Looking for an unforgettable safari vacation? Tanzania may be just what you are looking for. With a plethora of guided safari options and national parks to visit, there is sure to be something for everyone. Located in East Africa and home to 14 national parks with a bounty of wild animals unique to this region alone, visitors are sure to have a distinct experience.
Arusha National Park in the northern part of the country covers 53 square miles. A number of different habitats and terrain can be explored here, ranging from three wetland ecosystems to the peak of Mount Meru. With the airport a mere 37 miles away, this park has been dubbed the “safari capitol” of the region.
Though it may be the smallest at only 20 square miles, don’t let the Gombe National Park’s size fool you. This park is packed with primates and was where British researcher Jane Goodall conducted her study on chimpanzees. Visitors will also have a chance to see some off the 200 different species of birds that make this their home..
Measuring in at 1726 square miles, Katavi National Park is the country’s third largest park. Remotely located in the southwest, there are common sightings of Elephants, buffaloes, giraffe, zebra, impala and reedbuck. Large populations of hippos and crocodiles also reside here.
Anyone wanting to feast their eyes on the world famous Mount Kilimanjaro will want to head to the park of its namesake. Mount Kilimanjaro National Park is the highest peak on the continent of Africa and is home to the tallest free standing mountain in the world. Mostly a destination to see the land and vegetation, as there is little game; it is certainly a treat for those interested in mountaineering.
In southern Tanzania you will find the Kitulo National Park, whose local name translates to “Garden of the Gods.” Kitulo is home to many different species of fauna and is also an attraction for bird watchers with its dense population of many creatures of a feathered nature.
Chimpanzees are the main attraction of the Mahale Mountains National Park. Red colobus, red-tailed, and the blue monkey species of primate are all also reported to dwell here in high numbers. As many as 1000 species of fish are also found here in the clear waters of the Lake Tanganyika.
Lake Manyara Park is home to several exciting kinds of African wildlife. Baboons, giraffes, tree climbing lions, and various birds, just to name a few, are among the animals you will see enjoying life on this amazing lake.
With its borders extending east towards the Indian Ocean, the Mikumi Park covers 1250 square miles. Bordering it to the north is the Selous Game Reserve. Grass plains make up the habitat found here. You may see zebras, lions, giraffes, hippos, wildebeests, impala, buffalo, elands, kudu, many bird species, and sable here.
Home to huge numbers of elephants, Ruaha Park is a fantastic destination for those wanting to see a large variety of exotic animals. Zebras, giraffes, hyenas, cheetahs, and many more can be found here.
Heavy with water lands and humid forests, Rubondo Island National Park is located in northwest Tanzania. Mammal population here includes hippos, giraffes, mongooses, and others.
Saadani National Park has been a reserve for wild game since the 1960s. A rich history belongs to this park, and it continues to be home to more than 30 types of birds, reptiles, and large mammals.
Serengeti Park is the oldest and most frequented park. Large populations of a giant list of the animals Africa is famous for make this the number one destination for most travelers. Half of a million zebras and gazelles make up just part of the population found here.
Tarangire National Park is home to the Tarangire River that brings water to all of the humans and animals that live on the banks. You can travel here by road of by air to witness the wildlife living here.
On the list of “World Biodiversity Hotspots” is the Udzungwa Mountains National Park. Udzungwa is home to habitats ranging from rainforest to grassland. Both flora and fauna are abundant and varied here.
Access to the parks is varied. When planning your Tanzania safari vacation you may want to keep this in mind when choosing your destination and guide.
