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Last updated on April 12th, 2023 at 06:51 am
Tanzania National Parks are some of the world’s most iconic and diverse protected areas. Located in East Africa, Tanzania is home to a vast range of wildlife and some of the most breathtaking natural wonders on the planet. From the vast plains of the Serengeti to the stunning Ngorongoro Crater, Tanzania’s National Parks offer an unforgettable opportunity to explore the best of Africa’s wildlife and natural beauty.
The country boasts 16 national parks, as well as numerous conservation areas and game reserves, which are home to a wide variety of wildlife. Tanzania National Parks are a treasure trove of natural wonders and unforgettable experiences of a Tanzania Safari. These stunning safari spots make Tanzania a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the best of Africa.
Tanzania is a country blessed with some of the world’s most stunning landscapes and an incredibly diverse array of wildlife. With over 16 national parks, Tanzania is a paradise for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.
The country boasts a range of ecosystems, from the vast Serengeti Plains to the Ngorongoro Crater, from the tropical forests of Mahale to the vast savannahs of the Selous.
Each of the National Parks In Tanzania has unique features and characteristics that make it stand out. Some parks are well-known for their abundance of big game, while others are home to rare primates, colourful bird species, and lush vegetation.
Among all, there are 5 major national parks that capture the main highlights of a Tanzania Safari Tour:
Serengeti National Park is a world-renowned wildlife reserve in Tanzania, East Africa. The park covers an area of 14,763 square kilometres (5,700 square miles). It comprises vast plains, savannas, and woodlands, including the Serengeti Plains, the Grumeti River, and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Serengeti is famous for its annual wildebeest migration, which sees millions of wildebeests and zebras move across the park for food and water. You should include the Serengeti in your Tanzania Safari Packages to see this natural wonder. The park can be visited at any time of the year, but the best time is during the dry season (from June to October).
Location | Wildlife | Activities | Major Highlights |
Located in the eastern Mara Region and northeastern Simiyu Region in northern Tanzania. | Big five (Elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, rhino)Different antelopesWildebeestsSpotted hyenaGolden and black-backed jackal500 bird species | guided game drives hot air balloon rides guided nature walksCultural tours to Maasai people birding safari | The Great Wildebeest MigrationAbundant wildlife, including the “Big Five”Stunning landscape with vast grasslands, Hot air balloon safaris |
The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is a protected area in northern Tanzania. It covers an area of 8,292 square kilometres (3,202 square miles) and is home to a diverse array of wildlife and landscapes.
The area includes the Ngorongoro Crater, the world’s largest unbroken caldera and home to a concentration of wildlife. It also includes grasslands, forests, and mountains, and is part of the Serengeti ecosystem. The best time to visit the conservation area is during the dry season (from June to October).
Location | wildlife | Activities | Major Highlights |
Located in Ngorongoro district, 180 km west of Arusha city in northern Tanzania | African Big 5 (elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard, rhino)HippoElandBlue wildebeestsWaterbucksThomson’s gazelles500 bird species | guided game drives hike on the crater revisit Maasai villagesWalking safaris | A UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world’s largest unbroken calderaAbundant wildlife, including the Big 5The Olduvai Gorge, the cradle of mankind best of hiking and walking safaris |
Tarangire National Park is a protected area and one of the best Tanzania National Parks located in northern Tanzania. Stretching an area of 2,850 square kilometres, it is known for its large concentration of elephant herds and baobab trees.
The park features a mix of savannah, woodland, and wetland habitats, and is crossed by the Tarangire River, which attracts a variety of wildlife during the dry season.
The best time to visit the park is during the dry season (from June to October) when the wildlife sighting is excellent.
Location | Wildlife | Activities | Highlights |
Located in northern Tanzania, south of Lake Manyara. | ElephantsZebraWildebeestsCape buffalosWaterbuckGiraffeDik-DikImpalaElandVervet monkeyLionsLeopards cheetahs | 4WD game drive safariNight game driveswalking safarisVisit Maasai | Giant baobab treeLarge herds of elephants500 bird species |
Lake Manyara National Park is a protected area located in northern Tanzania. It covers an area of about 330 square kilometres and is famous for its diverse range of wildlife and beautiful landscapes. Lake Manyara National Park is named after Lake Manyara, a shallow alkaline lake that covers about two-thirds of the park’s area.
Lake Manyara National Park is also known for its tree-climbing lions, and also a bird watcher’s paradise. It houses over 400 species of birds, including flamingos, pelicans, storks, and cormorants.
Location | Wildlife | Activities | Highlights |
Located 126 km southwest of Arusha in northern Tanzania | Tree-climbing lionsHippoGiraffeImpalaZebraBuffaloWhite rhinoLeopardCheetahHyena400 bird species | Birding safariNight game drivesWalking toursCanoeing safariVisit Maasai Bombas | Tree-climbing lions Abundant of wildlife Over 400 bird species A variety of landscapes Canoeing on Lake ManyaraGuided walks and game drives |
Tanzania National Parks is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the best of Africa’s wildlife and natural wonders. From the iconic Serengeti, home to the Great Migration, to the stunning Ngorongoro Crater and its abundant wildlife, Tanzania’s National Parks offer a diverse range of experiences and breathtaking landscapes.
Whether you are an adventure seeker, a nature enthusiast, or a wildlife lover, Tanzania’s national parks offer something for everyone. With African Scenic Safaris, you can get a lifetime Tanzania Safari experience that fits your choice and comfort. So, stay connected!
Whether you’re a first-time safari-goer or a seasoned traveller, Tanzania’s national parks offer an unforgettable experience that will leave you in awe of the beauty of the natural world.