Pre-Trip Resources
Your Complete Tanzania Safari Planning Hub
Timing, costs, visas, health, packing, and responsible travel. consolidated into a single guide.
Start Planning Your Safari Journey
When to Visit
Seasons by goal: Dry season (Jun–Oct) = easy viewing, cool mornings; Calving in South Serengeti (Jan–Mar); River crossings in North/West (Jun–Sep).
- Green season (Apr–May): lush, dramatic skies, best value, some rain-linked road limits.
- Short rains (Nov): quick showers, active predators, fewer crowds.
- Book ahead: peak dates sell out 8–12 months in advance near the Migration.
Costs & What’s Included
Typical week (private, mid-range): ~US$3,800–4,500 per person sharing. Variables: travel month, parks, flights, and room type.
- Includes: park/concession fees, private 4×4 & pro guide, full-board lodging, drinking water, internal transfers where stated.
- Excludes: international flights, visas, vaccines/meds, premium drinks, tips, personal insurance.
- Saving tips: travel shoulder months, combine lodges smartly, use light-aircraft hops only where they add value.
Visas & Health
Visa: Most travelers use Tanzania’s e-Visa (apply before travel). Yellow Fever: proof may be required depending on transit countries.
- Malaria: discuss prophylaxis with your clinician; pack insect repellent & long sleeves for evenings.
- Water & food: sealed bottled water only; stick to reputable kitchens (all included camps are vetted).
- Insurance: medical + evacuation cover is essential; keep policy details on your phone.
The Ultimate Packing List
Clothing: neutral tones, breathable layers, warm jacket for dawn, hat & sunglasses.
- Luggage: soft duffel; bush flights commonly limit to 15 kg (33 lb) including hand luggage.
- Tech: binoculars, spare batteries, power bank; mains 230 V—carry a universal adapter (Type G/D common).
- Camera: 70–200 mm for wildlife, fast cards, microfiber cloth; beanbag beats tripods in vehicles.
Responsible Travel & Ethics
Low-impact choices: refill water, refuse single-use plastics, keep to tracks, and limit engine idling at sightings.
- Community: buy local crafts directly; avoid school “drop-ins” that disrupt classes.
- Wildlife respect: no feeding, no drone use without permits, stay quiet at dens/nursery areas.
- Operators: we prioritize fair wages, conservation levies, and audited supply chains.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Tipping: guides ~US$20–30/day/vehicle; lodge staff ~US$10–20/room/night shared in a box.
- Connectivity: good lodge Wi-Fi in common areas; mobile data works near towns—expect wilderness dead zones.
- Payments: cards accepted at most lodges; carry small clean USD notes for remote stops and tips.
- Safety: follow guide instructions; never stand in a moving vehicle; keep distance at sightings.
What Style Fits Your Trip?
Classic Northern Circuit
The iconic loop for first-timers: Tarangire → Serengeti → Ngorongoro. Varied habitats, reliable sightings, and smooth logistics from Arusha.
- Highlights: elephants & baobabs, endless plains, crater floor game drives.
- Wildlife: Big Five potential, big cats, dense general game.
- Pace: 2–3 nights per stop for balance of movement and depth.
- Stay: lodges + tented camps across budget tiers.
- Moves: mostly road with optional light aircraft hops.
Migration-Focused Safari
Be where the herds are. We plan sleep stops and transfers around Migration movements for immersive, dramatic viewing.
- Calving: Ndutu/South; predators + newborns, soft light.
- Crossings: West/North; patient riverbank stakeouts.
- Camps: mobile tented options maximize proximity.
- Moves: smart light-aircraft hops to cut transfer time.
- For: wildlife die-hards, photographers, repeat visitors.
Crucial Safari Quick Facts
Health, Water & Malaria
Anti-malarial medication: consult your physician for a prescription suited to your dates and route. Drink only bottled water (provided in vehicles and camps). Avoid tap water and ice from unknown sources. Pack a personal meds kit (pain relief, rehydration salts, plasters).
Currency, Card & Tipping
US Dollars (post-2009 notes) are widely accepted for extras and tips; keep notes clean/crisp. Cards are accepted at most lodges; carry small cash for markets & remote stops. We’ll share clear tipping guidance per trip style.
Luggage & Bush Flights
For light aircraft routes the limit is typically 15 kg (33 lb) total, including hand luggage. Use a soft-sided duffel; hard suitcases may be refused. Tripods and long lenses should be declared and packed smartly to stay within limits.
Park Rules & Photography
Remain seated while the vehicle is moving; never stand or lean out near wildlife. Drones are prohibited in National Parks without long-lead permits—leave them at home. Respect distances, no flash at night, and follow your guide’s instructions at sightings.
Stop Planning Alone. Let Our Experts Handle the Complexity.
Tanzanian logistics, park permits, and seasonal movements are complex. By requesting a quote, you engage our local Arusha-based team to guarantee a seamless, perfectly-timed experience.