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Tanzania is the quintessential safari destination. The Serengeti Plains are the centre stage for the greatest wildlife show on earth, the Great Migration. The Ngorongoro Crater is 600 meters deep and 260 square kilometers in size. Ground zero to an immense eruption three million years ago, it sits alongside the world's tallest free-standing mountain, the snow-covered peak of Kilimanjaro. These are monuments to an ongoing tectonic drama dating back millennia.
The raw spectacle and scale of the place hooks you on a visceral level. Impossibly wide and teeming vistas that will make your eyes ache. The huge elephant herds of the Selous, Ruaha and Tarangine reserves. The tree-climbing lions and flamingos of Lake Manyara. The sound of thousands of wildebeest thundering across the savanna, compelled by forces and following routes some scientists now believe to be imprinted in their DNA. Every year it is estimated, two million of these animals move as one, northwards across the border into Kenya and the Masai Mara.
Tanzania shows you something ancient and basic that you will not fully process until long after you depart.
Tanzania and Kenya combine spectacular African safaris and beach vacations with history and culture. The Great Rift Valley scenery is simply spectacular. From December to March there are short rains and the heat is sultry. From March to May there are long rains and from May to September the Southeast Trade Wind brings cool air and heralds the start of the dry season.
Head north for the best safari experiences in the country’s most beautiful national parks and private concessions; the region around Arusha on the foothills of Mount Meru and in the shadow of Mount Kilimanjaro is still relatively unexplored and has an abundance of diverse landscapes to offer.
The northern safari circuit comprises the famous destinations of the Serengeti, the Nogorongoro crater, Lake Manyara and Tarangire. There is plenty of luxury safari accommodation in the region from tented camps to sophisticated game lodges.To the south you will find the Selous Game Reserve, the largest in Africa. Other popular destinations include Lake Malawi and Lake Tanganyika to the west offering great water-based activities and striking beaches, and Lake Victoria forming the northern border with Kenya and Uganda.
For an intense dip into the culture of Tanzania spend a night or two in Dar es Salaam. Facing the Indian Ocean, the busy harbour is well worth a visit and the local markets are vibrant and a great place to stock up on textiles and local arts and crafts. Dar es Salaam provides easy access to the exotic islands of the Zanzibar archipelago. The main island is steeped in history as a trading port for Arabian merchants. Wander the narrow cobbled streets of Stone Town and take in the moorish architecture of what was once a flourishing center of the spice trade. The Zanzibari capital is a fascinating fusion of African, Arabian, Asian and European influences, with grand stone houses dating back to the early 19th century, when it was under the control of the Sultanate of Oman.
Beautiful white sand beaches, warm water and a sultry island atmosphere await you at this heavenly destination. Take your pick of luxury accommodation and explore the attractions of this island ranging from heritage destinations to some of the best snorkeling and diving spots in the world.
There are two international airports in Tanzania. Dar-es-Salaam International Airport (DAR) is the main airport and the best to access Tanzania’s coast, Zanzibar and the southern safari circuit. Guests traveling to the Northern Safari Circuit should fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) in Arusha. From here you will then transfer (approx. 45 minutes) to the regional Arusha Airport for scheduled charter flights into the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara. Depending on your flight arrival time, an overnight in Arusha may be necessary.
Although it is possible to drive between some of the reserves it is often long and uncomfortable. We suggest making use of short lodge-hopper flights where possible to maximise your time on safari. Contact us at Southern Africa Travel today for a tailor-made itinerary in Tanzania that suits your interests and needs.
Set in the northern part of Tanzania, the town of Arusha is set on the foothills of Mount Meru and is the starting off point for any journey to the northern safari circuit including the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater and Lake Manyara.
Dar es Salaam is generally a stopover en-route to the region’s more popular destinations such as Zanzibar, Pemba and the southern safari circuits. This vibrant city is the economic and cultural heart of Tanzania and is well worth a visit if time permits.
Tanzania's Northern Safari Circuit contains some of the most famous sights in the world - The Serengeti Plains, Mount Kilimanjaro and the Ngorongoro Crater and the Wildebeest Migration, also known as ‘The Greatest Show on Earth’.
The archipelago of Zanzibar, made up of the main island of Unguja, its sister island Pemba and several islets with exotic names such as Mafia Island and Mnemba, is an enchanting paradise just waiting for your arrival. Set just off the Tanzanian coastline; beautiful sandy beaches, luxury accommodation, a rich and vibrant culture and some of the best diving spots in the world are at your disposal.
10 Nights | 11 Days
Discover the natural beauty and sheer diversity of wildlife in East Africa on this luxury safari adventure. Starting in Nairobi and moving to Lake Elmenteita, the famous Masai Mara and the great Serengeti before ending your journey at the world-famous Ngorongoro Crater, this luxury safari adventure is a once in a lifetime experience.
Amazing ... Your itinerary exceeded all expectations— Annie and Ryan, Cape Town