The Big Five Safari in Tanzania

What is Big Five Safari? .The term “Big Five” means Africa’s Black Rhino, Leopard, Lion, Elephant and Cape Buffalo. Seeing the Big 5 close is a once in a lifetime experience since some of them are difficult to see. Up to now, still the Big Five refers to animals that roam and rule the wild plains of Africa. Comparing to other types of animals, Big 5 are few in number. Once you enter the park you become part of their world. Therefore you need to respect the territories that are theirs. Hope you came across the term Big 5 on the internet and it seems to be an attractive topic.

Where and how to see Big Five animals during safari in Tanzania

Tanzania is a land like no other in the world. It has good landscapes, attractive wildlife and amazing mountains. All who visit either for Big Five safaris or other safaris remain inspired for a long time after their departure. Choosing a Big Five safari in Tanzania offers you the best and highest chance of seeing these beautiful animals. There are many countries in Africa in which you can see Big 5 animals, however Tanzania is the best.

Kibena Africa Safaris as a tour operator in Tanzania has met many traveler’s expectations a time they chose them. Although life in the wild is unpredictable and sometimes nature does not cater to meet our demands. Hence not everyone will see all the Big Five as they live natural lives and are not always there available. But I am confident to recommend the Kibena Africa Safaris team that they are able to fix your smile on this. Common Big 5 seen at Tarangire, Manyara are Africa’s lion, elephant and cape buffalo. You see Leopard in Serengeti and Black Rhino inside Ngorongoro Crater.

The best safari package to spot the Big Five on Tanzania Safari

Since many visitors consider a safari is not good without having witnessed and photographed the Big Five. So to make sure you have high chance to meet Big Five animals I suggest you explore some parks in the northern circuit of Tanzania, including Tarangire a home of Elephants, Lake Manyara well known for the tree climbing lions, the soda ash lake and its flamingos, Ngorongoro Crater a home to good populations of Black Rhino, Lion, Buffalo and Hyena, Serengeti the best place to encounter Leopard, Lion and Zebra along with healthy herds of Wildebeest and Lake Natron a breeding place for thousands of Rift Valley Flamingos and numerous waterfalls. These parks are full of amazing wildlife year round. I just mentioned a few animals and hopefully you will be lucky enough to see Big Five animals for this route.

Moreover, during this safari you will travel in a safari car 4×4 Land Rover or Toyota Land Cruiser with pop-up roof, binocular, fridge, inverter, mineral water on the car and professional guide who will be with you all the time. You can also experience early morning game drives. Overnight will be in lodges/camps that offer best service and safety to our guests and we regularly inspect those accommodations. We are based here in Tanzania, hence we will be in touch with you 24×7 during the safari to assist in any case or emergency.

10 Best things to do in Tanzania

Make sure you indulge in all of these exciting experiences on your trip to Tanzania, Africa, for an unforgettable holiday experience with your friends or family.

1. Climb to the top of Mt Kilimanjaro

things to do in Tanzania

Mt Kilimanjaro is one of the world-famous destinations you can visit while on a trip to Tanzania. If you are thinking of doing something different in Tanzania, this climb will be the best for you. You can have an adventurous climb to the top.

It is a climb of medium difficulty and you should be determined to reach the top. A spectacular view awaits you at the Kibo, a snow-capped crater and the highest point of the mountain. Make sure you make proper planning to reach the top as it is bitterly cold after a point. It is one of the most important things to do in Tanzania.

Best trekking season: January to March (winter season) and June-October (hot season)
You can get snow on the summit on climbing during the winter season.
Location: Mt Kilimanjaro

View Kilimanjaro tours

 

2. Get rejuvenated in the blues of Zanzibar

things to do in Tanzania

If you love the sea and the tranquil blue hue, probably Zanzibar is the best place you can be in while a trip to Tanzania. There are many things to do in Tanzania Zanzibar as the presence of many water amusements. If you love diving, Zanzibar can be your paradise.

The Swahili Coast is enriched with several diving sites. The temperature of the water is diver friendly that remains 25- 30 degrees all around the year. The city is full of Arabic buildings and picturesque streets. You can get the flavor of the stone city. Zanzibar can gift you a memorable beach life.

Best time to visit: June to October (Hot season); December of February (cold season)
Location: Zanzibar Beach

 

3. Get a glimpse of the Great Migration

things to do in Tanzania

You cannot afford to miss the great migration while you are in Tanzania. If you are confused about what to do in Tanzania on a budget, this is probably the answer for you. The flavors of the African savanna can amaze you. You will be able to see several zebras, eland, and gazelles tearing apart the savanna in Serengeti. On the southern part of Tanzania, you can see these animals gather from April to May near River Grumeti. You should, therefore, consider it as one of the main things to do in Tanzania.

Best time to visit: May to July (The animals cross the Grumeti River at this time)
Location: Serengeti, Tanzania.

 

4. Wildlife Safari Adventures

things to do in Tanzania

When in Tanzania, you should never miss the jungle safaris. You can choose from a number of options in case of a jungle safari. This is another thing which answers your question, what to do in Tanzania on a budget. You should go for the leading jungle safari routes if you have time.
You can catch the real flavor of an African jungle and if you are an adventure freak, this is the food for your soul!

In the safaris of Serengeti, you can find enormous herds of ungulates. The jungles are the home to these animals that go for the great migration.

There are three National Parks with different routes for the safari. They are Serengeti National Park, Tarangire National Park, and Arusha National Park. You can consider Serengeti as a primary option as it is termed as a World Heritage Site by the UNESCO. A large number of predators are present in the jungles of Serengeti in a large number.

5. Taste the Tanzanian Cuisine

Tanzania is a home to a number of traditional cuisines. It is one of the main things to do in Tanzania other than safari. You can get the flavor of the wild but natural Africa in the Tanzanian dishes. The cuisines of Tanzania generally remain infamous among the jungle art and music. The traditional dish of Tanzania includes rice served with beans and spinach; which is must try for you. Meat is one of the main dishes which you can get. A curry sauce may add on with the grilled meat. You can find a dominance of the mangoes and coconuts in the dishes. There is a prevailing Indian influence in case of the Tanzanian dishes.

If you are passionate towards drinking, Tanzania can serve you with the excellent local alcohol. You can sip the honey beer or the banana beer according to your choice. A formatted juice of sugarcane is also available in Tanzania having the name of Pombe. You can order a safari straight away as it is of the highest quality in Africa.

Happy intoxication buddy! Go have some drinks because it is also among the most important things to do in Tanzania.

 

6. Have a life in Tanga

things to do in Tanzania

Tanga is an old city in Tanzania where you should stay if you are confused about what to do in Tanzania. It is calm and comprises of the northern part of East Africa which was built by the Germans. You can choose to rest for some period in Tanga after watching the great migration or having a tiring climb on Mt Kilimanjaro.

Some places which you should never forget visiting while in Tanga are the Amboni Caves. You can get a chance of exploring the limestone stalactites and stalagmites. Note that a small offering towards the shrine of Pangani shouldn’t go amiss.

It is situated just at the entrance of the Amboni caves. While in Tanga explore the mystical graveyards as they can offer you a picture of the European history thriving in this place. While experiencing some rest Tanga can serve you different things to do in Tanzania.

If you are craving for a self-date, you should hire a bike and roam about the small port city of Tanga. Exploring the art-deco mansions and the sandy beaches can rejuvenate you well. This is another most important among the best things to do in Tanzania.

Location: Tanga City, Tanzania

 

7. Visit the Ngorongoro Crater

things to do in Tanzania

This is a must visit for all the wildlife freaks who visit Africa. The Ngorongoro Crater is an old volcanic caldera. The Ngorongoro is termed as the World Heritage site by the UNESCO. It is the home to the large amounts of mammals. Finding an impala and a giraffe can be rarer in the Ngorongoro crater due to the open woodlands. But you can still see them if your luck favors.
The African rhino is present in adequate numbers in Ngorongoro which you can see.

Location: Ngorongoro Conservation Area

 

8. Have time with the Maasai people

things to do in Tanzania

The Masai tribe is one of the world famous semi-nomadic tribes that is native to Tanzania. Mingling up with the Masai people is what you can consider as one of the things to do in Tanzania. You can get to know their lifestyle properly. The Masai people seem to be friendly with the tourists and that is obviously an advantage for you. They mainly thrive in the Serengeti region of Africa.

The Masai people are primarily warriors. You can get to see a diverse variety of jewelry which is made only by beads. You should choose a good Masai village for the most authentic experience. A Masai village visit can surely be in your memories for a lifetime.

Location: Ngorongoro and Serengeti

 

9. Take a look from the hot air balloon

things to do in Tanzania

When on a trip to Tanzania, you should always consider jumping into a hot air balloon. This is again one of the leading things to do in Tanzania. A view from the top of the Hot air Balloon can be soothing to your eyes. You can easily get to capture a panorama from atop. The general timings of these trips are during the dawn mainly.

Location: Serengeti

 

10. Explore the business city of Dar Es Salaam

things to do in Tanzania

While considering the things to do in Tanzania, you should not omit the capital city of Dar Es Salaam. There are many things to do in Tanzania Dar Es Salaam as it is rich in tourism. You can have a visit to the National Museum of Tanzania to know the history of this ancient country. Moreover, you should also explore the art and culture of the place.

Location: Dar Es Salaam

Reasons why Tanzania is the best holiday destination

Tanzania is a country located in eastern Africa. A large area to the east is bordered by the Indian Ocean. Tanzania is a union of the two countries of Tanganyika, which are mainland Tanzania and the islands of Zanzibar. Tanzania has a wealth of attractions and natural resources, including large forests, rivers, large lakes, Mount Kilimanjaro, and other interesting mountains.

For a person who is looking for the best holiday destination cannot afford to skip Tanzania as his first choice. From the moment you enter the country through either Julius Nyerere International Airport or Kilimanjaro International Airport, you will be greeted by the charming and kind people.

In terms of tourist attractions, it is not easy to visit all the places in a short period of time because each attraction needs your attention. Whether you have come to Tanzania to experience wildlife in famous national parks, climb Mount Kilimanjaro, or visit the islands of Zanzibar, we are prepared to receive you and give you a great time together with your loved ones so that you will have unforgettable experience.

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Attractions to visit

If you still haven’t decided or you’re not sure where to visit, don’t worry; our experts are online all the time to help you and advise you more about your trip. For now, let’s take you a little bit closer to the must-see attractions that are loved and visited by many tourists.

Serengeti National Park

The Serengeti national park is a huge wildlife sanctuary located in the north of Tanzania. The Serengeti is the second largest in Tanzania, and for several years it has been chosen to receive the award for the best attraction in Africa. The Serengeti is most famous for the wildebeest migration, where large herds of wildebeest accompanied by herds of zebras and gazelle migrate from southern part of the Serengeti to the north through the central and western Serengeti, heading towards the Masai Mara in Kenya. This is the annual where these animals crossing the very dangerous Mara river that separates the Serengeti parks in Tanzania and the Masai Mara in Kenya Tourists arrive at the edge of the Mara river in special vehicles and stop there to witness large herds of wildebeest crossing towards the Masai Mara park in Kenya. Here you will see the bravery of the wildebeest in pursuing the huge, hungry crocodiles that get a chance to catch and eat large numbers of the wildebeest during this migration period. The challenge of migration does not end with the struggle with the crocodiles of the Mara River; there are also other deadly predators like lions, leopards, cheetahs, and troops of hyenas waiting in the bushes on the river banks. Here, along with crossing in groups, you will see how each mule fights to protect its life.

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Tarangire National Park

Tarangire National Park is famous for its woodland landscape and ancient baobab trees that is found inside the park. Tarangire has the largest number of elephants in Africa. The name of this park comes from the name of the Tarangire River, which is the life support for many animals and creatures that live in this area. In Tarangire, you will also have an opportunity to encounter with other wild animals, including lions, zebra, wildebeest, and gazelle. There are also large groups of native birds and those that migrate according to the weather. Also in Tarangire, you can see giant pythons climbing on trees. This park is one of the most amazing attractions.

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Lake Manyara National Park

This is one of the most famous parks in northern Tanzania. This park is located on the edge of an alkaline lake that has been used to give its name to this park. Lake Manyara national park is very famous for the tree climbing lions. Here you will see many animals, and you can have a chance to do canoe in the lake as well as take a walk on the edges of the rift valley led by the park rangers and your safari guide.

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Mount Kilimanjaro

With the height of 5895 feets, Mount Kilimanjaro is one of the wonders of the African continent. It is the highest mountain in Africa, but it is also the highest stand-alone mountain in the world and the second highest in the world. Mount Kilimanjaro is a dormant volcano located in northern Tanzania, on the border between Tanzania and Kenya. This mountain has many wonders, and every mountaineer has a different exciting story about it.

Anyone over the age of 8 can climb Mount Kilimanjaro. You can choose the route you want to use to climb this mountain according to what you want to experience from your climb. There are Marangu, Lemosho, Machame, Rongai, Umbwe, and Northern Circuit routes. Our experts will give you good instructions on how to choose a route and when it is best for you to start climbing Kilimanjaro.

Zanzibar Islands

The islands of Zanzibar are a group of islands (Unguja, Pemba, and other small islands) in the Indian Ocean eastern Tanzania. The islands of Zanzibar are famous as the spice islands.” This is due to the availability of cloves and other spices that are cultivated on those islands. The islands of Zanzibar were inhabited by Arabs from Oman under several Omani sultans who operated a trade in slavery and cloves; even today, there are still remnants of Arabs on those islands. This mix of natives and Arabs makes the culture and behavior of the people of Zanzibar more interesting. For a person visiting Zanzibar, there are many activities, including visiting ancient buildings that are more than 150 years old and are still strong and inhabited by people. Due to this uniqueness, UNESCO has designated Stone Town as a cultural heritage site. You will enjoy swimming with dolphins or playing with turtles on the beaches of the Indian Ocean if you are on the islands of Zanzibar. There is the issue of food; Zanzibar food is one of the things you will always remember.