Tanzania is one of the best places in the world for a safari. It has big national parks, lots of wild animals, and beautiful landscapes. If you’re asking, “Where is the best place for safari in Tanzania?”—this guide is just for you.
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We’ll help you explore the top safari parks, the best time to visit, what to pack, and how to make your dream safari come true.
In this post, you'll find...
ToggleBest Safari Places in Tanzania
1. Serengeti National Park
Serengeti is the most famous safari park in Tanzania. It is known all over the world for the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeests and zebras move across the plains in search of food and water.
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You can see lions, elephants, leopards, cheetahs, giraffes, and more.
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The open grasslands make it easy to spot animals.
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Hot air balloon safaris are also available here.
This park is perfect if you want to see many animals and the Big Five in one place.
2. Ngorongoro Crater
Ngorongoro Crater is a huge, round, green valley that was once a volcano. Now it’s a safe home for many animals, including rare black rhinos.
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Great place to see wildlife in a small area.
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The crater has lakes, forests, and open plains.
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You can even spot lions, buffaloes, hippos, and hyenas here.
It’s like seeing a mini version of all Tanzania’s wildlife in one place.
3. Tarangire National Park
Tarangire is a hidden gem in northern Tanzania. It is famous for its big elephant families and old, giant baobab trees.
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Best to visit in the dry season (June–October).
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Elephants gather near the Tarangire River to drink water.
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The park is also good for bird lovers.

It is quiet and less crowded, which gives you a peaceful safari feeling.
4. Lake Manyara National Park
This park is small but full of surprises. You can find tree-climbing lions here! That’s right—lions that climb trees and rest on branches.
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See hippos, flamingos, monkeys, and elephants.
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The lake area is beautiful, especially for photography.
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Great park to visit on your way to Serengeti or Ngorongoro.
Lake Manyara is perfect if you want a short but exciting safari.
5. Ruaha National Park
Ruaha is the biggest national park in Tanzania but one of the least visited. That means fewer crowds and more wild adventure.
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Home to many lions, leopards, and cheetahs.
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Big elephant and buffalo herds.
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Wild and untouched nature, great for true explorers.
If you want a wild and quiet safari, Ruaha is a perfect choice.
6. Nyerere National Park (formerly Selous Game Reserve)
Nyerere is one of the largest wildlife areas in Africa. It has rivers, forests, and open plains. You can enjoy a boat safari along the Rufiji River to see hippos and crocodiles.
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Great for walking safaris and boat trips.
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Fewer tourists—very peaceful.
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Home to elephants, wild dogs, lions, and more.
This park offers a different safari experience from the others.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Tanzania for Safari?
Tanzania has two main seasons: dry and wet.
Dry Season (June to October)
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Best for wildlife viewing.
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Animals gather around water sources.
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Roads are dry and easy to drive on.
Wet Season (November to May)
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The land becomes green and beautiful.
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Baby animals are born.
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Fewer tourists, so it’s quiet.
Tip: If you want to see the Great Migration, visit Serengeti between June and August or during the river crossings in September.

Which Park Should You Choose?
Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the right safari destination:
Park | Best For | Special Features |
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Serengeti | Big Five, Great Migration | Hot air balloon safaris |
Ngorongoro Crater | Dense wildlife in a small area | UNESCO World Heritage Site |
Tarangire | Elephants, bird watching | Baobab trees, fewer crowds |
Lake Manyara | Tree-climbing lions, flamingos | Close to Arusha |
Ruaha | Remote and wild safari | Fewer tourists, big predator sightings |
Nyerere (Selous) | Boat and walking safaris | Rufiji River, wild dogs |
What Animals Can You See?
Tanzania is home to many animals. Depending on the park and season, you can see:
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Lions
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Leopards
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Elephants
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Rhinos
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Buffaloes
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Zebras
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Giraffes
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Wildebeests
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Hippos
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Cheetahs
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Crocodiles
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Flamingos
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Hyenas
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Monkeys
The Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo) are all found in Tanzania.
What to Pack for Your Safari
Here’s a simple list of what to pack for your safari in Tanzania:
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Light clothes in neutral colors (like beige, green)
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Hat and sunglasses
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Sunscreen and insect repellent
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Comfortable walking shoes
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Binoculars
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Camera or phone with a good lens
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Water bottle
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Travel documents (passport, visa, travel insurance)
Remember, mornings and evenings can be cold, so pack a jacket too.
Why Tanzania Is the Best Safari Destination in Africa
Tanzania is special because:
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It has the largest wildlife areas in Africa.
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It is home to the Great Migration.
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You can visit many parks in one trip.
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People are friendly and welcoming.
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You can combine your safari with a beach holiday in Zanzibar.
Combine Safari and Beach Holiday in Tanzania
After your adventure in the wild, relax on the white-sand beaches of Zanzibar.
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Fly from Serengeti or Arusha to Zanzibar.
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Enjoy clear blue water, snorkeling, and seafood.
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Visit Stone Town and spice farms.
It’s the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation.
Plan Your Safari with Sursee Safari Tours
Planning a safari can be hard—but we make it easy for you.
At Sursee Safari Tours, we help you choose the best parks, book lodges, and guide you through your adventure. Whether you want a short safari or a full Tanzania trip, we can plan everything for you.
Plan your dream safari with Sursee Safari Tours today!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. Where is the best safari park in Tanzania?
Serengeti National Park is the most famous and offers the best safari experience with the Great Migration and Big Five.
2. Can I see the Big Five in Tanzania?
Yes! Tanzania is one of the few places where you can see all the Big Five in one trip.
3. When is the best time to visit for safari?
June to October is the best time for game viewing. For green landscapes and fewer tourists, visit from November to May.
4. How many days do I need for a safari?
A good safari can be 4 to 7 days. If you want to explore multiple parks, you may need 10 to 14 days.
5. Can I mix safari with a beach holiday?
Yes! Many travelers go on safari in northern Tanzania and then relax in Zanzibar.