Luscious rainforests and humid ecosystems that change within a few steps to cold and snowy mountains are not what you would typically think of when it comes to a wildlife safari.
Instead, we more commonly associate such safaris with wavering heat, dry arid plains, dust, and the occasional baobab tree. However, Tanzania has so much more to offer than the normal expectations.
Yes, there are rainforests and mountains, as well as plains that stretch as far as the eye can see. And all of these sights are available in African safari wildlife park tours to stunning destinations that should not be missed.
The Ngorongoro Crater
This stunning natural feature is what fuels the notion that Africa is the birthplace of so many creatures. “The Eden of Africa” is a rich ecosystem that is home to a diverse range of mammals, birds, and vegetation.
Located in the Serengeti region, you can experience the Big Five animals as they roam free, moving to and from the crater, exploring the Tarangire River, and more. You can witness wildebeests, zebras, and other large creatures as they gather in herds.
You can also immerse yourself in the rich and fascinating culture in the village of Mto wa Mbu, discovering traditions, food, and more that you would never be able to get from a TV show or book.
Indeed, you will never see the same view twice. The landscape is always changing, and so is the wildlife, as the various animal species move across the plains.
Arusha National Park
With hundreds of recognized national parks spanning Tanzania, it is hard to narrow down the best ones.
However, Arusha National Park, also known as “the diamond amid the shadows of the giants”, should definitely be on your bucket list. This park is best enjoyed as a walking safari. This way, you can take your time to absorb the sights and sounds found in this lush and vibrant ecosystem.
You can also visit the Momella Lakes and see wildlife gathering there to drink and bathe under the warm sun. Experience the Meru Crater, which expertly funnels the Jekukumia River, or explore the Ngurdoto Crater in the southeast region of the park.
Set against the stunning backdrop of Mount Meru, the second largest mountain in Tanzania and home to the largest population of giraffes, you can explore and catch a glimpse of the different primates that call the trees their home.
Additionally, you can watch all the giraffes and buffalo roaming around, eating the wide variety of nutrient-filled vegetation. There are so many things to see and experience in this rich, diverse national park, which can feel a million miles away from the dry plains you might expect.
The Amani Nature Reserve and the Amboni Caves
The Amani Nature Reserve is an impressive and stunning environment. Filled with dense and lush rainforests and home to rare birds, butterflies, and blue monkeys, this nature reserve is the embodiment of tranquillity.
Amani, which translates to “peace” in Swahili, is a perfect name for this nature reserve. Walking through this ecosystem brings peace and harmony to even the busiest of souls.
However, it is not just home to rare wildlife, but also to some of the most vibrant African violet flowers—Saintpaulia—which are commonly thought of as having the power of forgiveness, as well as the heliconia flower.
As well, the Amani Nature Reserve is known for its botanical research and is home to one of the largest botanical gardens.
If you trek through this beautiful landscape, you will eventually come across the Amboni Caves. This natural limestone formation is distinguished by rock-walled gorges and “pavements” created by deep fissures. There are many limestone pillars within a network that spans almost 234 square kilometres.
You can explore an area that was home to roaming dinosaurs from the Jurassic Era, and see similar sights that they too would have likely seen.
Mikumi National Park
Mikumi National Park is the fourth largest national park in Tanzania, and one of the more safari-like areas you imagine when you think about an African wildlife safari. The park is easily accessible with the Dar-Mbeya highway going through it. As well, it can be busy in the dry season and less crowded in the rainy season.
You will find wide open grassland plains where you can experience gazelles running and jumping freely. You can also watch as lions prowl for their next meal or sleep under the shade of a baobab tree.
Nestled under the watchful eye of the surrounding mountain ranges, you can experience buffalo, wildebeests, giraffes, and even endangered wild dogs. The large variety of big mammals living in the region allows you a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see many of them.
Mikumi National Park is vastly different from some of the other jewels that Tanzania has to offer, making it a truly remarkable place to see and experience firsthand.
Mount Kilimanjaro and the Serengeti
No Tanzania wildlife safari would be complete without mentioning the two most famous places in Africa: Mount Kilimanjaro and the Serengeti. Shrouded in rich history and legends, these two regions are famous and synonymous with Africa.
The tall free-standing volcano of Kilimanjaro, which is a challenge that all seasoned hikers dream of taking on, takes you through many diverse climates, including rainforests and arctic-like temperatures within a few miles.
You can also experience the vast, open expanse of plains, which for many is a true embodiment of what the safari is really about.
Zara Tours: Your Top Wildlife Safari Tour Guides
A genuine African wildlife safari must be experienced through expert tour operators like Zara Tours.
At Zara Tours, we not only live and breathe safaris, but we also understand the true nature of this region. With our local knowledge and expertise, we will make your dream trip a reality. You can call us via WhatsApp at (+255) 753-997-777, or you can contact us online for more information.
