The best National Parks to visit in Tanzania

Finding Inspiration in Every Turn

Tanzania is blessed with some of the most spectacular national parks in the world, offering diverse landscapes, abundant wildlife, and unforgettable safari experiences. Whether you’re drawn to the vast plains of the Serengeti or the lush greenery of Tarangire, each park in Tanzania offers something unique. Let’s explore the top national parks that you shouldn’t miss on your Tanzania safari adventure!

1. Serengeti National Park

The Serengeti is the crown jewel of Tanzania’s national parks and is famed for the annual Great Migration, where over a million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles cross the vast plains in search of fresh grazing. With its seemingly endless savannahs, Serengeti offers year-round game viewing, including the Big Five: lions, elephants, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos. A hot air balloon safari over the Serengeti at sunrise is an unforgettable way to experience its beauty.

2. Ngorongoro Crater

Often called Africa's Garden of Eden, the Ngorongoro Crater is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s largest volcanic calderas. The crater floor is a wildlife paradise, with a high concentration of animals, including elephants, lions, rhinos, and hippos. This unique ecosystem makes for an unforgettable safari experience, where you can see diverse wildlife in one of the most breathtaking settings.

3. Tarangire National Park

Famous for its ancient baobab trees and large elephant herds, Tarangire National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers. The park's river acts as a magnet for wildlife, especially during the dry season, when animals gather to drink from the only permanent water source in the region. In addition to elephants, Tarangire is home to giraffes, zebras, wildebeest, and over 500 bird species, making it a birdwatcher’s paradise.

4. Lake Manyara National Park

Nestled at the base of the Great Rift Valley, Lake Manyara National Park offers stunning scenery and unique wildlife. The park is renowned for its tree-climbing lions, which are a rare sight in the animal kingdom. Its soda lake attracts thousands of flamingos, creating a mesmerizing pink horizon. The park is also rich in birdlife, with more than 400 species recorded, as well as elephants, hippos, and giraffes.

5. Ruaha National Park

For those looking for an off-the-beaten-path safari, Ruaha National Park is Tanzania’s largest park and a hidden gem. It boasts a rugged landscape of rolling hills, baobab trees, and the Great Ruaha River, which attracts large concentrations of wildlife, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, and a variety of antelope species. Ruaha is also known for its large elephant population and offers a more remote, intimate safari experience.

6. Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park)

As one of Africa's largest protected areas, Selous Game Reserve (now Nyerere National Park) is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The reserve is home to large populations of elephants, African wild dogs, hippos, and crocodiles. One of the most unique experiences in Selous is the chance to embark on a boat safari along the Rufiji River, where you can observe animals from the water. Its remote location makes it ideal for those seeking a quieter, more exclusive safari.

7. Mikumi National Park

Located near Dar es Salaam, Mikumi National Park is one of the most accessible parks in Tanzania and is perfect for those short on time. The park’s landscape resembles the Serengeti, with open plains that are home to buffalo, elephants, lions, and giraffes. Mikumi is also a great spot for birdwatching, with over 400 species recorded. Its proximity to the city makes it an excellent choice for a quick wildlife getaway.

Why Choose Tanzania’s National Parks?

Tanzania’s national parks are known for their breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, and incredible wildlife encounters. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, each park offers something extraordinary. From the iconic Great Migration in Serengeti to the tranquil waters of Lake Manyara, the beauty of Tanzania’s parks will leave you in awe.

Embark on a safari to these national treasures, and experience the magic of Tanzania firsthand!