How to plan a trip to Tanzania

From the dusty streets of Dar es Salaam to the wide, wind-whipped plains of the Serengeti, Tanzania shifts from fast-paced city life to raw wilderness in a heartbeat. If you're trying to figure out how to plan a trip to Tanzania without getting lost in the details (or eaten by your itinerary), here's everything you need to know to keep it smooth, stress-free, and seriously unforgettable.

Step 1: Plan the basics of your Tanzania trip

Before you’re tracking lions in the Serengeti or lounging on Zanzibar’s powdery beaches, you’ll want to get your bearings. Tanzania isn’t a country for winging it. With long distances, varied seasons, and a whole lot to see, a bit of planning goes a long way.

Where do you start?

Start with your priorities. Are you here for safari thrills, tropical beaches, cultural deep-dives — or all three? Tanzania’s not small, and cramming all the best places to visit in Tanzania into one trip will leave you more stressed than inspired. Pick a focus, build around it, and leave space for the unexpected.

• Want wildlife? Northern Tanzania is your go-to: Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire.
• Into culture and hiking? Head west to meet the Hadzabe people near Lake Eyasi or climb Mount Kilimanjaro.
• Want to hit the best beaches in Tanzania? Zanzibar, Pemba or Mafia Island will give you a salty and leisurely vacation.

Best time to visit Tanzania

Wondering when to go? Figuring out the best time to visit Tanzania depends on what you want to do — and how much rain you're willing to deal with.

For safaris, the dry season from June to October is ideal. Animals gather around waterholes, the skies stay clear, and the roads are easier to manage. It’s also a great time to climb Kilimanjaro or explore the northern parks without getting bogged down in mud.

If you're heading to the Serengeti for the calving season, plan for January to March. You’ll catch newborn wildebeest, predator action, and smaller crowds.

From March to May, Tanzania sees its long rainy season. Some lodges shut down, and travel can get messy. But if you're looking for deals and don’t mind a few downpours, this could work in your favor.

November and early December bring shorter rains. The weather’s a bit unpredictable, but it’s still a decent time for the beach — especially in Zanzibar.

The absolute worst time? That depends on your tolerance for crowds. The Christmas and Easter holidays are busy, and prices jump, so book early if you're set on traveling then.

How long to stay in Tanzania?

Tanzania isn’t a long-weekend kind of destination. If you’re thinking about how to plan a trip to Tanzania, keep in mind you’ll need time to travel between regions and recover from those early safari starts.

• 1 week: Enough for a northern circuit safari or a beach break on Zanzibar.
• 10 days: Combine safari and beach without rushing. Think Serengeti followed by Zanzibar sunsets.
• 2 weeks or more: Mix mainland adventures with time to slow down. Add in Kilimanjaro, the Usambara Mountains, or a deep dive into Swahili culture.

First time in Tanzania: where to go?

If it’s your first time, the Northern Circuit is a safe bet — and not because it’s touristy. It’s popular because it delivers.

• Serengeti National Park: Wildebeest migration, big cats, epic skies.
• Ngorongoro Crater: A collapsed volcano packed with wildlife.
• Lake Manyara or Tarangire: Quieter parks with serious elephant action.

Zanzibar is an easy add-on, with spice farms, coral reefs, and Stone Town’s tangled streets.

Want something wilder? Look into Selous Game Reserve or Ruaha National Park in the south — they’re less developed and feel more remote.

Planning a Tanzania trip with kids

Tanzania with kids? Totally doable — just plan smart.

• Safaris can be long and bumpy, so pick family-friendly lodges with space to roam and guides who know how to keep kids engaged.
• Consider shorter drives and parks with reliable wildlife sightings close to camp.
• Zanzibar works well too — shallow beaches, friendly locals, and plenty of room to run around.
• Skip malaria-prone zones if you’re traveling with very young kids, or come prepared with proper meds and mosquito nets.

Pro tip: Not all lodges welcome kids under 6, so double-check before you book.

Step 2: Start planning your safari itinerary

Planning a safari in Tanzania can feel overwhelming at first — there’s a lot to choose from, and no two experiences are the same. But with a little direction, you can build an itinerary that matches your interests, budget, and pace.

How to choose the right safari

Start with your travel style. Do you want an iconic wildlife experience, something remote and rugged, or a bit of both?

Go north if it’s your first safari. This is Tanzania’s classic route — easy to plan, packed with animals, and full of famous parks:

• Serengeti for the Great Migration.
• Ngorongoro Crater for Big Five sightings in one day.
• Tarangire for elephants and baobabs.
• Lake Manyara for a quick hit of wildlife and scenery.

Head south if you want fewer crowds and more wild. You’ll need to fly, but the payoff is huge:

• Ruaha for serious predator action.
• Nyerere (Selous) for boat safaris and walking trails.

Consider the west only if you’re chasing something different — like tracking chimpanzees in the Mahale Mountains or exploring Katavi’s remote bush.

If you're short on time or budget, stick to the north. If you’ve done safaris before, or want solitude, the south or west is where it gets interesting.

Classic safari itineraries

If you're planning your first trip to Tanzania, it's easy to feel spoiled for choice. Understanding how to plan a trip to Tanzania starts with knowing how the most popular safari routes come together — whether you're in it for the big names, the quiet corners, or a mix of both.

1. The Northern Circuit – big names, big game

This is Tanzania’s most famous route and your best bet for a first-time safari. It’s easy to plan, packed with wildlife, and includes some of the country’s most iconic landscapes.

• Start in Arusha – Most safaris kick off here, the hub for northern adventures.
• Head to Tarangire or Lake Manyara – Great intro parks with elephants, lions, and shorter game drives.
• Continue to Ngorongoro Crater – A collapsed volcano teeming with wildlife, including rhinos.
• Finish in the Serengeti – Ideal for the Great Migration and dramatic savannah scenery.

This route works well over 7–10 days and suits all budgets, from camping safaris to ultra-luxury lodges.

2. The Southern Circuit – wild and low-key

If you’re looking for fewer jeeps and more open space, head south. It’s more remote and often accessed via short domestic flights.

• Nyerere National Park (Selous) – Offers boat safaris, walking safaris, and a wilder feel.
• Ruaha National Park – Known for its predator population and baobab-studded landscapes.

These safaris are more about immersion than checklist sightings. Allow 6–8 days and expect higher costs due to flights and fewer lodges.

3. The safari + beach combo – best of both worlds

Many travelers end their safari with downtime by the sea — and Zanzibar is the classic choice. After long drives and early mornings, the island’s beaches, spice farms, and coral reefs are the perfect reset.

• Add 3–5 days in Zanzibar – Easily reached via a short flight from the Serengeti or Arusha.
• Other options include Pemba Island or Mafia Island if you want quieter shores and excellent diving.

Great Migration: when and where

The Great Migration isn’t a single event — it’s a constant loop. Around two million wildebeest (plus zebras and gazelles) move through the Serengeti year-round, following rain and fresh grass. Where you go depends on when you travel.

• From December to March, head to the southern Serengeti (Ndutu area). This is calving season — expect thousands of newborns, big cats on the hunt, and wide-open plains.
• Between April and June, the herds move northwest through the central and western Serengeti, crossing the Grumeti River. It’s greener, quieter, and great for photography.
• Come July to September, go north to Kogatende or Lamai for the drama of Mara River crossings — wildebeest vs crocodiles, and some of the most intense wildlife scenes in Africa.
• By October and November, they begin their journey south again, moving through the eastern and central Serengeti.

To stay close to the action, choose a camp in the right region — or better yet, a mobile camp that moves with the herds.

Family-friendly safaris

Tanzania has some great safari options for families — but not all parks and lodges are suited for kids. Long drives and strict rules at high-end lodges can wear younger travelers out fast. The key is picking the right places.

• Tarangire National Park is a solid choice for families. It’s easy to reach, has lots of elephants, and shorter drive times between wildlife sightings. Many camps here are relaxed about kids and offer family tents or private villas.
• Lake Manyara is also great for younger children. It’s compact, packed with wildlife, and close to other major parks, so you can keep travel times short.
• Ngorongoro Crater can work well for a one-day visit — wildlife is guaranteed, and you don’t need to spend hours tracking animals.

Avoid longer drives in the Serengeti unless your kids are older or used to travel. And always check age policies — some lodges don’t allow children under six.

If you're ending with beach time, Zanzibar has shallow waters and plenty of family-friendly resorts to recharge post-safari.

Private vs group safari

This one comes down to budget and travel style.

A private safari gives you full control — you choose the pace, the parks, and when to stop for that perfect photo. It’s ideal for couples, families, or small groups, but it’ll cost more.

A group safari is more affordable and social. You’ll share a vehicle and follow a set itinerary, but it’s still a great way to see the highlights — especially if you’re traveling solo or on a tighter budget.

If flexibility matters, go private. If you’re more about the wildlife than the logistics, a group trip will do just fine.

Step 3: Book the basic components

Once your itinerary starts to take shape, it’s time to lock in the essentials — flights, lodges, and transport. Planning ahead makes all the difference in Tanzania, where popular spots book out months in advance.

Booking international flights

Tanzania has two main international airports:

• Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) – Best for northern safaris: Serengeti, Ngorongoro, Tarangire.
• Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) – Ideal for Zanzibar or the Southern Circuit.

There are no direct flights from North America or Australia, so expect at least one stop — usually in Europe, the Gulf (Qatar, UAE), or Nairobi. From the UK and parts of Europe, you’ll find better connections and occasional direct options.

Flights can be expensive and fill up quickly around Christmas, July–August, and during the Great Migration. Book at least three to six months in advance for better fares and seat selection. If you’re combining Tanzania with other countries in East Africa, consider an open-jaw ticket (flying into one city, out of another) to save time and backtracking.

Booking safari lodges and camps

Where you stay on safari makes a big difference. Tanzania’s safari accommodation ranges from luxury lodges to wild tented camps. Both book up quickly, especially during the dry season and migration periods.

Types of stays:

• Lodges – Permanent structures, often with more amenities and a hotel-like feel.
• Tented camps – Comfortable, canvas-walled setups that get you closer to nature (but still with en-suites and real beds).

What to consider:

• Location – Is the camp well-placed for wildlife during your travel dates?
• Inclusions – Are meals, game drives, park fees, and transfers covered?
• Policies – Some camps don’t accept kids under six or offer limited facilities for families.

When to book:

• At least 6 months in advance for high season or if you want specific lodges.

Booking internal flights and transfers

Tanzania’s national parks are far apart, and the roads can be slow and rough. A 200km journey can easily take five hours or more on bumpy roads. That’s where light aircraft come in.

How it works:

• Small planes connect major parks and islands.
• Daily flights run from Arusha to the Serengeti, Ruaha, Nyerere, and Zanzibar.
• Luggage is limited — soft bags only, with 15–20kg weight limits.

Transfers:

• Lodge pick-ups from airstrips are often included, but double-check. If you're booking a fly-in safari, your operator usually handles all transfers and flight tickets for you.

Why book with a local Tanzania expert

Planning a safari isn’t just about booking lodges — it’s about timing, logistics, and knowing how the landscape changes with the seasons. This is where working with a local Tanzania travel expert who knows Tanzania inside and out really pays off.

What you get with an experienced safari planner:

• Custom itineraries based on the migration, weather patterns, and your travel style.
• Efficient logistics — internal flights, transfers, park permits — all handled for you.
• Responsive support before and during your trip, in case plans change or delays pop up.
• Trusted lodge recommendations, often with better availability or preferred rates.

It’s not just about convenience — it’s about getting the details right. A local travel expert will take the stress out of planning and make your safari run smoother from start to finish, especially once you’ve outlined a few details.

Step 4: Start planning your activities

Safari isn't just about sitting in a jeep — it’s about how you experience the wild. From sunrise game drives to guided walks, Tanzania has options for every kind of traveler. Once you’ve booked your route and lodges, it’s time to fine-tune the experience by exploring the right things to do in Tanzania in the right places.

Top safaris

You’ll find classic game drives in every park, but look beyond the obvious. Tanzania’s top safari activities vary by region, and each offers something you can’t get anywhere else. Want to spot lions at sunrise, track elephants on foot, or watch leopards after dark? Here’s where to do it best.

Game drives in Serengeti

The Serengeti delivers exactly what you imagine: golden grasslands, wide skies, and wildlife as far as the eye can see. Game drives here are all about scale and drama. Expect lions lounging under acacia trees, herds of wildebeest on the move, and cheetahs scanning the plains from termite mounds.

Drives usually run twice a day — morning and late afternoon — with midday downtime back at camp. If you’re here for the Great Migration, make sure your lodge is in the right region, or opt for a mobile camp that follows the herds.

Sunrise at Ngorongoro Crater

This is one of the most spectacular starts to any day in Africa. The gate to the crater opens early, and if you time it right, you’ll descend into the bowl just as the first light hits the grass. Mist clings to the rim, and animals emerge from the shadows — lions on the move, hyenas scouting for a meal, and flamingos waking up along the lake’s edge.

Because the crater is compact, you can spot a huge variety of animals in just a few hours. Head down early to beat the crowds and catch the wildlife at its most active.

Walking safari in Selous

If you want to trade the jeep for a more immersive experience, Selous (now Nyerere National Park) is the place. Walking safaris here are led by armed guides and trackers who know the bush inside out. You’ll follow animal trails, learn to read tracks and dung, and get a fresh perspective on the ecosystem — from termite mounds to medicinal plants.

It's not about getting close to big game (though you might), but about slowing down and seeing the details most travelers miss. It’s raw, real, and deeply rewarding.

Night drive in Tarangire

Once the sun sets, the bush changes. Nocturnal animals emerge, the air cools, and a whole new cast of characters comes to life. Tarangire is one of the few parks in northern Tanzania that allows night drives — and it’s worth staying in a private concession or camp that offers them.

You might spot bush babies leaping through trees, genets slinking through the grass, or even a lioness on the hunt. Guides use red-filtered lights to avoid disturbing the animals, and the silence of the dark bush adds a whole new layer of excitement.

Big Five spotting in Ruaha

Ruaha is Tanzania’s best-kept safari secret. It’s remote, less visited, and packed with wildlife — especially if you're after the Big Five. Lions and elephants are everywhere, and there’s a good chance of spotting leopards, buffalos, and even black rhinos if you're lucky. What makes Ruaha special is its raw, untamed feel. Game drives here feel like real exploration, with few other vehicles around.

Dry season (June to October) is the best time for concentrated sightings as animals gather at the Great Ruaha River. Bring binoculars, patience, and a sense of adventure — you’ll need all three.

Other amazing activities

Tanzania isn’t only about wildlife. Between game drives and lodge downtime, there’s plenty more to explore — especially if you’re keen to dig into local culture or get out on the water. These are some of the best things to do in Tanzania beyond the safari circuit.

Maasai village visit

Meeting the Maasai is one of the most eye-opening cultural experiences in Tanzania — if done respectfully. Many lodges near Ngorongoro and Serengeti offer visits to Maasai communities, where you can learn about traditional life, architecture, beadwork, and ceremonies.

Some villages have become overly commercial, so choose operators that support authentic, community-run experiences. It’s not a show — it’s a chance to learn from people who’ve lived in harmony with this land for generations.

Spice tour in Zanzibar

Zanzibar’s nickname — Spice Island—isn’t just for show. Take a guided walk through a spice farm and you’ll see (and smell) how cloves, vanilla, nutmeg, and cardamom grow in the wild. You’ll crush leaves between your fingers, sample tropical fruits straight off the tree, and hear how spices shaped Zanzibar’s history. It’s low-key, hands-on, and a nice break from the beach.

Snorkeling or diving off Mnemba Island

Just off the northeast coast of Zanzibar lies Mnemba Atoll, one of the best spots in East Africa for snorkeling and diving. Coral gardens teem with colorful reef fish, sea turtles, and — if you’re lucky — dolphins. Visibility is usually excellent, and water temperatures stay warm year-round.

Day trips are easy to arrange from Nungwi or Matemwe, and you don’t need to be an expert diver to enjoy it. The reef here is shallow and vibrant — ideal for first-timers and seasoned underwater explorers alike.

Step 5: Travel essentials you shouldn’t skip

Before you head off chasing lions or lounging on the beaches of Zanzibar, it’s worth getting a handle on how to plan a trip to Tanzania the right way. From visas to vaccines, smart packing to staying safe — this is the stuff that makes or breaks a smooth trip.

Visa and entry requirements

Most travelers need a visa to enter Tanzania, but the process is straightforward. You can apply for an e-visa online before arrival, which is the recommended option. The visa usually allows a stay of up to 30 or 90 days, depending on your nationality.

Visas are also available on arrival at major airports (Kilimanjaro, Dar es Salaam, Zanzibar), but lines can be long and payment is usually in cash (USD only). The fee is $50 for most nationalities, but $100 for U.S. citizens.

Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of entry, with at least one blank page. Always double-check entry requirements before traveling — they can change with little notice.

Vaccinations and health info

Tanzania is a tropical country, and some vaccines are strongly recommended before you go. Yellow fever is required if you're coming from (or transiting through) a country with risk of transmission. Even if it’s not required, it’s often suggested.

Core recommended vaccines include:

• Hepatitis A and B
• Typhoid
• Tetanus
• Rabies (for long trips or remote travel)

Malaria is present throughout much of Tanzania, including the safari parks and coastal areas. You’ll need to take antimalarial medication — talk to a travel health clinic about the best option for your itinerary.

Other essentials: use insect repellent with DEET, sleep under a mosquito net when possible, and drink bottled or filtered water.

Travel insurance with emergency medical coverage is a must, especially if you're heading into remote areas or climbing Kilimanjaro.

What to pack for safari and beach

Packing for Tanzania means thinking smart: the right gear can make your trip more comfortable, and in some parks, what you wear matters for safety and etiquette.

For safari:

• Neutral colors like khaki, olive, or tan — bright colors can attract insects or startle animals.
• Lightweight layers — mornings are chilly, afternoons hot.
• Comfortable walking shoes or boots for game drives and bush walks.
• Binoculars and a zoom lens if you’re into photography.

For the beach:

• Swimsuits, sandals, and a light cover-up for wandering into town.
• Snorkeling mask if you have one — rental gear can be hit or miss.
• Reef-safe sunscreen and a wide-brimmed hat.

Don't forget essentials like sunglasses, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, and adapters (Tanzania uses UK-style Type G plugs).

Keep valuables to a minimum — and leave the flashy jewelry at home.

How to save money on your Tanzania trip

Tanzania isn’t cheap — but you don’t have to blow your budget to have an unforgettable trip. A few smart moves can stretch your money further.

• Travel in the shoulder season (March–May or November) for lower rates and fewer crowds. Rain is possible, but so are big savings.
• Choose fewer lodges, stay longer. Transfers add up — staying put for 3+ nights can cut costs and boost your safari experience.
• Group safaris or shared game drives cost less than private ones, and can still be great fun.
• Look for packages that bundle park fees, meals, and flights — it’s often cheaper than booking everything separately.
• Book early. Lodges and flights fill up fast, and last-minute options are limited.

Zanzibar can also be done affordably — opt for smaller guesthouses, eat at local beach shacks, and skip the high-end resorts if you’re watching your wallet.

Staying connected and safe

Tanzania is generally safe for travelers, especially in safari areas and on the islands. But like anywhere, a bit of common sense goes a long way.

• Keep valuables out of sight in cities and towns, and avoid walking alone at night.
• Use a hotel safe when possible, and don’t flash expensive gear.
• Stick to licensed guides and reputable tour operators — especially for safaris or Kilimanjaro treks.

For connectivity, buy a local SIM card on arrival (Vodacom or Airtel are reliable). You'll get far better rates than roaming with your home provider. Coverage is solid in towns, patchy in national parks, and weak on remote beaches — which honestly, isn’t a bad thing.

Wi-Fi is available at most lodges and hotels, though it’s often slow. If you need reliable service, ask ahead — or enjoy the digital detox.

Step 6: Get ready for take-off

You’ve mapped the route, booked the camps, and planned your activities. Now it’s time to wrap things up, check the details, and get in the right headspace. A little last-minute prep goes a long way — especially when you’re headed somewhere as wild and rewarding as Tanzania.

Final travel checklist

Before you head to the airport, make sure you’ve covered the basics:

• Passport – Valid for at least 6 months, with a spare blank page.
• Visa – Printed e-visa or cash (USD) ready for visa on arrival.
• Vaccination certificate – Yellow fever proof if arriving from a risk area.
• Travel insurance – With coverage for medical emergencies and trip delays.
• Flight confirmations – Both international and internal, with check-in times.
• Safari vouchers or booking references – Digital or printed.
• Local currency – Tanzanian shillings for small purchases; USD for tips and fees.
• Power adapter – UK-style (Type G).
• Offline maps and key contacts – Especially useful when Wi-Fi drops off.

Pack light, charge your gear, and keep essentials in your carry-on — especially meds, documents, and a change of clothes (just in case).

Embrace the pace — and enjoy the journey

Tanzania isn’t built for rushing. Safari days start early, transfers can run late, and sometimes you’ll wait 20 minutes because an elephant decided the road was hers. That’s part of the magic.

So embrace it. Put the schedule down. Watch the sunrise over the savannah, drink your coffee slowly, and trust your guide — chances are, they’ve got a story or two that beats anything on your itinerary.

This isn’t a trip you’ll power through. It’s one you’ll feel — in your feet, your camera roll, and somewhere deep in your bones.

Ready? You’ve got this. And if you forget something? Tanzania will remind you what really matters.

FAQ

Can you combine safari and Zanzibar in one trip?

Yes — and you absolutely should. It’s one of Tanzania’s best travel combos. Most travelers start with a northern safari (Serengeti, Ngorongoro, etc.) and then fly directly to Zanzibar for a beach break. Flights run daily from Arusha or Serengeti airstrips to Zanzibar (ZNZ), taking 1–2 hours. It’s the perfect way to unwind after early mornings and dusty game drives.

What are the must-do experiences in each region?

• North: Serengeti game drives, Ngorongoro Crater sunrise, and Maasai cultural visits.
• South: Walking safaris in Nyerere, predator spotting in Ruaha.
• West: Chimp tracking in Mahale, off-grid wilderness in Katavi.
• Zanzibar: Stone Town wandering, spice tours, and diving off Mnemba Island.

Each region offers something different — choose based on the pace and style of travel you want.

Where to stay

You’ll find everything from budget-friendly camps to high-end lodges. In national parks, tented camps give you front-row access to wildlife. For beach time, Zanzibar has options from local guesthouses to luxury resorts. Book early — especially during high season or if you want a camp near the migration.

How to get around

For safaris, you’ll either drive between parks (popular in the north) or fly between airstrips (common in the south and west). Light aircraft save time but limit luggage. In Zanzibar, taxis and local drivers are easy to arrange, or you can book transfers through your hotel.

Is Tanzania safe for tourists?

Yes — especially in safari areas and along the coast. Most trips are trouble-free, but take basic precautions: don’t flash valuables, avoid walking alone at night in cities, and book with reputable operators. Guides, lodges, and park staff are experienced and focused on safety.

Can you self-drive in Tanzania?

Technically yes, but it's not recommended unless you’ve done it before. Roads can be rough, signage is limited, and breakdowns in the bush are no joke. Most travelers opt for guided safaris, which include vehicles, drivers, and expert guides who know where to find the wildlife.