How to Plan a Tanzania Safari from the USA, UK, or Europe
How to Plan a Tanzania Safari from the USA / UK / Europe
Planning a Tanzania safari from the USA, UK, or Europe is exciting but can feel overwhelming if it’s your first time. This simple and complete guide will help you plan step by step—from booking flights to packing your bags. Whether you’re dreaming of seeing the Big Five or relaxing in a luxury safari lodge, this guide makes it easy to get started.
No need to worry if you’ve never been to Africa before—this guide is made especially for first-time travelers. We’ll explain everything in simple steps so you can plan your safari with confidence and enjoy every part of your journey.
Why Choose Tanzania for a Safari?
Tanzania is one of the best safari destinations in the world. Here’s why:
- Home to famous parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro Crater
- Wildebeest Migration, one of nature's greatest shows
- Chance to see the Big Five: lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino
- Beautiful lodges and tented camps
- Enjoy a Hot Air Balloon Safari
- Warm, friendly local people
Step 1: Choose Your Travel Dates
Best time to visit Tanzania:
June to October:
This is the dry season and the best time for wildlife viewing. Animals gather around water sources, making them easier to see. The weather is sunny and not too hot, which is perfect for game drives. This season also offers the best chance to see the Big Five and the Wildebeest Migration.
December to March:
This is a good time for bird watchers and photographers. Migratory birds arrive in Tanzania, and many animals give birth during this period, especially in the Southern Serengeti. The landscape is green and beautiful, with fewer tourists compared to peak season.
April to May:
This is the rainy season. Some lodges may close, and roads can be muddy, but it’s the greenest time of year with beautiful views. It’s also a budget-friendly time to visit.
November:
Short rains begin, but it’s still possible to enjoy good game viewing. Crowds are fewer, and the scenery starts to turn green again.
If you want to see the Wildebeest Migration, plan for June to July (Grumeti area) or August to October (Northern Serengeti and Mara River).
Step 2: Pick Your Safari Parks
Tanzania has many safari parks. Here are the most popular:
Serengeti National Park – The Land of the Great Migration
Serengeti National Park is one of the most famous safari destinations in the world. It is best known for the Great Migration, where millions of wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles move across the plains. This is an exciting experience for families, as children love to see large groups of animals running together.
Why it’s great for families:
- You can see many animals, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino).
- It has open plains, making it easy to spot animals.
- There are lodges and camps that cater to families with children.
Best activities for families:
- Game drives: Drive through the park and watch animals in their natural habitat.
- Hot air balloon safari: A magical experience for the whole family, floating above the Serengeti.
- Cultural visits: Meet the Maasai people and learn about their way of life.
Ngorongoro Crater – A Natural Wonder Full of Wildlife
Ngorongoro Crater is a special place in Tanzania. It is a giant volcanic crater that is home to thousands of animals. Because of its shape, animals stay inside the crater all year, making it a great place for wildlife viewing.
Why it’s great for families:
- It has a high concentration of animals, so you will see a lot in one day.
- It is a short drive from Arusha, making it perfect for young children.
- The scenery is breathtaking, with lakes, forests, and open grasslands.
Best activities for families:
- Game drives: Spot lions, elephants, rhinos, and hippos all in one place.
- Picnic by the lake: Enjoy a packed lunch while watching hippos in the water.
- Birdwatching: Ngorongoro has over 400 bird species, great for kids who love nature.
Tarangire National Park – Home of the Elephants
Tarangire National Park is famous for its large elephant herds. It is also known for its giant baobab trees and beautiful landscape. If your family loves elephants, this is the perfect safari destination.
Why it’s great for families:
- It has one of the largest elephant populations in Tanzania.
- The park is less crowded than Serengeti, making it peaceful and relaxing.
- It is close to Arusha, making it easy for families with small children.
Best activities for families:
- Game drives: Spot elephants, giraffes, zebras, and even tree-climbing lions.
- Walking safaris: Some areas allow guided walks, great for older kids.
- Night safaris: A special experience where you can see nocturnal animals.
Lake Manyara National Park – A Hidden Gem with Tree-Climbing Lions
Lake Manyara National Park is a small but beautiful park. It is famous for its tree-climbing lions, large flocks of flamingos, and stunning landscapes. This park is great for a short family safari.
Why it’s great for families:
- It has a mix of forest, lake, and open savannah, making it diverse and interesting.
- It is home to many monkeys and baboons, which kids love to see.
- The park is small, so you don’t have to drive long distances.
Best activities for families:
- Game drives: Watch lions in trees and flamingos on the lake.
- Canoeing (seasonal): If the water level is high, you can take a canoe ride.
- Treetop walkway: Walk on suspended bridges and see the forest from above.
Arusha National Park – The Best Park for a Short Family Safari
Arusha National Park is a great choice for families who want a short and easy safari. It is located close to Arusha town, so you don’t have to travel far. The park has a mix of mountains, forests, and lakes.
Why it’s great for families:
- It is a small park, perfect for half-day or full-day trips.
- It has a lot of different landscapes, including waterfalls and lakes.
- You can see giraffes, zebras, monkeys, and even flamingos.
Best activities for families:
- Game drives: See many animals in just a few hours.
- Walking safari: A safe and exciting way to explore nature on foot.
- Canoeing: Paddle across Momella Lakes and see hippos and birds up close.
Planning a Tanzania safari from the USA, UK, or Europe on your chosen dates?
Most travelers from the USA, UK, or Europe choose a safari that lasts:
7 to 10 days: Enough to see multiple parks and enjoy a relaxing pace
10 to 14 days: Great for combining safari with Zanzibar beach time
Shorter trips (5-6 days) are also possible, especially if you focus on just 1 or 2 parks.
Step 4: Book International Flights
Fly into Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO) for Northern Tanzania safaris. Fly into Julius Nyerere International Airport (DAR) for Southern Tanzania safaris.
From the USA:
Popular routes: JFK, Atlanta, Washington D.C. to JRO via Amsterdam, Doha, or Istanbul
From the UK:
London Heathrow to JRO or DAR via KLM, Qatar Airways, Turkish Airlines
From Europe:
Direct or 1-stop flights from Amsterdam, Frankfurt, or Paris to JRO
Tip: Book early (3-6 months ahead) for the best prices and seats.
Step 5: Check Visa Requirements
USA, UK, and EU citizens need a tourist visa to enter Tanzania
You can get it online (eVisa) or on arrival
Tanzania eVisa:
Cost: Around USD $50
Valid for 90 days
Step 6: Get Vaccinations and Health Tips
Recommended vaccines:
Yellow Fever (required if coming from a country with Yellow Fever)
Hepatitis A and B
Typhoid
Tetanus
Malaria prevention tablets (consult your doctor)
Health tips:
Drink bottled or filtered water
Use insect repellent
Wear long sleeves in the evening
Step 7: Choose a Safari Tour Operator
A good safari company will help with:
Itinerary planning
Booking lodges and camps
Transport and guides
Park permits
Why choose Seko Tours Adventures?
Local expertise and personalized service
Experienced English-speaking guides
Flexible safari packages for USA, UK, and EU travelers
Custom safaris for families, couples, or solo travelers
Step 9: Pack Smart for Safari
Safari packing list:
Light, neutral-colored clothing
Hat and sunglasses
Sunscreen and insect repellent
Binoculars and camera
Travel documents (passport, visa, insurance)
Luggage tip: Use soft bags (duffel bags) for easy transport in safari vehicles.
Step 10: Know the Local Customs and Language
Language: Swahili and English are both widely spoken
Greetings: Learn a few Swahili words like:
Hello: Jambo
Thank you: Asante
Goodbye: Kwaheri
Tipping:
Safari guide: $10-$20 per day (per group)
Driver: $5-$10 per day
Lodge staff: Small tips appreciated
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About How to Plan a Tanzania Safari from the USA, UK, or Europe
Yes, most travelers from the USA, UK, and Europe need a tourist visa. You can get it online (eVisa) or on arrival at the airport.
The best time is from June to October during the dry season. You’ll see more animals and enjoy good weather.
Most people do 7 to 10 days. This gives enough time to visit 2 or 3 parks and enjoy the experience without rushing.
Yes! After your safari, you can relax on the beach in Zanzibar. Many travelers do this for the perfect trip.
Yes, Tanzania is safe. Just follow your guide’s advice and take normal safety steps like in any travel.
You can see lions, elephants, giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, hippos, and more. If lucky, you’ll see the Big Five!
Pack light clothes in neutral colors, a hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, sunscreen, camera, and binoculars.
For Northern parks (like Serengeti), fly to Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO). For Southern parks, fly to Dar es Salaam (DAR).
Yes, check with your doctor. Common vaccines include Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid, and Tetanus. Malaria pills are also recommended.
You can stay in budget lodges, mid-range camps, or luxury tented lodges. There’s something for every budget.
Prices vary. Budget safaris start at $1,500, mid-range around $2,500–$4,000, and luxury from $5,000+ per person.
Yes! Many lodges are child-friendly. Some parks and lodges have age limits, so check when booking.
Yes, tipping is common. Tip your guide $10–$20 per day, drivers $5–$10, and give small tips to lodge staff.
Tanzania is warm most of the year. Dry season is sunny and pleasant. Rainy season (April–May) brings showers and green landscapes.
In big hotels and lodges, yes. But carry cash for small shops or tips. The currency is Tanzanian Shilling (TZS).
A local company like Seko Tours Adventures knows the parks, animals, and best times to visit. You’ll get personal service and real value
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