Top 10 National Parks & Game Reserves in Tanzania

Why Visit Tanzania’s National Parks and Game Reserves?

Tanzania boasts over 20% of Africa’s large mammal species, making its national parks and game reserves prime destinations for wildlife enthusiasts. With diverse ecosystems ranging from savannas to wetlands, these protected areas host the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, rhino) and unique natural wonders like the Ngorongoro Crater. Capable Africa Tours designs safaris that blend adventure, conservation, and cultural immersion, ensuring you experience Tanzania’s wild beauty responsibly. Here’s why these top 10 destinations stand out.

Key Highlights of Tanzania’s Parks and Reserves

• World-Class Wildlife: Home to the Big Five, plus cheetahs, wild dogs, and over 500 bird species.
• Great Migration: Witness 2 million wildebeests and zebras in Serengeti’s annual spectacle.
• Conservation Focus: Parks support sustainable tourism, preserving habitats with TANAPA oversight.
• Diverse Activities: Enjoy game drives, walking safaris, boat trips, and cultural tours with Capable Africa Tours.
• UNESCO Sites: Serengeti, Selous, and Ngorongoro are globally recognized for their ecological value.

Top 10 National Parks and Game Reserves in Tanzania

Below is our curated list of Tanzania’s top 10 national parks and game reserves, each offering unique wildlife, landscapes, and experiences. Capable Africa Tours ensures expert-guided safaris tailored to your interests.

1. Serengeti National Park

Famous for the Great Migration, Serengeti spans 14,750 km² of savanna, hosting over 2 million migrating wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles. Spot the Big Five, cheetahs, and 500+ bird species. Best visited June–October for migration crossings or January–February for calving season.

• Key Wildlife: Lions (3,000+), leopards, elephants, wildebeests.
• Activities: Game drives, hot air balloon safaris, birdwatching.
• Access: 5-hour drive from Arusha or flights to Seronera Airstrip.
• Why Visit: Iconic migration and vast predator populations.

2. Ngorongoro Conservation Area

The Ngorongoro Crater, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a 260 km² caldera teeming with 25,000 animals, including the densest lion population in Africa. It’s the best spot for Big Five sightings in one day.

• Key Wildlife: Black rhinos, lions, hyenas, flamingos.
• Activities: Game drives, Maasai village visits, crater rim hikes.
• Access: 3-hour drive from Arusha.
• Why Visit: Compact ecosystem with unparalleled wildlife density.

3. Selous Game Reserve (Nyerere National Park)

Africa’s largest game reserve at 50,000 km², Selous (now partly Nyerere National Park) offers remote safaris with fewer crowds. Known for wild dogs and boat safaris on the Rufiji River.

• Key Wildlife: Wild dogs, elephants, hippos, crocodiles.
• Activities: Boat safaris, walking safaris, game drives.
• Access: Flights from Dar es Salaam to Mtemere Airstrip.
• Why Visit: Untouched wilderness and diverse safari experiences.

4. Tarangire National Park

Known for its massive baobab trees and elephant herds, Tarangire’s 2,850 km² landscape shines during the dry season (June–October) when animals gather at the Tarangire River.

• Key Wildlife: Elephants (2,500+), giraffes, leopards, tree-climbing pythons.
• Activities: Game drives, night safaris, birdwatching.
• Access: 2-hour drive from Arusha.
• Why Visit: Huge elephant populations and scenic baobab landscapes.

5. Ruaha National Park

Ruaha’s 20,226 km² rugged terrain is home to 10% of the world’s lion population and rare antelope species like sable and roan. Ideal for off-the-beaten-path adventures.

• Key Wildlife: Lions, leopards, sable antelopes, wild dogs.
• Activities: Game drives, walking safaris, birdwatching.
• Access: Flights from Dar es Salaam to Msembe Airstrip.
• Why Visit: Remote, pristine wilderness with fewer tourists.

6. Lake Manyara National Park

This 330 km² park features a soda lake attracting flamingos and tree-climbing lions. Its compact size makes it perfect for a day trip.

• Key Wildlife: Tree-climbing lions, flamingos, hippos, baboons.
• Activities: Game drives, canoeing, bike tours.
• Access: 2-hour drive from Arusha.
• Why Visit: Unique tree-climbing lions and vibrant birdlife.

7. Mikumi National Park

At 3,230 km², Mikumi offers accessible safaris with open savannas teeming with zebras, giraffes, and lions. It’s ideal for budget travelers.

• Key Wildlife: Lions, zebras, giraffes, impalas.
• Activities: Game drives, guided walks.
• Access: 4-hour drive from Dar es Salaam.
• Why Visit: Affordable safaris with diverse wildlife.

8. Arusha National Park

This 552 km² park near Arusha features Mount Meru, lakes, and lush forests. It’s great for day trips and primate sightings.

• Key Wildlife: Colobus monkeys, flamingos, giraffes, buffalo.
• Activities: Game drives, canoeing, Mount Meru treks.
• Access: 1-hour drive from Arusha.
• Why Visit: Scenic beauty and proximity to Arusha.

9. Katavi National Park

Remote and untouched, Katavi’s 4,471 km² hosts huge buffalo herds and hippo pools. Perfect for intrepid travelers seeking solitude.

• Key Wildlife: Buffalo (20,000+), hippos, crocodiles, lions.
• Activities: Game drives, walking safaris, camping.
• Access: Flights from Dar es Salaam to Ikuu Airstrip.
• Why Visit: Authentic, crowd-free safari experience.

10. Gombe Stream National Park

Famous for Jane Goodall’s chimpanzee research, this 35 km² park along Lake Tanganyika is a haven for primate lovers.

• Key Wildlife: Chimpanzees, baboons, red colobus monkeys.
• Activities: Chimpanzee trekking, boat trips, hiking.
• Access: Boat or flight from Kigoma.
• Why Visit: Rare chimpanzee encounters in a lush forest setting.

Best Time for a Tanzania Safari

The dry season (June–October) is ideal for wildlife viewing, as animals congregate around water sources, and trails are accessible. January–February is perfect for witnessing the Great Migration’s calving season in Serengeti. Wet seasons (March–May, November) offer lush scenery and fewer crowds but can have muddy roads.

Seasonal Breakdown

Season	Months	Weather	Pros	Cons
Dry (Peak)	Jun–Oct	Clear, 60–85°F	Best wildlife viewing, dry trails	Higher crowds, costs
Wet	Mar–May, Nov	Rainy, 70–90°F	Lush scenery, fewer tourists	Muddy roads, limited visibility
Shoulder	Dec–Feb	Mixed, 65–85°F	Great Migration calving, moderate crowds	Occasional showers

Safari Costs and Planning with Capable Africa Tours

Safari costs with Capable Africa Tours starts from $200 per person per day, depending on park, duration, and accommodation (camping, lodges, or luxury tented camps). Packages include park fees, guides, meals, and transport.

What’s Included

• National park fees ($50–$100 per person per day).
• Expert guides and 4x4 safari vehicles.
• Meals (full board) and drinking water.
• Accommodation (tents, lodges, or luxury camps).
• Airport transfers from Kilimanjaro or Dar es Salaam.

Additional Costs

• International flights ($800–$1,500).
• Travel insurance (covering medical evacuation).
• Tips for guides/drivers ($10–$20 per day).
• Optional activities (e.g., balloon safaris: $500–$600).

Preparation Tips for Your Tanzania Safari

Planning a safari requires attention to gear, health, and logistics. Capable Africa Tours provides comprehensive support, but here’s how to prepare.

Packing Checklist

• Clothing: Neutral-colored, lightweight layers (long sleeves for sun protection), hat, sunglasses.
• Gear: Binoculars (8x42 recommended), camera with zoom lens, extra batteries.
• Health: Malaria prophylaxis, yellow fever vaccination, first aid kit.
• Documents: Passport, visa, travel insurance, park permits (handled by Capable Africa Tours).

Health and Safety Tips

• Consult a doctor for vaccinations 6–8 weeks before travel.
• Use insect repellent and sleep under mosquito nets.
• Stay hydrated and avoid tap water.
• Follow your guide’s instructions during game drives and walks.