Monthly Archives - March 2023

Top 10 Parks & Game Reserves in Tanzania (Including Where to Stay)

parks & game reserves

Top 10 Parks

& Game Reserves in Tanzania
(Including Where to Stay)

1. tanzania game

reserves and national parks

Tanzania is a country blessed with a vast number of game reserves and national parks. This East African country is home to some of the most diverse and spectacular wildlife habitats on the continent, ranging from the iconic Serengeti National Park to the remote and rugged Selous Game Reserve. In this article, we’ll be exploring the top 10 parks and game reserves in Tanzania, as well as providing some recommendations for where to stay.

Tanzania is home to an incredible variety of wildlife and natural wonders, making it one of the best destinations in Africa for a safari adventure. With so many game reserves and national parks to choose from, it can be difficult to know where to start. In this article, we’ll be exploring the top 10 parks and game reserves in Tanzania, as well as some recommendations for where to stay.

2. Serengeti

National Park

The Serengeti National Park is arguably Tanzania’s most famous wildlife reserve, and for good reason. This vast wilderness area is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including the famous Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino). The Serengeti is perhaps best known for the annual wildebeest migration, when millions of wildebeest, zebras, and other herbivores travel across the park in search of fresh grazing.

If you’re planning a visit to the Serengeti, there are a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from luxury lodges to basic camping sites. Some of the top lodges include Singita Sasakwa Lodge, Four Seasons Safari Lodge, and Serengeti Bushtops.

3. Ngorongoro

Conservation Area

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is another must-visit destination for wildlife enthusiasts. This unique protected area is home to the Ngorongoro Crater, a massive volcanic caldera that is teeming with wildlife. Visitors can expect to see large herds of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles, as well as predators like lions, hyenas, and cheetahs.

Accommodation options in the Ngorongoro Conservation Area include lodges and tented camps, with some of the top options including Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, Lemala Ngorongoro, and The Manor at Ngorongoro.

4. Tarangire

National Park

Tarangire National Park is often overlooked in favor of the more famous Serengeti and Ngorongoro, but it’s a fantastic destination in its own right. This park is famous for its large herds of elephants, as well as a range of other wildlife like lions, leopards, and giraffes.

Some of the top accommodation options in Tarangire National Park include Oliver’s Camp, Tarangire Treetops, and Swala Camp.

top 10

5. Selous

Game Reserve

safari park

HM SAFARIS

We don’t simply book a trip; also help you realize your travel dreams.

The Selous Game Reserve is one of Tanzania’s largest protected areas, covering more than 50,000 square kilometers. This vast wilderness is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, and hippos. Visitors to the Selous can cruise down the Rufiji River and explore the park by foot, making it a unique and adventurous safari experience.

There are a range of accommodation options in the Selous Game Reserve, from luxury lodges to budget-friendly campsites. Some of the top lodges include Sand Rivers Selous, Siwandu, and Selous Safari Camp.

6. Ruaha

National Park

Ruaha National Park is another hidden gem in Tanzania’s wildlife scene. This park is known for its rugged landscapes and diverse wildlife, including large populations of elephants, lions, and leopards. Visitors can explore the park on game drives or by foot, and can also visit nearby villages to learn about the local cultures.

Accommodation options in Ruaha National Park range from budget-friendly campsites to luxury lodges. Some of the top lodges include Jabali Ridge, Ruaha River Lodge, and Kwihala Camp.

7. Katavi

National Park

Katavi National Park is one of Tanzania’s most remote and untouched wilderness areas, making it a fantastic destination for adventurous travelers. This park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, hippos, and crocodiles. Visitors can explore the park on game drives, walks, or by boat on the Katuma River.

Accommodation options in Katavi National Park are limited, but there are a few options available. Some of the top choices include Chada Katavi, Katuma Bush Lodge, and Mbali Mbali Katavi.

8. Mahale

Mountains National Park

Mahale Mountains National Park is a unique destination in Tanzania, as it’s home to one of the world’s largest populations of wild chimpanzees. Visitors can trek into the mountains to observe these fascinating primates, as well as enjoy the park’s beautiful scenery and other wildlife like forest elephants and baboons.

Accommodation options in Mahale Mountains National Park are limited, but there are a few lodges and campsites available. Some of the top options include Greystoke Mahale, Kungwe Beach Lodge, and Ndovu Camp.

9. Lake

Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park is a smaller park compared to some of Tanzania’s other wildlife reserves, but it’s still a fantastic destination for wildlife enthusiasts. The park is known for its large population of baboons, as well as other wildlife like elephants, giraffes, and lions. Visitors can also enjoy birdwatching, as the park is home to over 400 species of birds.

Accommodation options in Lake Manyara National Park range from budget-friendly campsites to luxury lodges. Some of the top choices include Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge, Lake Manyara Kilimamoja Lodge, and Migunga Forest Camp.

10. Arusha

National Park

Arusha National Park is a small but beautiful park located close to Tanzania’s northern city of Arusha. The park is known for its diverse landscapes, which range from forested slopes to open savannah. Visitors can expect to see a range of wildlife, including buffaloes, zebras, and giraffes.

Accommodation options in Arusha National Park are limited, but there are a few lodges and campsites available. Some of the top choices include The African Tulip, Kigongoni Lodge, and Mount Meru Game Lodge.

Where to Stay

When visiting Tanzania’s national parks and game reserves, there are a range of accommodation options available to suit all budgets and preferences. From luxury lodges to budget-friendly campsites, there’s something for everyone.

Some of the top accommodation options in Tanzania’s national parks and game reserves include :

  • Singita Sasakwa Lodge (Serengeti National Park
  • Four Seasons Safari Lodge Serengeti (Serengeti National Park)
  • Lemala Kuria Hills Lodge (Serengeti National Park)
  • The Highlands Ngorongoro (Ngorongoro Conservation Area)
  • Asanja Africa Luxury Tented Camps (Ngorongoro Conservation Area)
  • Sayari Camp (Serengeti National Park)
  • Sand Rivers Selous (Selous Game Reserve)
  • Jabali Ridge (Ruaha National Park)
  • Chada Katavi (Katavi National Park)
  • Greystoke Mahale (Mahale Mountains National Park)
  • Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge (Lake Manyara National Park)
  • The African Tulip (Arusha National Park)

Conclusion

Tanzania is home to some of the world’s most spectacular national parks and game reserves, offering visitors the chance to experience incredible wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. From the famous Serengeti National Park to lesser-known destinations like Katavi National Park and Mahale Mountains National Park, there’s something for every type of traveler.

Read more...

10 Best Tanzania Wildlife Safaris in 2023

Wildlife Safaris

10 Best Tanzania

Wildlife Safaris in 2023

If you are looking for the ultimate wildlife adventure, then Tanzania should be on top of your list. Tanzania is home to some of the most renowned national parks and wildlife reserves in the world, offering visitors an opportunity to see a diverse range of animals in their natural habitat. From the Serengeti National Park to the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania is a wildlife lover’s paradise.

1. Serengeti

National Park

The Serengeti National Park is undoubtedly the most famous wildlife reserve in Tanzania. The park is home to the Great Migration, where over a million wildebeest and zebras cross the plains of the Serengeti in search of greener pastures. The Serengeti National Park is also home to the Big Five – lions, elephants, buffalos, leopards, and rhinoceros. Visitors can enjoy game drives, hot air balloon safaris, and walking safaris.

2. Ngorongoro

Conservation Area

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera. The area is home to a vast array of wildlife, including lions, elephants, buffalos, and black rhinos. Visitors can enjoy game drives, walking safaris, and cultural tours to the nearby Maasai village.

3. Tarangire

National Park

The Tarangire National Park is located in northern Tanzania and is known for its large population of elephants. The park is also home to lions, leopards, cheetahs, and a vast array of bird species. Visitors can enjoy game drives, walking safaris, and hot air balloon safaris.

tanzania

4. Lake

Manyara National Park

safari park

HM SAFARIS

We don’t simply book a trip; also help you realize your travel dreams.

The Lake Manyara National Park is located at the foot of the Great Rift Valley and is known for its tree-climbing lions. The park is also home to elephants, buffalos, zebras, and giraffes. Visitors can enjoy game drives and walking safaris.

5. Selous

Game Reserve

The Selous Game Reserve is the largest game reserve in Africa and is located in southern Tanzania. The reserve is home to over 100,000 elephants, 120,000 buffalos, and a vast array of bird species. Visitors can enjoy game drives, walking safaris, and boat safaris.

6. Ruaha

National Park

The Ruaha National Park is located in central Tanzania and is known for its large population of elephants and buffalos. The park is also home to lions, leopards, cheetahs, and wild dogs. Visitors can enjoy game drives, walking safaris, and cultural tours to the nearby villages.

7. Katavi

National Park

The Katavi National Park is located in western Tanzania and is known for its large population of hippos and crocodiles. The park is also home to lions, leopards, buffalos, and elephants. Visitors can enjoy game drives, walking safaris, and fly camping.

8. Mahale

Mountains National Park

The Mahale Mountains National Park is located in western Tanzania and is home to the largest population of chimpanzees in Africa. Visitors can enjoy chimpanzee trekking, hiking, and swimming in Lake Tanganyika.

9. Gombe

Stream National Park

The Gombe Stream National Park is located in western Tanzania and is home to the famous primatologist Jane Goodall’s research center. Visitors can enjoy chimpanzee trekking, hiking, and swimming in Lake Tang.

10. Saadani

National Park

Saadani National Park is unique as it is the only wildlife reserve in Tanzania that is located on the coast. Visitors can enjoy both a beach holiday and a wildlife safari in one place. The park is home to lions, leopards, buffalos, elephants, and many bird species. Visitors can enjoy game drives, walking safaris, and boat safaris.

When to Visit

Tanzania for a Wildlife Safari

The best time to visit Tanzania for a wildlife safari is during the dry season, which runs from June to October. During this time, the animals congregate around water sources, making it easier to spot them. The wet season, which runs from November to May, is also a good time to visit Tanzania as the landscape is lush and green, and the birdlife is abundant.

How to Choose

a Tanzania Wildlife Safari

When choosing a Tanzania wildlife safari, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, decide which national parks and wildlife reserves you want to visit. Each park has its unique features, and some parks are better for spotting certain animals than others. Secondly, consider the time of year you want to visit and the weather conditions. Finally, consider your budget and the level of luxury you want on your safari.

Tanzania

Wildlife Safari Costs

The cost of a Tanzania wildlife safari varies depending on several factors, such as the time of year you visit, the level of luxury you want, and the duration of your safari. On average, a seven-day safari in Tanzania costs between $3,000 and $8,000 per person.

Tips for a Successful

Tanzania Wildlife Safari

The cost of a Tanzania wildlife safari varies depending on several factors, such as the time of year you visit, the level of luxury you want, and the duration of your safari. On average, a seven-day safari in Tanzania costs between $3,000 and $8,000 per person.

Tips

To ensure a successful Tanzania

wildlife safari, here are some tips to keep in mind :

  • Choose a reputable safari company with experienced guides.
  • Pack appropriate clothing for the weather conditions, including warm clothing for early morning game drives.
  • Bring a good camera and extra batteries.
  • Respect the wildlife and their habitat by following the park rules and guidelines.
  • Stay hydrated and bring plenty of water with you.

Summary

Tanzania is a wildlife lover’s paradise, offering visitors an opportunity to see a diverse range of animals in their natural habitat. The national parks and wildlife reserves in Tanzania are home to the Big Five, as well as many other species of animals and birdlife. When planning a Tanzania wildlife safari, it is important to consider which parks to visit, the time of year to visit, and your budget. With these factors in mind, you can enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife adventure in Tanzania.

Read more...