An essential guide to planning and booking a private safari in Tanzania
Booking a private safari in Tanzania is an exciting and rewarding experience, but with so many options and factors to consider, it can feel overwhelming. Tanzania is known for its premium safari experiences, from the Serengeti’s endless plains to the Ngorongoro Crater’s dramatic landscape. When you’re investing in such an adventure, you want everything to go smoothly. Here’s a guide to help you book your perfect Tanzania private safari.
Step 1: Decide When and Where You Want to Go
The first step is to choose your safari destinations and travel dates. Tanzania offers year-round safaris, but each season presents unique experiences. The peak season (June to October) is ideal for witnessing the Great Migration in the Serengeti or catching the calving season (January to March). For a quieter and more budget-friendly option, consider traveling during the shoulder season.
Popular safari destinations include:
- Serengeti National Park: Famous for the Great Migration and vast wildlife.
- Ngorongoro Conservation Area: Known for the world’s largest volcanic caldera and Big Five sightings.
- Tarangire National Park: Best for large elephant herds and baobab trees.
- Selous Game Reserve: Ideal for fewer crowds and walking safaris.
Step 2: Choose the Type of Safari – Private or Group
The most important decision when booking your safari is whether to opt for a private safari or a group safari. While group safaris are more budget-friendly, a private safari gives you the freedom and flexibility to tailor the experience to your personal preferences.
- Private Safari: You have exclusive access to a vehicle, a dedicated guide, and a customized itinerary. This is perfect for families, couples, or small groups who want an intimate experience.
- Group Safari: You’ll share your vehicle and guide with other travelers. It’s a good choice for solo travelers looking to meet others, and it’s typically more affordable.
Step 3: Budgeting Your Safari – What to Expect
Tanzania safaris vary in cost based on the duration, type of accommodation, and experiences included. A typical private safari starts at around USD $4,000 per person for a week-long trip. If you are willing to opt for more budget-friendly lodges or camps and drive longer distances, the price could be lower, around $2,500.
For those wanting a luxury experience, costs will increase with upscale lodges, private vehicles, and added extras like night drives, walking safaris, or hot air ballooning.
Tips to reduce costs:
- Travel during the low or shoulder seasons for reduced rates.
- Opt for fewer destinations to minimize internal transfers.
- Choose a mix of lodges and tented camps to manage accommodation expenses.
Step 4: Selecting Your Accommodation – Lodge or Tented Camp?
Accommodation plays a huge role in your safari experience. In Tanzania, you’ll find a range of options, from luxurious lodges to eco-friendly tented camps.
- Luxury Lodges: Offer high-end amenities such as swimming pools, gourmet dining, and private villas. These lodges are often located in prime wildlife-viewing areas.
- Tented Camps: Provide a more authentic and close-to-nature experience. Don’t be fooled by the term “camp”—these tents often come with en-suite bathrooms, large comfortable beds, and stunning views of the wilderness.
For a truly immersive experience, many visitors prefer staying in mobile camps that follow the Great Migration. You’ll wake up to the sounds of nature while enjoying modern comforts.
Step 5: Booking Early is Key
Tanzania’s top safari camps and lodges fill up quickly, especially during peak times like the wildebeest river crossings in July and August. To secure your preferred dates and accommodation, it’s recommended to book at least 9-12 months in advance.
Step 6: Personalize Your Safari Experience
One of the biggest perks of booking a private safari is the ability to customize your itinerary. Whether you want more time in specific parks, focus on photography, or even add a cultural tour, a private safari lets you control your experience. You can also request specific activities like:
- Walking Safaris: Explore the bush on foot with an expert guide.
- Night Game Drives: Available in private reserves, offering a chance to spot nocturnal animals.
- Hot Air Balloon Safaris: Get a bird’s-eye view of the Serengeti at sunrise.
Step 7: Choosing a Safari Operator – Why Kijani African Safaris?
With hundreds of operators, choosing the right safari company is crucial. Kijani African Safaris offers expert guidance, top-notch accommodations, and a commitment to responsible tourism. We ensure that your safari supports local communities and conservation efforts.
Before booking, make sure the operator is transparent about inclusions and exclusions, such as park fees, transfers, and meals. Kijani African Safaris guarantees:
- Professional, experienced guides.
- Exclusive use of safari vehicles.
- Support of eco-friendly practices and local employment.
Final Thoughts: What to Expect on Safari
On a typical day in Tanzania, your game drives will begin early in the morning. After a pre-dawn start, you’ll head out in search of wildlife, returning to your camp or lodge for brunch and some relaxation. Another game drive happens in the late afternoon, often ending with sunset drinks in the bush.
At Kijani African Safaris, we ensure your Tanzania adventure is nothing short of magical. Whether you’re watching a pride of lions in the Serengeti or relaxing at a lodge with a view of Kilimanjaro, our private safaris guarantee you an unforgettable experience.
Ready to Book Your Safari?
Now that you know the ins and outs of planning a Tanzania private safari, it’s time to take the next step. Contact Kijani African Safaris today to start planning your dream adventure!
