the country’s least-visited.
Zanzibar
There’s no better place to relax after a safari than on the island of Zanzibar. Surrounded by the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean and known for its vibrant spices, Zanzibar is bliss for body and mind.
Top 10 Tanzania Experiences
There is drama in Tanzania’s geography: the rolling plains of the Serengeti, snow capped peak of Kilimanjaro and the lush forests of the Ngorongoro Crater have all been recognised by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites. We’ve collated a list of our ten favourite Tanzanian experiences to show you what’s possible in this incredible country.There is drama in Tanzania’s geography: the rolling plains of the Serengeti, snow capped peak of Kilimanjaro and the lush forests of the Ngorongoro Crater have all been recognised by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites.
We’ve collated a list of our ten favourite Tanzanian experiences to show you what’s possible in this incredible country.
We’ve collated a list of our ten favourite Tanzanian experiences to show you what’s possible in this incredible country.
1. Follow the Great Migration
Two million wildebeest, zebra and antelope amassed on the Serengeti’s iconic open plains, the sheer size of the Great Migration’s herds overwhelms you. Staying in the northern Serengeti close to the Mara River, gives you a front row seat to the wildebeests’ frantic river crossings.
Watch as they hesitantly plunge into the water, trying to avoid the jaws of the crocodile that lurk beneath the surface. Drama unfolds on the plains too, with hungry big cats waiting for their opportunity to pounce on their next meal. See this astonishing natural spectacle in a vehicle, on foot or even from the skies in a hot air balloon.
Watch as they hesitantly plunge into the water, trying to avoid the jaws of the crocodile that lurk beneath the surface. Drama unfolds on the plains too, with hungry big cats waiting for their opportunity to pounce on their next meal. See this astonishing natural spectacle in a vehicle, on foot or even from the skies in a hot air balloon.
2. The Chimpanzees of Mahale
Tanzania is a superb destination for primate encounters. The Mahale National Park has a significant chimpanzee population, and you can trek through the forest - past waterfalls and viewpoints overlooking Lake Tanganyika - to find them. The chimpanzee groups here are habituated and each individual is well known to the expert guides.
During your hike you’ll learn all about their personal relationships, group politics, and temperaments, gaining fascinating insights into chimp society and witnessing it all unfold before you. For something a little different, stay on Rubondo Island in Tanzania’s Lake Victoria. This incredible camp - the only property on the island - is within a pristine indigenous rainforest where 16 rescued zoo chimpanzees were released in the 1960s.
During your hike you’ll learn all about their personal relationships, group politics, and temperaments, gaining fascinating insights into chimp society and witnessing it all unfold before you. For something a little different, stay on Rubondo Island in Tanzania’s Lake Victoria. This incredible camp - the only property on the island - is within a pristine indigenous rainforest where 16 rescued zoo chimpanzees were released in the 1960s.
3. The wildlife of the Ngorongoro Crater
Millions of years ago Ngorongoro was even taller than Kilimanjaro, before a cataclysmic eruption blasted out the entire volcano, leaving a 10-mile wide crater that is now a lush, verdant home for more than 20,000 animals.
On the plains, herds of zebra and wildebeest graze on the crater floor and prides of lion bask in the sun, whilst in the lakes hundreds bright pink flamingo gather and pods of hippo wallow in the cool waters. This green and bountiful wildlife haven is rich in plains game, and the predators that follow, and promises superb game-viewing. You’ll stay in a comfortable lodge on the rim where you can enjoy a sumptuous al fresco breakfast with the crater laid out before you.
On the plains, herds of zebra and wildebeest graze on the crater floor and prides of lion bask in the sun, whilst in the lakes hundreds bright pink flamingo gather and pods of hippo wallow in the cool waters. This green and bountiful wildlife haven is rich in plains game, and the predators that follow, and promises superb game-viewing. You’ll stay in a comfortable lodge on the rim where you can enjoy a sumptuous al fresco breakfast with the crater laid out before you.
4. The Roof of Africa
At 5,895m (19,340ft), Mt Kilimanjaro is not only Africa’s highest point, but it dominates the scenery for hundreds of miles around, with its snow-covered peak forming the iconic background to breathtaking safari images. Picture yourself reaching the summit , looking out over a pristine layer of cloud with the rocky ground crunching beneath your feet.
Ascending nearly 6,000 metres is certainly a challenge - but it’s achievable! We prefer the less frequented routes with fewer other climbers. The sense of adventure is palpable and your connection to this magnificient landscape far deeper than if you’re surrounded by throngs of climbers. If you’re looking for adventure and exhileration of a mountain climb but at a gentler pace, Mount Meru or Ol Doinyo Lengai Volcano are perfect alternatives.
Ascending nearly 6,000 metres is certainly a challenge - but it’s achievable! We prefer the less frequented routes with fewer other climbers. The sense of adventure is palpable and your connection to this magnificient landscape far deeper than if you’re surrounded by throngs of climbers. If you’re looking for adventure and exhileration of a mountain climb but at a gentler pace, Mount Meru or Ol Doinyo Lengai Volcano are perfect alternatives.
5. The Big-Five in Private Luxury
Singita properties offer the highest levels of luxury, set right in the heart of bush and Singita Serengeti House is no exception. With only four suites looked after by a full and attentive staff complement, you will have every need catered for.
The spacious suites are stylish and sophisticated, decorated in a pale colour palette and complemented by woods and natural materials. When you aren’t out exploring the exclusive 350,000 acre Grumeti private reserve, make use of the 25m infinity pool, clay tennis court, media room or indulge in the tented spa.
The spacious suites are stylish and sophisticated, decorated in a pale colour palette and complemented by woods and natural materials. When you aren’t out exploring the exclusive 350,000 acre Grumeti private reserve, make use of the 25m infinity pool, clay tennis court, media room or indulge in the tented spa.
6. The Remote South
Rugged and wild, southern Tanzania receives only a small number of visitors so you’ll feel as though this incredible wilderness is all yours. If you’re looking for a wild, untamed and isolated African adventure, then a fly in safari here will tick all your boxes.
Alongside an expert guide, find elusive leopard and herds of buffalo in Ruaha, home to more than 500 species of bird and 80 species of mammal. Hop in a canoe and explore the waterways of the Selous, stopping to watch hippo, crocodile and birdlife. Get close to nature on a walking safari in Katavi, where plains game and elephant gather and jostle for the opportunity to drink from the dwindling rivers and lagoons alongside enormous pods of hippopotamus.
Alongside an expert guide, find elusive leopard and herds of buffalo in Ruaha, home to more than 500 species of bird and 80 species of mammal. Hop in a canoe and explore the waterways of the Selous, stopping to watch hippo, crocodile and birdlife. Get close to nature on a walking safari in Katavi, where plains game and elephant gather and jostle for the opportunity to drink from the dwindling rivers and lagoons alongside enormous pods of hippopotamus.
7. On the plains of the cheetah
As well as being a beautifully stylish camp, Namiri Plains is also a conservation initiative. Prior to the camp’s refurbishment in 2019, the area was closed for 20 years to allow the ecosystem to develop and support big cats, in particular cheetah, giving feline enthusiasts one of the best chances to see this otherwise elusive animal.
Today the project here monitors and studies the local population as well as working towards conflict resolution. Spend an evening with the researchers, learning more about their work and efforts. Show them some of your snaps and they’ll be able to identify the cheetah you’ve photographed and share their stories with you.
Today the project here monitors and studies the local population as well as working towards conflict resolution. Spend an evening with the researchers, learning more about their work and efforts. Show them some of your snaps and they’ll be able to identify the cheetah you’ve photographed and share their stories with you.
8. Walking with Elephants
Picture yourself in a grove of baobab trees, a herd of elephants walking beside you; this is the Tarangire National Park. The park is home to one of the largest concentrations of elephants in Africa, herds of up to 300 animals gather right before your eyes, their huge ears flapping back and forth and their long trunks reaching into trees to grab branches to eat.
Fully grown adults protect tiny young calves that never stray too far from the safety of their mother’s legs. Alongside the elephant, other migratory animals frequent the area including zebra, antelope and predators. Head out on a bush walk, where you’ll be able to stop and enjoy the smaller residents too, identifying birdlife and even the termites and beetles.
Fully grown adults protect tiny young calves that never stray too far from the safety of their mother’s legs. Alongside the elephant, other migratory animals frequent the area including zebra, antelope and predators. Head out on a bush walk, where you’ll be able to stop and enjoy the smaller residents too, identifying birdlife and even the termites and beetles.
9. Zanzibar Dreaming
Sparkling blue ocean and powdery sands - Zanzibar is the epitome of a barefoot luxury beach destination and the perfect place to relax after your safari. While away the hours in a hammock, cooled by the ocean breeze, a refreshing cocktail in hand. There’s plenty to do if you’re still seeking adventure.
Snorkel in the clear waters amongst vibrant corals and colourful marine life, visit the aromatic spice markets, wander the streets of the historic capital, Stone Town. End the day with a dhow cruise as the sun sets, illuminating the sky in glorious oranges and reds.
Snorkel in the clear waters amongst vibrant corals and colourful marine life, visit the aromatic spice markets, wander the streets of the historic capital, Stone Town. End the day with a dhow cruise as the sun sets, illuminating the sky in glorious oranges and reds.
10. Tree Climbing Lions
It is said that lions are not tree-climbing animals; but somebody forgot to tell the lions of East Africa. Usually found sleeping under its leafy shade, to spot a lion - in particular a magnificent male - perched in a tree’s branches is a unique sight.
This natural phenomenon can only be spotted in two locations in Africa, one of which is Tanzania’s Lake Manyara National Park, an area is particularly notable for its birdlife; 400 species have been counted. Perhaps that is why the cats are in the trees.
This natural phenomenon can only be spotted in two locations in Africa, one of which is Tanzania’s Lake Manyara National Park, an area is particularly notable for its birdlife; 400 species have been counted. Perhaps that is why the cats are in the trees.
Best Places to Stay in Tanzania
Serengeti, Tanzania
Sayari Camp
A sumptuous champagne breakfast follows your morning hot air balloon ride. Sayari Camp is known for its intimacy, excellent food and unparalleled personal service. However, it is most famous for being right in the path of the wildebeest migration between the months of June and November.
Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania
Ngorongoro Crater Lodge
Perched on the rim of the crater with awe-inspiring views and surrounded by this tapestry of spectacular flora and fauna, Ngorongoro Crater Lodge offers you some of the most sumptuous accommodation in Africa. Everything at the lodge has been designed to invoke awe and delight the imagination.
Ruaha, Tanzania
Jabali Ridge
Jabali Ridge is a truly luxurious retreat in Tanzania’s stunning Ruaha National Park. Here you will be treated to an exceptional safari experience.
Mahale Mountains, Tanzania
Greystoke Mahale
This is a fairy-tale land, where forested mountains fall into a crystal clear lake that is as big as an ocean but without the salt!
Serengeti, Tanzania
Singita Faru Faru Lodge
Inspired by a botanical theme, Singita’s riverside Faru Faru lodge welcomes you to barefoot elegance in a laid-back rustic setting. Here you will find every comfort you desire where nature takes centrestage. The nearby Grumeti River is famous for its large numbers of crocodiles and hippo, the lodge offers amazing contrasts through the seasons.
For Families
Choosing the right country is the starting point in creating the perfect luxury safari for your family. On safari in Tanzania, you can expect exciting game viewing, a range of activities, privacy and the chance to engage with local cultures.Choosing the right country is the starting point in creating the perfect luxury safari for your family. On safari in Tanzania, you can expect exciting game viewing, a range of activities, privacy and the chance to engage with local cultures.
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Top 10 Family Activities in Tanzania
We highlight the top ten Tanzania family safari adventures.
Tanzania Trip Idea
Victoria Falls and Safari
Indulge in a luxurious Zambian getaway. Start with the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, then venture into the wilderness for an exclusive safari, encountering Zambia's diverse wildlife while unwinding in stunning accommodations, creating an unforgettable African adventure.
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Tanzania Family Safaris
The Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater are truly spectacular settings filled with great herds and big cats. We take you far from the crowds and minibuses with your own private guide, staying in exclusive accommodation. Families with older teenagers will love the wildly remote Selous, Ruaha and Mahale, where you can walk, canoe and even track chimpanzees. Round it off on exotic Zanzibar.
From The Team
Paul Hawley
Master Journeysmith
"The abundant wildlife here always amazes me. I’ve seen giraffes grazing alongside zebras, chimpanzees in their natural habitat, lions lazing about in the grass and the absolutely astounding wildebeest migration - a sight I will remember forever!"
Tanzania in Pictures
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Private Journeys Tailored to You
We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 30 years we have been crafting the finest tailor-made holidays to the world’s wild places. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you every time.We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 30 years we have been crafting the finest tailor-made holidays to the world’s wild places. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you every time.
Who are Journeysmiths?
An experienced team of well-travelled individuals, passionate about crafting journeys that are as exceptional as they are personal, while maximising our positive impact on the places in which we work.
Why Travel With Us?
While the evolution of travel and technology has seen much change at Journeysmiths over the years, our fundamental beliefs about the perfect holiday have not.
Positive Impact Mission
Journeysmiths mission is to inspire and expand peoples horizons through exceptional travel experiences, while preserving the natural world for future generations.
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Tanzania Family Safari
Create memories of a lifetime together on an epic family safari in Tanzania. Witness the endless, game-filled plains of the Serengeti, explore the natural wonder of the Ngorongoro Crater and experience the magnificent wildlife in Tarangire.
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Tanzania Family Safaris
The Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater are truly spectacular settings filled with great herds and big cats. We take you far from the crowds and minibuses with your own private guide, staying in exclusive accommodation. Families with older teenagers will love the wildly remote Selous, Ruaha and Mahale, where you can walk, canoe and even track chimpanzees. Round it off on exotic Zanzibar.
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Top 10 Tanzania Activities
We’ve collated a list of our ten favourite Tanzanian experiences to show you what’s possible in this incredible country.
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Top 10 Family Activities in Tanzania
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