You’re in for the adventure of a lifetime! Imagine waking up to the sound of birds, watching elephants walk past your jeep, or seeing lions resting under acacia trees. Tanzania is one of the best places in the world for wildlife safaris.
But if it’s your first time, it’s normal to have questions — What should I pack? When should I go? Is it safe?
Don’t worry — this blog has simple and helpful safari tips to make your trip smooth, fun, and unforgettable.
Tanzania is home to some of the most famous national parks and game reserves in Africa. It has rich wildlife, beautiful landscapes, and friendly people. Here are a few highlights:
Serengeti National Park – Known for the Great Migration and big cats like lions and cheetahs
Ngorongoro Crater – A natural wonder packed with animals in one small area
Tarangire National Park – Famous for elephants and ancient baobab trees
Lake Manyara – A scenic park known for flamingos and tree-climbing lions
Selous & Ruaha – Off-the-beaten-track gems for those seeking fewer crowds
Whether you're going solo, with family, or on a honeymoon, Tanzania has something for every kind of traveller.
Tanzania is a great safari destination year-round, but some months are better than others depending on what you want to see.
Best time for wildlife viewing:
June to October (Dry Season)
Animals gather around waterholes, so they’re easier to spot
Less rain, fewer mosquitoes
Perfect for visiting Serengeti, Tarangire, and Ngorongoro
Best time for the Great Migration:
December to July (varies by region)
Calving season: Jan–Feb in the southern Serengeti
River crossings: June–Aug in the northern Serengeti
Green season (low season):
March to May (Wet Season)
Lush landscapes, fewer tourists
Lower prices at lodges
Some roads may be muddy, but great for photography
Packing for a safari is not like packing for a city trip. Here’s what you really need:
Clothing:
Light, neutral-coloured clothes (green, khaki, brown – not white or bright colours)
Long sleeves and trousers for evening (keeps bugs away)
A warm jacket – mornings and nights can be cold
Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
Comfortable walking shoes or sandals
Essentials:
Binoculars – for spotting animals far away
Camera with extra batteries/memory card
Reusable water bottle
Small backpack
Insect repellent (with DEET)
Tip: Most lodges offer laundry service, so don’t overpack!
Tanzania offers different safari styles. Pick the one that suits your budget and comfort.
Group Safari:
More affordable
You share a vehicle with other travellers
Great for meeting new people
Private Safari:
More flexible
You have your own guide and vehicle
Perfect for families or couples
Fly-in Safari:
You take small planes between parks
Saves time, but costs more
Self-Drive:
You rent and drive your own car
Best if you're confident and experienced with African roads
Your safari guide is your best friend on this trip. They know where to go, how to track animals, and how to keep you safe.
Always follow their instructions
Ask questions — they love to share stories and knowledge
Stay inside the vehicle unless told it’s safe to get out
Keep noise low during game drives
Fun Fact: Guides can even recognise individual lions and elephants by face or markings!
Seeing animals in the wild is exciting — but always remember that you are in their home.
Don’t shout, throw things, or try to get too close
Never feed wild animals
Stay on the roads and follow park rules
Avoid using flash photography
Reminder: A good safari is not about chasing animals but watching them peacefully and responsibly.
Tanzania is safe for tourists, especially in the parks. But it’s always smart to be prepared:
Vaccinations: Get advice from your doctor before your trip
Malaria: Take malaria pills and use mosquito nets
Water: Drink bottled or filtered water
Travel insurance: Always a good idea for unexpected issues
Also, don’t forget basic manners:
Tip your guide if you’re happy with their service
Support local communities by buying local crafts or using local services
You may not see the “Big Five” all in one day. That’s okay! Part of the safari experience is being patient and enjoying nature at its pace.
Some days are full of action, others are quiet
Enjoy the little things: birds, sunsets, animal tracks, and the open sky
Every safari is different — that’s what makes it special!
While watching animals is the main attraction, there are other amazing experiences to add:
Hot air balloon safari – Fly over the Serengeti at sunrise
Walking safari – Guided nature walks in safer areas
Cultural visits – Meet the Maasai or Hadzabe tribes
Night drives – Spot nocturnal animals like bush babies or leopards
These extras help you connect even more with the land and its people.
Photos are great, but don’t spend your whole trip behind a lens. Put your camera down sometimes and take in the moment with your eyes and heart.
Watch how elephants move as a family
Listen to the sound of lions roaring in the distance
Smell the fresh air after the rains
Safari is not just about what you see — it’s about how it makes you feel.
A first-time safari in Tanzania is a dream come true.
You’ll leave with amazing memories, incredible photos, and a new love for nature.
With the right planning, a respectful attitude, and a sense of adventure, your Tanzanian safari will be more than just a holiday — it will be a life-changing experience.
So, pack your bags, grab your binoculars, and get ready for the wild journey of a lifetime!
