Tanzania safari holidays

The Serengeti is the iconic location of the Great Migration. Every year, depending on the rains, giants herds of wildebeest, zebra and other grazers journey across the Serengeti in search of water and fresh grasslands. The migration is an on-going cycle, however the most popular crossings occur between July and October as the herds try to cross the vast Mara River in the north of the Serengeti, over into the Masai Mara.

During the Great Migration, it’s thought that 1.5 million wildebeest, 400,000 zebra and 300,000 gazelles are on the move through the Serengeti. From around May, the wildebeest, having had their young, start to head north towards the Masai Mara in Kenya,  seeking out grasslands. This journey is perilous however, with crocodiles waiting in the rivers and the large amount of big cat predators following along the way. 

Tanzania is the perfect country for a multi-centre adventure, two to three nights is enough in each park giving you the opportunity to visit more than one during your visit. For shorter trips fly-in safaris are a great way to maximise time, while a tour of the northern circuit can include visits to Lake Manyara and Tarangire National Park.

Zanzibar is located just off the mainland and is a fantastic way to add a beach break to your stay in Tanzania. Flights are just a short hop from Arusha or Dar es Salaam making this add on a must-do.

Choose from all-inclusive resorts, luxury villas or boutique guest houses to create your ideal break. You could even add on a couple of nights in Stone Town and explore this historical city, filled with culture and spice. 

From hotels in the bush, complete with swimming pools and all the mod cons, to luxury glamping in the heart of the Serengeti, there are accommodation options for all styles of travel in Tanzania. Joining a small group tour gives you a chance to meet like minded travellers, on these tours you will tend to stay in larger styyle properties suitable for group travel.

Taking a private tour or tailor-making your own adventure gives you endless possibilities for accommodation. Fly-in to the Serengeti and stay in a luxurious tented camp for a real 'out of Africa' experience, most lodges are a fully inclusive experience meaning all meals, activities and drinks are already included.

Generally speaking Tanzania is a year round destination, although you may wish to avoid the long rainy season in April and May. While July to September is the most popular time to visit due to the dry weather, the Great Migration and safari opportunities, this can also mean the parks are extremely busy and prices are at a premium. Visiting outside of this time can mean a more exclusive feel on safari.

Between October and February the weather is hot and the wildebeest are calving, making this a very special time to visit. February starts to bring rain bringing with it green landscapes, flowers and birds. While the long rains of March-May can be off-putting this can also be a great time to access discounted stays. Just be prepared that activities may be cancelled due to the weather.