Where to Go in Tanzania
Question
Hi All,
My first trip to Tanzania, I have decided to go to Tanzania, I hear of few circuits, but I want it all, Many people concentrate on the Northern Part of Tanzania, I may, but I want to know what options do I have? so that I can make the most out of it!
I appreciate any help!
Thanks
Answer ( 1 )
Tanzania, is a beautiful, diverse and vast country renowned for its amazing safaris and snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro also offers genuine smiles from some incredible people.Tanzania, the largest country in East Africa has borders with Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Zambia, Malawi, Mozambique and the Indian Ocean. The country is rich in wildlife, stunning and varied landscapes, sunshine and friendly people.
Safaris:
Tanzania has predominantly three safari circuits, each offering travellers a different aspect of the country. Each showcases the immensity of land set aside for conservation and wildlife protection. As the landscapes change in the differing areas, so do the habitats and species found there.
The Northern Circuit:
The Northern Circuit encompasses; the mighty Serengeti National Park, home to millions of wildebeest, gazelle and zebra. It is here that these animals, migrate in search of fresh pastures, travelling from water source to water source, constantly on the move in an endless circle, better known as the Great Migration. Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Lake Manyara and Tarangire National Parks complete this circuit. With Arusha at the hub and Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru dominating the skyline.
Typically, the Northern Circuit attracts many first time safari visitors and returning safari goers. Due to the area being well serviced by, a variety of camps and lodges and transport in and out of the area being organised and easily accessible. The wildlife sightings are almost guaranteed, there are plenty of predators, large herds and bird species to fascinate and excite everyone. The downside to this circuit is its popularity and during peak season can be a little congested.
Southern Circuit:
The Southern Circuit is suited more for travellers that have already experienced a busy safari and are looking for a more quiet region where you can still see all the game, but avoids the crowds and vehicle congestion that often occurs in the northern parks.
The Selous Game Reserve, Mikumi National Park and Ruaha National Park form the Southern Circuit. The Selous Game Reserve, the largest and oldest reserve in Tanzania offers diverse habitats, which can be explored on foot, boat and vehicle. It’s close to the coast and often gets very humid. The animals are more dispersed due to a lot of water available throughout the year, but for seeing the highly endangered wild dogs, it is most certainly the reserve to visit. Ruaha, being much drier than the Selous, the prolific wildlife tends to be more concentrated along the Ruaha River; making game spotting is very rewarding.
Western Circuit
Totally off the beaten track are Katavi National Park and Mahale Mountains National Park. These remote parks are certainly perfect for the safari traveller looking for something out of the ordinary.
Katavi, consists of a series of flood plains fringed with woodland. This park has two very different sides to it, depending on the season. During the very hot dry months, the water holes shrink and the game is very concentrated around the little water available, making for some unforgettable, raw and stark sightings. During the wet months the game disperses across the plains, the grass grows high and the area becomes a paradise for bird watchers.
With the only access to the park by boat or plane, Mahale on the shores of Lake Tanganyika, is possibly one of the most isolated parks in East Africa. With three distinct habitats in a single area, this park offers adventurers the opportunity to trek in a tropical rain forest inhabited by forest animals including wild chimpanzees. View savannah animals like lions, Grant’s zebra and giraffe and also observe miombo woodland animals such as roan and sable antelope. No roads, sandy beaches, rugged mountains, tropical fish and a freshwater lake, this utopia it worth the effort to here.
Swahili Coastal Regions and Zanzibar:
A wonderful way to end your safari is with some rest and relaxation on the beach. Tanzania has a long sandy coastline on the Indian Ocean and along the great lakes of Tanganyika and Lake Victoria. Not forgetting the Zanzibar archipelago for an exotic island vacation.
Of course, these circuits can be combined to make a superb mix of north, south, west and beach. Tanzania has so many different facets, gems and hidden beauties that you can return repeatedly and each time enjoy a great safari, make new friends and have novel wildlife encounters. Once you’ve experienced Africa, you’ll always hanker to return.