To truly experience Tanzania’s safari wonders, including the Ngorongoro Crater, Serengeti, and Tarangire National Park, plan for a 5-7 day trip. This duration allows ample time to explore the northern circuit and encounter the Big Five and other key animals. For those with more time, incredible safari journeys lasting 20+ days offer an in-depth exploration of Tanzania’s diverse landscapes and wildlife.

For those short on time, a quick safari covering Arusha and either Tarangire or Lake Manyara National Park can be done in 1-2 days. This provides a great snapshot of Tanzania’s wildlife. If you’re keen on the Serengeti but pressed for time, flying directly there is a convenient option.

Choosing the right time for a safari in Tanzania depends on your preferences. The dry seasons, spanning June to October and January to March, are ideal for wildlife spotting as animals gather around water sources. During these months, you’ll enjoy sunny days, but expect crowds, especially during the Great Migration and the birthing seasons of zebras and wildebeests.

Alternatively, the rainy seasons in April-May and November-December offer lush landscapes with fewer visitors and potential discounts at lodges. Transition periods like late March, early June, late October, and November are perfect for a more peaceful experience, balancing good weather with fewer tourists. Shiri Adventures can help tailor your trip to ensure you have the best possible experience, no matter when you visit.

What is the Great Wildebeest Migration?

The Great Wildebeest Migration is a breathtaking natural phenomenon that captivates wildlife enthusiasts worldwide. Each year, over a million wildebeests, along with zebras and gazelles, undertake a perilous journey across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem. Beginning with calving in the southern Serengeti near the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, the herds migrate northward through the Serengeti, eventually crossing into Kenya’s Masai Mara before returning south by year’s end. One of the most thrilling spectacles of this migration occurs during the Mara River crossings, where the herds brave swift currents and lurking predators. Witnessing thousands of animals navigate these treacherous waters is a mesmerizing and unforgettable experience for travelers.

The Great Wildebeest Migration is a breathtaking natural phenomenon that captivates wildlife enthusiasts worldwide. Each year, over a million wildebeests, along with zebras and gazelles, undertake a perilous journey across the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem. Beginning with calving in the southern Serengeti near the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, the herds migrate northward through the Serengeti, eventually crossing into Kenya’s Masai Mara before returning south by year’s end. One of the most thrilling spectacles of this migration occurs during the Mara River crossings, where the herds brave swift currents and lurking predators. Witnessing thousands of animals navigate these treacherous waters is a mesmerizing and unforgettable experience for travelers.

The Great Wildebeest Migration in the Serengeti is a spectacle that unfolds throughout the year, offering unique highlights during different seasons. The migration journey begins with the wildebeest calving season in February and March, when thousands of calves are born in the southern Serengeti. This period is ideal for witnessing the tender moments of new life amidst the vast plains.

From May to August, the migration reaches a dramatic climax during the river crossings. As the herds navigate the treacherous Mara River in search of greener pastures in Kenya’s Masai Mara National Reserve, the crossings are fraught with peril from swift currents and lurking predators. This phase of the migration is particularly thrilling for travelers seeking adrenaline-pumping wildlife encounters.

By August, the herds typically reach the Masai Mara, where they remain until October. This is the perfect time to observe the massive concentration of wildlife in Kenya’s iconic reserve, as the herds graze on lush grasslands before starting their return journey southward.

Overall, the best time to see the Great Wildebeest Migration depends on your preference for witnessing calving, dramatic river crossings, or exploring the Masai Mara. Each season offers its own unique spectacle, ensuring a memorable safari experience in East Africa’s renowned wilderness.

The best way to access Tanzania depends on your destination within the country. For those heading to northern Tanzania to explore national parks such as Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater, Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) is the primary gateway. Situated near Mount Kilimanjaro, JRO offers convenient access to the iconic safari destinations of the northern circuit.

Alternatively, travelers planning to visit southern Tanzania’s parks, such as Selous Game Reserve and Ruaha National Park, should consider flying into Dar es Salaam International Airport (DAR). Located in the country’s largest city, DAR serves as the main entry point for southern Tanzania, offering connectivity to the remote and less frequented wildlife reserves in this region.

When preparing for a safari in Tanzania, it’s essential to pack clothing that ensures comfort, practicality, and adherence to local customs. Opt for shirts and pants in neutral colors such as khaki or gray to blend into the natural surroundings and minimize the visibility of dust. It’s advisable to avoid white, blue, and camouflage attire, as blue can attract tsetse flies, and camouflage patterns are restricted for civilians.

For lodge stays, dresses are suitable, while pants offer practicality during game drives. Ensure you’re protected from the sun by bringing along a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. Closed-toe shoes are ideal for drives to protect against dust and potential wildlife encounters, while sandals are comfortable for relaxing at lodges.

Additionally, pack a warm jacket or fleece for cooler mornings and evenings, particularly in higher-altitude areas like the Ngorongoro Crater and Kilimanjaro region. By choosing the right attire, you’ll enhance your safari experience while respecting local guidelines and ensuring comfort throughout your journey.

Yes, you need a Tanzanian visa to visit Tanzania unless you’re from one of the exempt countries. The cost for a 90-day visa is $50. However, US citizens must get a year-long, multiple-entry visa for $100.

We recommend getting your visa online before you travel. While some can get a visa upon arrival, the lines can be long and tiring. Apply for an e-visa at www.immigration.go.tz at least two weeks before your trip.

Additionally, ensure your passport is valid for at least six months after your departure date.

There are no specific vaccine requirements for visitors to Tanzania. However, if you’re traveling from a country with a risk of yellow fever, you must show proof of yellow fever vaccination upon arrival.

Though not mandatory, we recommend talking to your doctor about getting the following standard vaccinations before traveling to Tanzania:

• Hepatitis A and B
• Typhoid
• Tetanus
• Polio
• MMR (Measles, Mumps, Rubella)
• Meningococcal Meningitis

For the latest Covid-19 regulations, please contact us, and we will provide you with the current guidelines from the Government of Tanzania.

We believe Tanzania is the better option for seeing the Great Migration. Here’s why:

• Majority of the Migration: Most of the Great Migration occurs in Tanzania, with only a small portion in Kenya.
• River Crossings: The dramatic and chaotic river crossings, a highlight of the migration, take place in Tanzania, not Kenya.

For an immersive experience of the Great Migration, Tanzania is the top choice.

The length of your safari affects how many animals you’ll see and the variety you might encounter. Here are some tips:

• Duration: The longer your safari, the better your chances of spotting more animals. One day is often not enough to see the Big Five. Aim for 6-7 days for a good chance.
• Travel Time: Consider travel times. From Kilimanjaro International Airport, you can quickly reach Arusha National Park and Lake Manyara National Park and start your safari the same day.
• Serengeti National Park: Reaching the Serengeti takes longer. Plan for a day of travel each way. On the bright side, the journey includes must-see attractions like Ngorongoro Crater and Olduvai Gorge.

In summary, a four to 6-7 safari offers a great chance to see a wide variety of wildlife, especially if you factor in travel times to key parks like the Serengeti.

The ideal time to visit the Serengeti depends on what you most want to see:

• Births and Baby Animals/Calving Season: Certain times of the year are better for witnessing animal births and seeing baby animals and that is February to May in Ndutu.
• High Animal Density: If you want to see as many animals as possible, some months offer higher chances of spotting large numbers of wildlife.
• Bird-Spotting: For bird enthusiasts, specific periods are best for spotting a variety of bird species.
• Lush Vegetation and Wildflowers: Those interested in lush landscapes and blooming wildflowers will prefer different times.
• Great Wildebeests  Migration: Many visitors aim to see the Great Migration and its dramatic river crossings.

To find the best months for each of these highlights, please read our “Best Time to Visit the Serengeti” guide. Additionally, feel free to chat with us for personalized advice.