Tanzania is a dream destination for safari lovers. From the thunder of hooves during the Great Migration to the majestic lions of the Serengeti, few places on Earth offer such awe-inspiring wildlife experiences. But with so many spectacular parks and reserves, a common question among travelers is: Where is the best place for safari in Tanzania?
At Ubuntu Safari and Tours, we know Tanzania like the back of our hand. In this guide, we’ll break down the top safari spots in the country and help you choose the ideal destination for your unforgettable adventure.
🌍 1. Serengeti National Park – The Crown Jewel of African Safaris
If you ask seasoned safari-goers where the best place for safari in Tanzania is, most will answer with one word: Serengeti. This iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its open plains, abundant predators, and, of course, the legendary Great Wildebeest Migration.
Why Choose Serengeti:
- The Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino)
- Over 500 bird species
- Best for year-round game viewing
- Witness the Great Migration (especially from June to October)
Explore Serengeti with Ubuntu Safari and Tours ➝
🦁 2. Ngorongoro Crater – A Natural Wonder Packed with Wildlife
Another top contender for the best safari destination in Tanzania is the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, home to the world’s largest intact volcanic caldera. The Ngorongoro Crater is often called the “Eighth Wonder of the World” for good reason.
Highlights of Ngorongoro:
- High density of wildlife in a compact area
- Black rhinos, one of the rarest safari sightings
- Year-round game viewing
- Stunning views from the crater rim lodges
This location is ideal for those looking for short yet high-impact safaris.
🌿 3. Tarangire National Park – Hidden Gem with Ancient Baobabs
Often overlooked but unforgettable, Tarangire National Park is famous for its massive elephant herds, ancient baobab trees, and off-the-beaten-path feel. This park offers a more intimate and less crowded safari experience.
What Makes Tarangire Special:
- Thousands of elephants in the dry season (June–October)
- Excellent for birdwatchers with over 550 species
- Lesser crowds compared to Serengeti and Ngorongoro
- Ideal for both day trips and overnight safaris
Perfect as your first or last stop on a northern circuit safari.
🌅 4. Lake Manyara National Park – Flamingos and Tree-Climbing Lions
Located on the way to Ngorongoro, Lake Manyara is a great addition to your safari circuit. Though smaller in size, this park offers an amazing variety of ecosystems and wildlife.
What to Expect:
- Thousands of flamingos on the soda lake
- The rare tree-climbing lions
- Rich birdlife and lush groundwater forests
- Ideal for short game drives and nature walks
Lake Manyara is often included in 3- to 5-day safari itineraries from Arusha.
🌄 5. Ruaha National Park – Tanzania’s Wild Southern Secret
If you’re seeking untouched wilderness and fewer tourists, Ruaha National Park is your ideal destination. It’s the largest national park in Tanzania and boasts some of the most pristine and remote safari landscapes.
Why Ruaha?
- Remote and exclusive experiences
- Large populations of lion prides, wild dogs, and elephants
- Ideal for experienced safari-goers
- Best visited during the dry season (June to November)
Great for fly-in safaris and off-the-grid exploration.
🐘 6. Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park) – River Safari Paradise
Located in southern Tanzania, Nyerere National Park (formerly part of the Selous Game Reserve) is a hidden paradise for those looking for water-based safaris.
Selous Highlights:
- Boat safaris on the Rufiji River
- Home to crocodiles, hippos, and rare antelopes
- Diverse terrain from rivers to savannah
- Less crowded and perfect for a relaxed pace
Best combined with Zanzibar or other southern circuit safaris.
🧭 Which Safari Destination is Best for You?
Each park has its own unique charm and wildlife specialties. The “best” place for a safari in Tanzania ultimately depends on your interests, travel style, and time availability. Here’s a quick guide:
| Safari Style | Best Park |
|---|---|
| First-Time Safari | Serengeti + Ngorongoro |
| Big Five in One Spot | Ngorongoro Crater |
| Off-the-Beaten Path | Ruaha or Nyerere |
| Short & Sweet Safari | Tarangire + Lake Manyara |
| Birdwatching | Tarangire or Lake Manyara |
| Great Migration | Serengeti (esp. June–Oct) |
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🔗 Plan Your Safari with Ubuntu Safari and Tours
At Ubuntu Safari and Tours, we specialize in crafting tailor-made safari experiences across Tanzania’s top destinations. Whether you want to see the Great Migration, track rhinos in the crater, or walk with elephants in Tarangire—we’ve got you covered.
Explore our top itineraries on our Tanzania Safari page or combine your safari with a Kilimanjaro trek via our Kilimanjaro trekking packages.
Our local expertise, commitment to sustainability, and deep knowledge of Tanzania make us the perfect partner for your once-in-a-lifetime African journey.
🦓 Final Thoughts: Where is the Best Place for Safari in Tanzania?
The best place for safari in Tanzania depends on what kind of experience you seek. But if we had to choose one for the ultimate safari adventure, Serengeti National Park stands out for its sheer scale, wildlife density, and unforgettable migration scenes.
Still, the magic of Tanzania lies in its diversity—and the true safari experience is often found in a well-planned combination of its breathtaking parks. Let Ubuntu Safari and Tours help you discover your perfect path through the wild.
✅ Ready to Start Planning?
Request your custom safari itinerary now
Or browse our curated safari packages on the Tanzania Safari page.
Experience the wild. Travel with Ubuntu.