Planning a safari in Tanzania? You’re in luck. This country is one of the best places in the world to see wild animals doing their thing. Here’s a simple guide to seven of the best safari parks in Tanzania, plus when to go and what makes each one special.
1. Serengeti National Park
Best for: The Great Migration and classic safari scenes
Serengeti is Tanzania’s most famous park—and for good reason. It’s massive, filled with open plains, and home to some of the most iconic wildlife moments in Africa.
Every year, more than a million wildebeest and thousands of zebras and gazelles cross the park during the Great Migration. They travel in huge groups, and yes, the predators follow. It’s one of those things you have to see to believe.
If you visit between July and October, you’ll have a good chance of catching a river crossing. If you’re not into crowds, you can visit during quieter months too—there’s always wildlife around. Lions, elephants, giraffes, leopards… the gang’s all here.
You can even take a hot air balloon ride over the plains for a bird’s-eye view.
2. Ngorongoro Crater
Best for: Spotting the Big Five in a single day
The Ngorongoro Crater is basically nature’s version of a giant bowl full of animals. It’s the largest unbroken volcanic caldera in the world, and its grassy floor and year-round water supply make it a perfect hangout spot for wildlife.
You’ll likely see lions, elephants, zebras, hyenas, and buffalo. With a bit of luck, you might also spot a black rhino—one of the harder animals to see elsewhere.
Because it’s a smaller area compared to parks like the Serengeti, animals are easier to find. It’s also very scenic, with views from the crater rim that go on for miles.
3. Lake Manyara National Park
Best for: Tree-climbing lions and birdlife
Lake Manyara is one of those smaller parks that still delivers big surprises. It’s known for its tree-climbing lions (yes, you read that right), huge baboon troops, and pink flamingos covering the lake like a soft carpet.
It’s also a pretty quick stop if you’re doing the popular “northern circuit” route, so you don’t need to dedicate a ton of time here to make it worth it.
4. Tarangire National Park
Best for: Elephant herds and fewer crowds
Tarangire is often overlooked by travelers rushing to the Serengeti, which is exactly why it’s worth visiting. During the dry season (June to November), animals flock to the Tarangire River, making it one of the best places to see big herds of elephants in one spot.
You’ll also find giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and all kinds of antelope. Some rare species live here too, like the fringe-eared oryx and the greater kudu.
The landscape is dotted with giant baobab trees and rolling hills, giving it a unique look compared to the flat Serengeti plains. It’s quieter too, so you get a bit more breathing room to enjoy the views and wildlife.
5. Ruaha National Park
Best for: A remote, off-the-beaten-path experience
Ruaha is Tanzania’s largest national park, but it doesn’t get nearly as many visitors as the northern parks. That makes it ideal if you’re after a real wilderness feel. You won’t see as many vehicles here, and when you do spot wildlife, it often feels like you’ve got the whole park to yourself.
Ruaha is known for elephants—lots of them. It’s also home to lions, leopards, cheetahs, and plenty of bird species (over 570!). You’ll see everything from wide savannahs to hills and rivers, so the scenery changes a lot as you drive.
If you’re up for a longer adventure, Ruaha is well worth the extra travel time.
6. Mahale Mountains National Park
Best for: Chimpanzee trekking and jungle vibes
This park is way out in western Tanzania, on the shores of Lake Tanganyika. It’s not the easiest place to reach, but that’s part of the appeal. To get there, you’ll probably need to fly and then take a boat—but what you’ll find is totally different from the savannahs.
Mahale is all about forest-covered mountains and crystal-clear lake water. The big draw? Chimpanzees. The park has one of the largest populations of wild eastern chimps, and you can trek through the forest with a guide to see them up close.
There’s something amazing about watching chimps interact in the wild. They’re expressive, curious, and surprisingly loud. It’s one of the most unique wildlife experiences you can have in Africa.
7. Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve)
Best for: Boat safaris and remote Big Five sightings
Nyerere is the biggest national park in East Africa. It has rivers, lakes, swamps, woodlands—basically every kind of habitat you can think of. Because of its size, the animals are more spread out, but the upside is fewer crowds and a more peaceful experience.
You can go on walking safaris and boat safaris along the Rufiji River. Seeing hippos and crocodiles from the water adds a whole new perspective to your trip.
The park is home to the Big Five, plus wild dogs, giraffes, elands, and all sorts of birds. If you like exploring less-visited spots with just as much adventure, this one’s a great pick.
When’s the Best Time to Go on Safari in Tanzania?
Generally, the dry season—June through October—is the best bet. Animals come out to hang around water sources, and it’s easier to spot them through the sparse, dry vegetation. Plus, it’s great weather for hiking or heading to the beach after your safari.
Just keep in mind, this is also the busy season, so prices go up and parks get a little more crowded.
If you’re looking to avoid the crowds and don’t mind a bit of rain, January to March can be a great alternative. It’s calving season in the Serengeti, so you might see newborn wildebeest and a bit more predator action. April and May are usually a no-go because of heavy rain—many lodges shut down, and the roads can get tricky.
Final Thoughts
Tanzania has a safari for every kind of traveler. Whether you’re chasing lions across the Serengeti, kayaking past chimps in Mahale, or just enjoying a peaceful elephant sighting in Tarangire, there’s no wrong choice.
Just remember to pack binoculars, be patient, and maybe skip the all-white outfit unless you’re going for the dusty explorer look.
