Why Choose Tanzania Safari: 9 Reasons It Outshines the Rest
When planning an African safari, many travelers find themselves torn between three classic destinations: Tanzania, Kenya, and South Africa. Each country offers its own version of the safari dream, which makes the decision even more difficult.
So, why choose Tanzania safari over the others?
Tanzania stands out for its exceptional wildlife experiences, wide open landscapes, rich cultural traditions, and the unique opportunity to combine thrilling game drives with once-in-a-lifetime adventures like climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. It offers something deeper, more immersive, and more rewarding than anywhere else.
Let us explore why a Tanzania safari is one of the most complete and unforgettable travel choices you can make.
One of the most compelling answers to the question why choose Tanzania safari is the unmatched concentration and variety of wildlife found across its national parks.
The iconic Serengeti National Park is not only the setting for the world famous Great Migration, where over two million wildebeest, zebras, and gazelles move across the plains, it also holds the largest population of lions in Africa, with more than 3,000 individuals. This makes it the ultimate destination for witnessing lion behavior in its most authentic form, from stalking prey to defending territory.
To the east lies the Ngorongoro Crater, part of the broader Ngorongoro Conservation Area. This remarkable formation is the world’s largest intact, inactive, and unfilled volcanic caldera. Its enclosed ecosystem is one of the most wildlife-rich areas on the planet. Within a single day, visitors can often spot the Big Five—lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros, making it one of the best places in Africa for concentrated game viewing.
Tanzania also offers rare sights like the tree climbing lions of Lake Manyara, a behavior seen in only a few locations across the continent.
While Kenya’s Masai Mara shares part of the migration route, it covers a smaller area and does not offer the same variety or density of predators. South Africa’s Kruger National Park is popular and well developed, but it cannot match the raw, expansive wilderness and high wildlife numbers that Tanzania provides.
2. Less Crowded Parks for a More Intimate Experience
Another reason why choose Tanzania safari is that it is possible to have quieter, more peaceful game viewing. Many of Tanzania’s parks remain off the beaten path, giving travelers a much more personal connection to nature.
Tarangire National Park, known for its large elephant herds and ancient baobab trees, offers tranquil scenes far from the crowds. Ruaha National Park, one of Africa’s largest but least visited, is perfect for those seeking a deep wilderness experience.
By contrast, many of South Africa’s top reserves are well developed with paved roads and more visitors. While that brings convenience, it also means you may share your lion sighting with a dozen other vehicles. In Tanzania, you are more likely to enjoy the silence of the bush with no one else around.
3. Unique Geographic Features
Tanzania is not just about wildlife. Its landscapes are just as breathtaking.
Here you will find the towering summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa, standing watch over the northern plains. You will also explore the dramatic Great Rift Valley, the ancient floor of the Ngorongoro Crater, and the striking beauty of Lake Natron, with its red waters and thousands of flamingos.
And here is something truly special. You can easily combine a Tanzania safari with a Kilimanjaro climb. Few places in the world let you track lions one week and stand on the roof of Africa the next. No other country offers this level of adventure within such a short distance.
This variety of scenery adds depth and wonder to your journey, and it is another powerful reason to ask why choose Tanzania safari over anywhere else.
4. Rich Cultural Interaction
Tanzania is not only rich in natural beauty, but also in cultural diversity.
With over 120 ethnic groups, including the Maasai, Chagga, and Hadzabe, Tanzania offers visitors a chance to engage with communities that still hold tightly to their traditions and ways of life.
Whether you are learning to throw a spear with Maasai warriors or walking with Hadzabe hunter gatherers in the Eyasi region, these cultural experiences feel genuine and respectful.
In Kenya and South Africa, cultural tourism can sometimes feel separated from the safari itself. In Tanzania, it is a natural and enriching part of your journey, offering insight into the lives of people who share the land with wildlife.
5. Great Value for Money
Another important reason why choose Tanzania safari is the value it offers.
Tanzania provides excellent safari packages that often include full board accommodation, park entry, transportation, and even local flights. You can visit multiple parks within one itinerary, saving both time and money.
Compared to South Africa’s private reserves, which can be expensive, or Kenya’s peak season rates, which rise dramatically during the migration, Tanzania offers a strong balance of affordability and luxury. You get an authentic, high quality safari experience without excessive cost.
6. Safari and Beach in One Trip
One of Tanzania’s biggest advantages is the ability to combine a thrilling safari with a relaxing beach escape.
After exploring the Serengeti or climbing Kilimanjaro, you can fly directly to Zanzibar, a paradise of white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and historic charm. Whether you want to snorkel coral reefs or stroll the alleys of Stone Town, Zanzibar offers the perfect contrast to your bush adventure.
While South Africa has the Garden Route and Kenya has its coastline, neither offers a beach and safari combination that is so effortless and iconic as what you find in Tanzania.
7. Strong Conservation and Eco Tourism
Tanzania has a long tradition of conservation and responsible tourism. National parks are managed by TANAPA, ensuring sustainable practices that protect wildlife and natural habitats.
In addition to official conservation work, Tanzania supports many community based tourism projects that give locals a voice and a benefit in preserving their land. Your safari directly supports both environmental efforts and local economies.
If you care about ethical travel, this is yet another reason why choose Tanzania safari over the alternatives.
8. International Recognition and Awards
One of the strongest answers to why choose Tanzania safari is the global recognition its parks have consistently received.
Tanzania’s Serengeti National Park has been named Africa’s Leading National Park by the World Travel Awards for six consecutive years (2019–2024). This prestigious award places Serengeti ahead of globally recognized destinations like Kenya’s Masai Mara and South Africa’s Kruger National Park, underscoring its unrivaled wildlife density, scenic beauty, and ecological significance.
In 2024, Tanzania further solidified its leadership in safari excellence with an impressive four parks ranked among the Top 10 Best Safari Parks in Africa:
- Serengeti National Park – Ranked #1
- Ruaha National Park – Ranked #4 (its first appearance in the top five, coinciding with its 60th anniversary)
- Ngorongoro Crater – Ranked #9
- Katavi National Park – Ranked #10
These rankings, published by SafariBookings, are based on reviews from both safari-goers and expert wildlife professionals. They affirm that Tanzania is not only home to the best safari park in Africa but also boasts unmatched diversity across its protected areas.
For travelers looking for world-class safari experiences that have earned the highest levels of international acclaim, Tanzania is the clear choice.
9. Diverse Safari Circuits for Every Traveler
Tanzania’s vast landscape is segmented into distinct safari circuits, each offering unique experiences:
- Northern Circuit: Home to iconic parks like the Serengeti, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara, and Tarangire, this circuit is renowned for the Great Migration and the Big Five.
- Southern Circuit: Featuring Selous Game Reserve (now Nyerere National Park) and Ruaha National Park, this less-traveled path offers remote wilderness experiences and diverse wildlife.
- Western Circuit: Encompassing Mahale Mountains and Gombe Stream National Parks, this area is famed for chimpanzee trekking and pristine landscapes.
This variety ensures that whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned safari-goer, Tanzania has something unique to offer, catering to diverse interests and adventure levels.
Our conclusion as to why choose Tanzania safari?
Because Tanzania delivers a complete experience. It is a country where wildlife roams free in endless savannas, where ancient cultures welcome you into their traditions, and where adventure lies around every corner. From the thrill of the Great Migration to the silence of the crater floor, from the peak of Kilimanjaro to the shores of Zanzibar, Tanzania offers more than just a trip. It offers transformation.
Now that you know the top reasons why you should choose Tanzania Safari, contact us to book the Tanzania Safari of a life-time.