The Serengeti tops most Tanzanian safari itineraries. As the second largest of Tanzania’s National Parks, this protected ecosystem sprawls across 10,000 square miles that are incredibly rich in wildlife. Herds of elephants, antelopes, giraffes, buffalo, zebra and wildebeest, along with predators like lions, cheetahs, leopards and hyenas roam freely. Exceptional safari opportunities exist in the private reserves adjacent to Serengeti National Park as well, many of which are the exclusive domain of the camps you stay in.
In addition to exploring classic destinations like Ngorongoro Crater and Tarangire, which are famed for elephants and baobabs, Tanzania offers many cultural opportunities as well. You can learn about the local Maasai Tribes while immersing in some of the most stunning scenery on the continent.
For the perfect finale to your safari adventure, add a few days to relax on the beaches of Zanzibar, or visit Rwanda or Uganda for a once in a lifetime experience with Mountain Gorillas, I opted to spend a day with Mountain Gorillas. On top of being in awe from being in such close proximity to these majestic creatures who share 98% of the same DNA as humans, Rwandas beautiful natural landscape and hospitality of their people blew me away. Below are some of my favorite photos from this.
Below is a summary of key tips and things to know when visiting Tanzania. I chose Shadows of Africa Tour Company for this trip and I highly recommend them. They made sure I was adequately prepared for this trip before leaving the US and even accommodated my request to visit a local orphanage and hand deliver donations, which you can read more about in a later post enjoy!
Languages Spoken: Bantu Swahill language and English
Currency: Tanzania Shilling
Credit Cards and Banks: ATMs and banks are available for use in larger cities. Credit cards are accepted in larger businesses, however I suggest always carrying cash as the machines are not always reliable.
Climate: Tanzania has two rainy seasons: A short rainy season from October through December, then a longer one from March to June. The months between June and October are considered the best months to travel. However, I went mid-February and was able to beat the crowds and book cheaper tours!
Type of Tours and Estimated Cost:
- Basic: $2,000-$3,000
- Budget: $3,000-$5,000
- Luxury: $6,000-and up
* Trip estimations are based on 8-12 day all inclusive packages
Tips:
- Bring a brimmed hat with a chinstrap to keep your eyes protected from the sun without having to wear sunglasses so you can spy for animals and keep it from blowing away while driving around in the range rover.
- You will be sitting A LOT- compression hose if you have circulation problems.
- Tan or safari appropriate colored clothing, tsetse flies are attracted to bright colors and black.
- Bring your own binoculars or make sure the vehicle you’re taking is equipped with ones that actually work!
- As a nice gesture-eye drops and sun glasses for your guide-make sure you pack and extra pair for yourself, because there won’t be any other place to purchase a new pair if you lose them.
- Tips for guides range from $10-$15 USD per day.
