Tanzania Safari FAQ
Clear answers to the questions travelers ask most, costs, best time to visit, Serengeti migration planning, Ngorongoro crater day, Tarangire elephants, fly in options, and Zanzibar add ons. Use the anchors below, or jump straight to a section.
Quick start links
If you want to move fast, these pages help you build a route and then refine it.
Costs
How much does a Tanzania safari cost per person
The cost depends on season, number of days, lodge level, and whether you fly or drive. The fastest way to get accurate pricing is to start with your dates and preferred comfort level, then compare a few realistic route options.
What usually makes safari prices go up or down
Peak season dates, premium camp locations (especially inside Serengeti), private flights, and higher lodge standards increase cost. Longer trips can also lower the average daily rate when planned efficiently.
Is a private safari worth it compared to shared tours
If comfort, timing, and flexibility matter, private safaris are usually worth it. You control the day, stop when you want, and focus on the wildlife you care about most.
Is it cheaper to drive or fly
Driving can cost less, but it uses time. Flying adds airfare, but often improves the experience for shorter trips by reducing long transfers and increasing game drive time.
Best time to visit
What is the best time to visit Tanzania for safari
Tanzania works year round. The best time depends on what you want most, migration focus, fewer vehicles, greener scenery, or classic dry season conditions. We match your dates to the best Serengeti area for that week.
Is the green season good for safari
Yes, if you like lush scenery, dramatic skies, and a softer pace. Wildlife can be more spread out in some parks, but the experience can be beautiful and quieter.
When is the Great Migration in the Serengeti
The migration moves, so the right answer is always tied to your travel dates. Instead of chasing guesses, we place you in the correct Serengeti region for that time of year.
Serengeti
How many days do we need in the Serengeti
Two nights can work for a short trip, but three nights is often the sweet spot for a calmer pace and better wildlife time, especially for families and first time visitors.
Which Serengeti area should we stay in
Central is the most consistent for big cats year round. North is best when the migration is there. South is excellent for early year calving season. The best answer depends on your month.
Do we need to chase the migration
Not always. Central Serengeti is excellent year round. If migration is your main goal, we match your travel month to the correct region.
Ngorongoro
Is Ngorongoro Crater worth it
Yes. It is one of the most wildlife dense areas in Tanzania and it pairs perfectly with Serengeti. A well planned crater day feels dramatic and rewarding.
How does the Ngorongoro crater day work
Most visits are a full day descent and ascent with a picnic lunch on the crater floor. The key is timing and choosing where to stay so the day is comfortable, not rushed.
Should we stay on the crater rim or in Karatu
Rim stays can feel very special and reduce morning driving, but Karatu can be excellent for value and comfort. The right choice depends on your route and lodge preference.
Tarangire
Is Tarangire worth adding after Ngorongoro
Yes, especially if you want elephants and a calmer finish. Tarangire balances the Northern Circuit perfectly after Serengeti and a crater day.
What is Tarangire famous for
Elephants, baobab landscapes, and relaxed game drives. It is also excellent for travelers who like to slow down and watch behavior instead of rushing.
When is the best time for elephants in Tarangire
Dry season months are usually strongest for concentrated wildlife and classic elephant sightings. In greener months the park is beautiful, but wildlife can be more spread out.
Logistics and planning
Should we fly in or drive in for the Northern Circuit
Fly in is great when days are limited or comfort matters, especially for families. Driving can be great if you have time and want a fuller road safari feel. We can mix both.
What is the best starting point for a Tanzania safari
Most Northern Circuit safaris start from Arusha. From there you can drive into the parks or fly into the Serengeti to maximize safari time.
How far in advance should we book
For peak months and specific camps, earlier is always safer. For more flexible dates and lodge choices, we can often move faster. Tell us your dates and we will advise honestly.
Families and first time visitors
Is Tanzania safari suitable for children
Yes, especially on a private safari where you control the pace. Shorter drives, relaxed mornings, and good lodges make the experience comfortable and exciting.
How do we keep the safari pace comfortable
The best strategy is fewer long transfers and more time in the right places. We plan by season, choose the correct Serengeti region, and avoid packing too much into each day.
Zanzibar after safari
Can we combine safari with Zanzibar
Yes. Many travelers do safari first, then fly to Zanzibar to unwind. It is one of the most balanced Tanzania trips and works well for families and couples.
Should we do Zanzibar before or after safari
Most travelers prefer after safari so the trip ends slowly and comfortably. If your flights work better the other way, we can also do Zanzibar first, then fly in to Serengeti.
Request your private Tanzania safari plan
Share your travel month, number of days, and who you are traveling with. We will reply with a clear sample itinerary and lodge options, then refine it with you.