Big Five Safari in Tanzania

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Springlands Hotel

Highview Hotel

Serengeti Safari Lodge

The Big 5 is a term used to describe the five most iconic and sought-after game animals in Africa: the African lion, African elephant, African leopard, Cape buffalo, and black rhinoceros. These animals have a significant cultural significance in Africa and have been the subject of many myths, legends, and traditional beliefs. Going on a big five safari in Tanzania is a way to connect with this rich cultural heritage. Visiting Lake Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park in Tanzania means you can check off the Big five from your bucket list. Each park has its unique collection of animals, so you’ll have the chance to see a vast range of wildlife in a relatively small area.

• This is our best-selling travel plan, and for a good reason. The accommodation is comfortable, charming, and great value for money.
• The main parks are all on this travel plan: Lake Manyara, Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire National Park.
• Safari guides who speak English know the ins and outs of the parks and education in conservation and the animals. This will give your safari experience depth.

On our Big Five safari in Tanzania you’ll get to visit some of the most popular safari destinations. The Serengeti is an extraordinary ecosystem in Tanzania, Africa, home to some of the world’s most spectacular wildlife migrations. The Serengeti is known for its annual wildebeest migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles move across the grassy plains to find fresh grazing and water. This is one of the largest mammal migrations on earth and is a unique spectacle. Tarangire National Park is a beautiful and unique destination located in northern Tanzania. Tarangire National Park is home to one of the largest elephant populations in Tanzania. It is part of the Tarangire-Manyara ecosystem, including Lake Manyara National Park and surrounding wildlife management areas. Together, these areas form an important wildlife corridor and are critical for the survival of many animal species. The park has more than 3,000 elephants, but this area is also home to various other animals, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, zebras, giraffes, and buffalo. The Ngorongoro Conservation Area was established in 1959 as multiple land-use areas where wildlife coexists with the Maasai people who have lived there for centuries. Interestingly, this conservation area is also an important birding destination, with over 500 species of birds recorded in the area, including flamingos, eagles, vultures, and ostriches. The Ngorongoro is also home to Olduvai Gorge, considered one of the most important archaeological sites in the world. It is where the Leakey family discovered some of the earliest known human fossils, dating back over two million years. Lake Manyara National Park is also known for its tree-climbing lions. These lions have developed a unique behavior where they climb the trees in the park to escape the sweltering heat and avoid pesky insects. Additionally, Lake Manyara is surrounded by diverse habitats, including dense forests, grassy plains, and swamps. This variety of ecosystems supports a wide range of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, buffalos, zebras, and many other species.

We’re convinced that our tailored Big Five safari in Tanzania will be an experience you’ll never forget!

What documents do I need to travel to Tanzania?

A visa is required when traveling to Tanzania. Currently, this can be obtained online,  on arrival at airports and border crossings, and is valid for 90 days. A valid passport is mandatory. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Tanzania.

Do lodges and camps have mosquito nets?

We carefully select the accommodation on safari so that you are comfortable and relaxed and can experience a one-of-a-kind atmosphere during your safari. All rooms/tents during your safari are fitted with mosquito nets or are insect-proofed to protect you against bites. You are also advised to use insect repellent to further protect yourself, especially outdoors in the evenings.

Is Tanzania safe to travel to?

Tanzania is generally considered a safe destination for safari-goers. Visitors should follow the safety guidelines provided and take necessary precautions, such as avoiding walking alone at night or leaving valuables unattended.

When does the wildebeest migration take place?

The wildebeest migration takes place in Tanzania typically between the months of November to August, although the timing can vary slightly depending on the weather patterns each year. The migration is a continuous movement of around 1.5 million wildebeest and large numbers of zebras and gazelles across the Serengeti plains in Tanzania in search of fresh grazing land and water. In November and December, the herds of wildebeest can be found in the northern Serengeti near the Kenyan border, where they start calving. As the rains stop and the dry season sets in, the herds begin to move south in search of water and fresh grazing. By April and May, the herds are usually in the central Serengeti. By June, the wildebeest and other herbivores gather at the Grumeti River, where they must cross to continue their journey south. By July, the herds are usually in the eastern Serengeti; by August, they move into the northern region of the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.

Is it safe to drink water in Tanzania?

Drinking tap water in Tanzania is generally unsafe, as it may contain harmful bacteria and parasites that can cause illnesses such as typhoid, cholera, and hepatitis A. Drinking only bottled or filtered water is important to avoid getting sick. You can buy bottled water at most shops, hotels, and restaurants in Tanzania. When traveling in Tanzania, it’s also important to avoid drinking water from sources such as lakes, rivers, and streams, which may also contain harmful bacteria and parasites. Instead, use bottled or filtered water to brush your teeth and rinse your mouth after brushing. Additionally, avoiding ice in drinks and peeling fruits and vegetables before eating them is a good idea to reduce the risk of ingesting contaminated water.

What are the best national parks to visit in Tanzania for a safari?

Tanzania is home to many national parks, but the most popular ones for safaris are Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Crater, Tarangire National Park, and Lake Manyara National Park.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on a Tanzania safari?

Tanzania is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, buffalo, leopards, cheetahs, and many species of birds.

What is the best time of year to go on a Tanzania safari?

The best time to go on a Tanzania safari depends on your preferences. The dry season from June to October is the best time for game viewing, but it can be crowded and more expensive. The wet season from November to May offers lush landscapes, fewer crowds, and lower prices, but some parks may be closed due to flooding.

What kind of transportation will be used during my safari?

Our safaris are in 4×4 vehicles, which are ideal for navigating the rugged terrain of the national parks. Some safaris may also include flights to remote areas or walking safaris.

What should I wear on my safari?

It’s important to dress in layers and pack versatile, easy-to-wash, and dry clothing. Don’t forget also to bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a small backpack to carry your essentials while on safari. Choose comfortable, practical, and appropriate clothing for the weather conditions. Lightweight, breathable clothing such as cotton or linen shirts, pants, and shorts. Long-sleeved shirts and pants can also help protect you from the sun, insects, and thorny bushes. Neutral-colored clothing such as khaki, beige, or olive green. Avoid bright colors or patterns, as they can scare off wildlife or attract insects. Closed-toe shoes such as sneakers or hiking boots for walking safaris or nature walks. Sandals or flip-flops can be worn around camp but may not provide enough protection for outdoor activities. A hat or cap to protect your head and face from the sun. Sunglasses protect your eyes from the bright sunlight. A light jacket or sweater for cooler mornings and evenings. Swimwear if you plan to visit a lodge or camp with a swimming pool. A rain jacket or poncho if you’re traveling during the rainy season.