Best National Parks In Tanzania: Experience Adventure And Serenity In Africa’s Pristine Wilderness

Animals in Tarangire National Park - wildlife pictures taken on my Tanzania Safari

Landscapes and Wildlife Tanzania is a country comprising all the landscapes that please the eyes with the most diverse wildlife, and adventure seekers flock from all over the world to the national parks in Tanzania. From the iconic Serengeti, home of the world-famous Great Migration, to the soaring peaks of Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania’s national parks offer the best of Africa’s natural wonders. Walk through the verdant Ngorongoro Crater, enjoy a serene boat safari at Nyerere National Park, or go birdwatching on the shores at Lake Manyara, each park provides its own adventure.

How To Reach Tanzania

Image of a village huts in Tanzania with ;ush green trees around and golden sand

Photo: Anonymous / Pxhere / Image For Representation Only

By Air: Tanzania’s major airports, like Julius Nyerere International Airport (Dar es Salaam) and Kilimanjaro International Airport, are well-connected to global hubs, making flights the fastest way to reach.

By Road: Neighboring countries like Kenya and Zambia offer bus services to Tanzania, ideal for budget travelers and those exploring East Africa.

By Train: The TAZARA Railway connects Zambia to Tanzania, offering a scenic and adventurous journey straight to Dar es Salaam.

Suggested Read: Best National Parks In Tanzania

4 Best National Parks In Tanzania

Explore national parks in Tanzania and be among beautiful landscapes and wildlife. The following entry fee price is for foreigners only.

1. Serengeti National Park

Image of Masai giraffe in the Serengeti National Park with dry grass and green trees

Photo: Giles Laurent / Wikimedia Commons

Serengeti National Park is one of the most famous wildlife destinations in Africa. Every year, more than two million wildebeests, zebras, and gazelles cross this vast grassland searching for water and food. The park covers roughly 14,763 square kilometres and features neverending savannahs, acacia forests, and kopjes-rock formations that serve as lookout points for predators like lions and leopards. You can see the cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, and more than 500 bird species, including ostriches and secretary birds. Activities in the Serengeti include game drives, hot air balloon safaris, and cultural excursions to nearby Maasai villages.

Location: Northern Tanzania, bordering Kenya
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: $60 for adults, $20 for children

2. Ngorongoro Conservation Area

Safari vehicles with people viewing and stopping for an elephant crossing the road

Photo: Zenith4237 / Wikimedia Commons

The Ngorongoro Conservation Area is one of the most photographed and most popular tourist destinations in Tanzania, known for its stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and history. The main attraction of the region is the Ngorongoro Crater, which is a large and intact volcanic caldera that measures 260 square kilometres. The crater was formed almost three million years ago and has an incredibly high density of wildlife populations, including lions, black rhinos, hippos, elephants, and thousands of flamingos scattered throughout its alkaline lakes. The Olduvai Gorge falls within the area, and its accompanying museum is open to visitors.

Location: Northern Tanzania
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: $70 for adults, $25 for children

Suggested Read: Explore Kilimanjaro National Park

3. Mount Kilimanjaro National Park

The peak of Mount Kilimanjaro with clouds visible behind the trees and dense forest

Photo: Erasmus Kamugisha / Wikimedia Commons

Mount Kilimanjaro National Park is a trekker’s paradise, attracting millions of adventurers across the globe. The park is dominated by Africa’s tallest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro, and offers dramatic landscapes ranging from lush tropical forests through alpine meadows to icy glaciers at the summit. There are three volcanic cones: Kibo, Mawenzi, and Shira. The Kilimanjaro Mountain is ideal for climbers and has routes like Marangu, Machame, and Lemosho that are of different degrees.

Location: Northeastern Tanzania, near Moshi town
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: $70

4. Tarangire National Park

Two zebras and a buffalo drinking water and standing on the Tarangire River in the park

Photo: Zenith4237 / Wikimedia Commons

The Tarangire National Park is one of Northern Tanzania’s lesser-known safari destinations. Famous for its sprawling plains studded with ancient baobab trees, the park stretches out over an area of 2,850 square kilometres and supports one of East Africa’s largest elephant populations. In the dry season, the Tarangire River is a life force for animals, attracting large groups of elephants, zebras, wildebeests, giraffes, and predators such as lions and leopards. You can enjoy game drives, walking safaris, and cultural tours to nearby communities to learn about the Barabaig and Maasai tribes and their ways.

Location: Northern Tanzania
Timings: 6 AM – 6 PM
Entry Fee: $50 for adults, $15 for children

Suggested Read: Explore Ruaha National Park Tanzania

Where To Eat

: Image of Tanzania local Food Ugali and Mlenda served on plates

Photo: MWANI / Wikimedia Commons

While visiting Tanzania’s national parks, you’ll find a range of dining options, from luxurious lodge buffets to intimate, safari-style meals. Serengeti’s Seronera Wildlife Lodge offers bush dinners, Ngorongoro Serena serves panoramic views with international cuisine, and Tarangire Safari Lodge provides open-air dining, ensuring you enjoy delicious meals in stunning natural surroundings.

Where To Stay

The front view of the New Safari Hotel in Arusha, Tanzania - for travellers

Photo: ZSM / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only

Tanzania offers a variety of accommodations near its national parks, ranging from luxury lodges to intimate tented camps. In Serengeti, stay at Seronera Wildlife Lodge for comfort with wildlife views, or opt for Four Seasons Safari Lodge for a more luxurious experience. Ngorongoro Crater Lodge provides spectacular views of the crater, while Tarangire Safari Lodge offers cozy tents and incredible wildlife sightings. For a more remote experience, Jongomero Camp in Ruaha offers exclusive, upscale safari accommodations.

Suggested Read: Top Places To Visit In Tanzania

Best Time To Visit National Parks In Tanzania

Picturesque view of a Masai Giraffe in Serengeti National Park, Tanzania

Photo: SajjadF / Wikimedia Commons

The best time to visit Tanzania’s national parks is during the dry season, from June to October. This period offers optimal game viewing as animals gather around water sources, and the weather is cooler and more comfortable for safari adventures. For witnessing the Great Migration, July to September in Serengeti is ideal, while November to March offers fewer crowds and great bird watching.

Other Factors To Consider

Scenic view of Serengeti National Park, Tanzania with lush greenery during day time view

Photo: Michelle Maria / Wikimedia Commons

Average Cost Of The Trip: The average cost of a trip to Tanzania’s national parks can range from $200 to $1,000+ per day, depending on the type of accommodation and safari experience. Budget travelers may find basic lodges or camping options starting at around $200 per day, while mid-range and luxury safaris, including meals and guided tours, can cost $500 to $1,000+ per day. The overall cost will vary based on the parks visited, duration, and level of service.

Tips For Travellers:

  • Pack Light: Only bring essentials like lightweight clothing, sturdy shoes, and a good camera for safaris.
  • Carry Cash: Many remote areas don’t accept cards, so always have cash, especially in smaller denominations.
  • Respect Wildlife: Keep a safe distance and avoid loud noises to minimize disturbances to animals.
  • Bring Binoculars: Essential for wildlife viewing, especially for spotting distant animals in large parks like Serengeti.
  • Hydrate: The African heat can be intense, so drink plenty of water throughout your safari.
  • Plan Safaris Early: Popular parks like Serengeti can book up quickly, so plan your trip and accommodation in advance.
  • Use Local Guides: Hiring local guides enhances your safari experience and supports the community.

Suggested Read: Tarangire National Park

These best National Parks in Tanzania are amazing places where the discovery of wildlife up close brings surrealism and wonderful scenery, letting the park be an entrance to adventures beyond comparison. For family trips, romantic getaways, or solo travel, every National park in Tanzania is suitable for creating unique and adventurous memories. Book your trip with TripXL and experience the Tanzanian lifestyle.

Cover Photo: Gary Bembridge / Wikimedia Commons

Frequently Asked Questions

The best time to visit the national parks in Tanzania is during the dry season, between June and October. But few parks like Serengeti and Ngorongoro are good year-round.
Yes, you can find all the Big Five, the lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo at Serengeti, Ngorongoro, and Tarangire national parks.
Yes, guides and porters must be hired for safety and navigation purposes.
Yes, all the parks offer guided safaris. The accommodation and packages vary depending on the budget during the safari.
A week is perfect for the Northern Circuit. Tourists can spend 2 days in Serengeti, 2 days in Ngorongoro, 1 day in Tarangire, and 1 day in Lake Manyara.

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