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Wildebeest (known as gnu in East Africa) and hundreds of thousands of zebra make up the Great Migration.

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Large mammals, with the Serengeti supporting more species than anywhere else on the planet.

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Protected areas in Tanzania, equating to 38% of the country’s land area.

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Key locations within the Serengeti make up the Usawa safari circuit.

Tanzania – home of the Great Migration

Tanzania is a destination of epic scale, where Kilimanjaro’s snowy summit rises above the Serengeti’s endless plains. It’s home to the Great Migration, the breathtaking Ngorongoro Crater, and vast, untouched parks like Ruaha and Selous. Yet for all its natural wonders, the country's soul is found in its people—from the Maasai warriors on the mainland to the Swahili culture on the spice island of Zanzibar.

Plan your safari

The Serengeti is one of the world’s most celebrated safari destinations, drawing thousands of travellers who come primarily to witness the Great Migration. Its popularity speaks to the incredible wildlife, breathtaking landscapes, and cultural experiences that make Tanzania so unique. While many visit, Wilderness offers an alternative perspective.

At Wilderness Usawa Serengeti, we offer a contemporary take on the classic mobile safari. By setting up our semi-permanent luxury camps in several seasonal, pre-determined locations, we showcase the shifting highlights of the Serengeti. Here we offer an intimate, carefully crafted safari that lets you explore beyond the crowds and discover the quieter, hidden corners of what is arguably Africa’s most extraordinary safari destination.

Tanzania’s safari destinations

While the legendary Serengeti and its Great Migration form the heart of Tanzania's safari circuit, the adventure extends far beyond its borders. Northern Tanzania’s myriad national parks offer diverse landscapes for exploration, each teeming with outstanding wildlife. For the ultimate contrast, extend your journey to the Indian Ocean, where the spice-scented islands of Zanzibar and Pemba provide the perfect setting for a bush-and-beach escape.

The Serengeti

Covering an area slightly bigger than the Bahamas, Tanzania’s premier national park is one of the Seven Wonders of Africa and was the country’s first national park, designated in 1951. It is part of an ecosystem that extends into Kenya’s Masai Mara, and is famed as one of the world’s most sought-after safari locations.

Ngorongoro Crater

This large caldera is home to a high density of lions and buffalo, as well as other species such as wildebeest and hyena. It is also one of Tanzania’s last refuges for the black rhinoceros, while elephants and the tiny, endemic Mduma's Shrew can also be found here.

Lake Manyara

A popular add-on to Tanzania’s northern safari circuit, Lake Manyara is famous for its tree-climbing lions, as well as its large flocks of waterbirds, including lesser flamingos that congregate on the soda lake. The elephant population is also recovering well here, leading to unique photographic opportunities in a stunning landscape.

Tarangire

Named after the perennial Tarangire River, this park consists of savannah plains dotted with majestic baobabs. There is a huge diversity of wildlife to be found here, including large herds of elephants (particularly in dry season), eland, giraffe, lion, buffalo, cheetah, leopard, and zebra. It is also home to prolific birdlife.

Zanzibar

Known as the Spice Island, Zanzibar lies off Tanzania’s coast in the Indian Ocean and is famed for its white-sand beaches, coral reefs, and rich cultural history. Stone Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, reflects centuries of Swahili, Arab, and European influence, while the island’s dhow-lined shores make it the perfect complement to a Tanzanian safari.

FAQ

General Information

What currency is used in Tanzania?

The official currency in Tanzania is the Tanzanian Shilling (TZS). US Dollars are also widely accepted in many tourist areas, especially for tips, park fees, and at Wilderness camps. Euros and UK Pounds may be exchanged at banks and bureaux de change. Major credit cards such as Visa and MasterCard are accepted at most lodges and hotels.

What time zone is Tanzania in?

Tanzania operates on East Africa Time (EAT), which is GMT +3 hours. The country does not observe daylight savings time.

Can I use my credit cards in Tanzania?

Visa and MasterCard are the most widely accepted credit cards in Tanzania, including at Wilderness camps and lodges. American Express may be accepted at select hotels, though not everywhere. Diners Club is rarely accepted. Debit cards are generally not accepted as a form of payment at camps, so carrying some cash in US Dollars and Tanzanian Shillings is recommended.

What power socket is used in Tanzania?

Tanzania uses 230V power with Type G sockets (three rectangular pins, as used in the UK). While properties may also provide universal adaptors and charging stations, we recommend bringing a reliable adaptor for charging devices and camera gear throughout your journey.

What should I wear on a Tanzanian safari?

Tanzania is generally warm but can get cooler in winter, particularly on early morning and late evening game drives. Pack a rain jacket, and warmer clothing for winter, with light clothing for summer. Bright colours and white are not recommended for a safari, with khaki-coloured clothing generally recommended for travel in the African wilderness.

What do I pack for a holiday in Tanzania?

For light aircraft transfers, luggage must be packed in soft-sided bags with a maximum weight of 20 kg (44 lbs), including hand luggage. Neutral-coloured clothing such as khaki, green, and beige is best, while avoiding bright colours, black, or white. Pack layers to accommodate cool mornings and warm afternoons, and include comfortable walking shoes for bush walks. If combining your safari with Zanzibar, remember to add swimwear, sandals, and casual beachwear.

Where is Tanzania located?

Tanzania is in East Africa, bordered by Kenya and Uganda to the north, Rwanda, Burundi, and the Democratic Republic of Congo to the west, and Zambia, Malawi, and Mozambique to the south. To the east, it has a long Indian Ocean coastline, including the islands of Zanzibar, Pemba, and Mafia.

What is Tanzania known for?

Tanzania is renowned for the Serengeti and the Great Migration, Mount Kilimanjaro (Africa’s highest peak) and the Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest intact caldera. The country is home to extraordinary biodiversity, rich cultural traditions, and idyllic Indian Ocean islands like Zanzibar. Together, these create one of the most diverse safari and travel destinations in Africa.

What can I do in Tanzania besides going on safari?

There is much to do in Tanzania. A visit to Zanzibar’s golden beaches with a dhow cruise on the warm Indian Ocean is a must. Discover the rich culture of Tanzania by visiting Stone Town, the famous spice market and enjoy eating delicious local food. Explore the bustling city of Dar es Salaam. Climbing Mount Kilimanjaro is many people’s most aspirational African adventure.

What animals can I see in Tanzania?

Tanzania has the largest animal population density of any country in the world. Animals native to Tanzania include cheetah, lion, wildebeest, gazelle, ostrich, elephant, leopard, jackal, hyena and giraffe, and over 1,100 different bird species. Tanzania also has the highest number of predators in Africa.

What language is spoken in Tanzania?

Swahili and English are widely spoken in Tanzania.

How many national parks are there in Tanzania?

Almost 40% of the country is protected through wildlife reserves, conservation areas and marine conservation areas. Tanzania has 17 national parks that cover more than 16,000 square miles. Our Wilderness teams can arrange accommodation in beautiful safari camps situated in the country’s most sought-after wildlife areas.

Where do I fly into Tanzania for a safari?

If you are travelling to Tanzania’s popular northern safari circuit you will land at Kilimanjaro International Airport. Tanzania's main airport is Julius Nyerere International Airport, in Dar es Salaam.

What is Tanzania’s national animal?

The graceful giraffe is Tanzania’s national animal.

Visas

Do I need a visa to visit Tanzania?

Yes, travellers from most countries need a visa to travel to Tanzania. A single entry e-visa can be obtained online before travelling.

Vaccinations

What vaccines do I need to visit Tanzania?

Always chat to your travel clinic or doctor before travelling to Tanzania. As a guide, tetanus, typhoid, hepatitis A, diphtheria and polio vaccinations are recommended. You will also need to show your yellow fever vaccination card.

Is Tanzania malaria free?

No. Over 93% of the population in mainland Tanzania live in malaria transmission areas. We advise all our guests to chat to their physician about the best anti-malaria medicine to take. Please note, many anti-malaria tablets need to be taken a few weeks before departure.

What is the COVID protocol for travelling to Tanzania?

We address all concerns surrounding COVID in line with the latest recommendations from the World Health Organization and other leading authorities. Please speak to your Travel Designer for the latest travel advisory updates, to ensure that you are prepared for all COVID travel requirements in Tanzania before your departure.

Do I need to show proof of COVID vaccination when arriving in Tanzania?

Travellers do not currently need a vaccine to enter Tanzania. Also, COVID vaccination passports or certificates are not mandatory to enter the country.