Tanzania is a year-round safari destination, but the best time depends on what you want to see. The dry season from June to October is ideal for general wildlife viewing as animals gather around water sources, making sightings easier. If you want to witness the Great Migration, the best months vary river crossings in the Serengeti occur from July to September, while the calving season in Ndutu (Southern Serengeti) happens between January and March.

During the rainy seasons (March to May and November), Tanzania is lush and beautiful, with fewer crowds and lower prices. This is also a fantastic time for birdwatching, as migratory birds arrive in large numbers. However, some roads in remote areas may be challenging to navigate due to heavy rains.

The cost of a Tanzania safari depends on several factors, including the duration, accommodation level, and mode of transportation. A budget safari with camping or basic lodges can range from $150 to $250 per person per day, while a midrange safari with comfortable lodges costs between $300 to $600 per day. For a luxury safari, expect to pay $800 to $2,500 per person per day, depending on exclusivity and luxury lodges.

Flights from Zanzibar to the Serengeti or Arusha also add to the cost, typically ranging between $250 to $500 per person one-way. Private safaris tend to be more expensive than group safaris, but they offer flexibility and a more intimate experience.

Tanzania is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhinoceros. The Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater offer some of the best chances to see these iconic species in their natural habitats.

Beyond the Big Five, you can spot cheetahs, giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, hippos, crocodiles, hyenas, and over 500 species of birds. Tarangire National Park is famous for its large elephant herds, while Lake Manyara is known for its tree-climbing lions and flamingos. If you visit during the Great Migration, you may witness massive herds of wildebeest and zebras on the move, one of nature’s most breathtaking spectacles.

Most travelers require a visa to enter Tanzania, which can be obtained online or on arrival at major airports and border crossings. A single-entry visa costs $50 for most nationalities, but U.S. citizens pay $100 for a multiple-entry visa.

It’s recommended to have vaccinations for Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, and routine vaccines. Malaria is present in Tanzania, so taking antimalarial medication and using insect repellent is advised. Always check with your doctor or travel clinic for updated health advice before traveling.

Pack light, comfortable clothing in neutral colors (beige, green, and khaki) to blend with the environment. Essential items include a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, a good camera, binoculars, comfortable walking shoes, and a small backpack.

Avoid bright colors like red (which may scare animals) and blue/black (which attract tsetse flies). If you’re visiting during the rainy season, pack a light rain jacket and waterproof bags for your electronic