Safaris are available year-round. The most massive game migrations occur in April through June and October through December. The best months to climb Mount Kilimanjaro are the milder spring and fall months of August through October and January through March.

It is best to book as far in advance as possible, as some safaris sell out months ahead of their departure dates. This is especially important for those scheduling Tanzania travel plans during peak months (July and August) and for those adding extensions to scheduled trips.

Safaris are classified according to the quality and amenities of accommodations, and the quality and number of meals and activities included in the price of your vacation.
Budget safaris typically base on Camping Safari Programs
First-class safaris typically mixed in accommodation between Lodges & Tented Camps

Deluxe safaris typically base on Four Stars Lodges range
Luxury safaris typically base on Five Stars Lodges range

Most Tanzania travel companies set specific age limits for children. For safety reasons, children  under five might not be allowed on game drives in the parks and reserves, where terrain may be rough. In some cases, very young children may not be permitted on a safari, and older children and teens must be accompanied by an adult. There are a few Tanzania safaris designed just for families, providing an exciting and educational experience for all.

Group sizes vary according to the tour operator. Many Tanzania travel companies limit game drives to six or seven people per vehicle, using more than one vehicle if needed so that everyone is guaranteed a window seat and good photo opportunities.

We offer safaris that range from less than a week to a month or even longer.

Is airfare included in my safari price?

In some cases, the prices shown on our program while booked are for the safari only.

Safari prices are quoted based on double occupancy. Solo travelers who want their own room pay the per-person price plus the single supplement fee. A single supplement is a fee imposed by hotels, lodges and camps on individuals traveling alone who want private accommodations.

Some tour operators can arrange for two single travelers to share accommodations, providing they are on the same safari, of the same sex, and both persons agree to the arrangement.

What are the entry requirements for Tanzania?

All safari guests must carry a passport that is valid for six months beyond the intended length of stay. US citizens traveling to Tanzania are also required to purchase a visa that costs approximately $50. Citizens of other countries should check with the Tanzania consulate to verify entry requirements.

Pack as lightly as possible, but be prepared for all the activities in which you are planning to participate. Pack for the destination and season you will encounter, and be mindful that climates may vary drastically from region to region. Temperatures can also vary quite a bit between the midday heat and the evening cool, so plan to dress in layers. Comfort will be a priority, but you might consider bringing a few dressy outfits for nights out in the cities.

Pack neutral-colored, comfortable, lightweight clothing. White, bright or vividly patterned clothing should be avoided when game viewing on foot so that safari-goers can blend in with the natural landscape as much as possible. Bring sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots, depending on the anticipated level of physical activity. Wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, lip protection and good quality sunscreen are essential to protect against the harsh Tanzania sun. Insect repellent with DEET is also a must when on safari. Also pack a good pair of binoculars to optimize wildlife viewing.

A travel kit is recommended with any basic medications you may need, such as painkillers, antihistamines, allergy medicines or remedies for an upset stomach. If you take prescription medication, bring a sufficient supply to last for the duration of your trip, as well as the generic names so that the drugs could be replaced locally if necessary. Those who wear prescription glasses or contact lenses should bring spares.

Pack prescription medicines and spare contacts or glasses in your carry-on bag, in the event that your checked luggage is delayed.

Climbers and divers can hire gear locally but may wish to bring their own equipment, as well as dive certification cards. Those with digital camera or video camera battery chargers or other electrical items should bring the appropriate power converter and adapters.

Securely bind all travel documents together, including tickets, passports and any visa entries, vaccination certificates and travel insurance documents. Make extra copies of your passport, airline tickets and traveler’s check numbers, some to pack and some to leave at home. A small daypack is a handy means of carrying travel documents, cameras and everyday items.

Due to space limitations aboard motor coaches and domestic flights between safari destinations, tour operators may place restrictions upon the number of bags allowed per person, and upon the maximum weight of each bag. Guests also may be required to use only soft-sided luggage or duffel bags rather than hard-sided suitcases. Ask your travel counselor for more details.

It is worthwhile to protect your health and take basic precautions to ensure a smooth trip. Talk with your doctor or travel medicine specialist one to two months before your trip to discuss medical issues related to your travel destination. Travelers to Tanzania must take responsibility for obtaining required or recommended vaccinations, prescriptions, over-the-counter medications or insect repellents. Proof of vaccination may be required for entry into a destination country or for return entry into your originating country.

Your doctor can advise you of the latest health precautions, as vaccination requirements are subject to change. Vaccines that may be recommended for travelers to Tanzania include those for tetanus, diphtheria, polio, typhoid, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, yellow fever, rabies and meningitis. Some of these vaccines may not become effective immediately, or may require more than one dose. If a disease was recently prevalent and is endemic in the destination country, many doctors may recommend the vaccination as a precaution.

If you are taking prescription drugs, make sure you have an adequate supply of medication for the duration of your trip, as well as a copy of your prescription.

What are some of the attractions on a Tanzania safari?

Tanzania travel itineraries may include the following attractions: Serengeti National Park, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Olduvai Gorge, Lake Manyara National Park, Arusha National Park, Tarangire National Park, Mount Kilimanjaro and Zanzibar.

The “Big Five” are leopard, lion, elephant, rhino and buffalo and comprise a top viewing priority for many safari-goers. The term is a reference from the days of colonial trophy hunting, when hunters ranked Africa game according to how dangerous they were to pursue.

What types of accommodations can I expect on a Tanzania safari?

Accommodations will vary according to which type of safari you choose, from simple yet comfortable bungalows and participation camping to private, luxurious lodges. Tanzania travel groups may also stay in bush lodges, fine hotels or well-appointed, Hemingway-style tented camps.

Credit cards are accepted only at major lodges and hotels. Many banks are equipped to advance cash on Visa and MasterCard.

Tipping is not generally encouraged, though it may be expected in some tourist restaurants and hotels.

While communications in remote tented camps will be limited, most major hotels and lodges offer Internet services as well as international telephone and fax services. Additionally, private communication centers and cyber cafes in larger towns enable tourists to stay connected. Some centers may close on Sundays and public holidays. The cellular networks in Tanzania cover most large towns and tourist areas. There are post offices in many towns, and stamps are also sold in many shops in tourist lodges and hotels.