Our safari itineraries are tailor-made based on your travel dates, interests, preferred destinations, and desired activities. Tanzania is a year-round safari destination, and the best time to visit depends on what you would like to experience.
If witnessing the Great Wildebeest Migration is a priority, we recommend traveling during the green season from December to April, which coincides with the calving season in the southern Serengeti. From June onwards, the migration moves north toward the Mara River, making the Northern Serengeti and river crossings into Kenya’s Maasai Mara the best areas to visit.
Regardless of when you travel, we carefully design your itinerary to ensure you are in the right parks and regions for optimal wildlife viewing. We are happy to advise on the best locations to visit based on your travel period, interests, and budget.
Tanzania enjoys a pleasant tropical climate with regional variations influenced largely by altitude. Coastal areas are the hottest and most humid, while other low-lying regions such as the western and southern parks are hot but less humid. The interior highlands experience milder temperatures, with cooler evenings and mornings.
Tanzania has two main seasons: the Dry Season and the Wet (Green) Season.
• The Dry Season typically runs from June to October.
• The Wet Season generally lasts from November to May, with a short dry spell between January and February.
Northern safari parks sit at higher elevations, making the climate comfortable for wildlife viewing even during midday.
Seasonal highlights:
• June – October: Afternoon temperatures range between 20°C–30°C (68°F–86°F) depending on altitude. Days are mostly sunny with clear skies.
• Wet Season: Temperatures are warmer, often around 30°C (86°F) in the afternoons, though higher elevations remain cooler. Early mornings can be chilly in northern parks.
Safaris can be booked at any time, even on short notice. However, if you plan to travel during peak seasons (June–September or December–March), we strongly recommend booking at least six months in advance to secure your preferred lodges and camps.
While last-minute bookings are possible, availability may be limited unless you are opting for a camping safari.
To confirm your booking, we require a 30% deposit, payable by bank transfer or credit card. The remaining balance can be settled by bank transfer, credit card, or cash upon arrival. Our sales team will guide you through the payment process.
Cancellation fees:
• 60–45 days before departure: 25% of total cost
• 45–30 days before departure: 50% of total cost
• 30–15 days before departure: 75% of total cost
• 15 days or less: 100% of total cost
Please note: If you are unable to travel, your deposit may be held as a credit note and applied toward a future safari.
Arriving in Northern Tanzania by Plane
Most safaris and mountain treks begin in northern Tanzania via Kilimanjaro International Airport (JRO).
• North America: No direct flights; common routes include KLM via Amsterdam or Turkish Airlines via Istanbul.
• South America: Flights from São Paulo connect via Amsterdam with KLM.
• Europe: Direct flights available via Amsterdam (KLM), Istanbul (Turkish Airlines), or Frankfurt (Condor – seasonal). Qatar Airways (via Doha) and Ethiopian Airlines (via Addis Ababa) are also popular.
• Asia: Ethiopian Airlines via Addis Ababa or Kenya Airways via Nairobi. From Shanghai, Qatar Airways via Doha is an option.
We recommend casual, comfortable, and lightweight clothing. Safaris are informal, and most lodges offer laundry services. Dress in layers to accommodate cool mornings and warm afternoons.
Choose neutral or khaki colors and avoid dark blue or black, which can attract tsetse flies. Essential items include a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
Recommended safari clothing:
• T-shirts and tank tops
• Long-sleeved shirts (sun protection)
• Shorts and lightweight long pants
• Warm fleece or jacket
• Comfortable walking shoes and sandals
• SwimwearSocks, underwear, sleepwear
• Hat, bandana (for dust)
• Heavy sweater, gloves, and beanie (June–August)
Zanzibar dress code:
Please dress modestly in Stone Town and local areas. Women should avoid sleeveless tops and short skirts; men should wear shirts and knee-length shorts or trousers.
• Passport and travel documents
• Travel insurance details
• Yellow fever certificate (if required)
• U.S. dollars (issued after 2005)
• Credit/ATM cards
• Camera and accessories
• Sunscreen, insect repellent, lip balm
• Flashlight or headlamp
• Small first-aid kit and personal medications
• UK plug adapter and voltage converter
• Personal toiletries and ziplock bags
We strongly recommend carrying essential items, medications, electronics, and a change of clothes in your hand luggage.
Early morning game drives usually begin at 6:00 am. Wildlife is most active between 6:00 am and 9:00 am, and lighting conditions are ideal for photography. Breakfast boxes are arranged so you can maximize time in the field.
Yes. Family safaris can be a rewarding and educational experience. Children can learn about wildlife, conservation, and local cultures. Activities such as visiting schools, villages, or orphanages can be included.
Please note that most lodges are unfenced, and wildlife roams freely. Children must always be supervised, and all safety instructions from guides and lodge staff must be followed.
Mobile network coverage exists in some areas but can be unreliable, especially in remote regions like the Northern and Western Serengeti. Many lodges offer limited Wi-Fi or communication facilities, sometimes at an additional cost.
Most lodges use solar power or generators, providing electricity at set times. Charging facilities are available, though in-room sockets may be limited. Tanzania uses 220–240V, 50Hz, with UK-style and European plug types.
Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance is essential. We also offer optional emergency medical evacuation coverage through AMREF Flying Doctors.
Safari lodges and camps serve high-quality international cuisine, often with freshly baked bread and locally inspired dishes. Special dietary requirements (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free) can be accommodated with advance notice.
Typical meals include:
• Breakfast/brunch
• Picnic or lodge lunch
• Afternoon tea
• Sundowners
• Three-course dinners
• A range of drinks including water, tea, coffee, wine, and beer
Tanzania is generally safe for visitors. As with any destination, use common sense—secure valuables, avoid displaying expensive items, and use taxis at night rather than walking.
Yes. Cultural experiences can be included in your itinerary, such as visits to Maasai villages, Hadzabe communities at Lake Eyasi, local markets, schools, and villages like Mto wa Mbu.
Tipping is customary but optional. General guidelines:
• Porters: US$2 per person per day
• Waitstaff: US$2 per person per day
• Driver-guide: US$10–15 per person per day
