Top Tanzania National Parks & Reserves (The Ultimate Tanzania Safaris)

Top Tanzania National Parks & Reserves

Nothing beats a safari adventure that is raw and wild. As an adventure seeker, you have many options to explore Wildlife parks around the world. However, the wilderness and adrenaline rush that Tanzania offers is unmatched.

Tanzania is home to a plethora of National Parks and Game Reserves that offer the ultimate safari experience. Apart from spotting the Big five, you will get to explore the place in its rich flora and fauna.

Around one-third of the country’s total area is protected for wildlife – making it the number one choice for adventure enthusiasts.

Plus, you can get to witness the magical great wildebeest migration that takes place annually – millions of animals migrate from Serengeti National Park in Tanzania to Masai Mara National Park in Kenya.

Of course, apart from wildlife adventures, you will get to witness the indigenous cultures of Tanzania. The Parks and Reserves in Tanzania are divided into the Northern and Southern circuits.

Serengeti National Park is the most visited Park in the Northern circuit, but many small parks in the Southern circuit offer you complete wildlife escapades.

If you’re planning to visit Tanzania for a safari trip, you must know about the top Tanzania Parks and Reserves, so continue reading.

Serengeti National Park

Serengeti is rated as the number one park in Tanzania. Its spread across a massive 5700 sq miles and is located in the Northern region.

  • It is known for its oldest ecosystems, also the most complex one.
  • The best part is – that you’ll be able to spot the Big Five in the Serengeti region.
  • Besides, the rich landscapes of the place make it a photographer’s delight.
  • You can visit the place during the annual wildebeest migration to witness the magnificent event in its full circle.
  • Apart from big cats and cheetahs, the place is home to more than 500 species of birds.
  • The best time to visit the Park is from June to Oct, also the peak season.

Ruaha National Park

Ruaha is the largest National Park in Tanzania, also the most visited one. Its spread across 7809 sq km and is home to many rear animals and birds.

  • The vastness of the Park ensures that you can spot all the mammals and large animals.
  • You’ll get to spot many elephants, wild dogs, and crocodiles at the Park.
  • It is also a good place to spot a lot of migratory birds.
  • The landscapes and beauty of the place make it a great choice for people who like quiet safari adventures.
  • Besides, it offers many lodges and accommodation options for you to choose from.
  • June to Sep is the best time to visit the Park.

Arusha National Park

Arusha National Park offers breathtaking magical safari adventures like no other place. Plus, when it comes to access, nothing beats the Park. Though it’s spread across 552 sq km, the park offers splendid safari rides and rich wilderness.

  • You can choose from Game drives and camp in the bush as part of your adventures here.
  • Additionally, you will be able to spot elephants, zebras, waterbucks, and buffalos.
  • Its also home to baboons, and many varieties of antelopes.
  • For bird lovers, there are 400 different species of birds.
  • The ideal time to visit the Park is in peak season – June to Oct.

Lake Manyara National Park

Lake Manyara National Park is known for its diversity and raw wilderness. It is lesser-known than Serengeti, but is incredibly beautiful and filled with exotic wildlife escapades.

  • You will be able to spot hippos, wildebeests, buffalos, lions, and leopards.
  • It is home to more than 300 migratory birds – including kingfishers and flamingos.
  • The flora and fauna of the landscapes captivate every tourist who visits the Park.
  • The gorgeous Manyara Lake at the park serves as a waterhole for many wildlife animals.
  • The best time to visit the Park is during July or Oct, also the peak time.

Selous Game Reserve

Selous Game Reserve is located in the Southern area, quite far from other famous parks in Tanzania. Its spread across a massive area of 54,600 sq km – making it one o the largest parks in Africa.

  • The Rufiji River serves as a waterhole for all the wild animals and birds.
  • Additionally, it is home to more than 120,000 buffalos and more than 4000 lions.
  • You will also be able to spot many hippos at the Game Reserve.
  • It is home to African wild dogs and leopards, so if you are lucky you can spot the animals.
  • It is best to visit the park during June or Oct for exploring it better.

Ngorongoro Conservation area

It is technically a conservation area on the bucket list of every travel enthusiast.

  • You will be able to spot vast herds of zebras and wildebeests.
  • Though you can spot the Big Five at the park, the black rhinos are kept in a safe area due to fear of poaching.
  • Apart from the Big five, you will be able to spot other animals like – cheetahs, gazelles, hippos, and lions.
  • If you are a bird lover, you can spot many birds – including a flock of flamingoes. You can visit the place from April to Oct to explore it in its wilderness.

Saadani National Park

Saadani National Park is a small park rarely visited, ideal for a quiet safari trip. Its spread across 425 sq km and is the only park in Tanzania that borders the sea.

  • The Park is home to four of Africa’s big five – lions, elephants, buffalo, and leopards.
  • Plus, you will be able to spot velvet monkeys and blue monkeys in the park.
  • Its also known for Masai giraffes, hippos, and crocodiles.
  • You can visit during peak time to spot most animals and birds.
  • The safari ride will give you quite a thrilling experience.

Winding-up,

Plan your trip to Tanzania, and visit the magnificent parks and reserves to explore wilderness like never before.

Plus, you can book accommodation options depending on your budget. There are many luxury accommodations available, so choose wisely.