Explore our Tanzania Safari Destination Guide — an immersive, magazine-style travel guide curated by Africa safari specialists. Discover the best time to visit Tanzania, iconic safari experiences, seasonal wildlife highlights, and essential travel insights to help you plan a thoughtfully tailored African safari.
WELCOME TO TANZANIA
05 VISAS, HEALTH AND ADAPTORS CONTINUED Don’t forget your travel insurance, proof of Yellow Fever vaccination, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle.
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Table of Contents
PACKING ESSENTIALS & GUIDELINES
Packing for safari is all about comfort, practicality, and preparation well in advance of the trip.
08 -09 A GUIDE TO THE GREAT MIGRATION IN AFRICA One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Great Migration in Africa is one of the world’s most spectacular wildlife events to behold.
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VISAS, HEALTH AND ADAPTORS Your adventure awaits. But before you go, make sure these key preparations are in place.
FOR KEEN PHOTOGRAPHERS
A safari in Tanzania is a photographer’s dream, from the golden light of dawn over the Serengeti to the drama of a river crossing.
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A TAPESTRY OF ENDLESS HERDS, CRATERED WORLDS, AND SPICE ISLANDS. Tanzania is a land where nature takes center stage and the extraordinary unfolds daily.
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DISCOVER KENYA’ S RICH CULTURES, WILD LANDSCAPES, AND UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCES. Set against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanja- ro, Africa’s highest peak, elephants traverse Tanzania’s plains with quiet majesty.
THE GREAT MIGRATION DATES
FINAL PREPARATIONS CHECKLIST
January marks the start of the calving season, with vast herds gathered on the southern Serengeti plains, spilling into Ndutu and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area.
A simple guide to ensure every detail is in place before you embark on your unforgettable safari journey.
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THE PEOPLE OF TANZANIA
The Maasai, with their bright shúkà and beadwork, are known for their deep connection to the land. richness.
PRACTICAL TRAVEL TIPS
Make the most of your safari experience with these practical insights on money, travel, and connectivity
03 JUMPING INTO TRADITION
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UNTIL WE MEET IN TANZANIA and let Africa set the rhythm. 15
Adumu, or Maasai jumping, is a traditional dance symbolizing pride and unity among young Maasai warriors
WHAT AWAITS YOU ON SAFARI?
Before you begin your adventure, take a breath
Tanzania is one of the world’s greatest wildlife destinations, where every region tells a different story.
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T
anzania is a land where nature takes center stage and the extraordinary unfolds daily. From the golden plains
of Zanzibar’s coast. Whether you’re chasing iconic wildlife, climbing Africa’s highest peak, or simply watching the sun melt into the Indian Ocean, Tanzania delivers moments of true wonder — curated with care and grounded in the wild. Here, every sunrise promises adventure, every horizon whispers possibility, and every moment is reserved for you.
of the Serengeti to the elephant-rich swamps of Tarangire, this is where the Great Migration thunders and ancient landscapes stir the soul. Follow the rhythm of the wild on a game drive in Ngorongoro Crater, trek through the volcanic foothills of Kilimanjaro, or escape to the spice-laden breeze
A tapestry of endless herds, cratered worlds, and spice islands.
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The People of Tanzania Tanzania is home to more than 120 ethnic groups, each adding to the country’s cultural richness.
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he Maasai, with their bright shúkà and beadwork, are known for their deep connection to the land. The Chagga, living
taste Zanzibar’s spices — moments that bring Tanzania’s culture to life. Language English is widely spoken, but a few words of Swahili always bring a smile: Jambo – Hello Asante sana – Thank you very much
on the slopes of Kilimanjaro, are skilled farmers and coffee growers. The Sukuma, Tanzania’s largest group, are celebrated for their music and dance. Along the Swahili Coast, centuries of trade have shaped a unique blend of African and Arabic influences — most evident in Zanzibar’s markets and carved doors. During your journey, you may have the chance to share stories with a Maasai guide, sip coffee grown on Chagga land, wander vibrant local markets, or
Karibu – Welcome Pole pole – Slowly
Greet people in Swahili when you can — it’s a small gesture that’s always warmly received. Insider Tip:
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Jumping Into Tradition Adumu, or Maasai jumping, is a traditional dance symbolizing pride and unity among young Maasai warriors
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Visas, Health and Adaptors
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isas & Entry Requirements Most travelers to Tanzania require
Arrival Process On arrival, you will complete an immigration form and present your passport, visa (or approval letter for eVisa), and Yellow Fever certificate (if required). Fingerprints and a photo are usually taken at immigration.
The application requires:
A valid passport (minimum 6 months’ validity and at least two blank pages) A recent passport photo Proof of return or onward flight Payment of the visa fee Each traveler’s email address, physical address, occupation, and next-of-kin details
a visa, including citizens of the USA, Canada, UK, EU, and Australia. Some African and Commonwealth countries are exempt. Please check with your nearest Tanzanian embassy if eVisa (recommended): Apply online before you travel through the official Tanzania Immigration website. Approval typically takes 2–3 weeks, but we advise you to apply well in advance. Once approved, you’ll receive a confirmation letter to present on arrival. Cost: Between $50 and $100 per person. you’re unsure. How to apply
Additional Tips for Travelers
It is advisable to carry multiple copies of all documents, including your eVisa approval, passport. Keep them both digitally and physically. Also, ensure your phone or camera is charged to take photos if requested. Check the latest travel advisories and health updates before departure. Additionally bring a small notebook to record travel information safety.
Insider Tip:
We can assist with the application process at an additional cost of $50 per person per visa. This does not include the visa fee.
Your adventure awaits. But before you go, make sure these key preparations are in place.
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Zanzibar Mandatory Insurance The government of Zanzibar has implemented a new mandatory insurance requirement, backed by the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation. This cover is US$44 per person, and there is also a family plan option. Further information and FAQs can be found online. Health & Wellness Yellow Fever Only required if you are traveling from or transiting through a Yellow Fever risk country (e.g., Kenya, Uganda, Ethiopia, Nigeria, Ghana, Brazil, Peru, Colombia). Proof of vaccination must be shown on arrival in Tanzania if applicable. A single dose of the Yellow Fever vaccine now provides lifetime protection. Always consult your healthcare provider before making a decision.
long sleeves in the evenings and using repellent is strongly advised. Prescription Medication You may bring your prescription medication with you, but keep it in its original packaging, carry a copy of your prescription, and bring enough for your entire trip. A small personal medical kit (pain relievers, cough drops, antihistamines) is recommended. For all trips booked with us, we include medical evacuation cover. In the case of a medical emergency, you will be evacuated to a nearby hospital. Drinking Water Only drink bottled or filtered water, which is always provided at your lodges and in safari vehicles. Many camps now provide reusable water bottles with refill stations as part of their sustainability efforts. Electricity & Adaptors Tanzania uses the UK-style three-pin plug (Type G), with 230V electricity. Bring a universal adaptor. Many lodges run on solar power or generators — charging times may be limited, so keep a power bank handy for phones and cameras.
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Don’t forget your travel insurance, proof of Yellow Fever vaccination, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle. Zanzibar’s white-sand beaches are ready to welcome you. Insider Tip:
Insider Tip: If you’re flying via Nairobi, Addis Ababa, or another East African hub, check your layover times - even a long connection can trigger the requirement.
Malaria Malaria is present in many parts of Tanzania, including safari regions and Zanzibar. We recommend speaking to your doctor about the best prophylaxis (preventative tablets) for you. Lodges supply mosquito nets, but wearing long sleeves in the evenings and using repellent is strongly advised.
For all trips booked with us, we include medical evacuation cover. In the case of a medical emergency, you will be evacuated to a nearby hospital. Insider Tip:
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06 et against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, elephants traverse Tanzania’s plains with quiet majesty. The snow-capped summit rises above the savanna, creating one of Africa’s most iconic scenes — a powerful meeting
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Discover Tanzania’s rich cultures, wild landscapes, and unforgettable experiences.
of wilderness and wonder. These elephants, symbols of strength and memory, follow ancient migratory paths beneath Kilimanjaro’s timeless gaze.
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Climate & Times to Travel Tanzania offers year-round safari opportunities, each season with its own magic. Dry Season (June – October): Best wildlife viewing, Great Migration river crossings. Warm days, cooler mornings and evenings. Green Season (November – March): Lush landscapes, birdlife, wildebeest calving in Ndutu. Expect occasional showers. Long Rains (April – May): Some camps close, but prices are lower and landscapes beautifully dramatic. Pack light layers — mornings and evenings on safari can be chilly while midday brings warm sunshine. Wildlife Highlights Tanzania is one of the world’s greatest wildlife destinations, where every region tells a different Insider Tip:
story. On the Serengeti plains, the Great Migration sees over a million wildebeest and zebra on the move, their river crossings among safari’s most dramatic moments. In the Ngorongoro Crater, lions, elephants, and flamingos thrive in a natural amphitheater unlike anywhere else on Earth. Beyond the Big Five, Tanzania reveals endless surprises: cheetahs perched on termite mounds, giraffes silhouetted against the horizon, or rare wild dogs coursing across open plains. Birdlife dazzles too, with rollers, eagles, and great flocks of flamingos. In the green season, Ndutu transforms into a nursery as thousands of calves are born, while in remote Mahale forests, chimpanzees add a rare and unforgettable dimension. Here, every game drive carries the promise of discovery — whether it’s a lion’s roar at dawn, elephants at a waterhole, or a quiet giraffe grazing near your camp.
What Awaits You on Safari?
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ne of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the Great Migration in Africa is one of the world’s most spectacular wildlife events to behold. Each year, 1.5 million untamed wildebeest, antelope and zebra migrate clockwise across the Serengeti and Masai Mara plains in search of green pastures and fresh drinking water. The migratory route is quite predictable, and follows a similar pattern each year, depending on the seasons and the availability of fresh drinking water and verdant pastures.. It is the largest herd movement in the world and is visible from space making it a top pick for every adventurer’s bucket list. O 08
A Guide to the Great Migration in Africa
Summary for a migration safari: February/March
Calving season
Southern Serengeti
April/May
Breeding season
Western & Central Serengeti
May/June
Grumeti River Crossings Central Serengeti
July/August
Mara River Crossings
Northern Serengeti & Masai Mara Masai Mara, North to South Seregenti
Nov/Dec/January
On the move
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Witness the world’s greatest spectacle-on the move.
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January January marks the start of the calving season, with vast herds gathered on the southern Serengeti plains, spilling into Ndutu and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area. By month’s end, over 8,000 calves are born daily, attracting predators and offering incredible wildlife sightings. February In Februar y, the herds continue to give birth to their offspring and can be found around the Ndutu region and Ngorongoro Conservation Area. It is estimated that 500,000 calves are born within a 2 to 3 week period - making for a spectacular and unique safari experience. March The last of the calving season takes place until mid-March. After several weeks of intensive grazing, the southern plains in the Naabi and Kusini area begin to show strain and dry out. March marks the start of the long rains in the Serengeti and sees the herds slowly prepare to move north with their young who are now strong enough to follow. April In search of fresh grazing and water, the herds slowly migrate north as the long rains set in. Herds can be seen streaming in through the Moru Kopjes in central Serengeti, making their way to the Western Corridor. May May marks the beginning of the dry season and the bulk of the herd can be seen in massive columns as they make their way across the Western Corridor, following the Mbalageti river to the banks of the Grumeti. This is usually where you can view the first of the river crossings. June By June, the herds slow down and gather on the southern banks of the Grumeti River waiting to cross the series of pools and channels. Although crossing can be seen in the beginning of the month, they tend to intensify around the middle of June.
July In July, the herds continue their journey to the northern Serengeti towards the Ikorongo Game Controlled Area and Lobo. Depending on rains, the river crossings will begin and the front leaders of the herd are ready to cross over the Mara, Talek and Sand Rivers. August August marks the best month to see the famous Mara river crossing - a crazed spectacle where hordes of animals make the dangerous crossing through croc infested water to the Lamai Wedge. For clients looking to visit East Africa in August, we recommend booking as early as possible as camps and lodges in the area fill up quickly. September Most of the herds have crossed over to Kenya’s Masai Mara ti feed on lush green grass after an exhausting journey. This is the best time to stay in the Masai Mara Game Reserve and predators like cheetah, lion and hyena are abundant. October After some time in the Mara, the herds slowly make their way back into the Serengeti towards the Lobo Valley region and Grumeti Reserve. November By November, the herds have largely left the Mara and move with more urgency to the eastern and central Serengeti for fresh grazing. They can be seen stretching from Lobo to the central Seronera region and eastern side of the Serengeti. December In December, the herds reach the southern Serengeti. The southern plains are lush and fertile after the recent rains and there is plenty of grass for the animals to graze on, before the start of the calving season in January.
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Make the most of your safari experience with these practical insights on money, travel, and connectivity
Practical Travel Tips
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Connectivity & Wi-Fi Available at some lodges and camps, though bandwidth may be limited. Embrace the slower pace – a safari is the perfect chance to disconnect. If you intend to stay for a longer period in Tanzania, buy a local SIM card (Airtel or Vodacom) and top up with local currency. Money & Payments The local currency is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS), though US Dollars (issued after 2009) are widely accepted in lodges and for tips. Exchange – You can change money at airports, banks, and forex bureaus in towns. ATMs – Available in cities and larger towns, but not in safari areas. Credit cards – Accepted at most lodges and hotels, but transactions may incur a surcharge and connections can be unreliable. Always carry some cash for tips, curios, and emergencies.
Light Aircraft Flights Travel between safari regions in Tanzania is often by light aircraft carrying 8–15 passengers. Runways are often gravel or grass, and departure times depend on the various pick-up locations. Some have set departure times listed on your itinerary, though these may change up to 24 hours prior. Your travel concierge will keep you updated. Planes may stop at several airstrips along the way to drop off or collect passengers. Baggage Guidelines Each light aircraft carrier has its own rules, but in general baggage allowances are 15–20 kg per person. Exact limits for your routing will be detailed in your itinerary, and some charters allow you to pre-purchase excess baggage.
Tipping Guidelines In Africa, it is custom ary — but not obligatory — to tip service staff in gratitude for good service. Tipping is usually done at the end of your safari. You are welcome to tip individual staff or place tips in the gratuity box, usually located in the main mess area. Tips for guides should be given directly to them at the end of the safari. General Guide:
20 KG * BAGGAGE ALLOWANCE
Ranger/ GuideTracker
Butler
Tracker
Spa Therapist
Waiter
General Staff
$20 per day
$15 per suite per day
$10 per treatment
10-15% of meal value. Some venues include tip automatically
Housekeeping/ Drivers $30 per day
$35 - $45 per couple per day
Insider Tip:
Tips can be made in the local currency, US Dollar, Euro, or Pound Sterling. Tipping guidelines vary from property to property.
Maximum dimensions for ANY type of bag should not exceed 90cm x85cm x35cm (LxWxD)
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Packing Essentials & Guidelines acking for safari is all about comfort, practicality, and preparation. Lodges provide many essentials, so you can travel light while still being ready for adventure. Light layers of clothing in neutral safari colors — green, khaki, and beige — are best. Dark colors such as navy or black can attract Tsetse flies and are best avoided, as are bright colors like yellow, red, and purple. A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses will protect you from the strong African sun. Comfortable, closed- toe shoes are essential for walks and game drives. Don’t forget a lightweight rain jacket for unexpected showers, and bring a good pair of binoculars to make the most of every wildlife sighting. P A small daypack is handy for carrying water, snacks, and your camera during excursions. Include sunscreen, insect repellent, and a headlamp for camp evenings. If you plan to visit local villages, modest clothing shows respect for the community. A lightweight scarf or buff can shield your face from dust on open vehicles, and photographers should pack extra batteries and memory cards. Above all, choose breathable, comfortable fabrics that will keep you cool and dry throughout your journey.
Insider Tip:
Our favorite shop is The Safari Store. Check them out for great gear. Most camps provide insect repellent and communal binoculars.
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safari in Tanzania is a photographer’s dream, from the golden light of dawn over the Serengeti to the drama
of a river crossing. Whether you’re a professional or simply passionate about capturing meaningful moments, a little preparation goes a long way. Pack extra memory cards and batteries, and consider a portable charger as power can be limited in remote camps. Roads and airstrips are dusty, so keep your camera protected with a dust cover or a simple zip-lock bag.
Insider Tip: Keep your camera close at hand. The best sightings often unfold in an instant.
A telephoto lens is ideal for wildlife photography, but wide-angle shots shouldn’t be overlooked. Tanzania’s sweeping plains, vast skies, and dramatic sunsets are just as compelling as the wildlife itself. Experiment with angles and compositions to capture the true spirit of your journey. Patience is essential. Animal behavior is unpredictable, and the most striking moments often appear when you least expect them. Slow down, observe, and let the landscape reveal itself – your images will feel more authentic and tell richer stories.
For Keen Photographers
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Final Preparations Checklist
14 A simple guide to ensure every detail is in place before you embark on your unforgettable safari journey.
Documents ☐ Pass port (valid for 6+ months, 2 blank pages) ☐ Visa (or eVisa confirmation) ☐ Yellow Fever certificate (if required) ☐ Travel insurance documents ☐ Flight tickets & itinerary
Packing ☐ Light, n eutral safari clothing ☐ Warm layers for mornings/ evenings ☐ Comfortable walking shoes ☐ Hat, sunglasses, swimwear ☐ Camera, binoculars, chargers, adaptor ☐ Sunscreen, insect repellent, medications ☐ Soft-sided duffel (15–20 kg max for fl ights)
Money & Tipping ☐ USD c ash (issued after 2009) for tips and shops ☐ Small denominations for staff gratuities ☐ Credit card for lodge expenses
Health & Wellness ☐ Malaria prophylaxis (as advised by your doctor) ☐ Personal medications & small first aid kit ☐ Hand sanitizer & wet wipes
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Before you begin your adventure, take a breath and let Africa set the rhythm.
Until We Meet inTanzania In Swahili, there is a saying: “Haraka haraka haina baraka” — “Hurry, hurry has no blessing.” It’s a gentle reminder that Tanzania is best experienced slowly, allowing its beauty and rhythm to unfold in their own time. See you out there!
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